PLANS to progress the full construction of the new St Michael’s Residential and Community Project in Bandon are moving ahead, after it was confirmed that the tender documents for the balance of the project have been issued.

Construction work on the project on Weir Street and South Main Street, which was almost 70% complete, paused in April after the contractor was put into receivership. However, a spokesperson confirmed to The Southern Star this week that the tenders are due back in mid-November.

‘This project is partly funded by the Department of Housing and we were required to follow the Department guidelines which in this case involved the new tendering process.

‘We are making every effort within our control to expedite the completion of the project and we again wish to thank the people of Bandon and surrounding area for their support and forbearance at this time.’

The project saw the demolition of an existing two and three-storey building facing onto Weir Street, and the construction of a new three-storey development containing four one-bed residential units, a new community room and support facilities.

It will also see the refurbishment of the existing three-storey building facing onto South Main Street to provide two one-bedroom units on the second floor and the refurbishment of first and second floor offices and support facilities.

St Michael’s Centre, which is a community centre providing information and support services to older people, continues to operate from Bandon Town Hall until the construction of the project is completed.