Large Scale Residential Development in the Heart of Queenstown

Silver Creek Limited are facing multiple challenges as they develop one of the largest blocks in Queenstown. With complex engineering issues and an existing consent to navigate, they need a lead consultant to oversee the project and ensure the site wide engineering inputs are considered as further consents and Engineering Acceptance packages are submitted to Council, so work can begin to release the initial 145 titles. With our expertise and experience managing large-scale, complex developments, and our ability to view a project in terms of its site wide constraints, we are successfully assisting Silver Creek Limited through our surveying, civil engineering and water engineering teams.

The site itself has several technical challenges, including a creek running through it and steep terrain that requires careful geotechnical consideration. The zoning for medium to high-density housing, alongside ecological factors linked to the creek, add further complexity. Our goal is to not only help the client secure the necessary consents but also to plan for the long-term success of the project, ensuring the delivery of titles for sale.

Eliot Sinclair is engaged as the lead consultant, resolving significant engineering issues at the detailed design level while simultaneously designing for both the current consent and future subdivision stages. We are providing civil and water engineering services, including the design of earthworks, stormwater, wastewater, and water supply networks for the entire site. Our team is also managing the project's land surveying and roading designs.

One of the most complex aspects of this project is design of the stormwater network, which involves introducing innovative attenuation solutions on a hillside—an approach new to the local council. Navigating this challenge requires constant communication and collaboration with council authorities, to ensure the design meets regulatory expectations. Our water engineering design involves the installation of tanks, pumps and multiple water pressure zones, alongside an attenuation tank for the wastewater system.

This project requires providing designs for up to 10 separate consent applications, including new consents and variations to existing ones. Despite these challenges, our big-picture approach ensures that each phase of the project aligns with the overall goal of the client—to have titles issued for the sale of sections. This forward-thinking approach will reduce the risk of unexpected roadblocks during construction, streamlining the process for Silver Creek Limited.

By maintaining clear communication with the client, Eliot Sinclair delivers a solution that considers not only immediate needs but also the long-term success of the development. Our expertise allows us to tackle the unique challenges of the site while keeping the focus on what matters most: delivering a successful residential subdivision with saleable titles.