Upgrades to dilapidated Hedland Senior High School stalled by Pindan collapse

The construction company responsible for upgrading Port Hedland’s dilapidated high school buildings has gone into administration putting into question the future of the run-down facility. Last Wednesday Belmont-based Pindan Group went into liquidation, with insolvency experts from accounting and consulting firm EY to launch a financial assessment of the group. Its collapse has halted Hedland Senior High School’s $10.9 million upgrade, which was expected to be completed by the end of this year. Upgrades include a new gymnasium and sport centre as well as the refurbishment of four existing classrooms and the school’s welcome centre. The gym was part of the original school building which turns 50 this year. A Department of Finance spokesperson said they were working with government agencies to review contractual arrangements with the group, including the HSHS development. “While the affected contracts are still being reviewed in detail...it is too early to speculate on the potential impact on subcontractors, suppliers and project timelines,” they said. “Every effort will be made to minimise delays and have work continue on projects as soon as possible.” Pilbara MLA Kevin Michel said Pilbara contracts would be reviewed and he looked forward to initiatives “getting back on track”. “Obviously this is a very hard situation for everyone affected by Pindan’s financial difficulties,” he said. “The company holds a number of contracts with the State Government, including several in the Pilbara. “These contracts will now be reviewed and I am looking forward to the Pilbara projects getting back on track as soon as possible.” Pindan’s collapse has also sparked concern in the Shire of Ashburton, where it was due to build Tom Price’s long-awaited new childcare centre ($6.75m) and emergency services precinct ($4m). Shire of Ashburton president Kerry White said any delay to the “anticipated” projects would be a blow to the community.