By Jeremy Cook
Southern Downs Regional Council has maintained its commitment to completing a major construction project in Stanthorpe after the collapse of previous builders threw its future into doubt.
Tools were laid to rest on site of the Stanthorpe Regional Art Gallery and Library in early-February when previous contractors and Australian building giant St Hilliers entered voluntary administration, adding to ongoing woes currently facing the construction industry.
It is not known when exactly newly appointed contractor ICM Constructions will recommence work on the Lock Street site, though in a statement, the council indicated the project remained “on schedule for completion in the first half of 2024”.
Council chief executive Dave Burges said work could not restart until an assessment of the site had been completed and the required subcontractors were assembled.
Mr Burges said the council would work with ICM Constructions to retain tradespeople previously subcontracted to complete work on the project.
“ICM Constructions will initially focus on reviewing and procuring the balance of materials for the job, as well as negotiating with existing and new trades to complete the works,” he said.
“Council is working with ICM Constructions to identify, retain and reconcile accounts with local trades where possible, and the priority remains on our community and retaining local employment.
“Council has an established working relationship with ICM Constructions, and their delivery expertise on the Warwick Saleyards Redevelopment Project has demonstrated their commitment to detail, our region and our community, which has made a significant issue more manageable.
“Council looks forward to working with ICM Constructions to resolve outstanding issues and deliver exciting project outcomes that do justice to the thriving nature of Stanthorpe’s vibrant arts and culture scene.”
Mr Burges said the project remained a priority for the council.
“Council values the vibrant arts scene in the Southern Downs and respects the influence that Stanthorpe contributes to the region as a cultural destination,” he said.
“Throughout this recent challenging period of uncertainty, council has worked through contractual obligations proactively and efficiently to minimise construction downtime and community impact.
“As ICM Constructions is currently working in the region on the Warwick Saleyards Redevelopment Project, their appointment saves substantial time in reviewing, pricing and re-contracting works, so the community can be assured of ICM’s demonstrated performance to deliver.”
News of St Hilliers collapse came approximately 18 months after the construction firm were awarded the tender to complete the project.
The $6.1 million Stanthorpe Art Gallery and Library was one of 21 active construction sites around the country where work paused while administrators conducted an “urgent assessment” of the business’s financial position in early-February.
St Hilliers later failed to respond to a show cause notice issued by the Southern Downs Regional Council resulting in the express appointment of ICM Constructions.
Once completed, the project will deliver fire-proof storage space for millions of dollars worth of artwork and book collections which were housed in the previous building.
