Councillor Neil Jones sought support last week to prepare a proposal to use the office for community purposes.

The building, on the corner of Kite and Anson streets, dates back to 1885, but access is by appointment only.

“It’s almost empty in relation to the services that occupy it and I have a fear the state government will continue to downsize that building,” Cr Jones said.

“The cultural centre is in disrepair and it’s not going to serve the groups that use it. It’s not urgent, but let’s start thinking about it.” 

Mayor John Davis agreed it was a good idea to get in early.

“It’s a fantastic building and it’s one of the oldest buildings in Orange. It’s an asset. We might find someone comes to use it for an inappropriate purpose,” he said.

Councillor Reg Kidd suggested the building could be an alternative home for the Senior Citizens and Pensioners Centre.

But councillor Scott Munro did not see the logic of talking about a building not slated for closure.

“We should wait until the state government gives us notice like they did with the RTA building,” he said.

“I would hope we don’t lose the services and we should fight for whatever’s in there.” 

Councillor Glenn Taylor shared the concerns due to recent criticism about council land purchases.

“The more heritage, the steeper the maintenance costs. We’re effectively going to be custodians of the old hospital site so we have enough on our plate,” he said.

Cr Jones emphasised it would be an expression of interest only and the motion was passed.

Member for Orange Andrew Gee told councillors last month he was not aware of any decision to vacate the building in the immediate future and a submission would be appropriate.

A Department of Primary Industries (DPI) spokeswoman said the office housed seven DPI Lands staff managing the Crown land estate. 

“There are no current plans to relocate these staff to other office space,” she said.

“Any future and additional tenancy arrangements for occupation of this building is matter for Government Property NSW.”