News

Option B – Mid-level remediation

24 July 2020

Under this option the building would be strengthened to approximately 80% NBS. It addresses the structural issues of highest concern and increases the building’s ability to withstand a significant earthquake. It would increase the likelihood the building could be re-occupied safely after an earthquake; however, the building is likely to still sustain damage during a significant earthquake. More intrusive construction work is needed so more of the current fit-out would need to be removed and replaced, resulting in a higher level of interior refresh, which in turn provides an opportunity for some library service enhancements. It includes the possibility for improved accessibility and connections to Te Ngākau Civic Precinct and Harris Street.


Key elements of this option are:
Structural remediation: Significant interior refresh:
  • Addresses immediate life safety issues: achieves approximately 80% NBS
  • In addition to the minor interior refresh in low-level

    remediation, this option would also provide the opportunity to improve the accessibility to the building
  • Achieves mid-level of building resilience
  • In addition to the low-level remediation elements this option also stiffens the walls and adds bracing to cushion the impact of an earthquake


Advantages Disadvantages
  • Building is retained and immediate life safety issues are addressed
  • Building still has a reasonable likelihood of being damaged and closed in a significant earthquake, disrupting service (risking heritage features and unbudgeted costs).
  • Higher NBS rating of approximately 80%
  • Relatively high cost to achieve only moderate level of building resilience
  • Likelihood of future building closures following an earthquake is reduced
  • Risk of heritage loss in significant earthquake
  • Possibility for improved accessibility and connections to Te Ngākau Civic Precinct
  • Takes longer to re-open library than low-level remediation option
  • Potential for some library service improvements and for some opportunities for partnerships
  • Some risk of closure due to more strengthening requirements from future changes in building regulations.
  • Some improvement to sustainability due to upgraded building services and nominal increase in buildings life expectancy.
  • No climate change mitigation


At a glance
Cost $131.2m - $151.8m

Increase for Average Residential Ratepayer each of 42 years of building life

 $57.30-$67.60 pa
Indicative opening date
 September 2024


Early Concept image – Glazed North Façade, terraced flooring, and integration with streetscape.

Image: Athfield Architects Limited