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The reconstruction of Nuku'alofa' business centre, planned to start after the ground breaking ceremony on November 18 last year, has remained at a virtual stand-still while issues are still being worked out with the property owners.
Phase One of the reconstruction was going to be the fencing-off of construction sites, the demolition of gutted buildings and the excavation work for the laying of a drainage system and the laying of underground pipes for lighting and telecommunications, Matangi Tonga reports.
There was also an understanding that there could be a slow start because 20 containers of equipment and construction materials were due to arrive in Nuku'alofa just before Christmas for the construction company, the China Civil Engineering Construction Company (CCEDD).
The containers of equipment and building materials had arrived according to the Head of the Urban Planning Department of the Ministry of Land, Survey and Natural Resources, Tukua Tonga.
The only sign of any reconstruction work that has been carried out since November 18, 2008 was the fencing off of the Taumoepeau property for the demolition work, which came to a stop before Christmas.
Demolition begins on the Taumoepeau Building on Hala Fatafehi, (former home of the Matangi Tonga Online office).
Tuku said the government and the Tongan property owners were responsible for the delay in the starting of the reconstruction work.
"There are matters which are still being worked out. The Chinese have always been on schedule and are ready to work."
Tuku said he was hopeful that work would start soon.
The Chairman of the Reconstruction Committee Hon Paul Karalus also confirmed today that the contracts with the property owners had not been finalised.
Meanwhile the CCECC has set up base at Siaine, Kolofo'ou.
