POTTSVILLE'S $1.5 million extension to its community heart is now open.

About 100 people including Richmond MP Justine Elliot, Tweed MP Geoff Provest, Mayor Barry Longland and its many local supporters turned out to celebrate on Friday.

After the Pottsville Beach Public School choir performed, led by Yvonne Thompson, Pottsville Beach Neighbourhood Centre management committee member Rhonda James said it was "quite relevant".

"This is the site of the old school," Ms James said.

"The Pottsville Community Association 15 years ago had the foresight to identify this site for the community.

"This was just the start of a dream for Pottsville Beach."

Cr Longland said there were many larger communities which did not have such facilities.

"Catch up is being played in those communities, including some within the Tweed Shire.

"In many communities there isn't much in terms of opportunity and access available.

"Often that depends on opportunities as a child, and family support, but some groups fall through the cracks.

"Everybody needs someone and this centre is a brilliant example of how a neighbourhood centre can work to truly benefit its community.

"I understand that in the neighbourhood centre sector, this facility is considered a stand-out nationally in terms of community investment."

Mr Provest said he could remember when the extension was "just a dream".

"It's a pleasure to see a dream turned into a reality," he said.

"The revitalised centre was successful in two grants: the first was $100,000, and I was so excited to ring (centre co-ordinator) Angela (Maxwell)."

"Not half as excited as I was," Ms Maxwell joyously interrupted.

He continued to say "this centre has some great partnerships, and I can say this quite candidly here: it will make Pottsville a very special place."

Mrs Elliot acknowledged the hard work by so many to see to see the expansion through.

"Angela, I've known you for many years now and you truly are an inspiration," she said.

"Every time I've been here I'm overwhelmed by the fact there's so many services.

"I don't think it really compares to anything else we have around here - you're making a difference in individual lives and local families."

The centre runs an op shop and the local markets, provides dedicated social services and hosts outreach sessions by visiting practitioners.

Before the expansion high demand for services meant the opportunity to deliver them was limited.

The centre raised almost $100,000 itself, in addition to countless volunteer hours put in to preparing the new building's opening.

The council provided $1.25 million after it was identified as a need through the Pottsville Locality Based Development Code.

The NSW Government provided two grants of $100,000 and $84,000, while ongoing Federal Government assistance is provided through funding Ms Maxwell's position.

The centre now features a youth mentoring space, recycling shed and energy efficient roof and wall insulation, solar power and rainwater tanks.