MidCoast Council has assured ratepayers the controversial Forster Civic Centre project is on budget and on time.
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The civic precinct project is progressing well on the agreed timelines between the developer, Enyoc and council, MidCoast Council corporate services director, Steve Embry said.
At the same time the project is financially on track and being monitored closely to ensure the delivery to the community of public facilities by September 2020, Mr Embry said.
"Council has appointed numerous advisers and consultants throughout to assist with the project - including probity, legal, planning, quantity surveying and design, ensuring we are delivering a sound outcome to our community."
Mr Embry said the civic precinct project would deliver on the priorities members of the community had identified throughout an extensive planning and consultation process, which dated back to 2007.
The project will deliver a new library, visitor information centre, customer service centre and community spaces.
The $18 million project has been supported by a $6 million grant from the Australian Government, a $6 million contribution by the developer and State funding for the library fit-out.
Council has funded the remainder through section 94 contributions, reserve funds and a $3 million loan.
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"We're pleased that the project is now out of the ground, with first floor concrete pours beginning in September," Mr Embry said.
"We're on track to deliver the community's identified priorities for a modern library space, new visitor information centre and flexible community space."
The residual of the site would be developed by Enyoc for commercial purposes over several stages and would include seniors' living apartments, retail shops, supermarket, hotel and a gymnasium.
For information visit the Forster's civic precinct project page on the MidCoast Council website.
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