Bridge repair a labour of love

Working on a site that holds so much significance for people means the work is delicate and considered. Damage and cracks, seen and unseen, mean the evaluation of the work is a very involved and careful process, and will take time. Mr Whyte says, “There is damage to the stonework on the outside and its removal and repair is a painstaking process. We need to carefully repair and store all these pieces until the jigsaw, if you will, is ready to go back together. “Once the external repair work is started, we need to examine the internal structure, both above and below ground. “What we do now has to stand up to the earthquakes of the future. So, although we may perceive this as taking a long time, that just has to happen. It’s unfortunate, but it’s just a fact of life.” Mr Whyte is adamant the Bridge of Remembrance will be restored to its former glory. “If I’m honest, I’m probably the most pedantic stonemason and sculptor in the country. I want to ensure the bridge is restored to a state fitting the memory of those it represents, and those who visit it to remember.” The Council’s Transport and Greenspace Unit Manager John Mackie says, “Having a skilled craftsman of Mark's calibre should serve as great reassurance to the people of Christchurch and New Zealand that the restoration is in the best hands possible.” It is expected the work will be completed by April 2015. The Council understands it is important the community is able to mark the 100-year anniversary of the beginning of World War I in August 2014 and will work with contractors to have parts of the bridge open in some form for an event.

Footnote: Mark Whyte is a partner in Goldfield Stone Ltd, stone and brick building restoration specialists, and has been contracted by SCIRT for the repair of the sculpture and stonework on the Bridge of Remembrance.