Flex MSE In Action At New Shoots Children’s Centre

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On a site presenting significant design challenges, the Flex MSE Vegetated Wall System provided a sustainable solution for the ecologically sensitive location.

The Goal:

The New Shoots Children’s Centre in Greenhithe set out to create a sustainable, nature-integrated early childhood education facility on a complex sloped site. The project aimed to restore and protect the surrounding wetland and stream environments while delivering safe and functional infrastructure, including a new carpark. A key focus was to ensure all structural elements aligned with the centre’s broader ecological and sustainability goals.

 

The Challenge:

Constructing a carpark at the northern end of the site presented significant challenges. The area bordered a sensitive wetland, had unstable ground conditions with uncertified fill, and was subject to fluctuating groundwater levels. Earthworks required cuts of up to 1.5 metres and engineered fill reaching 3 metres in height. A traditional hard-faced retaining wall risked disrupting the natural environment and failing to meet the ecological objectives of the project. The team needed a robust, flexible, and environmentally compatible solution that could perform under seismic loading, manage groundwater, and visually blend into the surrounding landscape.

 

The Solution:

The project team selected the Flex MSE Vegetated Wall System, supplied by Advance Landscape Systems and installed by Auckland Civil. This green infrastructure solution provided the structural integrity needed for carpark retention while contributing to wetland restoration and biodiversity goals.

Key features of the Flex MSE solution included:

  • Construction of a vegetated retaining wall system designed to stabilise up to 3 metres of engineered fill
  • Use of Tensar UX1400MSE geogrid reinforcement with 70kN/m tensile strength and 100% strip coverage for internal stability
  • Geotechnical design by KGA Geotechnical using SLIDE and Spencer analysis to meet seismic resilience, surcharge load, and groundwater fluctuation requirements
  • Hydroseeding of the wall with a local grass seed mix to establish vegetation and reduce maintenance
  • Full integration with the site’s wider ecological planting and water management strategies

 

Why Flex MSE was chosen for this project

The Flex MSE Vegetated Wall System was chosen for its unique ability to combine engineering performance with ecological sensitivity, offering a living solution that supports both infrastructure needs and environmental restoration.

  • Environmental Compatibility: Ideal for riparian zones, the vegetated wall enhances habitat value and naturally manages surface water.
  • Adaptability to Ground Conditions: Capable of responding to uncertified subsoils and variable groundwater levels.
  • Seismic and Structural Integrity: Engineered to meet seismic requirements (up to 0.15g) and withstand carpark surcharge loads.
  • Reduced Visual Impact: A green finish that blends into the natural wetland surroundings.
  • Sustainable Performance: The system helps reduce stormwater runoff and erosion while supporting long-term plant growth.
  • Contribution to Award-Winning Design: This project was recognised with a Best Design Award in 2021 for its excellence in healthcare and wellbeing design.

The use of Flex MSE at New Shoots Greenhithe demonstrates how infrastructure can be both functional and regenerative. By stabilising the carpark edge while enhancing the wetland environment, the vegetated wall system achieved a balance between engineering performance and environmental care. With supply by Advance Landscape Systems and geotechnical design by KGA Geotechnical, the solution not only fulfilled complex site requirements but also reinforced the project’s commitment to sustainable development—serving as a standout example of green infrastructure in action.

Learn more about Flex MSE Vegetated Wall System

Client
Healthy Waters, Auckland Council
Product Used
Flex MSE Vegetated Retaining Wall
Consultant
Greg Suckling
Location
Greenhithe, Auckland

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