Construction tender has been awarded for the Wingecarribee Animal Shelter

Puch Building and Constructions Pty Ltd - a new contractor for council, was awarded tender at the June 21 ordinary meeting.

Construction is anticipated to start in August, with the aim for completion in October, 2024.

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Friends of Wingecarribee Animal Shelter President Deborah Barnes said the organisation was pleased that years of lobbying and fundraising have achieved a result.

"Our mission has always been to support council to build a fit-for-purpose animal shelter and we look forward to offering financial assistance toward the build," she said.

The new purpose-built facility is planned to house up to 90 companion-animals, with custom-built indoor holding pen spaces and adoption compounds, state-of-the-art examination facilities, and outdoor runs where they can remain active in recuperation.

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There will also be a welcome reception area and meeting rooms and a car park facility.

"The new building will be something Highlanders can be proud of, one that will properly accommodate animals as well as staff who work there," said animal shelter volunteer Sandra Jones.

"We especially appreciate that volunteer input to the functional, modern design was sought as part of council's very inclusive approach."

It will be joined to the new State Emergency Services (SES) facilities.

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A total of $9.6 million has been allocated to the joint facility.

This is made up of $3.6 million from capital works reserve, $157,000 working capital and $4 million in loan funding all from council, $310,000 bequeathed from a deceased estate, and $1.5 million from the state government, toward the completion of the SES facilities.

Showing the animal shelter volunteers just how much we care about all they do for the community, this priority project is a big undertaking, calling for close collaboration with the many stakeholders involved," said council administrator Viv May PSM.

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