Scaffold set to go!
The Forsyth Street footpath near Whyalla City Council’s former Civic Building will finally be free of scaffolding in the coming weeks, with a temporary ‘alternative treatment’ to the façade set to be installed in September.
The scaffold – which is protecting the community from potential falling debris from the building – has remained in place much longer than initially planned, as council sought a cost-effective solution that would allow for its safe removal while the future of the building is determined.
Mayor Phill Stone said after going to the market on multiple occasions, council had now sourced a suitably priced solution to install containment flashings directly onto the building. This will allow for the removal of the scaffold to prevent ongoing street-level disruption, all while maintaining community safety.
“I completely understand community frustration regarding the length of time the scaffold has been in place – it hasn’t been a good look for the main street precinct,” Mayor Stone said.
“However, given the future of the building is still undecided, we could not justify spending significant ratepayer funds on other temporary fixes, so it’s great that we’re finally about to see Forsyth Street scaffold-free with minimal investment!”
Mayor Stone also provided an update on the future of the former Civic Building.
“As previously advised, the existing building requires significant investment to make it safe and fit for purpose in the long-term; or would need to be demolished at a cost of about $1 million,” he said.
“Council has been considering how it could either sell the site in its ‘current state’ or demolish the existing building and market a greenfield development site to potential investors; all while minimising the cost to ratepayers and ensuring it’s not left undeveloped for an extended period.
“Considering these options has taken some time, and has now been ‘paused’ until a new owner for the steelworks has been determined. As the city’s future and economic conditions become more secure, we will recommence this process and keep the community updated as it progresses.”
We’ll continue to provide updates on the timing of the work over the coming weeks. You can read more about council’s need to relocate from the City Plaza here.