$1 million to remove shire office asbestos cladding

NEW cladding will soon be installed at South Gippsland Shire Council’s office building in Smith Street in Leongatha.

The project will involve the removal of asbestos-containing materials and the renewal of the current exterior which is aged and deteriorating.

According to the council, the works will also help to improve the aesthetic and provide a modern update for the 70s era building.

“Although there is no immediate risk to staff or customers from the asbestos containing materials, it is good practice to have these materials removed as soon as practicable and before there is a risk to the public,” said shire CEO Kerryn Ellis.

“The new cladding will ensure the building remains safe, and modernise the exterior and increase street appeal,” she said.

“The works will be undertaken over a number of months, and disruption to the customer service area will be minimised as much as possible.”

A contract for the cladding works has been awarded to MDC Building Group Pty Ltd for $988,954.

Works are expected to commence early next year and be completed mid-2024. Access to the Woolworths carpark will be maintained during construction and measures will be in place to ensure the safety of pedestrians.