Fourth BSP branch in Lae

 BANK South Pacific will soon have its fourth branch in downtown Lae.

The building to house the new branch is being built along Markham Road and is scheduled to be finished by middle of next year.

Australian-based construction firm Northbuild said at least 102 national workers were employed in the four-storey project.

Operations-training manager Allan Wheeler said BSP would occupy the ground floor while the other floors would be for commercial lease.

A two-level apartment to house senior bank employees will be built next to the new building.

Wheeler said they expected to complete the project by June.

Wheeler had praised the local workers, saying: “The swift progress of the project reflected the skills of the national workforce and their capability to work with expatriates.

He said the local workers were given the opportunity to enhance their skills through in-house training on project planning and management and delivery within the budget plan.

On-site safety officer Afa Oera said there were nine units contributing in specific sections within Northbuild to deliver on time.   

Northbuild paid its workers above minimum wages rate aside from providing them meals and transport service.

“It’s an expensive exercise but we are committed,” Wheeler said.

The other three BSP branches are located at Coronacion Drive, Sixth Street and Central Avenue.