As a member of the Senior Management Team for the project, James managed the preliminary and detailed design of the motorway upgrade between Palm Beach and Tugun for the Department of Transport and Main Roads.

An existing noise barrier adjacent to the southbound carriageway between Nineteenth Avenue and Palm Beach Avenue conflicted with the proposed upgrade works. Noise modelling confirmed the need to construct a new noise wall to provide amelioration for adjacent properties. At this location, there was limited width within the road corridor available. This resulted in the new noise barrier alignment placed 0.5m from the property boundary.

Upon further investigations, James identified several impacted properties had extended their backyard beyond the property boundary as the existing noise barrier was located within the road corridor. Escalating his concerns to the Project Coordination Group, a cadastral survey was arranged to physically highlight the property boundary to impacted property owners.

Together with the project’s lead communications officer, James directly engaged with each resident to discuss the issue and limited options available. He recorded the feedback received from this engagement and summarised the key outcomes impacting the alignment of the proposed noise barrier. James directed the design consultant to investigate alternatives at key locations considering proposed longitudinal drainage works and PUP relocations. These investigations confirmed three feasible options:

• Offset 0.5m from the property boundary
• Offset 2.0m from the property boundary (areas closer to Nineteenth Avenue)
• Offset 4.0m from the property boundary (areas closer to Palm Beach Avenue)

Collaborating with the project’s communications team, James provided technical advice developing tailored letters presenting each option to impacted property owners. These letters sought feedback to confirm the most desirable option for the community.    

Understanding the need to progress design to meet the detailed design program and coordinating with the Project Coordination Group, James directed the design consultant to finalise design of the noise barriers, albeit at risk. This direction was subsequently confirmed following receipt of the second round of property owner’s feedback.

James’ interpersonal skills and ability to communicate effectively allowed the design consultant to progress development, achieve a practical and desirable outcome for the local community and maintain momentum on an accelerated design program.