Councillors were asked to endorse a motion to seek expressions of interest from venue management organisations outlining possible management models for the new town hall due to be completed in the first half of 2015.

“If I had a dollar for everyone who asked me about this I’d be a very rich woman,” Cr Liz Seckold said.

“There is a lot of interest in seeing this run well.”

A question was asked of acting group manager of community and relationships Simon Schweitzer as to why community groups weren’t included in the recommendation.

Mr Schweitzer replied “the complexities of a civic centre of this size means it is out of the range of voluntary management groups”.

Cr Sharon Tapscott said she wasn’t convinced of the cost benefit of professional venue management.

“Looking at different models of management makes more sense to me and, while I won’t be voting against this recommendation, I’ll be looking closely at the models that come up.”

Mayor Bill Taylor clarified voting on this particular motion was “cost neutral” as it was simply seeking information.

The motion passed unanimously - with an amendment a further report for discussion include an option for direct management by the council.