Construction begins on new $100 million Whyalla secondary school
Construction on the new $100 million Whyalla secondary school is underway, with the project bringing a much-needed jobs and economic injection to the town.
Upper Spencer Gulf
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Work has started on the new $100 million Whyalla secondary school, which will create almost 1200 jobs while it is being constructed.
The Year 7-12 campus, which will sit between the UniSA and TAFE SA campuses on Nicolson Ave and replace the existing Edward John Eyre, Stuart and Whyalla high schools, is scheduled to open in January 2022.
The Whyalla Steelworks is supplying more than 650 tonnes of steel for the project, which coupled with the construction jobs is bringing a welcome boost to the local economy amid the downturn caused by the coronavirus pandemic.
Member for Stuart Dan van Holst Pellekaan said the project could not have come at a better time for Whyalla.
“This is a major project that will deliver modern, state-of-the-art school facilities for local students, create jobs in the Whyalla community and contribute to South Australia’s economic growth at a time when our state so sorely needs a boost,” Mr van Holst Pellekaan said.
The State Government has confirmed that the project was on target to meet its 2022 deadline.
The new school will include a performing arts theatre and outdoor amphitheatre, as well as four tennis courts, two netball courts, two soccer fields and a football oval.
Education Minister John Gardner said the project was an investment in the future of young people.
“By delivering world class, 21st century school infrastructure to Whyalla, we’re supporting the region’s young people to prosper and pursue high quality education,” Mr Gardner said.
“We are excited to engage with the construction company and watch them bring to life a modern, world class design, delivering dynamic and adaptable learning environments for local students and staff.”
A spokesman for Mr Gardner said plans for the future of the Edward John Eyre, Stuart and Whyalla high schools had not been finalised.