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Wednesday, October 16, 2024
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Upgrade starts on WaiCol’s old block

Wairarapa College’s iconic front-facing Sutherland Block will be closed for several years for upgrade works.

Housing the school’s original building, the block has been completely fenced off while modernisation and earthquake-strengthening work occurs.

Work started last week, and the intended final result will be better-heated and more functional classrooms, a new lift, new bathrooms, and upgrades to the administration and staff area.

Asbestos-containing material has been found in the block, and the college has a plan to remove it safely.

The asbestos materials are either in powder form or able to be crumbled, pulverised, or reduced to a powder by hand pressure when dry – so they have the potential to become airborne.

No asbestos material will be removed from the building during school hours; removal will only occur in secure, pressure-controlled areas inside the building.

An independent party will inspect the site on completion of the work to ensure it is safe and issue a clearance certificate.

Principal Matt White said the work is a major project and is part of the master plan to rebuild the school, a plan that’s been in development for more than a decade.

Flynn Nicholls
Flynn Nicholls
Flynn Nicholls is a reporter at the Wairarapa Times-Age who regularly writes about education. He is originally from Wellington and is interested in environmental issues and public transport.

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