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Old DPI $2.9 million facelift plan is pro-Spandex, with 66 bike racks and showers, lockers, loos
April 2, 2023
By David Fitzsimons
Orange’s tired old Department of Primary Industries (DPI) building is set for a $2.9 million facelift to encourage private companies to lease it as office space.
The upgrade to the Kite Street building would include a new entry from Bathurst Road.
The current forecourt canopy would be demolished, the main entrance and lobby would be reconfigured, plus solar panels would be installed on the roof.
Repairs and painting to window frames, gutters, fascia, blockwork and relining of the canopy/awning are also part of the development application to be considered by Orange City Council on Tuesday night.
The DA proposes removing 11 car parking spaces, but adding 66 spaces for bicycles plus showers, lockers and a bathroom for people riding to work.
A staff report to the council recommends approving the plan, which would change its use from government to public.
“The proponent's architects have advised that the proposed alterations and additions to the building aim to enhance its existing qualities and make it more attractive to future tenants,” it says.
“They note that the existing building is of solid construction and, while somewhat dated, is in relatively good condition.”
Since the state government moved to new offices on Prince Street in 2020 the building has largely been empty.
“The building offers approximately 8600 square metres of office space, with uncommonly large floor plates for a rural NSW building,” it said.
“However, the property [has been] largely vacant since the Department of Primary Industries relocated to its new premises on Prince Street in 2020, with the exception of the second floor of the East Block, recently leased by UGL Regional Linx.
“Despite the building's somewhat dated appearance, it remains an iconic structure in Orange, symbolising a significant moment in the city's history.”
The building was constructed from 1990-1992 as part of a key decentralisation move that saw the NSW Department of Agriculture move from Sydney to the Colour City.
It replaced the former St Mary's Catholic Church and School on the site in East Orange.
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