Original source · versioned page text
Referenced Document - MCU12/0216
Traffic Assessment
Quarry Rehabilitation
Lake Macdonald Drive, Lake Macdonald
Prepared for:
CSR Building Products Limited
Reference: 12SCT0037/02
TTM Consulting (SC) Pty Ltd t (07) 5479 2455
f (07) 5479 3651
ABN 41 105 037 045 PO Box 949
Brisbane | Gold Coast | Sunshine Coast [email protected]
Maroochydore BC 4558
Melbourne | Sydney | Singapore 1st Floor, 8 First Ave, www.ttmgroup.com.au
Maroochydore
See the original
The page text is free to read. Viewing or downloading an original file needs an account.
Log in to see the originalLog in to download the original file
Large file: the download may take up to a minute.
Searchable page text hides email addresses. Original files are unchanged and may show email addresses.
Full text of the other 33 pages
Page 2
Quarry Rehabilitation
Lake Macdonald Drive, Lake Macdonald
© 2012 - TTM Consulting (SC) Pty Ltd Reference No: 12SCT0037
© 2012 - TTM Consulting (SC) Pty Ltd
ABN 41 105 037 045
First Floor, 8 First Avenue, Maroochydore
PO Box 949, Maroochydore QLD 4558
T: (07) 4579 2455 F: (07) 5479 3651 E: [email protected]
Document Status
Rev Reviewed / Approved
Author Description Date
No. Name Signature
01 G Harris P Penman Draft 05.07.2012
02 G Harris P Penman Final 03.12.2012
T:\Projects\12SCT\12SCT0037 CSR West Ridge Quarry Lake McDonald\Reports\TTM Traffic Report 03 December 2012 Final.docx i
Page 3
Quarry Rehabilitation
Lake Macdonald Drive, Lake Macdonald
© 2012 - TTM Consulting (SC) Pty Ltd Reference No: 12SCT0037
Table of Contents
1. Introduction 1
1.1 Background 1
1.2 Scope 1
1.3 Site Location 1
1.4 Current Site Use 2
2. The Proposed Development 3
2.1 Description of Operation 3
2.2 Haulage Profile 4
2.3 Access 4
3. Existing Transport Infrastructure 5
3.1 The Road Network 5
3.2 Road Planning 5
3.3 Public Transport and Cyclist Facilities 5
3.4 Road Accident Review 5
4. Traffic Volumes 6
4.1 Current Peak Hour 6
4.2 Daily Traffic 7
4.3 Growth Rates 7
5. Estimated Future Transport Demands 8
5.1.1 Estimated Development Traffic Generation 8
5.1.2 Existing Development Traffic 8
5.2 Estimated Development Traffic Distribution 8
5.3 Future (2014) Base Traffic Demands 9
5.4 Future (2014) Project Traffic Demands 10
6. Lake MacDonald Drive Capacity Review 11
6.1 Introduction 11
6.2 Road Corridor Capacity Criteria 11
6.3 Operational Performance 12
6.4 Lake McDonald Drive Intersection Operational Criteria 12
6.5 Public Transport and Bicycle Facilities 13
T:\Projects\12SCT\12SCT0037 CSR West Ridge Quarry Lake McDonald\Reports\TTM Traffic Report 03 December 2012 Final.docx ii
Page 4
Quarry Rehabilitation
Lake Macdonald Drive, Lake Macdonald
© 2012 - TTM Consulting (SC) Pty Ltd Reference No: 12SCT0037
7. Site & Internal Access Review 14
7.1 Westridge Quarry Access Review 14
7.1.1 Sight Distance Review 15
7.1.2 Warrants for Turn Treatments Review 16
7.2 White Pit Quarry Access Review 17
7.2.1 Sight Distance Review 19
7.2.2 Warrants for Turn Treatments Review 19
7.3 Proposed Site Access Arrangements & Adequacy 20
7.4 Internal Site Access Review 21
7.4.1 Internal Parking and Manoeuvring 21
7.4.2 Bridge Structures 21
8. Haulage Route Condition Review 22
8.1 Introduction 22
8.2 Road Observatory Survey 22
8.3 Limitations of the Survey 23
8.4 Maintenance and Repair Strategy 25
8.5 Summary 25
9. Traffic Management Plan 26
10. Developer Contributions 27
11. Summary 28
11.1 Proposed Development 28
11.2 Road Network 28
11.3 Site Access 28
11.4 Existing Road Pavement Conditions 28
11.5 Bicycle / Pedestrian Review 28
11.6 Internal Site Operation 28
11.7 Traffic Management Plan 28
