The next step in the move to the former Masters site, at Biripi Way, was decided at council's meeting on Wednesday afternoon, April 10.

A further independent cost benefit analysis on the option of centralising MidCoast Council's administrative functions to Biripi Way in Taree was presented to councillors at the meeting.

Council said the analysis, undertaken by the Balmoral Group, indicated a single site option would provide benefits outweighing the costs of the project over a 20 year period, when compared to a campus or multi-site model.

Now a detailed design and cost plan will be developed. These will go back to councillors for review and approval before a commitment is made to any construction works.

"The cost benefit analysis clearly showed combining the three offices into one delivers cost savings in the longer term," MidCoast Mayor, Cr David West said.

The office centralisation model would see the consolidation of administrative staff from three offices - two in Forster and one in Taree - to the Biripi Way location. Offices in Gloucester, Stroud and Tea Gardens will continue to operate and are not impacted by the plans.

Council has also made a commitment to providing a customer service point in Forster.

For a copy of the report and cost benefit analysis considered by councillors at the meeting, and for further information on the project go to www.midcoast.nsw.gov.au/headoffice.