Lennox project back on track

WORK has resumed on the Lennox Head Community Centre after Ballina Shire Council sacked the project's architects in January.

WORK has resumed on the Lennox Head Community Centre after Ballina Shire Council sacked the project’s architects in January.

The controversial design of the building is now starting to take shape and, despite several hiccups, it could still be finished before the end of the year.

But the delay in finding a new architectural firm will prove to be costly.

The council’s general manager, Paul Hickey, this week admitted costs were expected to escalate.

However the revised costs are not yet available.

It is understood that additional costs will be incurred by the builder, Bennett Industries, and that these costs must be paid by the council.

Mr Hickey confirmed the council was working with Archimages Architecture, GHD and Bennett Industries to review the project’s specifications and detailed drawings.

“We are now estimating the building will be completed by the end of the calendar year,” he said.

“We are also expecting an escalation in the construction costs.”

The council appointed Melbourne-based company Greenway Hurst Page in 2007, saying it was an award-winning firm with more than 30 years’ experience in designing community facilities.

But they were sacked in January this year, following speculation the firm had not provided detailed designs to the builders, despite repeated requests.

At the time, the company’s director, Neville Page, told The Northern Star there was ‘an issue’ with the contract, but refused to elaborate.

He also said they were seeking legal advice.

The council sought legal advice and were able to terminate the contract.

Originally published as Lennox project back on track