11.8 Developer Contributions 29
11.9 Recommendations 29
T:\Projects\12SCT\12SCT0037 CSR West Ridge Quarry Lake McDonald\Reports\TTM Traffic Report 03 December 2012 Final.docx iii
Page 5
Quarry Rehabilitation Lake Macdonald Drive, Lake Macdonald © 2012 - TTM Consulting (SC) Pty Ltd Reference No: 12SCT0037 Table Index Table 3.1: Local Road Hierarchy 5 Table 4.1: Existing Daily Traffic Volumes 7 Table 6.1: Two Lane Rural Road Capacity – Rolling Terrain Two-Way Flow 11 Table 6.2: Maximum AADT’s for Various LOS on Two-Lane Two-Way Rural Roads 12 Table 7.1: Westridge Quarry Access Characteristics 14 Table 7.2: White Pit Quarry Access Characteristics 17 Table 8.1: Observed Road Key Issue Condition Summary 23 Figure Index Figure 1.1: Site Location 2 Figure 2.1: Proposed Haul Route 3 Figure 4.1: Existing (Surveyed) Peak Hour Traffic Volumes 2011 6 Figure 5.1: Estimated Development Generated Turn Movements 9 Figure 5.2: Estimated 2014 Peak Hour Traffic, Without Development (6% p.a. growth) 9 Figure 5.3: Estimated 2014 Peak Hour Traffic, With Development 10 Figure 6.1: RPDM Table 13.4 Intersection Capacity 13 Figure 7.1: Westridge Quarry Access: Aerial and Site Photographs 15 Figure 7.2: White Pit Quarry Access: Aerial and Site Photographs 18 Figure 7.3: White Pit Quarry Secondary Access: Aerial and Site Photographs 20 Figure 8.1: Typical Haulage Pavement Conditions: Lake MacDonald Drive Corridor 24 T:\Projects\12SCT\12SCT0037 CSR West Ridge Quarry Lake McDonald\Reports\TTM Traffic Report 03 December 2012 Final.docx iv
Page 6
Quarry Rehabilitation
Lake Macdonald Drive, Lake Macdonald
© 2012 - TTM Consulting (SC) Pty Ltd Reference No: 12SCT0037
1. Introduction
1.1 Background
TTM Consulting has been engaged by CSR Building Products Ltd to prepare a traffic engineering
report investigating the extraction of material from a quarry near Cooroy. It is understood that a
Development Application will be lodged with Sunshine Coast Council.
1.2 Scope
This report investigates the transport aspects associated with the proposed development. The
scope of the transport aspects investigated includes:
Traffic and pavement impacts of the development on the public road network;
Road upgrades to be provided to mitigate the impact of the proposed development on
the external road network, if any;
Access design and location at both access points; and
Internal road layout to provide efficient and safe internal manoeuvring for service
vehicles.
To assess the proposed transport arrangements, the development plans have been assessed
against the following guidelines and planning documents:
The Noosa Plan, specifically:
o Division 18 – Transport, Roads and Drainage Code;
Austroads;
Department of Transport and Main Roads Guidelines for Assessment of Road Impacts of
Development; and
Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices.
1.3 Site Location
The site is located at 300 Kennedys Road, Lake Macdonald, as shown in Figure 1.1. The property
description is Lot 3 on SP108094. The site has a road frontage to Kennedys Road, and currently
operates as a quarry.
Page | 1
Page 7
Quarry Rehabilitation
Lake Macdonald Drive, Lake Macdonald
© 2012 - TTM Consulting (SC) Pty Ltd Reference No: 12SCT0037
Approximate
Site Location
Approximate Haul Route
(Lake Macdonald Drive)
Figure 1.1: Site Location
1.4 Current Site Use
Westridge Quarry currently operates on the subject site under Mining Lease No. 3742. This
Mining Lease allows the extraction of material for its ceramic value. The site is currently accessed
via an adjacent and not operational brickworks facility from Lake Macdonald Drive.
