Supporting a Historical Landmark

A recent Christchurch scaffolding project required some creative thinking and a gentle approach.

The Victoria Street Clocktower or Diamond Jubilee clock tower is a South Island Christchurch landmark is located at the intersection of Victoria Street and Montreal Street.

It is set to undergo extensive repairs due to damage caused by the Christchurch earthquake.

This volcanic stone and limestone edifice, commonly known as the Victoria Clock Tower, comprises ornate wrought ironwork with coloured glass around part of the tower and four clock faces.

Upright scaffolding Christchurch was engaged to erect scaffolding for the repair works.

Some of the issues we faced in this high profile and delicate operation were;

• Challenges arising from public scrutiny.
• Anchoring to the site requires a surgeons precision
• Wrapping the building in a recyclable and sustainable method
• The engineering needed for high wind loads

Under the watchful eye

With plenty of surrounding offices blocks and the site situated on a high traffic thoroughfare, this site is on display for all of Christchurch to view and critique.

The high exposure meant that the scaffolding job must be closely managed, with minimal disruption to traffic and pedestrians.

Upright scaffolding Christchurch branch achieved this by being responsive to feedback from the Christchurch City Council, local businesses and residents in the area about how we were going safely and efficiently about our work.

A surgeons knife

Under the supervision of Anthony Ussher, Architect and Conservation Consultant, any work that impacted the delicate facade was kept to a minimum.

Wrapping and wind loading

With the scaffolding structure being wrapped for hazard management reasons, the scaffolding structure needed to withstand additional wind loading requirements.

The solution to this project issue was to utilise the Upright scaffolding company in-house engineering team, who were heavily involved in the planning and design of the structure.

Upright Scaffolding Christchurch ability to erect safe, secure and industry-leading, scaffolding hire and installation in efficient time makes us the perfect choice for these types of high profile, time-sensitive and historical projects.