Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson has revealed preliminary findings into the collapse of a multi-storey building under construction in Mayville, which claimed the lives of five people and left six others injured.
Macpherson, accompanied by several officials, addressed the media during a briefing in the area on Wednesday. The structure collapsed last Friday while concrete was being poured.
According to the Minister, early assessments suggest the collapse was caused by a sudden structural failure, possibly after formwork gave way under the weight of wet concrete.
He said rescue teams reported that the concrete found at the site appeared friable and unusually powdery, raising serious concerns about its quality. Macpherson noted that the material would undergo further forensic testing as part of the ongoing investigation.
“Of particular concern are preliminary indications that no approved building plans were submitted and that no construction permits were issued,” Macpherson said.
He added that initial evaluations have also raised red flags about substandard concrete and inadequate reinforcement.
The site has since been declared a crime scene and has been handed over to authorities for criminal and labour-related investigations. Macpherson said those found responsible for the incident would be held accountable.