Earthquake upgrade for Alexander Research and Heritage Library

Published on 17 December 2015

17 December 2015

The Alexander Research and Heritage Library in Queens Park is the latest Whanganui District Council building undergoing structural work as part of a five-year earthquake strengthening programme.

“The work includes the construction of additional internal foundations, reinforcing concrete pilasters, strengthening the connections between the wall and the roof, securing inner and outer brick work, external water proofing and modifying offices and toilets,” says Deputy Property Manager Leighton Toy.

“Whanganui business DML Construction has been awarded the $605,000 contract for the building work while local architect Bruce Dickson and quantity surveyor Ken Saunders have undertaken the architectural and cost consulting aspect of the project. eCubed will work on the electrical and ventilation systems and Opus International has designed the structural seismic strengthening component of the project.”

The area immediately surrounding the Alexander Library, including parking spaces, will be closed to the public during the construction. Temporary traffic signs will be in place until the project is completed, which is expected to be within a year’s time.

Extra car parks have been made available alongside the Davis Central City Library, behind the Queens Park Sarjeant Gallery, so people won’t be inconvenienced when parking in this area.

The Alexander Research and Heritage Library has a temporary home at 62 Ridgway Street while the earthquake strengthening upgrade is completed. It is open from10.00am to 5.00pm from Monday to Friday.

“The opening hours have been extended for the library’s temporary location and the ease of access within the central city is proving popular.”   

Other Council buildings which are part of the earthquake strengthening programme include the Sarjeant Gallery Te Whare O Rehua Whanganui, the Royal Wanganui Opera House, Whanganui Regional Museum and the War Memorial Centre.