Page | 2
Page 8
Quarry Rehabilitation
Lake Macdonald Drive, Lake Macdonald
© 2012 - TTM Consulting (SC) Pty Ltd Reference No: 12SCT0037
2. The Proposed Development
2.1 Description of Operation
The report investigates the proposed haulage route between the subject site and two quarries
near Cooroy. The intention of the haul route is to extract material from Westridge Quarry for the
rehabilitation (filling) of Neales Quarry and White Pit Quarry to the south of the subject site. For
the purposes of this assessment the haulage route includes the following:
Brickworks access from Lake Macdonald Drive;
1.4km section of Lake Macdonald Drive; and
White Pit Quarry access from Lake Macdonald Drive.
It is noted that access from Neales Quarry will be via the White Pit Quarry access.
It is anticipated that the proposed haulage would be undertaken over a 2 year operation, with the
proposed haulage route shown in Figure 2.1.
Westridge Quarry
Brickworks
Proposed
Haul Route
Neales
Quarry
White Pit
Quarry
Figure 2.1: Proposed Haul Route
Page | 3
Page 9
Quarry Rehabilitation
Lake Macdonald Drive, Lake Macdonald
© 2012 - TTM Consulting (SC) Pty Ltd Reference No: 12SCT0037
2.2 Haulage Profile
TTM have been advised that the proposed rehabilitation of Neales Quarry and White Pit Quarry
will involve the extraction of up to 900,000 tonnes (0.90Mt) over a 2 year period. It is understood
that the haulage vehicle will be a truck and dog with a payload of 30 tonnes.
Over this period it is anticipated that up to 30,000 heavy vehicles will enter and exit the subject
site with an anticipated maximum of 50 heavy vehicles per day.
2.3 Access
The following access arrangements exist at the sending and receiving quarries:
Brickworks (Westridge Quarry) access description:
o 12m wide gravel access with standard driveway controls; and
o All turn movements allowed however practically only left-in and right-out
movements will occur.
White Pit Quarry (and Neales Quarry) access description:
o 5m wide gated gravel access with standard driveway controls; and
o All turn movements allowed.
Page | 4
Page 10
Quarry Rehabilitation
Lake Macdonald Drive, Lake Macdonald
© 2012 - TTM Consulting (SC) Pty Ltd Reference No: 12SCT0037
3. Existing Transport Infrastructure
3.1 The Road Network
All roads in the immediate vicinity of the haul route are administered by Sunshine Coast Regional
Council (SCRC). The hierarchy and characteristics of roads in the immediate vicinity of the site are
shown below in Table 3.1.
Table 3.1: Local Road Hierarchy
Road Speed Carriageway Road Classification Road
Limit Reserve Authority
Width Lanes Width
Lake Macdonald 80kph 7-9m 2 (undivided, plus 25 - 50m Major Road SCRC
Drive shoulders)
Lake Ridge Court 60kph 6m 2 (undivided) 16m Local Road SCRC
Racehorse Lane 60kph 5.5m 2 (undivided) 20m Local Road SCRC
Hoy Road 60kph 6m 2 (undivided) 35m Local Road SCRC
Lake Macdonald Drive has a minimum 7m wide carriageway along the haulage route. The speed
limit on Lake Macdonald Drive changes to 60kph immediately south of the White Pit Quarry
access. All intersections along the haulage route are priority controlled.
3.2 Road Planning
TTM have discussed the planning of the future road network in the vicinity of the subject site with
Sunshine Coast Regional Council.
Council did not specify any other works in the vicinity of the site which will impact upon, or be
impacted by, the proposed development.
3.3 Public Transport and Cyclist Facilities
There are no public transport facilities along the haulage route; however school buses were
identified on Lake Macdonald Drive near the Westridge Quarry access.
Lake Macdonald Drive is identified as a pathway and bikeway in the Noosa Plan.
