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Unitec Block 108 Remediation and Reclad

Unitec and Brosnan collaborated through an Early Contractor Involvement (ECI) process for the remediation and reclad of Unitec. We were able to effectively manage a demanding schedule for this tertiary education project by capitalising on various value engineering and innovation opportunities.

Unitec, a large tertiary education institution serving 12,000 students across two campuses, faced challenges with Building 108, a 4,500m2 double-storey structure housing multiple trade facilities. Constructed in the 1970s, the building suffered from a leaky room clad with corrugated asbestos sheets and numerous internal gutter issues.

Brosnan entered into an ECI contract with Unitec prior to being awarded the remediation works. During this phase, our team identified innovative solutions for the new roof design, prioritising cost-efficiency and minimising disruption.

This approach expedited the project methodology and ensured Unitec’s confidence in delivery. As a result, the ECI period covered just six months from contract signing to site possession.

Given the project’s scale, complexity, and the urgent need to reoccupy the building upon completion of each stage, it was divided into multiple phases.

Originally focused on roof replacement, complete internal demolition, and fit-out of two areas totalling 3,000m2, the scope expanded to include an additional 6,000m2 floor area and three external lobby areas.

Effective stakeholder communication, particularly regarding early notification of internal road and car park closures, enabled staff and students to plan travel adjustments well in advance.

Despite challenges such as significant asbestos contamination and evolving design and programme requirements in an operational environment, Brosnan successfully managed the project’s intricacies.

Testimonial

We are a large organisation with diverse stakeholders and complex internal governance processes, we commenced with an ECI for a significant and complex project while our brief was still being developed. We required a partner to navigate this with us and adapt at short notice through all design and construction stages.

Our ideal was a partner who could collaborate closely, and at times quickly, to deliver innovation, professionalism, and high levels of performance while also developing relationships and credibility with all members of the ECI team and the wider organisation.

Brosnan has exceeded our expectations in all of these areas. As a result, it was an obvious choice to continue with them past the initial ECI phase as the project developed and continued. Brosnan is an integral part of the team, and their involvement has ensured we have managed risks, found multiple value engineering and innovation opportunities and has been a cornerstone for our success to date."

Nick HanveyUnitec Infrastructure Operations Manager