St Patrick's redevelopment committee chairman Sean Toomey says the current work involves earthquake-strengthening, removing the roof to fix leaks and install new damp-proof floors.

The work on the Basilica is part of a redevelopment programme to make The Saint Patrick's site is the centre for the Dunedin South Pastoral Area.

There are three components to the redevelopment:

• Redevelop the old school buildings to become the centre for Catholic Social Services and to create a multi-purpose Community centre which will include a children's playground.
• Creating a park in the midst of an Industrial Area.
• Renovating the Basilica which includes establishing a new entrance and a connection into the Mercy Chapel.

St Patrick's Basilica was opened in 1894.

It was designed by Mr F. W. Petre.

The original plan included a central dome and a colonnaded porch which were never completed because of the costs involved.

St Patrick's is in the classic style of a Roman basilica.

The building is constructed of brick which is now plastered, with concrete foundations.

Source

• odt.co.nz
• dspa.org.nz
• Image: skyscrapercity.com