Builder appointed for BCH redevelopment at Portarlington

Bellarine Community Health (BCH) has welcomed in the New Year with the recent signing of a building contract for the redevelopment of the Portarlington Community Health Centre.

After a competitive tender process, Loaram Constructions has been appointed to undertake the redevelopment works at the Portarlington site.

“It’s pleasing to see this project finally get underway,” said BCH CEO Garry Ellis. “Covid and the ongoing impact on construction costs for the building industry have created delays and budget issues, but we are delighted to now have Loaram Constructions on board and keen to see the redevelopment works begin.”

Loaram Constructions, which has offices in both Geelong and Melbourne, will take possession of the site shortly and it is anticipated demolition works will begin shortly.

“This redevelopment, funded through the Department of Health’s Community Health and Hospitals Program, is an opportunity for BCH to invest in the Portarlington community,” said Mr Ellis.

“From the beginning of this project we have engaged with and listened to our community partners such as the Portarlington Ladies Auxiliary and the Portarlington Food Assistance Program about their requirements, along with other community members about what makes a modern Community Health service.”

A significant increase in building costs has resulted in some changes to the scale of the redevelopment including a reduction in floor area and certain building materials. This has resulted in alterations to the façade of the building to keep costs within available budget.

BCH services and the Portarlington GP Clinic will continue to operate during the redevelopment, which is expected to be completed by the end of this year.

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