Over several years the landowner transformed a sloping hillside block in Stoke, Nelson, into a residential subdivision. The project was executed in 4 stages, each presenting unique slope and stormwater management challenges. From 2020-2024 WSP was engaged to deliver comprehensive geotechnical services, detailed design, procurement support, and construction oversight for the fourth and final stage of the development, also managing the project’s coordination and ensuring compliance with Council consent requirements.
Challenges: Navigating complexity and change
This project brought a range of complex and evolving challenges that demanded adaptability and creative thinking:
• Complex Terrain: The site’s sloping nature required innovative design solutions for both land conversion and stormwater management. A site specific stormwater detention design was developed to meet consenting requirements whilst working within constrained site boundaries.
• Phased Development: The subdivision was delivered in multiple stages, demanding careful planning and coordination of the final stage to incorporate the lessons learnt from prior elements of the development.
• Pandemic Disruption: The project spanned the Covid lockdowns, introducing uncertainty and the need for flexible working arrangements.
Solutions: Innovative approaches and collaborative strategies
To address these challenges, the team implemented a suite of flexible and collaborative strategies:
• Integrated Project Management: WSP followed its mandated processes, with deliverables reviewed and verified through the Integrated Management System (IMS) and released by the Project Director.
• Flexible Engagement: Both WSP and the client adapted their approaches and expectations to maintain momentum during Covid disruptions and planning around the summer construction
season.
• Transparent Costing: The design scope evolved as the project progressed, so a time-written approach with a capped fee was agreed upon to ensure cost transparency.
Outcomes: Delivering results and setting new standards
The project has delivered several positive results:
• On-Time Delivery: The design programme was delivered on schedule, enabling completion of the physical works in April 2024
• Positive Client Feedback:The client praised the team’s responsiveness and adaptability to external delays and noted that WSP was chosen for its expertise in managing a subdivision located on a large historic landslide requiring complex geotechnical analysis and design.
• Quality Assurance: Deliverables met WSP’s quality standards, with no significant re-work required.
WSP: Delivering value through partnership
WSP is pleased to have supported the delivery of this complex residential subdivision. By adapting to evolving site conditions and leveraging collaborative tools, we helped keep the project on track and maintained a strong, transparent relationship with our client. The positive feedback received underscores our commitment to quality and responsive service throughout each phase of delivery.
