Alexandrina Council has resolved not to consider the sale or future use of Customs House in Goolwa, for the time being.

At its monthly meeting held on Monday 16 May, the council also resolved to delay any service change or activation proposal at the heritage-listed building until it has put in place a robust collaborative methodology, known as a Service Review Framework, to review services. 

This Service Review Framework will be considered at its July meeting.

The delay also applies to any proposal for the South Coast Regional Arts Centre in the Old Police Station and the Goolwa Visitor Information Centre in the Old Post Office.

Once the Framework is adopted, the council says it will work with key community stakeholders to review the Goolwa Wharf Precinct holistically.

Council administration is developing the Framework, which seeks to ensure a considered, consistent and collaborative approach to reviewing council services and determining any future direction or changes in service delivery.

Chief Executive Officer Andrew MacDonald says the Goolwa Wharf Precinct is a historically significant area and the council – with assistance from federal and state governments – has invested millions into its restoration and preservation.

“It’s important we get this right, so Council has decided to take a deep breath, pause and make sure we take a strategic look at the opportunities for all parts of the Precinct,” he says.

“Council has resolved not to consider any option for the building until a refreshed review of future opportunities has been undertaken.

“Council recognises the community’s passion for Customs House and the Precinct.

“The Precinct’s future success will depend on strong collaboration with key stakeholders and the broader community.

“Adopting a Service Review Framework approach will ensure we have adequate time to move progressively, yet thoroughly, through a review process, ultimately determining how to bring each of the elements and opportunities of the Precinct together.”

Key community stakeholders named as potential collaborators include Cittaslow, The Friends of Little Scotland and all parties who submitted an Expression of Interest in the last two years to lease Customs House.

The holistic council review of the Wharf Precinct is expected to be completed by December 2025.

Over the past few years, with grant funding support, Alexandrina Council has invested $18 million into restoring, preserving and upgrading the Precinct.

Earlier this year the council consulted the community on a proposal to sell Customs House for a potential hotel development, receiving 582 responses.

It subsequently hosted a workshop on 28 April to discuss community feedback, inviting key stakeholders from the community with interests in the Precinct.