Bega Valley Shire Council will work with a range of specialist contractors to finish works on the South East Centre for Contemporary Art (SECCA) in Bega.
The decision was made at an Extraordinary Council meeting today, with strong support for moving forward with local contractor support.
Mayor, Russell Fitzpatrick said a lot of local contractors had been left high and dry following the collapse of Lloyd Group Pty Ltd.
“Our focus today was twofold: one to finalise works on a landmark regional centre for contemporary arts, and two to use as many local contractors as possible in completing this key development,” Cr Fitzpatrick said.
“Everyone in the Council chambers today had a commitment to seeing the gallery upgrade project delivered, and all Councillors wanted to ensure best value for money possible.
“By taking over the role of Principal Contractor, we will be able to source the right people for the job at an acceptable cost.
“Our first step is to engage the existing local site manager who is well placed to coordinate the project’s completion and to work with existing local sub-contractors, where possible, to finalise the project.
“We resolved to take this path as it offers an efficient delivery of the project and the best value for money.
“The alternative was to engage an independent Principal Contractor, however this would likely have come at a much higher cost and would take longer to deliver.
“Once completed, SECCA will be a key asset for a region known for its diverse visual culture. It will work alongside national and international arts organisations to deliver a spectacular arts and educational facility at the heart of the Bega Valley Shire.
“We will waste no time in moving forward as the new Principal Contractor and we will keep the community informed as the project moves closer to completion.
“Like many, I look forward to attending the official opening of SECCA.”
For more information on the Bega Valley Regional Gallery upgrade project, go to Council’s website.
