Tasman Council chambers to receive $2m facelift

The Tasman Council has temporarily relocated as the council chambers undergo a $2m facelift.

Council staff are now working out of the Tasman Civic Centre until the upgrades are completed by the end of March.

During construction, council meetings will be held at various locations across the Tasman municipality.

The council say once complete, the improvements and new features of the chambers will include:

• improved accessibility, including a front ramp and automatic entry doors;
• a dedicated carparking space for visitors with mobility needs;
• accessible toilet and shower facilities;
• a new kitchen that enables employees to sit and eat lunch, which was previously standing room only;
• consolidated open office space to enable teams to work together;
• a new council chamber that will be multi-use and can be split into two spaces for training, meetings or events;
• new furniture and fittings and interior reflecting natural surrounds and council branding;
• a new back-up generator to ensure council operations can continue during power outages;
• and environmentally sustainable design elements, such as energy‑efficient lighting, and improved climate control and insulation.

Tasman Mayor Rod MacDonald said the upgrades were an investment that would deliver long‑term value for the community.

“As you can imagine, a 50-year-old building doesn’t comply with the current building code or contemporary standards for technology, accessibility, amenity expectations or sustainability,” Cr MacDonald said.

“This project will ensure it is a safe, accessible and modern space for employees, Councillors and the community.

“It’s about creating a building that reflects the needs of today while preparing for the future.”

Cr MacDonald said the council’s phone number, 6250 9200, and opening hours, Monday to Friday 8.30am-4.30pm, remained the same.