CHALLENGE

PCB was engaged by Brookfield Global Integrated Solutions to assess and report upon ongoing issues with the heritage sandstone perimeter wall at Victoria Barracks. The wall was rotating outwards, leaning into the surrounding public domain and posing a risk of collapse that may endanger the general public. Being such a unique example of stonework masonry, any repairs to the wall would demand expert technical capabilitiy, careful planning and the utmost attention to detail.

SOLUTION

Our assessment with the engagement of a structural engineer, geotechnical specialist and heritage architect resulted in the development and implementation of a staged take-down of the original wall and rebuild utilising original stones, mortars and methods, combined with contemporary in-ground reinforcement so as to both alleviate the risk and prevent recurrence. The scope within this high security zone included cataloguing all stones and their original positions in the wall, establishing temporary base perimeter walls on public land, controlled take-down of the wall and assessment of all removed stones, the controlled removal and disposal of asbestos contaminated soils discovered during the works and excavation and installation of newly configured footings. PCB developed and employed innovative stone lifting and moving systems so as to both ensure the protection of the highly valued original wall stones and improve workflow. PCB also had to source and procure matching stones (type and form) in instances where existing stones could not be re-used. The wall was rebuilt to match its original appearance and the surrounding landcape (Defence & Public) remediated to deliver the project one month early.