Economical Construction at Nielsens Road

Project Name       Nielsens Road Intersection
Location               Carrara, Gold Coast, Queensland
Client                    Department of Main Roads, Queensland
Civil                      Designer Roadtek Consulting
Contractor            BMD Major Projects Pty Ltd
Project Cost         $6.8 million
Completion Date   December 2001

James Hardie Products Used
Slimdrain™ drainage system, and Class 2 FRC™ rubber ring jointed pipe

The Nielsens Road project involved converting a section of the Nerang-Broadbeach Road at Carrara into four lanes, the incorporation of a signalised intersection, the construction of two new bridges, and several major multi-cell box culverts.

The project designers were able to overcome the challenges of acid sulphate soils and the saltwater environment, by specifying FRC™ pipes for their proven durability in harsh environmental conditions and the superior rubber ring jointing system.

Significant construction savings were also generated from the standard FRC™ 4 metre pipe lengths, the improved ease of handling from the lightweight pipe composition, and the advantage of crated pipes to site.

James Hardie’s SlimDrain™ drainage system was the product of choice for a section of pavement drainage along the western carriageway. While the aesthetic appeal of the SlimDrain™ system was an important factor in this section of the project, the rigidity of FRC™ pipe also helped to ensure that a good line level to the grate was achieved to accommodate the concrete curb constructed above. Another consideration was the slight curve in this section of the roadway. BMD Major Projects Pty Ltd believed that the 4 metre lengths of SlimDrain™ pipe could best fit the curb.

“Construction cost was economical and everyone was pleased with the finished product.”  Bob Hardy, Project Manager, BMD Major Projects Pty Ltd.