Union Road and Mont Albert Road Level Crossing Removal Project – Outstanding Achievement

At the award of the Union Road and Mont Albert Road Level Crossing Removal Project (UMA), the South Eastern Program Alliance (SEPA) conducted a comprehensive review of current processes and systems to develop a strategy based on lessons learned, aiming for more ambitious sustainability objectives. This strategy involved collaboration across all alliance partners and leveraged the power of the Level Crossing Removal Project (LXRP) program to define a new sustainability approach for the Alliance.

The new sustainability approach interpreted client requirements and SEPA partners’ sustainability strategies into a consolidated, Alliance-specific strategy designed to drive sustainability across the SEPA program. This strategy was structured around three pillars: net zero, circular economy, and biodiversity. It included LXRP mandated ratings – Green Star and ISC. People engagement, training, education, and the implementation of new processes and systems were identified as priority actions.

The strategy was well received and became part of SEPA’s business Priority Projects. These projects, which have unified support across the alliance, tackled key areas identified for 2022 and aimed to elevate sustainability efforts.

“The aim of the Sustainability Priority Project was to create a data-driven approach to sustainability that seeks to implement a cultural shift and deliver tangible initiatives to reduce carbon emissions,” says Karin, Sustainability Leader. “Data, reporting and baselining are required to ensure we’re aware of our starting point. We needed to be transparent with where we’re heading and how much we’re reducing.”

One key initiative was to challenge the technical specification of the Victorian Department of Transport and Planning (DTP). In collaboration with our client and concrete supplier, Holcim, we developed a piling mix with up to 70% supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs). This represents a significant 42% reduction in CO2 emissions compared to the previous concrete benchmark, which allowed only 36% cement replacement due to specification limits.

On the project, the team integrated sustainability into the design through sustainability design checklists, which were completed by the design team and reviewed by the construction sustainability team. Risk and opportunity registers were maintained for the project and fed into program-level risks and opportunities. These risks and opportunities were raised in the project’s Senior Leadership Team (SLT) meetings to ensure all functions were aware.

Procurement processes considered sustainability in non-cost reviews, with the team involved in scope of work reviews, pre-tender meetings, and mid-tender meetings to highlight sustainability initiatives for each package. External governance included community involvement in decisions, such as opting for a rail under solution, which had sustainability benefits and improved rail network efficiencies.

The project engaged with the Community Liaison Group (CLG) and another community group throughout the project to keep the community informed and involved. Community engagement was a significant aspect, particularly with the Mont Albert and Surrey Hills traders. The “StampMe” initiative that rewarded shopping locally brought in $60,000 to the traders through this reward platform.

The UMA project achieved outstanding sustainability results with an IS As Built 101 point verified ISC rating. In addition, Union Station was the first rail under solution to achieve a 6 Star Green Star rating. This is due to a strong team effort to strive for a project that leaves a legacy in the community, with considerate design and construction.

Through early engagement with the community, the concept to consolidate the existing two stations (Surrey Hills and Mont Albert) into one station was created. This benefited not only the local community by increasing capacity and amenities, but also increased the efficiency of the rail network. This is a prime example of reducing embodied emissions through avoidance and reduction. The project also focused on adaptive reuse by refurbishing the historic Mont Albert Station for use by the community in the new Mont Albert Plaza.

The UMA project achieved a materials reduction of 32% in Greenhouse Gas Emissions (GHG) compared to the base case footprint. By reducing the need to create two separate stations, efficiencies were realised through specifications for standard platform lengths, curve radius and height restrictions, which meant that the design could be optimised, reducing the materials used to complete the works.

This consolidation of two stations significantly reduced the station’s energy use, together with construction works and efficiencies UMA achieved a 61% reduction in energy (reduction of 14,553 t CO2) compared to the base case footprint. During construction, the reduction in energy was found through reduction in site office and crib shed use, connecting to mains where possible and using 100% GreenPower in site offices, use of EcoSheds as completely off grid solar caravans, value engineering initiatives reducing plant and equipment fuel burn and use of B5 biodiesel. For operations, reductions in energy use are through the 70kW solar array located on the station roof, at the time this was the largest array installed on a metro station, and energy efficient station design (in alignment with our 6 Star Green Star achievement). In addition, at least 27% of materials on the project had an ISC approved environmental label.

A water reduction of 254ML or 46% compared to the base case footprint was realised through construction and operation initiatives. These include a reduction in site office use and the corresponding water using amenities, and reduced dust suppression required while excavating due to efficient design of the rail trench. During operation, water savings are realised through drought-tolerant landscaping, and water efficient fixtures as part of the 6-Star station.

The project is proud to have installed non-contact elevators for each of the elevators in the station, which allow all people, regardless of capability, to access the public transport network.

