The original program for works in Stage 4, between Pitt and William streets, was based on the contractor’s understanding of the complexity of the design.

Site conditions have increased the complexity of constructing this stage. Stage 4 is not only the largest stage by square metre but also includes three raised cobble stone pedestrian crossings that lead to a 60m raised cobblestone feature comprising more than 400 square metres of 140mmx140mm stones.

Singleton Council Assistant General Manager Gary Thomson says the complexity of the design in this stage has required extensive liaison between Council, the construction contractor Diona and the designers Spackman Mossop Michaels.

“The sheer number of different elements in this stage, marrying them altogether and resolving any design conflicts has taken more time than what had originally been anticipated,” he says.

“We had been hopeful of closing out Stage 4 by the end of this month but it’s become evident that this is not practicable if we wish to retain the high quality of finish our community expects.

“We have asked Diona to reassess the program of works for the remainder of the project and to factor in contingencies relating to design resolution.

“At this stage, we anticipate Stage 4 will be completed by mid to late April. Stage 5 will not commence until Stage 4 is closed out.

Mr Thomson says the completion date for Stage 1, between Gowrie and York streets, had also been relaxed by one week to account for the Easter long weekend.

“Based on discussions with businesses in Stage 2, the decision was made to delay the start of work between York and Castlereagh streets until after Easter,” he says.

“We didn’t want a scenario where Stage 1 was finished and the temporary fencing erected in Stage 2 just days before a four-day weekend when no work would take place on site.

“The businesses in Stage 2 indicated this was their preference and we have worked with Diona to accommodate this.

“We anticipate Stage 1 will be completed, with the exception of some work to be undertaken by Telstra on their pits, by Thursday 2 April and the fencing from this area removed.”

Mr Thomson says the revised program of works for the remainder of the project will be made available on Council’s website by the end of the week. “We have scheduled fortnightly meetings with each of the stages in the project to keep businesses updated.

The dates for these meetings will be revised along with the schedule and published on the website.

“If the times and dates of these meetings don’t suit, Council staff are happy to meet with people by appointment or they can drop into the site office at 145 John St, Tuesday to Thursday from 11am until 1pm.”

For more information on the Singleton Town Centre Revitalisation visit www.singleton.nsw.gov.au/majorprojects