THE town council in Newquay is drawing up £300,000 plans to refurbish its municipal building to ensure it remains fit for purpose.

Newquay Town Council’s office in Marcus Hill needs “significant investment,” which includes a full electrical rewire, roof repairs, replacement windows, plastering and other refurbishment works. Bailey Partnership has been appointed to work with the council to put together the technical designs and specification for the potential refurbishment.

A town council spokesperson said: “Newquay Town Council was devolved Marcus Hill a number of years ago from Cornwall Council. The building comprises of four floors, which are mainly occupied by Newquay Town Council.

“However, the building requires significant investment to bring it up to the appropriate standard so that it can be used, and not remain empty.

“It is anticipated that these works will include, a full electrical rewire including a separate supply or meters where appropriate, roof repairs, replacement windows, plastering and other refurbishment works. The estates manager is beginning this project, but it is expected to cost in the region of £300,000.

“In summary the refurbishment will look to address ventilation and potential Solar PV for the roof. Refurbishment and alteration of the second-floor offices to accommodate town council staff.

“Refurbishment and alteration of the ground floor offices so they are in a condition that can be leased for private use. Address damp penetration throughout the building and any issues with the exterior décor of the building. Review and replacement/upgrade of existing electrical/plumbing/alarm/access services where required. Separation of electricity throughout the building, particularly in proposed areas for lease to ensure future tenants are appropriately billed.

“The first phase of works will be undertaking a measured and condition survey to provide the basis for all future surveys. It is then anticipated that a stakeholder meeting will be arranged with relevant officers and the working group to provide input into any layout alterations and other aspirations for the building.

“It is envisaged that the town council will retain and occupy three floors, and that Cornwall Council are interested in renting the ground floor.”

Mayor Cllr Drew Creek blames previous town council administrations for failing to address issues with the building over the years. The town council was considering relocating to its Mount Wise building if Cornwall Council had not transferred the freehold of the municipal building in Marcus Hill.

Cllr Creek added: “The Marcus hill site which includes the library has a number of critical issues which have been failed to be addressed over the years instead with previous administrations desiring to develop grand multi million pound projects to knock down and replace what is on the site.

“Having reviewed these plans I and fellow councillors value the site and current facade of Marcus Hill and the community value of what we offer on site through our library and visitor information service alongside our facilities and town council team and want to begin to deal with these issues.

“We have begun to undertake remedial works to what is a structurally sound estate removing asbestos and dealing with damp issues but the library needs a new roof, the site requires its electrics rewiring and internal light touch renovations to ensure it is fit for purpose and continues to deliver for our community and offer a safe place to work and visit. These works will be undertaken over the next couple of years, ensuring maximum value is achieved whilst continuing to ensure access to services throughout.”