The project also implemented innovations - improving mental health by conducting sleep studies using wearable technology, an EV truck, as well as engaging multiple suppliers through iSupply. The project also collaborated with Holcim and Keller to create an industry leading 70% SCM piling mix.

The project had extensive engagement with the community through the Stakeholder and Communications team, creating trader support initiatives, two of which are the social media accounts to create a collective brand identity for the Mont Albert and Surrey Hills trader communities, with assistance from a digital marketing agency. The second initiative was the StampMe loyalty program, to reward customers for shopping at local traders.

These outcomes were shared through knowledge sharing platforms internally in the SEPA Program, but also externally through the LXRP program.

The SEPA and broader LXRP program have Joint Coordination Committee meetings for each function, which meet once a month to share knowledge, initiatives, and best practice across the projects. Using these forums, the UMA project has benefited and shared its approach to achieving the outcomes for the project.

Externally the outcomes have been shared through the parent organisations, Laing O’Rourke, Jacobs and Metro Trains Melbourne, taking the knowledge to other projects managed by these companies.

Our project initiatives have delivered substantial benefits across multiple stakeholder groups. Initially, our sustainability strategy significantly influenced our alliance partners by aligning their diverse sustainability goals into a cohesive, Alliance-specific approach. This collaboration has streamlined sustainability practices across the SEPA program, enhancing efficiency and coherence.

Clients of LXRP have benefited from our approach with improved project outcomes that meet and exceed Green Star and ISC ratings. This not only fulfills client requirements for sustainable infrastructure but also sets a new standard for future projects.

Our community engagement efforts, including partnerships with the CLG and local traders in Mont Albert and Surrey Hills, have yielded tangible benefits. These initiatives have fostered community goodwill and economic support, such as the $250,000 generated for local traders through our local shopping rewards program.

Internally, our approach has empowered SEPA employees through comprehensive training and education on sustainability practices. This investment has equipped our team members with the skills and knowledge needed to effectively implement and advocate for sustainable solutions.

In a significant collaborative effort with our client and our concrete supplier, Holcim, we successfully trialled the use of a 70% SCM piling mix. The concrete mix that achieved this milestone was developed and funded by the alliance, showcasing our commitment to innovation and sustainability. However, the ownership of this new concrete mix remains with Holcim, for use across Victoria. This strategic approach not only ensures that we meet the current project needs but also establishes a new benchmark in the industry, demonstrating what is achievable with advanced, low-carbon concrete solutions.

In summary, our project has had a profound and lasting impact, ensuring sustainability benefits are realised across alliance partners, clients, local communities, and our own workforce. This holistic approach underscores our commitment to creating positive change across diverse stakeholder groups.

The Project has left a significant legacy by enhancing the Surrey Hills and Mont Albert community and expanding the Melbourne rail network. The innovative design and community-focused approach have resulted in a landmark station that blends seamlessly into its environment and serves as a model for future urban transport projects.

Legacy Achievements: The UMA project is distinguished by its “Rail under Road” solution, which minimises visual and noise impacts, creating a pleasant environment for local residents. The extensive urban design incorporates drought-resistant and climate-conscious vegetation, promoting sustainable transportation and creating a lasting public space. Community engagement was a core element, with initiatives such as the StampMe loyalty program and partnerships with local traders fostering continued local economic activity and strengthening community ties. The project also prioritised preserving trees of local importance by designing around them and employing innovative solutions like permeable pavements to ensure their survival.

The project’s legacy extends to its contribution to the Melbourne rail network, enhancing the accessibility and efficiency of public transport. By integrating smart design features, such as increased solar arrays and efficient fittings, and substituting sustainable materials, the project sets a new standard for infrastructure development.

Contribution to UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

1. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure - The UMA project supports targets 9.1, 9.2, and 9.4 by delivering a high-quality, reliable, and sustainable infrastructure asset. The project’s focus on affordable public transport and its ‘buy local’ approach for goods and services helped build local business capacity and foster resilience in the supply chain. The integration of efficient design and sustainable materials into the existing rail network further exemplifies its commitment to innovation in infrastructure.
2. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities - The project advances targets 11.2 and 11.7 by enhancing access to safe, affordable, and sustainable transport. The DDA-compliant station features non-contact elevators and adheres to Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design guidelines, ensuring it is accessible and secure for all users. Additionally, the project’s urban design provides a safe, inclusive, and green public space, contributing to the overall quality of life and community well-being.
   In summary, the UMA Project’s legacy is reflected in its innovative design, community engagement, and contributions to sustainable urban development. Its alignment with UN SDGs highlights its role in advancing infrastructure quality and sustainability while fostering inclusive and resilient communities.