Greenwich Build has reportedly withdrawn from the project. Photo: Oliver Jacques.
An affordable housing project to construct four two-storey, two-bedroom townhouses in a block on Griffith’s Wakaden Street (next to the ambulance station) has been temporarily halted after the Sydney-based builder withdrew from the venture due to “financial constraints”.
Not-for-Profit Argyle Housing has partnered with Griffith City Council to build the units, which were to be sold at below-market rates to low-income earners to help address a chronic housing shortage in town. The dwelling was expected to be completed by early 2025.
Argyle Housing acknowledges it’s faced a setback, but says it remains committed to completing the dwelling.
“Argyle Housing is aware of recent concerns raised by members of the community regarding delays to important projects in Griffith. We understand the community’s interest in these projects and want to provide an update on the current status of these projects, the challenges encountered and our ongoing efforts to ensure the successful completion of these projects,” an Argyle Housing spokesperson said.
“Due to circumstances that were entirely out of our control, the builder engaged to undertake the works at the Griffith projects (Greenwich Build) has been unable to continue works due to its own financial constraints. As a result we have taken steps to secure the integrity of the projects and assume responsibility for completing the projects. In doing so, we want to assure the community that we are working hard to make sure these projects are completed and our commitment to the Griffith Community is fulfilled.
“Sites have been closed temporarily whilst we carefully assess the next steps to ensure that works are resumed in the most smooth and safe manner, a process we currently expect to take a couple of weeks.
“We encourage all subcontractors with concerns to contact Greenwich Build directly to resolve any outstanding payment issues. Argyle Housing is working diligently to resolve these issues, not just for the sake of the projects but also for the community as a whole. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we navigate this situation.”
The website for Greenwich Build Pty Ltd is no longer operational, but the business remains as “registered” according to the federal business regulator’s records. Region phoned a mobile number that was previously listed on the company website as that of the company general manager, but there was no answer.
The construction site is next to the ambulance station. Photo: Oliver Jacques.
“We want to assure the community that Argyle Housing has always fulfilled its financial obligations in respect of its projects including in respect of making payments to Greenwich Build for works completed by local subcontractors. We understand the difficulty for the community and those subcontractors who have been impacted by this situation. Argyle Housing is doing everything it can to get these projects back on track and remains committed to completing the Ngumbaaydyil Community Hub and the four townhouses on Wakaden Street, Griffith,” Argyle Housing CEO Carolyn Doherty said.
In August 2024, Ms Doherty and Griffith mayor Doug Curran cut a ribbon to signify the completion of another Argyle Housing-Griffith Council joint venture – Griffin Green, 20 new units constructed for social housing near Walla Avenue in South Griffith. All these units are now fully tenanted, mostly by essential workers. Under this project, 42 nearby vacant lots have also been purchased to build affordable and social housing.
Argyle Housing says the Griffin Green project has not been impacted by the withdrawal of Greenwich Pty Ltd from the Wakaden Street project, despite claims to the contrary on social media.
“Argyle Housing is dedicated to providing safe, affordable, and sustainable housing solutions for our community. We work tirelessly to support individuals and families, ensuring that everyone has access to quality housing and the resources they need to thrive,” an Argyle Housing spokesperson said.
“Thank you for your continued trust and support as we strive to make a positive impact in the lives of those we serve.”
If you know more about this story, contact [email protected] or phone 0498 843 181.
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