Cardinia Shire Council is considering the future of its Youth Hub project in Pakenham, following the collapse of the company contracted to complete the build.
The Council engaged technical experts to undertake independent investigations of the build site after Allmore Constructions Pty Ltd entered liquidation in October last year.
The subsequent investigation found structural defects which made the partially completed building unsafe.
At last night’s Council Meeting, Council Resolved to delegate authority to the Chief Executive Officer, Carol Jeffs, to proceed with demolition of the building.
When required, Council will go out to tender to appoint a demolition contractor and it is expected that this process, including the demolition, will take approximately 12 weeks, said Ms Jeffs.
She said Council’s priority was to continue to support the sectors to deliver youth services and support, while working through options.
“We are continuing to have discussions with key stakeholders, including governments and youth services as part of this process,” said Ms Jeffs.
“These conversations will assist Council in considering options and next steps for this project.”
Cardinia Shire Mayor, Jack Kowarzik said youth services would continue to be provided from My Place in Main Street, Pakenham, and that Council would continue to work closely with services that provide important programs and support to young people.
“Council is absolutely committed to supporting a range of services locally that assist our young people,” Mayor Kowarzik said.
“The continued discussions Council staff are having with service providers are critical to inform the next steps in this project and I would like to thank local service providers for their continued support of our young people.
“Council will pursue appropriate legal action on behalf of Council and the community who have been left bitterly disappointed by this project.”
