The new administration building is estimated to cost $28 million, with associated ground works, upgrades to the town hall and public domain improvements bringing the total project cost to an estimated $43 million.

As part of the preliminary archaeological investigations, the site of the future Maitland Administration Centre has been closed to the public since Monday.

A widespread team of archaeologists will be on the site methodically excavating through the soil with the anticipation of possibly unearthing evidence of significant structures and aretfacts including that of a potential flour mill that operated in the early 19th century.'

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"The preliminary archaeological investigation provides an opportunity to prepare the site for construction next year and possibly to uncover a lost piece of Maitland history," Council's Senior Project Architect Aaron Cook said.

"The preliminary investigation will allow the new Maitland Administration Centre to proceed with reduced risk of finding unexpected archaeological remains during construction."

The site will be closed for the investigation for approximately four weeks however may vary due to the unpredictable nature of the task.

The project also includes a range of works outside of the new building itself including upgrades to, and integration with, Town Hall, the integration of the Town Hall Café into the development, road widening and footpath improvements in the immediate precinct and utility/service upgrades.

The project is expected to be completed by the end of 2021.

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