Former post office is up for sale

THE City of Greater Geelong is continuing with its plan to sell or lease the former Geelong Post Office.

The council has been in contact with the community over potential uses for the site, including repurposing it as a museum or tourist centre, leasing it as a public private partnership, or having the council purchase the site outright.

Geelong mayor Bruce Harwood said the community’s input would continue to be acknowledged.

“Community members can be assured the heritage elements of the historic site will be protected by the requirements of the Conservation Management Plan (CMP), regardless of its future tenant or owner.”

The CMP means that any changes to the building are subject to approval from Heritage Victoria.

Development on the site will also be required to complement the overall civic, cultural and arts precinct.

The council’s arts, culture and heritage portfolio chair Jim Mason said deciding the building’s future had been a difficult process.

“The Heritage Advisory Committee voted last week that the building should be kept in public hands. Unfortunately, in 15 years, no-one has been able to show how this can be done in a financially sustainable way.

“This decision provides an opportunity for the private sector and for philanthropists to present options for the building to be brought to life for community use.”

Cr Mason also reaffirmed that the council will have the final say over any changes to the building, regardless of its owner.