This project formed part of the Department of Correction’s ‘Capacity Programme’ within the largest remand prison in the country, Mt Eden Corrections Facility (MECF). MECF has a high volume of prisoner movements, releases, and visits. The 7,770m2 multi-storey accommodation block is in the middle of the MECF and accommodates 245 prisoners. The project also involved several ancillary works outside the new building to improve MECF’s ability to accommodate prisoners.

Building a team capable of delivering a project of this scale and complexity in a busy market was an early challenge. The construction of a project office, where all teams could collaborate in a common area, enhanced communication and accelerated answers without unnecessary RFI processes overloading consultants. Team building activities during this period helped bring the team together.

Taking a historic design developed several years ago, changing the delivery architect, and going on to construct the works proved challenging. Many sessions were required to gain an understanding of the proposed quality outcomes and solutions, with details changed to deliver this outcome.

The construction market was particularly busy during the delivery phase of the project. By working directly with the Corrections team, unnecessary constraints regarding the onboarding of subtrades were avoided, which was crucial. The challenge of securing a good and lasting project delivery was reflected in the final account agreement being reached within four weeks of the completion of the project, with no legacy delivery issues remaining to be worked through. The team are hoping to participate in future opportunities together.

The judges commented that the Department of Corrections was very focused on the project being collaborative, with a site office created for the client representative, consultants, and contractor to co-habit during the construction stage of the project. This collaboration ensured a well-executed project.