ADCO Constructions begins demolition of collapsed roof at Kew Recreation Centre

Following its partial collapse in October last year, work has commenced on the demolition of the steel roof structure at the Kew Recreation Centre in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs.

With the City of Boroondara undertaking a redevelopment of the facility, on the night of 20th October last year a section of the roof collapsed, alarming local residents and leading to Victoria Police and Fire + Rescue attended the scene.

Concerned over the safety of the site, Construction, Forestry, Mining and Energy Union (CFMEU) representatives cordoned off the area and kept it secure while waiting for WorkSafe Victoria to arrive in the morning.

WorkSafe have now approved a methodology to safely dismantle the collapsed steel, with City of Boroondara’s appointed project builder, ADCO Constructions now in the process of completing the propping works to prepare the collapsed zone for dismantling.

Commencing yesterday, the dismantling work of the steel roof structure will start in early February 2023 and take approximately four to six weeks.

WorkSafe will be on site to supervise these works.

In a notice, the council advise “we expect there to be an impact to local traffic and access around the site. ADCO Constructions are implementing a traffic management plan to ensure community safety and manage any temporary path and road closures while these works take place”

Thorough investigations into the cause of the collapse are still ongoing and will continue while the collapsed steel is dismantled.

In relation to the rebuilding of the facility, the council add “the impact of the collapse on the project timeframe is not yet known. We will provide an update once a revised construction timeframe is confirmed”, adding “every step is being taken to ensure the final structure is safe and secure, and a high-quality, modern recreation and aquatic facility is delivered for our community.”

When complete, the $65.5 million redevelopment of the Centre will feature a dedicated learn-to-swim pool, a secluded warm water pool for gentle exercise and rehabilitation, an aqua play area, an onsite childcare with outdoor play area, bigger change rooms, two indoor sports courts, allied health suites, health and fitness areas, a landscaped forecourt and café, increased parking and a party room.

Image: Demolition of collapsed roof at Kew Recreation Centre. Credit: Derek Harbison.