precinct scale redevelopment

Precinct Scale Redevelopment.jpg
 
Precinct Scale Redevelopment.jpg

The Project

BlueSphere completed a large scale environmental site assessment and remedial options assessment of a former Research Farm (~770 ha) in support of site redevelopment. The initial phases of the project included the review of substantial existing documentation, establishment of site history and the development of a preliminary conceptual site model (CSM). The CSM was used to develop a comprehensive intrusive investigation scope.  Field work involved detailed soil, groundwater and soil vapour sampling, multiple investigation techniques (i.e. geophysics (EM), test pits, surface samples, soil bores, groundwater wells, surface water sampling and sediment sampling) at hundreds of locations. Multiple types of fill were encountered over large areas and assessed for potential contamination issues and activities, particularly in relation to assessing fill materials. Contaminants of concern included metals, nutrients, BTEX, PAHs, TRH and soil vapour. 

Outcomes

Comprehensive reports were produced for all investigations including detailed plans and cross-sections to aid communication.  A comprehensive refined CSM was subsequently developed based on the findings of the field program.  Detailed assessment and costing of remedial options was undertaken using probability density function (Monte Carlo) simulation techniques.  This facilitated communication of risks/benefits of various remedial options.

Later aspects of the project included liaison with EPA Victoria Major Projects team regarding the development, to assist the client in developing an acceptable remedial strategy, and to collaboratively provide information from the project to other parties completing other aspects of the overall redevelopment.

The key outcome was assessment of soil remediation options for redevelopment planning and revision of the previously completed remedial cost estimates, based on the outcomes of the intrusive investigation.

Benefits to Client

  • The project was delivered within a tight time frame to ensuring timely progress of the overall project.

  • Substantial rationalisation of remedial cost estimates was achieved via the completion of a detailed Remediation Financial Risk Assessment.

  • Facilitation of regulatory negotiations which added certainty to the development process.

  • Clear communication of soil and groundwater issues and remedial options to development bidders, reducing uncertainty and facilitating optimisation of bids for the State.