On hold: Construction of Forster's Civic Precinct

Published on 26 May 2020

Construction on the Forster Civic Precinct development is currently on hold, due to financial difficulties being experienced by the developer as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The project will ultimately deliver a number of MidCoast Council facilities to the community including a new public library, visitor information centre and customer service point.

The building is being undertaken by developer Enyoc, who entered an agreement with Council for the design and construction of these community facilities.

Council cannot comment on the financial situation currently being experienced by the developer or the payment of sub-contractors, this is a matter for the developer who engages all contractors and makes their payment term arrangements.

A legal contract is in place with the developer and at this point in time both parties aim to deliver the project in accordance with this contract.

The $18 million project cost remains a joint project between Council, the Federal Government and Enyoc, with each party contributing $6 million. As with many projects supported by Government funding, funds are spent by Council and then recouped from the Government as per the funding agreement. This does result in an outlay of funds by Council which are then reimbursed.

The obligations of the Federal funding agreement for the project are being met and Council has been in contact with the Federal Government regarding the delays on the project.

Council is discussing the timeframes with the developer and will inform the community when work resumes.

For information on the project go to www.midcoast.nsw.gov.au/civicprecinct.