3.4 Road Accident Review
TTM has reviewed the road accident history on the Lake MacDonald Drive road corridor, with the
following providing a summary of the results:
There have been a total of 5 recorded accidents on Lake MacDonald Drive corridor between Jan
2005 and December 2009. TTM note that the accidents were not specific to any one location and
included 1 hospitalisation with the remaining 4 accidents involving property damage only. No
accidents involved trucks or similar vehicles.
Page | 5
Page 11
Quarry Rehabilitation
Lake Macdonald Drive, Lake Macdonald
© 2012 - TTM Consulting (SC) Pty Ltd Reference No: 12SCT0037
4. Traffic Volumes
4.1 Current Peak Hour
TTM Data conducted intersection movement surveys at the White Pit Quarry access from 6:00am
to 6:00pm on Friday 18th May 2012. TTM also conducted an intersection movement survey at the
Brickworks access from 7:00-9:00am on the same day.
The peak hours were found to be 7:35-8:35am and 3:20-4:20pm. The results of the survey are
shown below in Figure 4.1. The results of the Westridge Quarry AM survey correlate directly to
the movements at the White Pit Quarry access with a 22% reduction in volumes in both through
movements. This reduction has been taken into account for estimated PM movements at this
Westridge Quarry access intersection with a nominal 1vph applied to all turn movements.
The survey results indicate that the AM / PM peak hour traffic volumes on Lake Macdonald Drive
adjacent to the subject site are in the order of 200vph / 220vph. Truck (i.e. non-car) content on
Lake Macdonald Drive was approximately 4%.
117 / 68
Westridge
0/1
Quarry
0/1
Access 1/1
2/1
38 / 107
149 / 87
White Pit
0/0
Quarry
Access 1/0
0/0
Macdonald
Legend
1/0
50 / 134
Drive
Lake
123 / 456 = AM / PM
Figure 4.1: Existing (Surveyed) Peak Hour Traffic Volumes 2011
Page | 6
Page 12
Quarry Rehabilitation
Lake Macdonald Drive, Lake Macdonald
© 2012 - TTM Consulting (SC) Pty Ltd Reference No: 12SCT0037
4.2 Daily Traffic
Daily two-way traffic data obtained from the Sunshine Coast Regional Council for Lake Macdonald
Drive is shown below in Table 4.1.
Table 4.1: Existing Daily Traffic Volumes
Location Distance from Westridge Quarry Year Daily Volume (vpd)
100m north of Botanic Gardens 1.3km to the north 2001 1080
Access
Water Filling Station 0.7km to the north (estimate) 2001 1021
2002 1369
Westridge Quarry Access 0.0km 2012 1650*
200m south of Hoy Road 0.55km to the south 1996 1170
2005 1906
50m south of Lake Ridge Court 0.75km to the south 1999 1174
2001 1474
2002 1721
White Pit Quarry Access 1.4km to the south 2012 2100*
* These counts are based on the average AM / PM peak hour surveyed, multiplied by a factor of
ten. It should be noted that the 12 hour count at the White Pit Quarry access identified 1919
vehicles over this period.
4.3 Growth Rates
The daily volumes identified in Table 4.1 show that Lake Macdonald Drive has experienced a
reasonable growth in the last decade. Where multiple counts are available at any location, the
growth rates vary between 5.6% pa (200m south of Hoy Road) to 34% pa (Water Filling Station). It
is anticipated that growth rates at the higher end of the spectrum are unsustainable and as such a
6% growth rate has been adopted.
Page | 7
Page 13
Quarry Rehabilitation
Lake Macdonald Drive, Lake Macdonald
© 2012 - TTM Consulting (SC) Pty Ltd Reference No: 12SCT0037
5. Estimated Future Transport Demands
5.1.1 Estimated Development Traffic Generation
TTM have been informed that there will be approximately 50 heavy vehicle movements in and out
of Westridge Quarry (to / from White Pit Quarry) each day. Five truck and dog vehicles with a
payload of 30 tonnes will transport the clay between the quarries every hour covering a 10 hour
day operation. Whilst the distance between the quarries is short at only 1.4km long, it is
anticipated that with loading and unloading of material, each vehicle will undertake one return
trip in any peak hour.
It is estimated that 5 drivers will be required in addition to three staff at each of the sending and
receiving sites.
