The Evelyn Street Trunk Stormwater Upgrade Project

Abstract

The Evelyn Street Trunk Stormwater Upgrade project consists of approx. 220m of DN1200 concrete drainage pipe to be installed via microtunnelling methods in Newstead, QLD. The project includes modifications to existing pit structures at the upstream location, the construction of a large custom maintenance structure, and new connections for discharge into the Brisbane River. The project has presented several key challenges, including: • Large number of internal and external project stakeholders. • Bespoke delivery and contract model, and challenging procurement factors. • Geotechnical and groundwater conditions. • Significant alignment constraints based on discharge requirements and existing services. • Community engagement challenges driven by an older, affluent population accustomed to direct involvement in local planning outcomes. The project construction environment is set within a densely populated urban area, where council approval for a new aged care facility required the delivery of an additional trunk stormwater drainage line. Due to design and procurement issues, the works were initially placed on hold, until construction of the drainage line commenced in May 2024 following completion of the high-rise aged care residence. This paper provides details associated with the specific technical and procurement challenges associated with both the pre-construction and construction aspects of the project. This includes the impacts of design suitability during tendering, third-party asset owner interfaces, procurement, local access and space-proofing, and community and special interest group management, particularly within an affluent, elderly demographic with heightened sensitivity to local impacts.