COVID delays for major projects

Published on 01 September 2021

Stay at home restrictions and lockdowns in NSW and the ACT are effecting major projects of Goulburn Mulwaree Council.

Construction of the Goulburn Performing Arts Centre and the Goulburn Aquatic Centre redevelopment have faced delays in recent weeks, with less tradespeople and labourers able to be on site. Smaller projects such as the Cookbundoon Amenities Building have also faced challenges in gaining materials for completion.

“Like anyone else trying to build at the moment, we are facing some difficulties that unfortunately will mean delays in completion of projects” said Mayor Bob Kirk.

“It has become nearly impossible for our project managers at the Performing Arts Centre and Aquatic Centre to access labour out of Sydney and Canberra for the projects due to lockdowns. I know we have been trying to utilise local tradespeople where possible but the reality is most of our locals are engaged in projects already so we have been unable to make up the shortfall.”

“Both projects will likely have extended practical completion dates, and we will keep the community updated however it is difficult to know just how long they will be delayed until restrictions are eased. When they are eased we hope both projects will ramp back up quickly.”

Both the Goulburn Performing Arts Centre and Goulburn Aquatic & Leisure Centre are scheduled to be completed and opened in February 2022. Goulburn Mulwaree Council expect to be able to confirm and publicise a date for openings towards the end of the year, assuming restrictions are eased.