Council to consider options for Maryborough office

The Fraser Coast Regional Council will call for Expressions Of Interest to consider new options for a new administration centre in the Maryborough CBD.

Councillor Paul Truscott said Council had been approached with new proposals for an administration centre since the initial call for Expressions of Interest last year.

“To be fair and transparent, Council will open a new EOI process so everyone has the opportunity to present proposals for a Maryborough administration centre incorporating space for a library and Queensland government offices for consideration,” he said.

At present, Council is considering redeveloping the site of the former administration centre in Kent Street.

The former administration centre was demolished following a structural engineering assessment which determined it had reached the end of its working life.

Council wants to maintain a presence in the Maryborough CBD.

“An administration building in the CBD is easily accessible for residents to conduct business with Council,” Cr Daniel Sanderson said.

“We need more library space and the Council staff help provide an economic stimulus to the CBD.”

“Council regularly receives feedback from residents that they want to see the Council to stay in the CBD and the project to move forward.

“Developing a new administration centre is a generational change, a decision that will make a mark on the CBD and be a legacy for this Council.

“Because of its importance we want to get it right so we cannot rush the process.”

It is anticipated that the EOI would be issued soon and a recommendation presented to Council in April 2021.

The site of the former administration centre will become open space until a decision is made.