Regional controller for NSW SES north west, Andrew Galvin, told The Argus the existing building was no longer suitable to support the responsibilities of the unit and its 30 volunteers.

“The existing facility we have is split over two buildings,” Mr Galvin said.

“The new building will be able to accommodate all of our equipment, allow everything to be housed under one roof and be purpose built.”

Relocating from the current weatherboard building, which has housed the Guyra SES for over 20 years, was on the agenda of the former Guyra Shire Council for several years.

But even with $100,000 put forward by the SES and council’s contribution of around $52,000 – it’s still not enough to cover costs. 

Armidale Regional Council administrator Ian Tiley said, while funds were still currently uncertain, council was determined to make sure the new headquarters were a priority.

“That’s only about half of the money needed,” Mr Tiley said.

“So we will be making representations to Adam Marshall and failing that will be sure to allow enough for construction in the following budget.”

Mr Tiley said either way he was confident that the headquarters, currently proposed for the junction of Ollera and Malpas Streets, would be built within the next financial year.

Guyra SES controller David Godlonton said the local team desperately needed more space.

“We just need a new area and a bigger area for our operations,” he said.

“The proposed new spot has quite considerable space.”

The lot has a frontage of over 47 metres along Ollera Street and is around 33 metres deep, providing significant space for car parking in the event of an emergency.

A water main runs along the frontage and a sewer main will need a 50 metre extension to service the lot.

Another possible option that Armidale Regional Council is also considering is the idea of combining the SES and RFS headquarters into one building.