Wattle Range Council New Admin Centre

Mossop, in collaboration with Chapman Herbert Architects and the wider consultant team, successfully delivered the new Council Administration Service Centre for Wattle Range Council in Millicent, South Australia.

This modern facility brings together all Council staff and elected members (approximately 70 people) under one roof for the first time, with capacity to support organisational growth over the next 50 years. It includes dedicated office spaces for staff, managers, executives, and the Mayor, as well as Council Chambers with a publicly accessible entry.

Key features of the development include:

• A welcoming customer service area with improved accessibility for people living with a disability.
• One-on-one meeting rooms and public amenities.
• A Council Chamber with expanded public gallery space to encourage community participation.
• Compliance with the National Construction Code and Australian Standards.
• Enhanced and safer parking for staff and visitors.

The building was designed with sustainability and regional pride in mind. It incorporates:

• Locally sourced limestone featured in the curved Council Chamber pillars and planter boxes.
• Structural timber beams from the Tarpeena timber mill.
• Rainwater harvesting systems and a water treatment plant.
• Landscaping, site works, and street infrastructure.

The project was completed on time and within budget, resulting in a surplus that has enabled Council to explore future upgrades such as solar panels and an EV charging station.

Despite some challenges, most notably the long lead time for the Spantech roof sourced from Korea, the team navigated tight scheduling and logistical constraints. With only one roof profiler available in Australia, the structure had to be prepared to install each roof sheet immediately upon production, leaving no room for delay.

This project stands as a testament to collaborative planning, local craftsmanship, and sustainable design, delivering a future-ready facility that reflects the character and needs of the Wattle Range community.