City seeks feedback on administrative offices consolidation

THE City of Greater Geelong is seeking community feedback on the proposed consolidation of its central Geelong administrative offices into one new building.

At its July 24 meeting, Council initiated the process of consulting with the community about a proposed new building to consolidate the organisation’s eight offices in the city centre.

The proposed consolidation, which would unify the organisation and increase efficiencies and productivity, was a recommendation of the 2016 Commission of Inquiry report and is identified as a priority in the Council Plan 2018-22.

The proposal also presents opportunities for the Geelong Gallery to expand their operations by potentially extending into City Hall.

On Monday August 13, members of Geelong Gallery’s Board toured the building and were enthusiastic about the opportunity to be part of the community consultation on the project.

City Director of Finance and Strategy Peter Anderson said that the City’s plans for a single modern office in central Geelong included a proposal for active retail space, adding to the revitalisation of Geelong’s CBD.

“In addition to the efficiencies Council would gain, it is expected that the establishment of a new civic building in central Geelong would also add to investor confidence and reinforce the economic importance of Geelong as a clever creative City of Design.

“We are very interested to hear from the community about our proposal for a single consolidated office building. We also look forward to inviting feedback on design options for a new building at a later stage.

“We want the project to offer great outcomes for the whole community.”

Further information about the proposed consolidation of the City’s administrative offices is available online and the City is interested in hearing from everyone who would like to comment on the project and how it should proceed.

The City invites people to have their say online at geelongaustralia.com.au/yoursay or by emailing a submission to [email protected] or writing to City of Greater Geelong, PO Box 104 Geelong Victoria 3220. Submissions close at 5pm on August 28.