As Glen Innes Severn Council continues its community engagement process regarding a potential Special Rate Variation (SRV), more detail has been provided about two significant projects referenced in the Draft Operational Plan: a new civic building and the future of the Glen Innes Town Hall.
New Civic Building: Addressing Risk and Inefficiency
In the General Manager’s message within the Draft Operational Plan, reference is made to the need for a new civic building, with a timeline of two years set out for the project. Questions from Glen Innes News have prompted Council to clarify key aspects of the plan.
Council confirmed that an alternative workplace has been identified due to the current facilities being below modern regulatory and workplace standards. These conditions present both compliance risks and daily inefficiencies. After reviewing various options over the past decade, Council has identified a vacant, existing building located behind Coles as the most cost-effective solution.
Negotiations for the acquisition of this building are well underway, with the sale contract nearing finalisation. Some design work has already commenced, and a plan of subdivision is being prepared. A development application will follow.
While the Draft Operational Plan includes a $2 million allocation under Item O1.3.3.11, Council clarified that this amount is only a portion of the total projected budget of $6 million. The initial $2 million will contribute to the property purchase and some early project activities. The full cost of the project will be funded through loans.
The current Council office building on Church Street, which is described as being in poor condition and as having limited reuse opportunities, may be sold or considered for other community uses once staff relocate to the new premises.
Council anticipates that occupation of the new civic building is unlikely to occur before the end of 2026, whilst noting that the final anticipated timeframe is yet to be determined. While delays would be unwelcome and would extend Council’s exposure to the risks associated with the current buildings, Council’s objective is to stick to the budget.
Master Planning for Glen Innes Town Hall
With Council staff relocating from the Town Hall, Council sees a unique opportunity to revitalise and reimagine the heritage-listed building. The Draft Operational Plan includes a $450,000 allocation over three years to support a master planning process aimed at unlocking the building’s full potential for community and visitor use.
Council confirmed that planning for the Town Hall has not yet commenced. However, once the planning phase begins, community consultation will be central to identifying future uses for the building.
Council advised “given the heritage nature and poor condition of the building, an assessment of the structure and in particular the heritage elements will be required and works identified to rehabilitate the building in the appropriate way. Currently the hall component has very restricted uses given the lack of proper basic facilities (e.g. toilets, catering areas etc). and is in general rundown condition”.
The master planning process is expected to include building analysis, heritage assessment, architectural, engineering, building services consultants to assist in identifying and designing the works needed. The $450,000 allocation will be used for this preparatory work.
Council has made clear that any substantial refurbishment of the Town Hall will rely on securing external funding.
Community Engagement Continues
Residents are encouraged to provide feedback on the Draft Operational Plan as well as various other documents which are currently on exhibition. Community members are also encouraged to participate in upcoming engagement opportunities as Council moves toward key decisions impacting the future of the region.
For more information about when and how to provide feedback, visit haveyoursay.gisc.nsw.gov.au.
