RP Infrastructure

The University of New South Wales required high quality student accommodation to meet student growth projections and to maintain a competitive offer to future enrolments and also to give more students the opportunity to enjoy the benefits of living in a modern, supportive environment at college whilst maintaining the history and traditions of its colleges.

Project Overview

Three of the UNSW’s existing residential colleges – Basser, Philip Baxter and Goldstein – were redeveloped to deliver a significant increase in UNSW college accommodation, enabling more students to share in the benefits of residential college life, whilst retaining each college’s individual identities. The iconic Goldstein Dining Hall was also refurbished to increase capacity and serves as the central hub of the community.

Our Role

RP Infrastructure and the project team conducted a feasibility study and developed a business case which was approved by the UNSW Council, and the project commenced in late 2011. RP Infrastructure was subsequently commissioned to provide full project management services for the preparation of the project brief, procurement of D&C contractors and the management of the construction and fit out through to commissioning.

Key Challenge

An aggressive program required the new facility to be fully operational by January 2014. To achieve this, a two stage procurement strategy was adopted proposing early appointment of the contractor to develop the design and development approval, followed by a D&C contract for the documentation and construction works. Construction activities included an early works package to clear the site and the diversion of major services.