Shire to consult about future of Winchelsea Shire Hall

THE Winchelsea community will help guide the Surf Coast Shire’s determination on future use of the town’s former Shire Hall.

The council resolved at its November meeting to start consultation immediately with stakeholders so plans for the building can be in place when the existing lease expires on April 30, 2019.

The former shire hall has been leased for many years by private business operators, who have made it available for community use.

The council, as landlord, has reconsidered lease arrangements in recent months following an impasse with the existing tenant over rent.

The council will seek community input during a two-part consultation process.

Stage one will start this month with discussions with key stakeholders.

Stage two will include a council resolution on preferred use and completion of necessary procedures before the expiry of the existing lease.

Winchelsea ward councillor Carol McGregor said it was important for community voices to be heard.

“Winchelsea people have great affection for the former shire hall as a fine and historic building and meeting place.

“Council will be seeking to understand their diverse opinions on how it can best be used as a public asset, bearing in mind the existing and anticipated needs of our growing community.

“It is important to get the process moving so the way forward can be determined while the existing lease is in place.”

The resolution passed by councillors (with the exception of Cr Heather Wellington, who voted against it) also noted that prioritising consultation on the hall “would impact the scheduling of other recreation and open space projects”.