Port Botany Expansion, Sydney, NSW

The project focused on innovation that drove engineering solutions to challenging design problems, these included:

• Improved counterfort design using 9m wide units that saved on overall wall weight, benefitted the program and enhanced unit durability.

• Iterative soil structure design for the counterforts using site specific conditions, saving on materials and cost.

• Vibro compaction methodology was developed from onsite trials to develop compaction techniques that reduced stresses on the counterfort walls.

• Continuous Cope Beam and Crane Rail Beam eliminated joints over a 1.8km length providing efficiencies in construction and minimising differential movements.

• Seismic design was based on a dynamic displacement design method that enabled the client to make operational decisions on the quay wall performance in an earthquake event.

• Design and Construction monitoring of the berth structure and reclamation was implemented to provide the client with additional levels of confidence in the design and led to savings in materials.

The solutions developed at Port Botany have been utilised on subsequent Arcadis projects and the information gained from the onsite monitoring, particularly regarding vibro compaction, has proved invaluable in aligning design methods with actual material behaviour.

Environmental considerations included ecological protection measures for salt marshes, seagrass and bird habitats. We developed the Environmental Management Plan which incorporated multiple sub-plans and was successfully approved within tight timelines. These plans ensured the preservation of local flora and fauna.

Arcadis worked with our client managing stakeholder relationships with the local and wider community. Major community enhancements on the project included:

• Boat ramp: A three ramp boat ramp with pontoons for easy access and a large carpark for trailer parking and boat washing facilities.

• Fish cleaning facility: A modern fish cleaning facility with pelican and bird exclusion screening.

• Modern large amenities building, walkways and cycleways, enhanced foreshore access and lookouts.