Business to benefit from school project

Peninsula construction businesses are expected to receive a major boost from the Brisbane Water Secondary College upgrade project, according to Minister for the Central Coast, Mr John Della Bosca.

He said ACH Clifford of Hurstville had won the $5.2 million construction contract, after the Department of Commerce invited three of its best practice firms to tender for the project.

"The successful contractor has indicated it will use Central Coast firms for subcontracting work and supplies as much as possible," Mr Della Bosca said.

"There is a wealth of skills available in our region and local firms are consistently winning work through competitive pricing and quality workmanship.

"More than 160 tradespeople and suppliers arc expected to be involved in the Peninsula construction project,'' he said.

Mr Della Bosca said the successful contractor had worked on many government projects and had an excellent track record.

'The firm's current works program includes the $983,000 Wetherill Park TAFE College refurbishment, the $I.6 million Fairfield Heights Public School upgrade and the $6.3 million Kurri Kurri TAFE College additions," he said.

Member for Peats Ms Marie Andrews welcomed the news that work was about to start and that local businesses and suppliers would have an opportunity to work on the project.

"Students and staff will greatly benefit from the upgraded and additional facilities," she said.

"The Government has responded to the call from the local community by providing expanded educational facilities at the college."

The upgrade project comprises a new administration building, conversion of the existing administration building to a special education unit and two new car parks at the Woy Woy Campus.

It also includes a new movement studio, upgraded cricket grounds, covered outdoor learning area, bicycle compound and outdoor learning spaces at the Umina campus.

Both sites will also be extensively landscaped once all building activity is completed scheduled for term four in 2004.

The project is being managed by the Department of Commerce on behalf of the Department of Education and Training.

Press release, September 17