WOW! This could put cat amongst the pigeons.
BREAKING NEWS: EARTHQUAKE PRONE BUILDING - PETONE RECREATION GROUND GRANDSTAND.
This story just breaking so has missed our April issue.
Structural engineers working for the Hutt City Council have recently undertaken an initial seismic assessment on the Petone Recreation Ground Grandstand.
This initial assessment identifies the building as being potentially earthquake prone, rating the building as being 5% of the new building standard (NBS).
Quotes are currently being sought to carry out a detailed structural investigation of the building, at which time Council will have a much better understanding of the issues affecting the building and the works required to rectify the situation.
Having consulted the Wellington Rugby Football Union and the Petone Rugby Football Club, Council has decided to continue to make the grandstand facilities available for rugby use and to inform users of the earthquake prone assessment.
This decision has been made on the basis that the likelihood of the building sustaining major damage or collapse in a moderate earthquake is low, considering the length of time the structure has existed (through a number of moderate seismic events), its current visual condition (no sign of any earthquake damage) and the relatively short period of time each week it is used.
Notices advising users that the building is earthquake prone will be displayed on all entrances. Rugby Teams are also advised to minimise the time spent in the use of the building facilities to reduce exposure to any possible risk.
See the Initial Seismic Assessment, IEP and notice documents at https://www.facebook.com/groups/PetoneNoticeboard/
From the Petone Chronicle.