Minister for Local Government, Maciu Nalumisa confirms that the initial project cost for Ratu Sukuna Park was $13 million however with a revised project scope, the cost has now reduced to $6.5 million.
Nalumisa has made these comments as fijivillage News has been trying to establish for months on what has been happening at Ratu Sukuna Park since 2021 when the previous government had announced the project and the Suva City Council had closed off the park to the public.
For quite some time, all we could see was overgrown grass and no progress.
When questioned by fijivillage News, Nalumisa confirmed that the Ratu Sukuna Park face-lift scope was revised in March 2023, and one of the major reductions in scoping has been to remove the proposed cafeteria which had a $5 million estimated investment.
The Minister says based on the revised drawings, the podium and other works started from June last year and are expected to be completed next month.
Nalumisa says recent delays have been due to weather conditions.
He says the cost of the face-lift is estimated at $5.6 million VEP with the podium construction at $1.05 million.
Nalumisa says the civil works are extensive and professional consultants are on board to supervise the works on the project.
When asked on whether any audit or investigation is underway, the Local Government Minister says there are no audits being undertaken as the concept plan was reviewed and amended to ensure early completion of the project.
Nalumisa confirms that the new Special Administrators will review to determine whether there is a need for any investigation. He also confirms that the park upgrade is fully funded by the Suva City Council with no funding from the Central Government.
Stay with us for developments.
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