New civic centre in Whangarei to be underway before Christmas

Tuesday, 13 November 2018

Plans for a new civic centre have taken a step forward with the call for lead contractors to register interest.

The hunt is on for a lead contractor to develop the new civic centre in Whangarei.

Two areas have been narrowed down as potential sites for the building – either the Forum North/RSA precinct in Rust Avenue, or within the city hub.

Over the past few years Whangarei District Council have been exploring how to create a civic centre suitable for the growing city (10,000 people over the next ten years is predicted ) and one which would accommodate all staff in the one central location.

The green light for the project was signalled in the 2018-2028 Long Term Plan which was released for public consultation in March.

Currently staff are spread out in two locations around the city.

'The build must also be designed with sustainability in mind - ideally to a Green Star 4 rating,' says Alan Adcock, Whangarei District Council's general manager and corporate chief finance officer.

'We are now looking for a lead contractor to assemble a team of experienced professionals including architect,quantity surveyor and builders.'

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The former RSA site is on one of two sites being considered for the new Whangarei civic centre build.

In addition the council will be appointing a 'principal's agent' to provide independent advice and help with overall project management.

Registrations of interest for the project's lead contractor were called last week and close on November 15.

More detailed proposals will be sorted from those short-listed.

'We plan to complete the process and make the appointment before Christmas,' Adcock says.

A similar process is being followed for the selection of the principal's agent.

'We want this to be a positive experience for all parties involved and are looking for a supplier with a strong track record in working this way.'

Adcock says the council wants something more than just fit for purpose and within the $37 million budget.

'We will be doing our best to create an award-winning building.

'We want something that provides value for money, meets all statutory requirements, includes innovative ideas and reflects the needs of the community now and in the future. '

He says the new building will help the council achieve its goals to create and enhance experiences and vibrancy in the central city, while taking a lead in quality development and design.

'It's great to see us taking the first step in bringing our new centre to life.'