SIX hundred NSW Government employees across 26 different departments will work under one roof in Coffs Harbour CBD once a $55 million regional workplace hub is built at 11 Gordon Street, estimated to be completed by 2025.

Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh announced on Monday 13 February that the local economy is set for a boost with the workplace hub in Coffs Harbour expected to create hundreds of new local jobs, gain efficiencies being under one roof and bring foot traffic into the CBD.

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The NSW Government has purchased the site at 11 Gordon Street, Coffs Harbour, currently an 89-space public carpark, from City of Coffs Harbour to deliver the approximately 5,100 square-metre NSW Government Workplace Hub.

“Establishment of the workplace hub is expected to generate more than $220 million for the local economy over three years by having more workers consistently in and around the CBD,” he said.

Mr Singh commented on the efficiencies gained through having the employees of different departments working in the same building, meaning they can easily meet more regularly.

“Another huge benefit of having decision makers based here in the regions is that these are the communities of these decision makers, they live in our communities so they’ll have our communities’ best interests at heart when they make their decisions,” he said.

“The project will create ongoing economic support for small businesses and local jobs with the design and construction phase alone expected to create almost 500 jobs for local tradies, apprentices and suppliers.”

Acknowledging the valued current usage of the space, the new development will also include approximately 89 public car parking spaces.

“Ensuring that the new development does not compromise the availability of existing public parking for the Coffs Harbour community,” said Mr Singh.

“The Government recognises the importance of strong regional economies to the state’s growth, and under the North Coast Regional Plan 2041, we are looking to centres like Coffs Harbour that will play a crucial role as key places for employment.”

Minister for Planning and Minister for Homes Anthony Roberts said, “Coffs Harbour is a key regional centre for NSW.
“That’s why we’re doing everything we can to diversify the local economy, boost jobs, and create growth well into the future,” he said.

“We want Coffs to be a great place to live, work and visit, and we want it to be a preferred destination for those wanting to relocate to regional NSW.”

Natalia Cowley, General Manager at City of Coffs Harbour, said, “It’s a great opportunity for the City Of Coffs Harbour, bringing activation into the region, and it is great to see this car park with 89 spaces turn into a workspace for 600 staff, further cementing Coffs Harbour as an important regional hub.

“It’s a great outcome to the community to keep the 89 car parking spaces, on a peppercorn lease, which will be available once again after the building is complete.”

Coffs Harbour businesswoman Nikki Williams told News Of The Area, “This is a hugely positive project for Coffs Harbour, (with the) NSW Government bringing literally hundreds of permanent government jobs to our town.

“That’s hundreds more people shopping in the CBD, eating in our cafes and hopefully enjoying after work drinks at the local brewery and pubs.

“Most importantly hundreds of full-time secure jobs for our locals, school leavers and young adults right here in their own home town.

“I’ve seen a lot of concern about the lost parking which is a shame as this is such a positive project for the people of Coffs.

“I feel the council announcement hasn’t done it justice; however it is clearly stated the same amount of car parking will remain open to the public once built and as a member of the CBD committee I do know further multi-level car parks have been investigated for years now so hopefully one day.

“’With Council’s Compact City approach looking to encourage people to live in the CBD, the demand for parking in the future will continue to grow.

“Ideally the money made will be spent wisely; perhaps council could commit the $3.2 million from the sale be used for a multi-level car park for workers in one of the spots that have been earmarked,” she said.

Find out more about the Coffs Harbour Workplace Hub at www.dpie.nsw.gov.au/housing-and-property/our-business/commercial-development-and-asset-management/coffs-harbour-workplace-hub.

By Andrea FERRARI