2011/2012 Capital Works Update
Wyndham City residents are being advised of progress to several projects, as the extensive 2011/2012 Capital Works program continues developing.
While most projects are advancing on schedule, a number of works have been delayed.
Earlier this year, Wyndham City awarded the contract for reconstruction works on six residential streets, including Hogans Road. While works on the other roads have progress on time, there have been a number of delays to the reconstruction of Hogans Road, due to inclement weather and issues with the availability of material. Works on the project are now expected to be complete in mid January, 2012.
The duplication of Sayers Road between Tarneit and Derrimut Roads will cater for increased traffic volumes. Works also include the installation of traffic signals at two intersections and the construction of a footpath to improve pedestrian access. Delays on this project have occurred due to problems with drainage and underground services, the coordination between the contractor and Powercor and industrial action by a sub contractor. Works on this project are now expected to be completed in early 2012.
Works on McGrath Road include construction of McGraths Road from Black Forest Road to Bulband Road including a culvert bridge to improve access and traffic flow for nearby residents. Works have been significantly delayed following the discovery of Aboriginal artefacts on an abutting reserve, despite initial investigations at McGrath Road showing the site had been disturbed and was unlikely to contain such objects. Works have been further delayed by City West Water recycled water main works. The road is expected to be opened by late December 2011. The adjacent Wetlands landscape works and the development of the adjoining Gordon O’Keefe Reserve are due to be completed by mid 2012.
Wyndham City is overseeing works at the intersection of Sayers and Marquands Road. The intersection is being modified from a T-intersection to fully signalised cross intersection with turning lanes. The works are being funded by Developer Contributions and were significantly delayed when the developer experienced financial difficulties. Works were also delayed due to the location of underground services. The developer’s contractor has recommenced works and they are expected to be completed next month.
Significant delays have been experienced in obtaining planning approvals for the roll-out of sporting facilities at the Haines Road, Wootten Road and Goddard Street Reserves. All three projects required approval in relation to flora and fauna issues from the Department of Sustainability and Environment. Wootten Road and Goddard Street Reserves also required Aboriginal Affairs Victoria approval. AAV approval has now been received and approval from DSE has now been granted for Haines Drive and Wootten Road Reserves.
As a result, works will start on the Haines Drive and Wootten Road sites in mid to late January and are expected to be complete in mid 2012. It is expected that the Goddard Street approval will be forthcoming shortly. Plans for Haines Drive Reserve includes two rugby league fields with cricket oval, play facilities including a basketball ring. Goddard Street Reserve includes two cricket and Australian Rules football ovals, playground facilities, barbecue and shelter amenities and parkland. Wootten Road Reserve includes two cricket and Australian Rules football ovals, tennis courts, playground facilities, barbecue and picnic shelter amenities.
Wyndham Vale South Reserve includes two cricket and Australian rules football ovals, playground facilities, barbecue and shelter amenities and parkland. An extensive Cultural Heritage Management Plan (CHMP) was required for the Reserve as part of the planning requirements. The Plan has now been completed and the project is out to tender. The project is expected to be complete in mid 2012.
Wyndham City CEO Kerry Thompson said staff are working hard to minimise delays where possible.
“With a Capital Works program of $106.22 million, there are dozens of projects being undertaken at any one time, most of them completed on time and on budget,” Ms Thompson said.
“External issues such as weather and third party delays are the largest contributors to overdue works.”
“I would like to thank Wyndham residents for their understanding on those projects that have been delayed and ask them for their continued patience while these works are completed. Wyndham City will keep residents informed of any major delays with capital works projects.”
For more information on Wyndham City’s Capital Works program, visit www.wyndham.vic.gov.au