11 Gerald Connolly Place

Southern Demolition was engaged by WAL Construction to undertake the partial demolition of an industrial warehouse located at 11 Gerald Connolly Place, Christchurch. The scope of works involved the careful removal of a designated section of the existing building to facilitate the next stage of redevelopment, while ensuring the structural integrity of the remaining warehouse and minimising disruption to neighbouring businesses operating within the industrial complex.

Given the complexity of the project, extensive planning and coordination were carried out prior to the commencement of demolition. Our team worked closely with the client to develop a detailed demolition methodology, sequencing the works to safely isolate and remove structural elements while maintaining the stability of the retained building. Temporary support requirements, exclusion zones, and access routes were carefully considered to ensure the project could be delivered safely and efficiently.

The demolition works were completed using our Hitachi ZX490-7 excavator fitted with a hydraulic pulveriser, allowing for the controlled removal of reinforced concrete and structural steel components. Demolition progressed in a systematic, top-down approach, with materials processed on-site to maximise recycling opportunities and reduce waste leaving the site. Elevated Work Platforms (EWPs) were utilised to provide safe access for crews undertaking the separation and dismantling of high-level structural steel, roof framing, cladding, and precast wall panels where mechanical demolition alone was not appropriate.

Operating within a live industrial environment presented additional challenges, with surrounding businesses remaining fully operational throughout the duration of the project. Southern Demolition implemented comprehensive environmental and safety controls, including continuous dust suppression, noise management, exclusion zones, and traffic management plans to maintain safe vehicle and pedestrian movements. Regular communication with the client, neighbouring tenants, and site personnel ensured the works progressed with minimal interruption to day-to-day operations.

Sustainability formed an important component of the project delivery. Concrete generated during demolition was processed for recycling, while structural steel and other recyclable materials were carefully segregated and sent to approved recycling facilities. This approach reduced landfill waste and supported Southern Demolition’s ongoing commitment to environmentally responsible demolition practices and resource recovery.

The successful completion of this project demonstrates Southern Demolition’s capability to deliver technically demanding partial demolition projects in challenging operational environments. Through careful planning, experienced operators, specialised equipment, and a strong focus on safety, environmental management, and quality, the team delivered the works on programme while providing a safe, efficient, and cost-effective solution for the client’s redevelopment objectives.