Blues Point temporary retrieval site

A temporary retrieval site is required for the removal of the tunnel boring machine (TBM) cutter heads and shields at Blues Point Reserve. Once tunnelling is completed the parkland will be reinstated in consultation with North Sydney Council.

Construction activities include:

• Setting up site fencing, hoarding, site sheds and amenities
• Removing the TBM: lifting out the cutter heads and shields as they arrive
• Diverting utilities like water, sewer, gas and electricity
• Excavating the shaft with excavators, rock hammers or blasting
• Removing spoil
• Backfilling the area and reinstating the park once tunnelling is complete, in consultation with North Sydney Council.

Excavation takes around 12 months, and afterwards, the site will only be active when a TBM arrives and when the park is reinstated. There are four retrieval events, taking about four weeks each.

To minimise potential impacts to the local road network, where possible TBM components and excavated materials will be removed via barge, using a wharf at the end of Blues Point Road.

The temporary site is located at Blue’s Point Reserve, North Sydney, with access via Blues Point Road (left-in) and Henry Lawson Avenue (left-out).