The first significant capital improvement works undertaken on the Kempsey Shire Council office buildings in their 45-year history, are nearing completion.
After significant investigation into repair and design options it was identified that replacement of the roof was the most cost effective and least disruptive option. The roof had deteriorated significantly since construction in 1974 and numerous leaks have been regularly experienced in the staffing areas, meeting spaces and Council Chambers over many years.
Work on the project, valued at $620,000, started in April and involved replacing the tile roof and removal of the box gutters across the four main buildings on the site.
General Manager Craig Milburn says that while the roof replacement work is long overdue, replacement means the cost of running the facility can be reduced.
“Replacing the tiles with colourbond and removing the box gutters not only eliminates the leaks throughout the Council buildings but it means we can insulate the roof properly and reduce the costs for heating and cooling.
“Completing the project also means the roof is stronger and we can look to install solar systems and LED internal lighting which has the potential to further reduce operational costs by up to $65,000 a year,” said Mr Milburn.
The project, identified in Council’s 2017-2021 Delivery Program was tendered out and won by local company Osborne and Dowling, with project management being conducted by Public Works NSW on Council’s behalf.
