Steadfast Capital engaged Delta Group to undertake a complex, multi-discipline Early Works project for the $105m Melbourne Walk multi-purpose commercial precinct in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD.
Unique to this project were challenging heritage works involving internal facade retention across 4 structures, with low headroom for the temporary piling retention system and foundations. Open bore piling was undertaken through the groundwater table, with restricted site access via Little Collins Street requiring extensive traffic management and pedestrian safety planning. Delta designed solutions to protect/ensure public lighting throughout works, with a catenary wire suspended from a temporary steel frame to enable demolition of structures. Due to COVID-19 the project start was delayed from early 2019 to mid 2021.
The scope of works included:
Key challenges faced by the Delta team included adjoining tenants located just 3m away from works – including residences, offices, cafes, retail and a hotel. Similarly, there was significant interface with the iconic (and busy) Bourke Street Mall and due to restricted site access and feasibility of site cranage – horizontal and vertical transfer of materials. Piling within buildings required extensive propping and demolition of bottom 2 levels of structure prior to starting at the top, as well as engineered methodologies to accommodate groundwater table. Stakeholder engagement was key – including local residents/neighbours as well as Melbourne City Council for permits, complaints management and maintaining adjoining property access during works. Public protection across the 280m perimeter of the site included 10kPA steel overhead protection and full height heavy duty scaffold.
Key project statistics included:
