DUNEDIN LAW COURTS

GeoSolve provided a comprehensive geotechnical, investigation, analysis, and foundation upgrade design for seismic strengthening works for the Dunedin Courthouse.

The investigation involved drilling in the middle of Dunedin requiring careful liaison between ourselves, the Client (to ensure that the court operations were not disrupted), Dunedin City Council (around closing footpaths and traffic management), utility companies, the architect, the structural engineer as well as close interaction with the general public.

Following a detailed optioneering process, ground improvement using jet-grouting was selected for the main tower alongside other foundation improvements. The jet grouting and other geotechnical elements were designed by GeoSolve and is the first of its kind to be used in Dunedin.

Construction commenced late 2016 with the courthouse opening at a ceremony in Jan 2018.

Key Project Challenges

• Complex ground conditions including soft and potentially liquefiable soil

• Large structural loads from the tall spire

• Minimal working room within the existing building

• Fragility of existing structure during improvements

• High level of seismic resilience (IL4 structure)