Good News for Wick Town Centre
Highland Councillors have confirmed their intention to retain their main Council office presence in Wick at Market Square as a key part of a regeneration of the town centre. They had considered moving to new premises and seeking interest in redevelopment opportunities at Market Square. However, a review of the situation has prompted the Council to opt for redeveloping the existing site.
A new building could also accommodate staff working in other Council accommodation in Wick, such as High Street(Social Work) and Rhind House (Education Culture and Sport). The former DSS offices on Girnigoe Street, Wick, have been identified as possible accommodation for staff decanting from Market Square. A project team is to be set up to look at the design and cost of the project. It will consult with local councillors, neighbouring businesses and the local community council; consider the impact of the project on town centre parking; initiate discussions with Historic Scotland to define how their requirements will impact on the potential for redesign.
Members of the Council’s Resources Committee considered a report by Steve Barron, Director of Housing and Property, recommending a change of approach to the rationalisation of Council office accommodation in Wick.
A review pointed to the best option being a new office building in the town centre, which would have the potential benefits of: -
• Improved Council accommodation and Service Point;
• Improved appearance of the town centre and streetscape;
• Maintaining the economic activity of the town centre;
• Reducing running costs;
• Improving work methods; and
• Simpler and faster project delivery, with less risk.
Councillor Carolyn Wilson, Chairman of the Resources Committee, welcomed the outcome of the discussion. She said: “I am very pleased that we are going to keep our main Council office presence in the town centre. This will help local businesses and hopefully attract other businesses to the town centre. It will also provide our staff with the working environment they deserve and allow us to be more efficient in the way we deliver services.”
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