In 2018 we partnered with Christchurch City Council and Fulton Hogan to undertake a significant coastal protection and community enhancement project at Sumner Beach – one of Christchurch’s most popular recreational areas.
Scope of Works
The project involved constructing a sophisticated rock revetment seawall along the Sumner Beach coastline, incorporating:
- Installation of heavy-duty TEXCEL 1200R geotextile for erosion protection
- Precise placement of 300-1,000kg and 1,000-3,000kg armor stones
- Complex excavation and stockpiling operations
- Integration with existing coastal infrastructure
- Installation of a new shared pathway for pedestrians and cyclists
Technical Innovation
The project showcased our innovative problem-solving capabilities through:
- Development of a custom-engineered tip truck by modifying an existing concrete truck, enabling transportation of 17-tonne loads in space-restricted areas
- Implementation of GPS-guided machinery for precise rock placement
- Strategic use of Bridge Street as a staging area for efficient materials management
- Carefully coordinated operations around tidal movements, including pre-dawn work schedules
Community Impact
The project delivered multiple benefits to the Sumner community:
- Enhanced coastal protection infrastructure
- Improved recreational facilities through the new shared pathway
- Reduced environmental impact through the promotion of sustainable transport options
- Strong engagement with local community groups throughout construction
- Minimal disruption to beach access during peak seasons
Safety Excellence
The project maintained exceptional safety standards despite challenging conditions:
- Zero workplace accidents
- Comprehensive public safety management in a high-traffic area
- Innovative solutions for managing tidal work zones
- Regular safety coordination between all project stakeholders
Project Success
The success of this project stemmed from:
- Strong partnership between Protranz and Fulton Hogan
- Innovative technical solutions to complex engineering challenges
- Efficient project management and resource coordination
- Deep commitment to community engagement and safety
- High-quality workmanship meeting all engineering specifications
