21/11/05
A $3.5million makeover of the Harler Place apartment block in Mosman Park is well under way and on track to be completed within a year.
Housing and Works Minister Francis Logan inspected the landmark building at the corner of Wellington Street and Stirling Highway today and was very impressed with the quality of the work that had already been undertaken.
The 69-unit apartment block was built in the 1960s and, due to its age and proximity to the ocean, has required substantial internal and external repairs.
Mr Logan said an engineer’s report commissioned by the Department of Housing and Works (DHW) had outlined the need to repair corroded steel work - particularly to the roof support beams - stair balustrades, handrails, concrete cracking and the carpark deck.
A further examination revealed that serious corrosion meant the steel window and doorframes on balconies had to be replaced, asbestos balustrades in the walkways had to be removed and external walls had to be painted.
“Public tenders were invited to carry out the external upgrade,” Mr Logan said.
“However, the prices submitted were higher than DHW expectations. Accordingly, the department decided to contract a project manager and to manage the work in-house.”
Substantial external work has already been completed. Five refurbished units have been re-occupied and another four units are currently being upgraded. The units are receiving new kitchens and bathrooms, new balcony windows, floor coverings, curtains and fixtures and a complete repaint.
“It is a complete facelift,” Mr Logan said.
“The complex is starting to look great and the tenants are very pleased with what is happening. They have been very patient and co-operative during the works.”
The external upgrades also include the installation of a lift. Public tenders were invited and the contract was awarded to Otis Elevators.
The Minister said he was pleased to see several Aboriginal tradesmen involved in the project, including three carpenters, an electrician and a cabinetmaker.
Internal and external restoration works should be completed by September 2006. A total of 40 units will have been refurbished and reoccupied by July.
Mr Logan was accompanied on his visit by Cottesloe MLA Colin Barnett.
Minister's office: 9222 8950
