Sample project
 | ||
|
Designing and developing sustainable subdivisions
SJE is using its multi-disciplinary engineering and design expertise to support the design and development of ecologically sensitive and financially viable subdivisions in north east Victoria.
In 2009 SJE was commissioned to work with members of the local community, local government, state government authorities and landowners to develop the broad essence of a master plan for ‘Ashworths’, south of Baranduda.
A proactive approach to community engagement was integral to SJE’s sustainable design process and preparation of a potential layout for the proposed peri-urban subdivision.
Firstly, SJE delivered an ‘Enquiry by Design’ workshop to test the development capacity of "Ashworths”.
“We took this step because we wanted to demonstrate to people that their views could inform the preparation of a potential layout,” said Adam Dyde, SJE Environmental Engineer.
“ Over the course of a one day workshop, we discussed and explained the constraints and opportunities of the site in a transparent manner, providing comfort to the community that development of the layout concept design was a genuine exercise. This process helped the community understand what we were attempting to achieve, and really helped us to shape the ultimate layout, with constructive input from adjoining residents and key stakeholders.”
SJE took the lead role in site assessment and community consultation for ‘Ashworths’. As part of this process, SJE considered how social and environmental constraints could be addressed in the design of the estate. These issues were identified by undertaking site constraint mapping in conjunction with numerous ‘kitchen table’ discussions with adjoining landholders.
“We took a range of Ecologically Sustainable Principles into consideration throughout the planning process with a view to creating a subdivision that could be economically viable, socially responsible and ecologically sustainable,” explained Adam Dyde.
 | ||
|
SJE considered a wide range of parameters for ‘Ashworths’. These included:
o Erosion protection through slope analysis
o Traffic access & wildfire assessment
o Cultural heritage management
o Ecology – improvement opportunities
o Watercourse protection
o Appropriate servicing
o Views and aesthetics
o Character and landscape
o Adjoining resident’s concerns
By integrating the findings of the community engagement process and detailed site assessment, SJE was able to identify and recommend key design attributes that would support sustainable development of the proposed ‘Ashworths’ subdivision.
These included: identification of an appropriate development density, incorporation of land buffers for screening, design of roads and pathways that will encourage walking and cycling, use and protection of native vegetation to encourage wildlife, allowance for creek and waterway ecological function through sensitive siting of building envelopes, implementation of water sensitive urban design principles for stormwater management, minimising street lighting and consideration of bushfire risks.
Through its work on the ‘Ashworths’ project, SJE has demonstrated its ability to undertake objective site assessment and design work, and effectively mediate between parties in conflict to achieve great design outcomes.
Erosion & sediment control guidelines for building sites
 | ||
|
Albury City Council, Greater Hume Shire and the City of Wodonga commissioned SJE Consulting to develop guidelines that could be used to help minimise stormwater pollution from building sites.
SJE produced a series of user-friendly publications to assist people involved in the building industry to comply with statutory environmental responsibilities.
The completed guidelines highlighted best practice techniques, explained principles of effective stormwater pollution control, erosion and sediment control planning and site planning.
During this project, SJE Consulting
o conducted a community survey to gauge knowledge about community values and attitudes towards stormwater,
o convened and hosted a series of community and building industry workshops in Albury, Wodonga and Howlong,
o invited written submissions for inclusion in Council policy and planning processes; and
o coordinated a media launch to promote availability of the resource.