Rodney Stevens

Work is hoped to recommence this month on the multi-storey 50 apartment Uniting development on Yamba Road after construction stopped before Christmas resulting in several rumours circulating about the halt in construction.

The Clarence Valley Independent received several queries from local residents about the job site, with some people speculating they couldn’t get tradesmen, others blaming a delay in obtaining building materials, and some even speculating that the developer had gone out of business.

Now Uniting NSW ACT and Clarence Valley Council have shed some light on why construction on the apartments was on hold.

A Clarence Valley Council spokesman said council were not the certifier for the development, Uniting had engaged Blackett Maguire and Goldsmith P/L a private certification company.

“Clarence Valley Council has received an application for a Building Information Certificate from GCB Constructions in respect of internal fit out works that have progressed beyond what has been authorised by the Construction Certificate(s) issued so far by the private certification firm for the development,” the spokesman said.

A Uniting spokesman said it is hoped work on the apartments will continue this month.

“In November 2022, Uniting became aware that work had been conducted without appropriate private certifier or council approval and asked the builder to stop work,” the spokesman said. 

“The works were safe and were of high quality but were deemed by the council as unauthorised works requiring a Building Information Certificate.

“The builder has applied for a Building Information Certificate from Council, and awaits a successful outcome in the coming weeks, so construction can recommence.”

The Uniting spokesman said final design approval from authorities including Clarence Valley Council was needed before construction can continue.

“The apartments will be ready for residents to move into in summer 2023-24,” the spokesman said.

“Residents are expected to move into the villas in autumn 2023. 

“We sincerely thank our future residents and the community for their patience and understanding during this challenging time.

“Uniting is committed to ensuring that our new residents have quality, safe, accommodation.”