Ballina Shire secures Rous County Council’s new operations base

BALLINA Shire will become the new base for Rous County Council’s operations after the council approved a development application this week, despite objections from neighbouring councils concerned about job losses and service centralisation.

The application seeks to rezone land at 57 Gallans Road, Ballina, to accommodate a public administration building and depot, consolidating Rous County Council’s operations into one site.

The move follows a long-standing plan to unify Rous’s operations, including its head office, currently in Lismore.

While Ballina officials welcomed the development, the decision has sparked criticism from other councils within Rous’s service area, who argue that the centralisation could negatively impact their communities.

Concerns about traffic and building heights were raised but ultimately addressed by council staff, allowing the $17 million project to proceed.

The new site will house the council chambers and vehicle storage sheds.

Mayor Sharon Cadwallader said it was a major coup for Rous to move its operations to Ballina.

“We are very lucky to have this operation coming to Ballina. I know Lismore is very unhappy and unlucky to have them moving out of Lismore,” Cr Cadwallader said.

Cr Rod Bruem acknowledged the mayor’s role in securing the deal, saying 40 per cent of Rous’s water supply is used in Ballina.

“It’s a good deal for Rous and a good deal for the ratepayers of Ballina Shire,” Cr Bruem said.

The development cost is estimated at more than $17 million.

Ballina councillors voted unanimously to approve the change of use and variation of height restrictions.