New lease on life for Warwick Town Hall
LOCAL businesses will be offered the opportunity to lease space in the Warwick Town Hall, as the Southern Downs Regional Council looks to better utilise the heritage-listed building and recoup some of the costs involved with its management.
Councillors voted unanimously at a meeting last week to begin an Expression of Interest process for the least of 117sq m inside the building, with the aim to provide a quality business experience in the Central Business District and assist in the promotion of the town centre.
The Town Hall cost ratepayers $78,105 in 2014, depreciating in value by more than $35,000.
Major expenses include more than $9000 in rates, $7500 in repairs and almost $8000 in interest.
Council's Director of Business and Community Services David Tuxford said there were many benefits to leasing a portion of the Town Hall to businesses.
"It is important to note that this proposal won't diminish or hinder the use and hire of the theatre area by local organisations," he said.
"Responders will be asked to validate what community benefits are likely to result from their proposed enterprise."
The area of the building to be leased incorporates the lower level only up to the Theatre space.
"This incorporates the front office space and includes toilet amenities and limited kitchen facilities," Mr Tuxford said.
