Brookfield Multiplex played a vital role in the Subiaco Railway Tunnel & Station urban renewal project in Perth, which transformed 80 hectares of derelict industrial land into a vibrant new cosmopolitan community.
This included the sinking of 900 metres of the Perth-to-Fremantle railway line, construction of an underground station and the removal of a 115-year urban barrier to create "Subi Centro" in inner-city Subiaco.
The tunnel is 10 metres wide and constructed of reinforced concrete box sections. The western end is runs a length of 500 metres whereas the eastern portion is 200 metres long, with the Subiaco Railway Station located between the two.
Construction involved the excavation of a trench, with the box sections being both cast in-situ or precast and covered by a concrete roof. The tunnel is strong enough to support buildings up to two storeys high and has a the metre of fill placed across the top of the tunnel. In parts the tunnel, reserve is utilised for roads, footpaths, cycleways and parks.
The job was planned in two stages, the first involving the excavation and construction of the western section of tunnel from the existing railway station to the major thoroughfare on Hay Street. Diversion railway tracks were then laid so that the development of the eastern section of tunnel and station could begin on the alignment of the old rail. During a limited critical 72-hour shut down of the line between Perth and Fremantle the diversion rail was tied into the existing line, later the old tracks were removed.
Stage two included the complete construction of the eastern section of tunnel, the new underground station with two 100-metre long platforms and the diversion of the railway through the new tunnel and station during another critical 72-hour shutdown of the railway system.
Brookfield Multiplex oversaw the relocation of major services, including 6,000 pairs of telephone cables and an existing steel water main carrying a major supply.
Excavation included the removal of contaminated soil, all of which had to be specially dealt with.
The success of the project has delivered a range of bottom line outcomes, including the social aspects (new residency and a vibrant and cultural enclave with high planning and access) and an economic boost thanks to the provision for surrounding commercial and retail offerings. Environmentally, Brookfield Multiplex was successful in providing access and structure to the rehabilitated 80 hectares of under-utilised land.
