Builders Broad Constructions spent 14 months readying the $14 million complex for its grand opening tomorrow.

It was the biggest single building project in Kempsey since the construction of the Mid North Coast Correctional Centre.

More than 120 workers were employed during the construction phase, most of them locals.

The construction site yielded plenty of surprises since workers tossed the first sods in September last year, with rain and poor weather delaying the completion of the plaza by about three months.

When builders first began installing pylons for the centre they discovered a previously unknown riverbed, which required them to sink the foundations to previously untapped depths.

The equipment used to do this was unique, a massive hydraulic structure called a G-Pile, which required 200 fully-laden semi-trailers simply to transport it to the site.

Now complete, the centre boasts room for 12 specialty shops, two superstores, more than 160 underground car parks and is more than three stories high.

The ground level boasts the huge undercover car park, with access via ramp or lift to the street level.

Access to street level is reached via Belgrave St.

The upper level houses centre management and the centre amenities. It can be accessed via the lift or stairs.

At street level, the centre sits about 100mm above the 100-year flood mark and the design incorporates the natural surrounds as much as possible.

The centre will maintain an open air style atmosphere, with the installation of specially designed louvres to circulate air flow and prevent a significant smoke hazard in the event of a fire.

And the as yet untenanted cafe has superb 180 degree views of the Macleay River.

The new Riverfront Plaza complex is in the most prominent position in town - just over the Macleay River right at the junction of Belgrave and the Pacific Highway.