Sydney Modern Project Update: October 2020
Works update
Construction works by Richard Crookes Constructions have progressed into the ‘build phase’ of the project. Piling and earthworks are effectively complete, with the first foundation slabs and walls of the building being poured. Both tower cranes are now operational on the site.
Protective hoarding has been erected overhead along the western footpath of Lincoln Crescent, Woolloomooloo to ensure the safety of pedestrians during tower crane operation. New hoarding graphics are progressively being installed and will feature artworks from the Art Gallery of NSW collection.
Upcoming works
Works over the next three months will centre around the structure of the new building, with concrete slabs and structural steel continuing to be installed. Service infrastructure works in Lincoln Crescent continue over the coming weeks.
Deliveries via both the Art Gallery Road and Lincoln Crescent site gates will continue to support the works occurring on site.
Changes to pedestrian access
The public stairs between the Ausgrid zone substation and the project site continue to be temporarily closed, as works in the area continue. These stairs are scheduled to reopen to the public in December 2020.
The public stairs located between the Gallery and the project site, at the intersection of Lincoln Crescent and Cowper Wharf Road, will temporarily close from 16 November 2020. Reconstruction and upgrade works will take place in this area to be compliant with the Building Code of Australia and Disability Discrimination Act.
Pedestrian access during this time is shown on the attached map. Access between Woolloomooloo and the Royal Botanic Garden will be available via the public stairs north of the Ausgrid zone substation. Should there be adverse weather conditions over the next few weeks, please be sure to check the website for up to date information on access around the site. Impacted areas will be signposted to advise of alternate and updated routes.
Please note the accessible route to/from Woolloomooloo via the lift (or stairs) on Bourke Street near Wilson Street remains open.
COVID – 19
The project team continues to practice social distancing and hygiene measures to remain compliant with health advice.
Due to ongoing COVID-19 restrictions, onsite facilities for workers have been expanded to the northern end of Lincoln Crescent, to safely cater for the number of people expected on site over the coming months. Once these facilities are dismantled, the area will be reinstated and restored to its previous condition.
As of 16 May 2020, the hours of construction are as follows:
Monday to Friday – 7am to 6pm
Saturday – 7am to 6pm
Sunday and Public holidays – work to be undertaken as needed and required.
These hours align with the approved State Significant Development Application for the project and the Environmental Planning and Assessment (COVID-19 Development – Construction Workdays) Order 2020. The Order allows construction sites in NSW to operate on weekends and public holidays. Construction works spread across more days of the week makes it easier for workers to abide by physical distancing rules to keep infrastructure projects progressing. You can view a copy of the Order by searching for Government Gazette No 68 on www.gazette.legislation.nsw.gov.au
In line with the Order, high impact activities such as rock breaking, rock hammering, sheet piling, pile driving, or similar activities will continue to be restricted to the work hours stipulated in the project approval: 9am to 12pm, and 2pm to 5pm, Monday to Friday; and 9am to 12pm, Saturday.
Keeping you informed
The Sydney Modern Project team is keeping the community informed as work progresses and regular updates will be available on the website.
The team looks forward to delivering an expanded public art gallery for everyone to enjoy. For further enquiries or to provide feedback, call 1800 717 705 or email smp@richardcrookes.com.au
The Gallery remains open during construction, which is scheduled for completion in 2022.