Construction of the shire's new Cardinia Youth Hub at 43 James St, Pakenham has been delayed due to the facility's building contractor – Allmore Constructions Pty Ltd – being placed into liquidation.
Cardinia Shire Council is now preparing to go back out to tender to engage a builder to complete the construction of the facility. It is anticipated that building works will recommence in early 2024.
Once built, the facility will replace the existing My Place Youth Centre (www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/myplace) in Main Street, Pakenham.
Cardinia Shire Mayor Cr Tammy Radford says that while the delay is disappointing, Council remains as committed as ever to delivering the Youth Hub for the community.
"Cardinia Youth Hub is one of Council's priority projects, so we're working hard to get ready to go back out to tender.
"Our shire's population is young and growing rapidly. The current My Place youth facility already offers a range of support services and programs for young people including the recent set up of a studio space.
"The new Cardina Youth Hub will enhance this important work in a much larger space with upgraded facilities. Seven youth organisations have committed to co-locating in the hub once opened. This will provide a one-stop shop for young people to access a range of support services within their local community," Mayor Radford said.
Once completed, the 3-storey youth hub will include a hangout space, counselling rooms, an internet café with 8 computers and free Wi-Fi, a studio, classrooms, and a rooftop recreation space with a basketball hoop.
Cardinia Youth Hub will co-locate a range of services to meet the needs of young people aged 12 to 25, as well as offer group programs, activities and support from Council's dedicated Youth Services team.
The project is jointly funded by Council, the Victorian Government's Growing Suburbs Fund and the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care.
Young people can continue to attend group programs and access support services from My Place (5-7 Main Street, Pakenham) or by calling 1800 496 884. My Place is open Monday to Friday, 1–5pm.
