Construction work on Redbank Plains Road in Ipswich’s eastern suburbs has recommenced after council took back ownership of the project last month.
Council advised principal contractor Allroads on 1 March that it would be taking ownership of the project after a pause in on-site activity.
On 4 March, Allroads went into administration.
Ipswich City Council Chief Executive Officer Sonia Cooper said council then prepared to recommence upgrade work on Stage 3 of Redbank Plains Road, between Keidges Road and Kruger Parade.
“Council moved quickly to address the emerging issue with the principal contractor in the first instance, issuing a show cause notice on Wednesday 21 February,” Ms Cooper said.
“The contractor Allroads did not respond within the seven-day response period and council immediately took action under the contract.
“In the ensuing three weeks, council finalised plans to recommence work on this critical road upgrade.
“Since early March, council crews have made the site safe and completed some water and service upgrades.
“Council has engaged contractor NARIC Civil, based in Dinmore, to complete the next phase of works on site. Work began immediately after Easter.
“Council teams will remain on-site with NARIC contractors to complete the project.”
Ms Cooper said any increase in cost was not yet clear as council works through securing contractors.
“The 2023-2024 council budget allocated $11.3 million to Stage 3 of Redbank Plains Road, and following the liquidation of Allroads, council is assessing its options,” Ms Cooper said.
“It has been a major priority for council to quickly and efficiently resolve this contracting issue so work could resume as soon as possible.
“While this change has caused some unavoidable delays to delivery, council expects Stage 3 will be completed by late 2024.
“We understand this has been disruptive for the Redbank Plains and Bellbird Park communities in particular and we thank residents for their patience during this time.”
Residents can continue to follow the project on council’s website or email capitalprojects@ipswich.qld.gov.au