With all major tenders now awarded, the Grey District Council can release more information on the total cost of the new Richmond Quay development, which includes a library on the top storey and commercial premises on the ground floor.
Council Chief Executive Joanne Soderlund said: “Now that the last major tenders have been confirmed, it’s important we update the community with the projected final cost.”
There had been a range of figures circulating publicly since the project’s inception in 2021, and it was important to provide a clear, consolidated update now that the majority of tenders have been confirmed.
The council is contributing $15.25 million of the overall $24.23 million cost. The remaining $9 million is being funded externally, including by Development West Coast.
The projected base build cost of $19.93 million is tracking well, meaning council’s original contribution of $11m for the base build will remain more or less unchanged.
Our local contractors are tracking to deliver the base build component of the project essentially on budget.
However, a review undertaken in mid-2025 highlighted that some essential works were not included in the original scope of the project, and the original $1.5 million allowance for fit-out was not sufficient.
As a result, additional funding of up to $2.75m has been approved by council, bringing the total projected cost to ratepayers to $15.25m.
Contractors are currently working on the fixed internal items phase of the fit-out, with fixed cabinetry the next stage.
The council is planning for an official opening by mid-year.
“The top storey library will be a community hub, with places for people to gather and connect.”
