Francis Greenway – LIVERPOOL TAFE COLLEGE HISTORY
The former Liverpool Hospital complex is of State significance as one of the oldest, substantially intact colonial hospital complexes in Australia. Helitec were called in to undertake historical restoration of failing arches.
Built by convict labour, the main 1820s Colonial Georgian building (Block C), its design initiated by Governor Macquarie and attributed to ex-convict architect Francis Greenway, is considered one of the finest colonial buildings remaining in Australia, demonstrating the high standard of workmanship carried out by the convict labour gangs.
There are few sites around Australia comparable to the former Liverpool Hospital complex which has State significance for its historic, associative, aesthetic, social, research, rarity and representative values. Our craftsmen would be pleased to undertake your historical restoration.
ARCHES AND INTERNAL WALL RESTORATIONS
Helitec were called in to restore the north façade of Block C where 2 cracked arches are located above the ground floor entry. The arches showed significant structural cracks running from the soffit to the top, with some of the keystone bricks loose and dislodged. The internal walls running adjacent to the arches also had significant cracks.
The cracking appeared to have been the result of differential settlement of the footings supporting the brickwork columns and walls, caused by damaged stormwater drains and downpipes discharging water to the arch footings.
The Helitec proposal to repair and strengthen the damaged masonry using Helifix stainless steel helical bars was adopted. A proprietary thixotropic cementious grout was used to bond the “Helibars” in place and Helifix “CemTies” were installed radially to secure the rings of the arch. Loose bricks were reinstated and the tuckpointing repaired. Internal corridor walls were stitched and made good.
The works were carried out with minimal disruption to the staff, students.
The appearance, features and function of the historic building were completely retained and structural integrity and longevity secured. Another historical restoration completed to the delight of our client.