The province is set to ink a deal with the City of Surrey for the lease of the former city hall in Newton.
On Monday night, Surrey council is expected to consider the lease of 45,000 square feet of the 14245 56 Ave. hall to the B.C. Ministry of Justice for use by Crown counsel and community corrections (probation offices).
A leasing agent with Colliers International told The Leader in February it was planning to lease 45,000 square feet, which would generate $550,000 annually for the city.
The old hall became available when Surrey moved to a new $100-million facility in North Surrey in February. The former hall has been vacant since.
Crown counsel is expected to take over the main floor of the old hall, which used to be the public areas.
The leasing to the province leaves another 87,000 square feet of the building still vacant, including 21,000 square feet in the west tower, 56,000 square feet in the south tower and 10,000 square feet in the north annex.
Potential users being considered right now are universities, institutes, agencies and foundations, according to a corporate report to council.
Leasing agent Dilraj Sohi said if the entire building is leased, it will generate $2 million annually, adding the former Surrey City Hall campus is well positioned for those interested in leasing.
“The towers are situated on 15 acres of immaculately landscaped land, including walking trails, water features, and access to an on-site restaurant,” Sohi said earlier this year. “On-site amenities include an abundant amount of parking, elevator access, and extensive glazing allows for extensive natural light and great views.”