PHOTO: The Block Australia host Shelley Craft. FILE
Season 20 of The Block Wraps Filming on Phillip Island
Filming Concludes, but Construction Continues
Season 20 of Channel Nine’s hit reality series The Block has officially wrapped filming on Phillip Island, but the journey to auction time later this year is far from over. While contestants have flown home, recent photos posted to social media reveal that the building site is still bustling with activity. One disgruntled neighbor described the area to Yahoo Lifestyle as looking like a ‘bomb site.’
Ongoing Construction Efforts
An insider informed the publication that construction workers have been booked for the nine weeks between filming and the show’s premiere. This time is crucial to ensure that the properties are ready for the market.
“(The Block) Phillip Island needs a lot of work before the five new houses can go to auction,” a source said. “Filming with the contestants finished two weeks ago, yet builders are still working away and completing common areas.”
Season 20 of Channel Nine’s hit reality series The Block has officially wrapped filming on Phillip Island until auction time later this year, but according to a neighbour the building site still looks like a ‘bomb site’
Challenges and Neighbor Concerns
This ongoing construction has not been without its issues. According to residents, the construction site, located at a former Cowes resort on Justice Road, has caused significant disruptions. Enormous trucks carting building supplies and palm trees have led to traffic congestion and environmental concerns.
‘(The Block) Phillip Island needs a lot of work before the five new houses can go to auction,’ a source said. ‘Filming with the contestants finished two weeks ago and yet builders are still working away and completing common areas’
Traffic and Environmental Impact
One resident noted that traffic issues mainly stem from large trucks queuing along the narrow street, waiting to enter and exit the site. These trucks often idle for hours, emitting fumes into the air, which has frustrated locals.
“It’s not ideal, but what can you do?” commented one female neighbor who chose to remain anonymous. “We can’t wait to see the back of them.”
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Construction Impact on Local Area
Many neighbors have voiced their grievances over the construction’s impact. Some claimed their lawns were damaged by trucks driving over curbs, although this issue has somewhat improved over the three-month ordeal.
Safety Concerns
Safety has also been a concern. An elderly local recounted near collisions caused by what he believes to be inadequate traffic control. “I don’t want to cause trouble, but I don’t want to have an accident either,” he stated.
Promoting the Final Auction
Despite the ongoing construction, producers of The Block have already begun promoting the upcoming auction. Billboards showcasing the stunning renovations have been erected, offering a glimpse of the modern designs and lavish gardens featured in the new homes.
This is not the first time the building site has caused chaos. Last month, Daily Mail Australia watched enormous big rigs carting palm trees into the construction site, which is positioned in a former Cowes resort along a narrow street ironically named Justice Road
The Block’s host Scott Cam films at Phillip Island last week
The Block host Shelley Craft at the construction site at Phillip Island
The Future of The Block on Phillip Island
The new homes, all two-story with solar panels and large blocks, are part of a compound with access to amenities such as a pool and a tennis court. The Channel Nine-owned company purchased the site, Island Cove Villas, for a whopping $9.5 million, underscoring their commitment to making this season of The Block a standout success.
Conclusion
As the series prepares to premiere in August after the 2024 Olympics in Paris, the anticipation for the final auction builds. The ongoing construction efforts and the community’s reactions only add to the drama and excitement surrounding this landmark season of The Block.
SOURCE: THE DAILY MAIL