Financial liquidation of the contractor has halted the 14-crossing pedestrian lighting contract in the three southern towns, Councillor Aidan Ellims has told The Star.
“Council awarded a tender to MMS Group for the pedestrian crossings across the District to be upgraded with new lighting,” he wrote.
The underground light cabling and new lights contract was reportedly worth some $500,000.
“Unfortunately the completion of this work across our towns is delayed as the contractor has been put into liquidation by a third party. MMS vacated the work site on The Square in December and have not returned.
Councillor Ellims added: “Council staff are working through a legal process to wrap up the contract, while at the same time urgently looking to find another company to finish the project as soon as possible.
“I and others are frustrated that this situation has occurred which was out of Council control. I am hoping that the project can be completed not only here in Martinborough, but at pedestrian crossings in Featherston and Greytown very soon.”
The Council added: “SWDC is working through the legal process to wrap up the contract while at the same time, sourcing another company to finish the project as soon as possible. This still includes pole and light installation at a number of Greytown sites and final electrical works. This situation is beyond the control of SWDC and it is disappointing and frustrating that there are delays to this project.”
