Enhancing Infrastructure Safety and Design with Comprehensive Utility Locating and Potholing Services

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We have been engaged in the major infrastructure project at Southport, since June of 2022, focused on constructing a new tram depot as part of the tram system expansion from Broadbeach to Burleigh.

The Ask

We were tasked with providing QL-B utility locating and investigation services to support the design and construction phases of the tram depot project. The scope of work included identifying and documenting existing underground utilities, as well as completing approximately 5000 potholes to a QL-A level for investigation purposes.

The Challenge

One of the primary challenges encountered during this project was the requirement to complete 95% of the works during night shifts. This unusual schedule posed significant difficulties for our team, necessitating careful management of rotating rosters and alignment with the project's own systems to ensure smooth operations.

Additionally, the project presented technical obstacles, such as dealing with shallow services embedded in concrete and asphalt, which required innovative solutions to identify and document.

Our Solution

To address these challenges, we deployed a team of 10 accredited utility locators to execute the various facets of the project.

By effectively managing the night shift schedule and employing advanced techniques, the team ensured that the project met its objectives efficiently and effectively. Key services and solutions included:

  • Utility locating

  • Potholing works in collaboration with Rangedale’s fleet of Hydro Excavation trucks

  • Close collaboration with the design team to create bespoke pothole card tailored to the specific needs of the project. These provided both visual and in-depth utility information

  • Concrete scanning to detect shallow services that traditional Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) might miss or misinterpret

  • Working on existing tram works

  • CCTV inspections

The Results

Throughout the project, we effectively navigated complex challenges and worked closely with the John Holland team to address high-risk infrastructure scenarios.

The utility locating and investigation services provided significant benefits to the tram depot project, contributing to its successful advancement.

The detailed utility information and high-quality bespoke pothole cards facilitated the design and construction phases, helping the project team navigate complex infrastructure challenges.

 Key outcomes include:

  • Successful completion of approximately 5000 potholes to QL-A standards, providing critical data for project planning and execution.

  • Creation of detailed pothole cards tailored for the project, that enhanced the project’s GIS system with valuable visual and technical information.

  • Innovative use of a concrete scanner to identify shallow services and address potential risks.

These efforts supported the project's progress and highlighted the importance of thorough and reliable utility locating services in achieving successful infrastructure outcomes.