The Cairns Regional Council Administration Building requires maintenance to refurbish external building elements that are deteriorating due exposure to weather and aging.

The building has deteriorated to levels that necessitate urgent, critical maintenance work to enable it to continue operating safely and achieve its useful life.

This report seeks approval to proceed with a capital works project to perform abrasive blasting and painting of steel members and replacing roof, soffit and eave cladding on the north, south and west elevation of the building. The objective of the works is to address critical maintenance requirements, prevent corrosion, increase material lifespan and restore visual appearance.

Contract 2818 – Council Administration Building Steel Remediation Works was released to open tender in accordance with Council’s Procurement Policy. The tender was released on two occasions with Field Construct submitting the only tender submission on the second release.

Due to the criticality of these required works on the building, it is considered prudent to not further delay the project start by retendering. In additional it is highly unlikely that retendering will result in an improved outcome given market conditions. It is recommended that future budget currently planned for in 2024/25 and 2025/26 be brought forward to bridge the identified 2023/24 budget shortfall.

Field Construct has demonstrated that they are a competent contractor and can deliver the works stipulated under this contract. The project risks have been identified and can be managed through common safe work procedures. The project stakeholders have been identified and communication with them will be performed through Council’s engagement team.

The project aligns with the Corporate Plan goals of:

• Focus One – Robust Economy
• Focus Four – Community & Culture
• Focus Five – Focused Council