Victoria University, Engineering School Expansion

Victoria University had two issues to resolve:-

1. The Engineering School were experiencing a growing demand from applicants wishing to attend their electronic, computer system, network and software engineering courses.
2. The Centre for Climate Change were looking for a permanent offices within the Kelburn Campus.

After considerable consultation with the other departments within the Cotton Building, 1,300m² of existing geology laboratories, administration spaces and smaller offices were allocated for refurbishment.

A senior Xigo project manager was seconded to the university to work within the Campus Services Team.  Xigo performed the role of both Project Manager and Engineer to the Contract from inception to completion.

As Project Manager for the University, our role required more than just administering and coordinating the construction works.  Xigo became the single point of contact for any issue related to the design and delivery of the refurbishment project.  Facets to consider ranged from campus security, access to and from the site, space planning, decanting and relocation of personal and their furniture, temporary works, communication with all stakeholders, all being coordinated and programmed with the absolute minimum downtime.

The University prides itself in delivering the highest quality of tertiary education.  Xigo provided the pathway for the University to achieve its goals.  These final spaces are now enjoyed as being technically advanced and efficient learning spaces.  They have been welcomed by the lecturers, tutors and students.

• Working within a University environment required close communication with the affected departments. Each with different specialist requirements, but all with high expectations on quality and programme.
• The University supplies and installs many of its own furniture, fixings and specialist equipment. These needed to be carefully coordinated within the Contract works.
• Extra vigilance on behalf of the Contractor to maintain a safe and secure site within an operating Campus.
• Whilst the University has a register of hazardous substances, it is not 100% accurate.  All hazardous substances discovered during the Contract works, needed to be carefully managed during the removal process