County Hall closure edges closer - but costs persist
Costs at County Hall soar even though it is ‘ultimately destined for disposal’
THE sprawling complex on the Galgorm Road has been a bustling administrative hub for more than half a century, but there is a growing sense that the end of nigh for County Hall.
The cavernous red brick building served as the headquarters of Antrim County Council from 1970 to 1973 - despite being badly damaged in an IRA car bomb attack in October 1972.
After the County Council was abolished, the building was repurposed and became the regional office for several government departments, including the Northern Health and Social Services Board which was based there from 1974 to 1987.
The Health and Social Care Board and the Public Health Agency took up some real estate too.
Additionally, right up until 2014 a grand total of 160 Northern Ireland Assembly civil servants were still based in Ballymena.
But storm clouds were gathering. In December 2015 questions about the long term viability of the complex were voiced following the departure of the Car Tax office and the Education Authority.
This week North Antrim MP Jim Allister has raised concerns after the Department of Finance confirmed that County Hall is to be disposed of following the planned refurbishment of Academy House, with the project not expected to be completed until 2030.
In response to correspondence from Mr Allister, the Department confirmed that County Hall will be used as temporary accommodation while staff decant from Academy House during refurbishment works.
It also revealed that preparatory works at County Hall, including power and data installation and the creation of a temporary veterinary laboratory, will cost approximately £50,000 - while replacement of a lift is expected to cost a further £50,000 to £60,000.
"This response confirms that County Hall is ultimately destined for disposal, yet significant sums of public money are now being spent on a building which is earmarked for closure," said the TUV leader.
"While officials have set out the reasons for these works, taxpayers will rightly question whether this represents the best use of public funds.
“Given the uncertainty which has surrounded the future of County Hall, it is important that staff are kept fully informed throughout this process and that every effort is made to secure value for money.
"I will continue to monitor the situation and seek assurances that expenditure is both necessary and proportionate.”