The project started from an uncompleted 7-level carparking structure, which was stopped at level 7 due to seismic issues within the design.

Watts & Hughes were engaged through an ECI contract that evolved over 9 months into a Design and Build Guaranteed Maximum Price Contract. This provided the client cost certainty and removed the design and construction risk.

The final design required the re-strengthening of 7 existing carpark levels and increasing the building height by 5 levels to accommodate a medical and surgical facility.

The strengthening of the existing structure required temporary propping of the existing structure to allow the removal of existing stair structures, concrete floors and structural steel frame to allow for seismic shear walls to be installed and restrengthening of the basement through to level 7 of the existing structure.

During the design phase, several options were evaluated as utilising the existing structure was paramount to minimise additional costs and reduce the programme. On-site testing and strengthening samples were carried out to ensure the design intent was actually achievable on-site. Samples were extended from core drilling into the existing concrete to ensure reinforcing would not be compromised, and sand blasting existing structural steel columns to ensure adhesion of the new topping would be possible without environmental damage. Our proactive team incorporated the lessons learned from onsite testing into the final design solutions.

The strengthening of the existing carparking is now complete, and the 5-level extension is under construction.

A private surgical facility will accommodate 6 floors (1 car park and five for the facility). The facility will have 6 theatres, 2 procedure rooms, one interventional radiology suite and 60 beds, creating approx. 100 jobs. Significant modifications were made to accommodate the facility, including lowering and strengthening one floor, adding a special stairwell for stretchers plus two additional lifts.