Fit-for-Purpose and Future Proofed: Driveway Restoration and Upgrade in Rodney

A structured process

A driveway restoration may sound relatively straightforward, but this project had the potential to be anything but. When a property subdivision was going ahead in Rodney District, David’s driveway needed an upgrade, one that required geotechnical and engineering reports, building, concreting, and council inspection.

Knowing what needed to be done and the complexity surrounding the project, David reached out to local Zones Landscaping Consultant, Sandy Lochhead, who was able to take the stress out of David’s project with Zones’ structured and efficient process.

Sandy kicked off the project with a site visit to get a thorough brief from David and ensure she knew exactly what he had in mind. Having gathered all the information she needed, Sandy began the feasibility phase, determined to see how she could best make David’s ideas and requirements work.

The devil’s in the details

Sandy’s concept design for the shared driveway upgrade produced a project estimate of $35,000, which David agreed too. The client had arranged for detailed designs and an engineering report. This raised variations in the original concept, flagging the need for a retaining wall at the passing bay. The driveway and passing bay would also require council consent.

While geotech and engineering reports can introduce frustrating additions that raise costs, it’s imperative to complete works to council and engineering standards to ensure the finished project is safe and fit-for-purpose for the long-term. This was certainly the case for David’s project.

Because of the likelihood of changes, Sandy communicated to David the possibility of increased costs and presented a revised quote of $60,000 and an 11-week timeframe. David was happy with Sandy’s planning and costing so the project moved into the construction phase.

High-quality work only

Sandy's Project Manager Kyle and the team got to work removing the old driveway, building the retaining wall, installing a new culvert drain, and preparing the driveway base to geotech and engineering requirements. Because this was a shared driveway, works had to be scheduled and carried out with regard to the neighbours’ movements as well.

Initially, the project progressed well but it wouldn’t be the Upper North if a bit of wild weather didn’t show up! Heavy rains added challenges to the base prep and with ground quality reduced, it was difficult to get compaction to Geotech and engineering requirements. This meant delays; however, there’s no point in doing a job if you’re not doing it right. As the weather improved, compaction requirements were met and signed off, and the concrete could finally be poured.

Kyle’s detail-focused management of the project meant there were no curve-balls and challenges were met and overcome calmly. His diligent communication with David throughout the project gave him peace of mind and confidence that the project would be completed to an excellent standard.

Three-and-a-half months after commencement, the project passed council inspection and Sandy handed the completed driveway over to David.