The mined tunnels at Longport Street, Lewisham, and Old Canterbury Road, Summerhill, are integral components of the Greenway Masterplan. Delivered in collaboration with Gartner Rose, Perfect Contracting played a pivotal role in the excavation, demolition, and structural reinforcement of the tunnels to construct new cycleway infrastructure. By prioritising safety, efficiency, and sustainability, Perfect Contracting contributed significantly to the success of this transformative community project.
The Greenway Cycleway Project exemplifies Perfect Contracting’s expertise in delivering a diverse range of infrastructure projects. Through meticulous planning, innovative engineering solutions and a continual commitment to safety and quality, the team successfully completed the project in the Greenway Masterplan, contributing to sustainable urban development.
Structural Stability during Excavation
Problem
The project involved excavating tunnels surrounded by urban areas and adjacent to the Lewisham Light Rail Stop. Ensuring that the tunnel remained stable during excavation posed a significant challenge due to existing infrastructure and dense population nearby.
Solution
Perfect Contracting implemented a staged excavation process where temporary shotcrete reinforcement was applied to stabilise tunnel walls following excavation. The shotcrete adhered to RMS QA B82 standards and were applied by experienced nozzle operators to select shotcrete additives to avoid adverse effects on waterproofing and drainage systems. Steel sets are then progressively installed, followed by placing and filing grout bags to enhance the stability and reinforcement of the structure. The process of excavation followed by shotcrete application is repeated for each section of the tunnel in a cyclical approach. To ensure safety throughout the duration of the project, Perfect Contracting engaged with geotechnical consultants and structural engineers, leveraging their expertise to monitor and address stability concerns proactively.
Result
The tunnel was successfully excavated without compromising structural stability, this systematic approach achieved safety and quality benchmarks of the project.
Precision in confined space
Problem
The demolition of 23 square meters of brick walls, varying from 1.3m to 2m in thickness, was performed within a restricted urban setting requiring extreme precision to avoid damaging adjacent structures and disrupting the surrounding community.
Solution
Controlled demolition techniques were employed by expert operators. Canopy tubes were installed around the tunnel area with core holes created through the masonry wall to ensure structural protection for the demolition process.
Result
The demolition was completed without workplace incidents whilst ensuring the safety of adjacent structures and maintaining project timelines. The precise execution showcased Perfect Contracting’s expertise in confined urban environments.
Minimising disruption to surrounding areas
Problem
Stringent noise, vibration and dust control was required by the site’s urban location to minimise disruption to surrounding residents.
Solution
Perfect Contacting developed a comprehensive environmental management plan. Dust protection barriers and vibration controls beneath the Peak Particle Velocity (PPV) of 10mm/sec were enforced. Noisy activities were restricted to approved hours as per City Code of Practice for Construction hours/Noise 1992 and Australian Standard 2436-2010 Guide Control on Construction. A proactive communication plan was implemented, including advance notifications to residents and businesses and providing updates on construction schedules.
Result
The project was completed with minimal disruption to the surrounding community. Compliance with environmental standards reinforced Perfect Contracting’s commitment to responsible construction practices. The collaborative approach, combining meticulous planning and community-focused strategies, ensured that the project’s impacts were mitigated effectively.
Conclusion
The Cycleway Mined Tunnels Project underscores Perfect Contracting’s ability to overcome and execute complex engineering and logistical challenges in tunnelling. By employing innovative solutions and emphasising safety, quality and sustainability, Perfect Contracting delivered a critical infrastructure component of the Greenway Project. Perfect Contracting’s ability to address the unique challenges of tunnelling demonstrates their proficiency in this specialised field, contributing to enhanced urban connectivity and sustainable infrastructure development.
Perfect Contracting acknowledges the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Isander people as Traditional Custodians of the country on which we live and work. We pay our respects to the Traditional Custodians and Elders past, present and future, and honour their connection to the land and ongoing contribution to society.