By Corey Everitt
The strains on the building industry continue to ripple through the community as construction of the new Cardinia Youth Hub has been delayed as the project’s builder has gone into liquidation.
Cardinia Shire Council announced on Tuesday 10 October that the new Youth Hub on James Street will be delayed until next year because the building contractor, Allmore Constructions Pty Ltd, has gone under.
Notice of Allmore’s liquidation was posted by the Australian Securities and Investment Commission on 7 September.
Cardinia Shire mayor Cr Tammy Radford says that while the delay is disappointing, the council remains as committed as ever to delivering the Youth Hub for the community.
“Cardinia Youth Hub is one of council’s priority projects, so we’re working hard to get ready to go back out to tender,” Cr Radford said.
“Our shire’s population is young and growing rapidly. The current My Place youth facility already offers a range of support services and programs for young people including the recent set up of a studio space.
“The new Cardina Youth Hub will enhance this important work in a much larger space with upgraded facilities, seven youth organisations have committed to co-locating in the hub once opened.
“This will provide a one-stop shop for young people to access a range of support services within their local community.”
The large project they were tasked with was set to provide facilities to Pakenham and surrounds youth aged between 12 and 24, offering programs and services with dedicated training/class rooms, counselling rooms, a program/group room, hang out space, a shower and laundry facility, recording booth, computers with internet access and a roof-top recreation space.
The construction first begun in January 2022 and has already faced delays before Allmore’s liquidation, as originally the project was expected to be completed by January 2023.
Local, State and Federal Governments have contributed to the project’s budget which is approximately $6.3 million.
Once built, the facility will replace the existing My Place Youth Centre in Main Street, Pakenham.
The council notified that they are preparing to go back out to tender to engage with a new builder to complete the construction of the facility.
They anticipate that building works will recommence in early 2024.
Young people can continue to attend group programs and access support services from My Place (5-7 Main Street, Pakenham) or by calling 1800 496 884.
My Place is open Monday to Friday, 1–5pm.
