LOCAL tradies are set to benefit the most from a $23 million project expected to take two years to complete.

Work on the development of the West Woolgoolga Sports Complex is expected to start next year and local tradespeople are being invited to submit an Expression of Interest to Coffs Harbour City Council.

A similar partnership between local contractors and Council was set up for the recent upgrade of C.ex Coffs International Stadium.

That project saw more than 40 local businesses engaged to complete the build and Council’s Group Leader City Prosperity Nikki Greenwood said the initiative is all about helping local businesses get front and centre when the overall tender was finally awarded.

“This is certainly the biggest Council infrastructure project that’s ever come to Woolgoolga, with $23m worth of works to be done over two years that will require input from a wide range of skills,” she said.

“There will be more than 40 categories of trades and services needed to build the new complex and we hope that by giving locals the opportunity to nominate themselves, the future tenderers will see the breadth of experience and services available locally.

“Ultimately the goal is to see as many sub-contracts as possible awarded to locals.”

Along with the large expanse of playing fields which will need lighting, drainage and amenities, the project also includes a multi-purpose centre which will consist of two indoor courts, a stage, kitchen, multi-purpose rooms and amenities. Works including roadways, shared pathways and car parks are also included in the project.

“We hope to see as many locals engaged this time around,” Ms Greenwood said.

“While it’s not a guarantee of work, it’s an opportunity for locals to show the wider construction industry what they have to offer.”

 

By Brad Greenshields