Greater Dandenong Mayor Youhorn Chea discusses the demolition progress with Site Manager James Read.
By NICOLE WILLIAMS
THE WALLS are coming down and construction is less than two months away on Greater Dandenong’s municipal building project.
Demolition started on the existing buildings on 2 July and council has appointed its preferred tenderer for the $63.7 million project.
Bruce Rendall, Greater Dandenong’s engineering services director, said Watpac was selected as the preferred tenderer.
“This gives us official authority to finalise and negotiate the final details of contract,” he said.
“We will be working on negotiations in the next couple of weeks and hope to start construction work on site in early September.”
Mr Rendall said the last building on the corner of Lonsdale and Walker streets would be demolished around late August and residents should expect to see the building starting to emerge before the end of the year.
The building, including the library, community centre and civic square, will be open in the first half of 2014.
During construction, the key concern for council officers will be minimising the impact on residents and surrounding businesses.
“We want to make sure people know that it is business as usual for the businesses down there,” Mr Rendall said.
“The key is making sure it won’t disrupt business.”
Car parking in the service lane and pedestrian access along Lonsdale Street will remain open when possible, Mr Rendall said.
“We are aiming to minimise disruptions as much as possible.”
Most vehicle access to the site will be from Walker Street and unloading of trucks will primarily be done onsite to reduce any traffic congestion.
While there may be some impact on retail businesses until the centre is opened, Mr Rendall said the flow on effects will benefit local business.
“We are trying to bring life to Lonsdale Street,” he said.
More than 300 workers will be employed within the building, which will flow on to surrounding retail and other businesses, he said.
