At Ferrovial Agroman projects, we strive to be good neighbors and promote initiatives to deliver a positive lasting impression in our communities.
The Northern Beaches Hospital Connectivity and Network Enhancement (NBHR) project is being undertaken in a very demanding urban environment with more than 200 residences, 6 business parks and 2 schools adjacent to the work areas on heavy traffic roads including Warringah Road, Frenchs Forest Road, Forest Way and Wakehurst Parkway. Community engagement is essential for the successful delivery of the project.
The project team has developed and implemented a thorough Community Involvement Plan and Communications Strategy to guide interactions with stakeholders and the community to minimize impact of our works. Key elements of the plan include public information including project updates, timely notification of work, work update flyers (particularly for out of hours works: nights, weekends, public holidays), letters, advertisements, information signs and email blasted weekly traffic updates. Communication methods include contact cards, door knocks, letterbox drops, meetings with residents individually and small groups, 24-hour community information line, a Community Information Centre for drop ins, temporary accommodation during night work, workshops and meetings, presentations to local community groups, media releases, liaison with traffic authorities, information sessions, staffed pop up displays, social media and 3D animation.
The installation of the new pedestrian bridges at Forest Way and Hilmer Street, and the demolition of the old Forest Way pedestrian bridge required several full closures of Warringah Road. In particular, the 30h road closure for the demolition of the old Forest Way pedestrian bridge was unprecedented in the area and required specific Community and Traffic notifications plans to reach the wider community of 50,000+ people. The implementation of the one-way system along Frenchs Forest Road and concurrent traffic switch at the intersection with Wakehurst Parkway reached over 30,000 people.
Furthermore, the project has developed several initiatives to foster contributions to the community and promote a collaborative environment with our neighbors. Some of these initiatives are:
- Project information stall at Frenchs Forest Sunday Organic markets [Description]
- Regular pop up information stand at Forest Way shopping centre
- Fundraiser event for Autism Spectrum Australia
- Contributions to local schools including:
- Ebooks
- Students awards
- Students practices at the project
- Family Party at Patanga Park including drawing contest awards for high school and primary school students
- Lunch at Community Information Center
- Advertising local business activity at Sky line shops
- Contributions to local Rugby Union and Australian Football clubs
The NBHR project team is delighted to contribute their effort, experience and expertise to deliver a first-class infrastructure for the Northern Beaches and bring the local community along the journey with us.
