Council to return home to civic centre

Published 29th October 2025

Council administration intends to resume operations from its former civic centre once essential repair works have been completed following a thorough investigation of the building’s structural integrity.

External engineering and mould reports into the former principal office, 19 Wilson Street, Berri, were undertaken in 2022, which identified potential structural concerns leading to Berri Barmera Council’s office relocation to 5 Riverview Drive.

However, Berri Barmera Council CEO Tim Pfeiffer said a recent engineering report with an extensive scope gave the council confidence to relocate back to 19 Wilson Street in due course.

“While the building needs extensive remediation works to ensure the safety and longevity of the structure, this is great news for council,” he said.

“It’s a significant step forward as it means we’re looking after our existing assets and focusing on the future.

“The final costings are still being determined, however early assessments show that reoccupying the civic centre offers the most cost-effective long-term solution compared with leasing, demolition or new construction.”

At Tuesday night’s meeting, council was presented with the extensive engineering report, which highlighted localised cracking in multiple rooms and the southern façade associated with historical overloading and minor footing movement.

It also found drainage and sewer leakage issues contributing to isolated soil settlement.

Council agreed to proceed with scoping and costing the required remediation and refurbishment works, including plumbing, structural, roof, services and fit-out requirements, with the intent of enabling reoccupation of the civic centre as soon as practicable.

In addition to the civic centre engineering report, the century-old Berri Town Hall was also assessed.

“The report found that the hall is in a fair structural condition for its age, but does also need some remediation works,” Mr Pfeiffer said.

A further report will be presented to council, outlining costings, timing and funding options.

“The initial reinstatement will prioritise functionality and safety, keeping works to the essential minimum required for operation,” Mr Pfeiffer said.

“This decision reflects a commitment to responsible financial and asset management.”