Cumberland Council is exploring the possibility of a new headquarters in Granville to centralise its operations and bring around 600 staff under one roof.
Following the amalgamation of the former Holroyd, Auburn and parts of Parramatta Council in May 2016, Council has maintained two administration buildings in Auburn and Merrylands.
Mayor Steve Christou said that if the relocation has Council support, it will be one of the biggest projects undertaken by Cumberland Council since it was created.
“Granville is in the heart of greater Sydney and it makes sense that businesses, including Council would look at this area as their potential home,” Mayor Christou said.
“For over 40 years, the former Woodville Ward, which covered Granville and South Granville, was neglected by Parramatta Council and under Cumberland Council, this is changing. We’re boosting business confidence and growth in the region.
“The site we’ve identified as a potential location for Council headquarters is owned by Council and is situated in the centre of Granville.
“Any relocation will streamline our operations and bring our administration staff into the one location. We still require frontline customer service staff to service ratepayers and these services will remain in Merrylands and Auburn.”
The proposed location is currently a Council-owned carpark. Mayor Christou said the proposal would retain existing commuter parking spaces and provide as much additional parking as feasible.
“If Council sets up its new headquarters in Granville, we will convert the existing site and ensure there is more parking for people shopping in the area or using the nearby train station.
“Commuter car parking has been an ongoing issue for the people of Granville. Many people have promised more parking but have never delivered.
“We will also look at converting the existing site and using the air space for future residential and retail development.”
Councillor Joe Rahme said if the relocation goes ahead it will be good news for residents and local businesses in the area.
“This relocation of Council headquarters will be a win for local residents and local businesses,” Councillor Rahme said.
“We are listening to residents’ concerns and we will ensure that the new Council building offers people more places to park.”
A detailed feasibility and planning process is underway and is expected to be completed in the coming months.