QSA2 Expansion Project
Why does Archives need to expand?
The current Queensland State Archives’ facility at Runcorn was built in 1992. As it is nearing capacity, further storage is now required to meet the future archival needs of Queensland.
What is QSA2?
A new archival facility is being constructed at Runcorn, which will adjoin the existing building.
The QSA2 project will double current storage capacity and allow QSA to store records from over 600 Queensland public authorities for the next 10-15 years. The design will also include provision for Queensland’s future digital archive.
QSA2 is a joint project between Queensland State Archives and the Department of Public Works’ Project Services and Queensland Government Accommodation Office Units.
Will construction affect visitor access?
The project began in January 2007, with the facility scheduled to open in mid-2008. There will be no interruption to service for either public or government clients during construction, although visitors should be alert for construction traffic on the driveway.
Latest construction news
Construction is in its final stage with replanting and landscaping of the site with tube stock and pot trees well underway. The landscaping will be irrigated with recycled water from the water harvesting tanks installed in the basement. These tanks will collect storm water from the roof and car park for treatment and re-use in cooling towers, toilet flushing and irrigation.
Design Features
The new building has been designed to complement the appearance of the current building and to provide a secure, purpose-built environment that will ensure the long-term preservation of Queensland’s heritage.
Bretton Watson, the project’s Architect, won Designer of the Year at the Department of Public Works Project Services Excellence Awards for the design of the QSA expansion project.
Fast Facts
- Completion date – expected mid-2008.
- Contractor – Laing O’Rourke, Queensland.
- Floor area of QSA2 – 11,394m2
- Total space of QSA incorporating the new building – 23,322m2
- Total paper based storage – approx 90 linear kilometres
- Art built-in elements will be included in the project.
- The new building will feature environmentally sustainable initiatives including -
- Water harvesting from roof areas and car park surfaces for re-use in air conditioning, irrigation and toilet flushing
- Recycling of water from cooling tower operations
- Use of recycled materials and fabrics where possible
- Garden plants chosen for low water requirement and drought tolerance
- Efficient air-conditioning services, incorporating a purpose built chilled water tank to utilize off-peak electricity.
Like to know more?
For further information about QSA2 please call our Marketing & Communications Unit on 3131 7732.
If you would like to know more about Queensland State Archives’ services, facilities or publications, please contact us.
