Parrot project delayed by review

THE Environment Department spent one-tenth of $2.5 million set aside for an orangebellied parrot breeding facility last financial year after it was forced to revise its initial plans so the project fit within budget.

Building on the Five Mile Beach site for the critically endangered bird started in September — more than a year after the project’s planning and design phase began mid-2017.

The Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment annual report said construction of the fit-forpurpose preservation facility was delayed because of “a review of the project design scope”. This meant $2.25 million was carried over to the 2018-19 budget.

“Consideration of options for a new project design has delayed implementation,” the report said. “An initial design was revised to fit within budget.”

Asked what changes were needed, a department spokesman said: “The department considered a number of options in relation to the location, as well as the site and building design to ensure the new facility is fit for purpose.”

Construction of the facility is now under way.

The facility, expected to be ready in April, will have room for 350 birds. This would double the size of the state’s insurance population. It will replace the Taroona enclosure.