Every day around 45 people are working hard on the construction of Alexandra’s new Countdown supermarket on Centennial Ave.

Breen site manager Rick Steele said Covid-19 was still around a bit, along with winter flu and coughs, but its impact on staffing had been manageable.

Rick Steele’s role is a busy one as the number of employees and subcontractors on site has increased, as has the activity on the build.

“It’s been about one or two people per day off work sick, and we’ve been able to cover it.”

The team have completed 95 percent of the roof and are now lining the walls for the amenities area. 

They are also working on the supermarket’s back of house area which will be shelving and storage.

This week the entry point for deliveries (off Ventry St) will have its concrete pour completed. 

The loading bay will be concreted on Thursday July 21 

Getting it done… Breen carpenter Brett Butcher on the tools

Rick said the project team was collaborating with local subcontractors to hit the timelines for the build.

“We’re pretty close to being on track.

“Everyone of our subbies have been great and they are really stepping up.”

The framing for the amenities area at the rear of the store is up, and wall linings are coming next

Countdown is responsible for completing the fit out work itself, so Breen is aiming to have their portion of work completed in mid-October. 

The new store will have a 3000 sqm footprint and is set to bring about 50 new jobs to Alexandra. 

With the price of household grocery basics spiralling locals are eagerly awaiting another supermarket opening in their town. 

The Central App will keep readers updated on the project’s milestones.