Devonport Residential Complex Project Notes

Team Members: Tessa Handford (221742), Keelan Harty (22172785), Nathaniel Roma (21150190), Aaryal Prasad (22179702)

Site Location: Devonport, North Auckland - chosen for its community vibe, waterfront, mix of residents, and access to local amenities.

The project must be sustainable and beneficial to the local community while tackling environmental issues.
- Reducing CO2 Emissions: Utilizing modern construction methods to significantly cut carbon emissions.
- Minimising Waste: Reducing waste at every project stage (materials, energy, and time).
- Whole Life Costing: Considering the project's overall lifetime costs, not just initial expenses, to allow for long-term savings.
- Inclusive Amenities: Providing various residential units and facilities to promote health, well-being, and cultural diversity (e.g., gyms, swimming pools, community areas).

Using Dr. Meredith Belbin’s Team Role Theory to understand team member strengths and roles.

The concept design phase involves evaluating design options to maximize the site area while adhering to archaeological exclusion zone constraints.
The goal is to balance functioning and innovative use of space.

High Water Table & Soil Conditions:
- Risk: Soil instability due to proximity to the water.
- Mitigation: Engage geotechnical engineers early, explore deep foundation solutions, and monitor groundwater levels.
Limited Access Roads:
- Risk: Narrow streets hindering material transport.
- Mitigation: Solid logistics plan, deliveries during off-peak hours, and using smaller vehicles.
Ground Conditions:
- Risk: Unknown ground conditions.
- Mitigation: Thorough soil testing and geological surveys before construction.
Material Supply Delays:
- Risk: Project delays due to material shortages.
- Mitigation: Secure reliable suppliers and create backup plans.
Equipment Issues:
- Risk: Costly and dangerous breakdowns.
- Mitigation: Regular maintenance and inspections.

Workplace Safety:
- Risk: Construction inherently involves high-risk activities.
- Mitigation: Comply with all safety and legal requirements, ensure correct licenses and competencies, and meet site-specific safety requirements detailed in the HSE plan.
Mental Health and Wellbeing:
- Risk: Detrimental effects of tight deadlines on mental health.
- Mitigation: Build a supportive team culture with regular check-ins and access to mental health resources.
On-Site Accidents:
- Risk: Accidents despite safety measures.
- Mitigation: Enforce strict safety protocols, ensure adequate training and equipment, regular monitoring through KPIs, proper investigations, and lessons learned to prevent recurrence.

Water Runoff Pollution:
- Risk: Sediment and pollutants entering the ocean.
- Mitigation: Stormwater management plan including silt fences and erosion controls.
Biodiversity and Environmental Impact:
- Risk: Disruption of local ecosystems.
- Mitigation: Environmental assessments and measures to protect sensitive areas.
Permit Delays:
- Risk: Delayed project timeline.
- Mitigation: Submit applications early and follow up with authorities.

Going Over Budget:
- Risk: Unplanned costs.
- Mitigation: Regular budget reviews and contingency funds.
Contractor Financial Stability:
- Risk: Work stoppage due to contractor issues.
- Mitigation: Thorough vetting of contractors (background checks and references).
Stakeholder Changes and Scope Creep:
- Risk: Added time and cost due to mid-project changes.
- Mitigation: Clear change management process and transparent communication.
Community Opposition:
- Risk: Delays or resistance due to community concerns.
- Mitigation: Early engagement, transparency, and prompt response to concerns.
Legal Disputes:
- Risk: Contract issues.
- Mitigation: Clear contracts and legal advice for dispute resolution.

Different communication styles leading to misunderstandings.
Conflicts between creative ideas and practical constraints (time/budget).
The difficulty of integrating new team members and ensuring everyone's voice is heard.

Resource Management Act: Ensuring environmental protection and stakeholder engagement.
New Zealand Building Act and Building Code: Upholding safety and quality standards.
Health and Safety at Work Act: Prioritizing worker safety.
Te Tiriti o Waitangi (Treaty of Waitangi): Involving Māori interests and communities.

The initial concept design was ambitious but practically difficult to construct due to its unique shape and size.
It was also unsuitable for the primary residents due to mobility challenges and the large environment.

A revised design was developed to meet the needs with an efficient layout in a residential building.
The building now has a compact footprint and is oriented vertically to maximize usable space.
The new design is a five-story square building using a steel and concrete structure.
It simplifies construction within the archaeological exclusion zone.
The design provides better access for residents moving throughout the building.
The design offers a viable option and respects the surrounding community and environment.

The approach ensures the project meets the client’s goals while fostering sustainability and community integration.
Continuous exploration of environmental impacts and consistent stakeholder engagement will occur.
The project prioritizes strong collaboration and communication to stay on track and effectively support the needs of the Devonport community.