Council leader says historic building is safe (From Thisisdorset)

Council leader says historic building is safe

11:43am Wednesday 2nd July 2008

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THE historic building housing West Dorset District Council will be preserved after the authority leaves it, leader Robert Gould has said.

The council is seeking to move out of unsuitable and expensive Stratton House in Dorchester.

Speaking at a meeting of the executive, council leader Robert Gould said the future of the old building was critical', especially because of historic features such as the Old Crown Court.

He said: "It is a nationally important building and it's important to ensure the future is safeguarded and I am sure that will be the case."

Members were considering a report, which stated the council would have to spend £9.5 million on the building over the next 25 years and that it would be cheaper to relocate.

The report identified Poundbury as one of three potential sites.

The two other possibilities for a new headquarters are the Brewery Square development and Charles Street development.

Coun Gould said: "I think the financial arguments for embarking on this project will become ever more clear.

"The economic cost of staying here would be ever increasing."

Consultancy group Bruton Knowles is working for the council to investigate which of the premises is the most economical for taxpayers.

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