Gosford RSL Club has postponed the beginning of construction on its major revamp for 12 months in view of the coronavirus pandemic.
Given uncertainty surrounding a clear timeline on a return to normal activities, the club has pushed pause and now expects to begin construction in January 2022, with completion slated for mid-2023.
CEO Russell Cooper said the club had been progressing steadily towards construction over the past couple of years.
“The COVID-19 crisis has been a monumental challenge for everyone,” Cooper said.
“Throughout the crisis Gosford RSL Club has worked hard to support our members, our staff and our community.
“Like everyone, we at Gosford RSL hoped and expected that the COVID-19 crisis would be resolved by now, or at least that there would be a clear, reliable timeline for our society to return to ‘normal’.
“Unfortunately, there is still no clear timeline and there is no clear definition of what the ‘new normal’ will be.”
While he said the club’s governing body was aware there would be some disappointment for many who were looking forward to seeing the new building started, it was acutely aware of its responsibilities in managing members’ assets and didn’t feel it was appropriate to commence such a significant project amid so much uncertainty.
“We are very pleased to report that all statutory and planning approvals are in place, all architectural and planning documentation is complete and the building tender package is ready for market,” Cooper said.
“Therefore, it is a simple process to … pick up exactly where we left off in 12 months’ time.
“The current Club will continue to trade in its current format right through to the opening of the new premises.
Cooper said the club thanked members for their support through the challenging times of coronavirus.
Source:
Media release, Sep 5
Gosford RSL Club