Busselton CBD Developments

Busselton CBD Site Proposed for New Administration Centre (30th May 2007)
MEDIA RELEASE
Community input would be sought during the creation of a concept design for a proposed new Shire administration building in the Busselton CBD, south of the current Library.
A recommendation to develop a community consultation strategy before commencing the design process for the proposed location is on the agenda for the next Council meeting on 13 June, 2007.
The next step is to prepare for the concept design process and build on more than six months of investigations into the Shire's current and long-term needs for administrative and other space from now (2007) up to approximately 2037.
James Christou & Partners Architects, plus engineering consultants, have recently completed a full assessment of the space shortages in the current building, its condition, and the Shire's future administration and site needs. The process involved staff and Councillors.
Shire President, Cr Bev Clarke, said a new administration centre was essential to the effectiveness of the Shire's long-term operations and the CBD site was potentially an important part of Council's overall vision of building a better Busselton.
"People who regularly deal with the Shire know that our building is far too small to provide residents with the best possible service because it was originally built more than thirty years ago for a much smaller community and has been added to bit by bit. The Shire is now the largest local employer, with annual operations of more than $40 million, and our accommodation needs will continue to expand as the region grows."
"Councillors have been listening to the community about accessing Shire services and are considering relocating to the CBD to better help residents as they go about their daily business. Developing the site would also lead to a long-term revitalisation of the southern end of the CBD, complementing upgrade plans for the northern CBD towards the jetty."
"We have to plan now for the future as our strong economy is driving strong increases in construction costs. A functional building layout will increase productivity and hence will save money for the Shire. We will select the best site for the Shire's future role in the community and now it is time for everyone to think about the design, where we can take a leadership position on Green Star environmental ratings," Cr Clarke said.
The recommended site lies within the area bounded by the Busselton Library and concept designs would be required to see how the site can best be used. It is currently also home to the Volunteer Fire Brigade, whose long-term needs would be examined concurrent with the design process.
The future use of the Shire's current administration building would also be examined as part of the community consultation process.
"The Councillors' broad preference would be for the current administration building to be made available to community groups. However, we all have an open mind on this issue if feedback from the community is different," Cr Clarke said.
In tandem with the development of a consultation strategy, the Shire's Chief Executive Officer would be asked to establish a project business plan for the design development, logistics, construction, project management and funding of the new building.
"This is a very important project to keep progressing as it is essential to the delivery of services to residents, and could contribute to the vibrancy of our CBD. We will be keeping the community informed and seek their input during the process," Cr Clarke said.
The key issues relating to the Shire's administration needs and the proposed CBD site are outlined on the following page.
END
For further information in relation to this media release please contact Julie Rawlings, Public Relations Officer on 9781 0446 or julie.rawlings@busselton.wa.gov.au
http://www.busselton.wa.gov.au/news/media/20070530