City of Parramatta is calling on the Federal Government to reconsider plans to sell the historic Lancer Barracks – the oldest active military facility in Australia.

Council unanimously endorsed its position at its ordinary meeting this Monday on the 1.23-hectare site located on Smith Street in Parramatta’s CBD, after it was earmarked by the Federal Department of Defence for divestment.

City of Parramatta Lord Mayor, Cr Martin Zaiter said the site was of strategic significance to the City and the priority should be keeping it in public ownership.

“Lancer Barracks is a priceless part of Parramatta’s story and Australia’s history dating back to the 1800s, and it should not just be sold off to the highest bidder,” Cr Zaiter said.

“We cannot risk losing a significant piece of our history and we strongly urge the Federal Government to re-evaluate its plans to sell.”

Council has written to the Federal Government requesting they reconsider their position on the future of Lancer Barracks.