Alexandra Library Refurbishment
14 October 2022: Alexandra Library refurbishment project progresses to stage 5
Another milestone for the Alexandra Library Refurbishment Project is complete. The tender for a construction partner was awarded to Stewart Construction this month.
Stewart Construction is contracted to review the detailed design and provide a construction quote. Then, if the Stewart Construction's quote, compared with the quantity surveyor cost estimate, is fair and reasonable, and total funding is achieved as a result of the Central Government “Better Off” funding application then execution of a construction contract with Stewart Construction will follow.
The advantage of early contractor engagement is the ability to capture the builder's input into the design, therefore reducing the risk of variations during construction.
6 July 2022: Approval given to progress library renovation phases
The Alexandra Library Renovation Project concept plan has been approved by the Central Otago District Council.
At the Council meeting in Alexandra on Wednesday 6 July approval was also given for the chief executive to progress the concept plan through to the detailed design, construction partner and quotation project phases while awaiting the outcome of a funding application to the Three Waters Better Off Support Package to meet a budget shortfall for an enhanced design.
The project is estimated to cost $1,035,000, including a 30% contingency (common in the current environment). Additional budget of $611,500 is required from the better off package funding. This is contestable Government funding that allows councils to invest in projects for their local communities’ wellbeing.
The change of scope would deliver a more fit-for-purpose and modern library environment. Additional items included internal toilets, a separate staff room, and double glazing. Particular attention was paid to ensuring that the design provided flexibility within the current building for potential alternative uses in the future.
At the meeting, it was moved that if the project was not approved by Council for inclusion in the Three Waters Better off package, the chief executive would progress a cosmetic upgrade that had already been budgeted for, which would include a repaint, re-carpet, and shelving within budget.
Submissions for Tranche 1 of the Three Waters Better Off Funding submissions are due before 30 September, and the decision is estimated to take one month.
13 December 2021: Architect appointed for Alexandra Library Refurbishment Project
South Island company Architects Plus has been awarded the design contract for the Alexandra Library Refurbishment Project.
CODC Executive Manager – People and Culture Louise Fleck, who manages the libraries activity for Council, said the company stood out as it offered one-stop shop project management, a turn-key solution and the added “wow factor”.
The Alexandra Library refurbishment project has a goal date for completion of December 2022.
This aim is to create a modern future-proofed space – a space that not only provides traditional library services, but offers a flexible space for the community to use to come together to connect, create and collaborate. The $423,500 refurbishment will include new flooring, painting, furnishings and furniture, a lighting upgrade and improvements to the information technology capability.
Graham McDermid of Architects Plus said the team was pleased to receive the role as architects for the project.
“We are excited to tackle the challenge of improving the functionality of the existing library space while implementing new facilities and technology. We understand the need to acknowledge and realise the public’s desires, and will ensure to take a ‘by people, for people approach’, encouraging congregation and confluence between all. Our central ideology is to create a bridge to resources and community involvement.”
The next stage in the project is to develop a concept design ready for the Vincent Community Board and Council approval in March-April next year.
11 October 2021: Alexandra Library Refurbishment Project underway
The Alexandra Library is getting a makeover. The planning stage of a refurbishment project is underway, with a goal date for completion of December 2022.
This aim is to create a modern future-proofed space – a space that not only provides traditional library services, but offers a flexible space for the community to use to come together to connect, create and collaborate.
The refurbishment, which has a budget of $423,500, will include new flooring, painting, furnishings and furniture, a lighting upgrade and improvements to the information technology capability.
CODC Executive Manager – People and Culture Louise Fleck, who manages the libraries activity for Council, said it was exciting to be getting the project underway.
“We know this is a project that community will be really interested in, so we have created a library-themed refurbishment timeline to illustrate the stages of the project. People will be able to see where we are up to by watching our ‘we are here’ bookworm move its way along the stack of books to the last volume. We’ll have this up on the Council and our joint library website and displayed prominently in our Alexandra Library too.”
Ms Fleck said when it came to construction time next year there would be a pop-up library available to ensure their loyal library users continued to be able to access services locally.