Preferred tenderer named for Civic Theatre extensions

Date: Tuesday, 28th April 2009

Townsville City Council has nominated its preferred tenderer for the multi-million dollar extension of the Civic Theatre.

At its full meeting today, the council recommended negotiations begin with TCS (QLD) Pty Ltd as the preferred tenderer.

The major project is jointly funded by the State Government under its Q150 Legacy Infrastructure Program and Townsville City Council.

The upgrade will see the 30-year-old building expanded and transformed into a modern, multi-purpose arts centre, with ample rehearsal space for local groups.

Lifestyle and Community Development Committee chair Cr Jenny Lane said 15 companies had expressed interest in the project, five of which were short-listed and then assessed by a panel.

“Negotiations with the preferred tenderer, TCS, will be targeted to achieve good value for money for the ratepayers of Townsville,” Cr Lane said.

“TCS, a local company, is well experienced and resourced. Its construction portfolio in the city includes the James Cook University Veterinary Clinical Teaching Centre, Dairy Farmers Stadium Upgrade and the Hotel Ibis.

“The Civic Theatre attracts more than 110,000 people and 165 performances each year. At a time when our city is expanding rapidly and more groups are asking to use the theatre, this project is vital. It’s also a fitting way to celebrate Queensland’s 150th year of Statehood.”

The extension will nearly double the footprint of the Civic Theatre from 1867 sq m to 3519 sq m.

It will include:

• A new 500 sq m rehearsal space;
• Improved disability access via lifts to two upper doors to the auditorium; 
• Increased foyer;
• Additional toilets;
• Function room with outdoor balcony, meeting room with kitchen;
• More space for technical staff, workshop, climate-controlled storage for piano; and
• Secure box office and administration areas.