RESTORATION of the fire-damaged Stanthorpe Civic Centre is continuing with a now expected completion date of 26 January 2017.
Southern Downs Regional Council’s Manager Community Services and Major Projects Michael Bell said that the date had been pushed back from 1 January due to the need to replace nearly all timber flooring within the building.
“There was an initial possibility that the flooring in the Main Auditorium would recover from the water used to extinguish the fire however, unfortunately, this has not been the case,” he said.
“It has been confirmed that the Main Auditorium flooring needs to be replaced, so now it is being replaced with a similar hardwood.
“It does, unfortunately, mean the timeframe of the project has been extended, due to the availability of the timber, however it will have a positive impact on the long-term future of this community asset.”
The Civic Centre has been closed since a fire gutted its kitchen in March this year.
The building has undergone works since this time, including asbestos removal and stripping back of interior damage.
Mr Bell said that contractors were working hard to progress the restoration of the building and had now completed a number of works including new framework in the foyer ceiling and internal walls, installation of insulation to the ceiling and replacement of electrical wiring and sound equipment.
The kitchen has also had its roof raised and the timber floor has been completely replaced in the Supper Room.
In addition to the fire damage restoration, several upgrades have been completed including those to meet current accessibility requirements.
“We now have a new footpath to enter the building from Marsh Street to meet accessibility requirements and plumbing work has been done to the external disabled access toilet,” Mr Bell said.
“The wiring for the new automated smoke detection and alarm system is also currently being installed.”
Further works to be done include the installation of a ducted air-conditioning system within the Main Auditorium and Supper Room.
“Upgraded heating will not only ensure comfort to Civic Centre users, but will help reduce energy use and cost,” Mr Bell said.
Southern Downs Chief Executive Officer David Keenan said the council appreciated the continued patience of the community during the reconstruction period.
“We apologise for any inconvenience caused. If anyone has questions, please contact our Community Contact Centre on 1300 697 372,” he said.