As noted, it is anticipated that the total quarry material will be 900,000 tonnes over the quarrying
period resulting in 30,000 movements into and from each quarry site over the life of the project.
5.1.2 Existing Development Traffic
TTM have been informed that the Brickworks will not be operational during the life of the project.
Additionally, Westridge Quarry will not be continuing standard quarry operations during the life
of the project. It is noted that the plan of operations for Westridge Quarry identifies an average of
60,000 to 65,000 tonnes per annum during normal operations.
The existing turn movements at the Westridge quarry access are assumed to be part of the
existing operations / works. Once the existing use is removed these trips will no longer occur and
have therefore been deducted from future development generation.
5.2 Estimated Development Traffic Distribution
The estimated distribution of development generated traffic is shown in Figure 5.1, with 80% of
site staff anticipated to arrive and depart to and from the south.
Page | 8
Page 14
Quarry Rehabilitation
Lake Macdonald Drive, Lake Macdonald
© 2012 - TTM Consulting (SC) Pty Ltd Reference No: 12SCT0037
Westridge
0/0
0/0
Quarry
0/0
Access 5/8
8/5
0/0
White Pit
5/5
0/3
Quarry
Access 5/5
0/3
Macdonald
Legend
3/0
3/0
Drive
Lake
123 / 456 = AM / PM
Figure 5.1: Estimated Development Generated Turn Movements
5.3 Future (2014) Base Traffic Demands
Figure 5.2 shows the future (2014) base traffic demands, based on an application of an annual
growth rate of 6% for a period of 2 years. As mentioned in Chapter 2, it is anticipated that
proposed haulage will begin no later than 2014, and as such these future volumes provide the
basis to assess the worst case scenario.
131 / 76
Westridge
0/0
Quarry
0/0
Access 0/0
0/0
43 / 120
167 / 98
White Pit
0/0
Quarry
0/0
Access
0/0
Macdonald
Legend
123 / 456 = AM / PM
0/0
56 / 151
Drive
Lake
Figure 5.2: Estimated 2014 Peak Hour Traffic, Without Development (6% p.a. growth)
Page | 9
Page 15
Quarry Rehabilitation
Lake Macdonald Drive, Lake Macdonald
© 2012 - TTM Consulting (SC) Pty Ltd Reference No: 12SCT0037
5.4 Future (2014) Project Traffic Demands
The future project case scenario is obtained by the addition of development traffic generation
shown in Figure 5.1 to the base traffic volumes shown in Figure 5.2. These expected traffic
movements are shown in Figure 5.3.
132 / 76
Westridge
0/0
Quarry
0/0
Access 5/8
8/5
44 / 121
167 / 101
White Pit 5/5
Quarry
Access 5/5
0/3
Macdonald
Legend
123 / 456 = AM / PM
3/0
66 / 151
Drive
Lake
Figure 5.3: Estimated 2014 Peak Hour Traffic, With Development
Page | 10
Page 16
Quarry Rehabilitation
Lake Macdonald Drive, Lake Macdonald
© 2012 - TTM Consulting (SC) Pty Ltd Reference No: 12SCT0037
6. Lake MacDonald Drive Capacity Review
6.1 Introduction
This Chapter reviews the traffic operation and capacity performance of the Lake MacDonald Drive
corridor and its existing intersections on the proposed haulage route between the existing
Westridge Quarry access and White Pit Quarry access locations.
6.2 Road Corridor Capacity Criteria
The AUSTROADS Guide to Traffic Engineering Practice - Part 2: Roadway Capacity indicates that
two-lane rural highways have a capacity of 2,800 passenger cars per hour total for both directions
of flow, under ideal conditions where there are no restrictive roadway, terrain or traffic
conditions.
However, considering the prevailing roadway and traffic conditions along Lake MacDonald Drive,
it is estimated that the highest total service flow rate (AM Peak) is approximately 200 vehicles per
hour total for both directions of flow based on 2012 traffic levels.
Austroads defines level of service as a qualitative measure describing operational conditions
within a traffic stream. The term Level of Service (LOS) and its characteristics for rural roads is
defined in Table 6.1.
Table 6.1: Two Lane Rural Road Capacity – Rolling Terrain Two-Way Flow
LOS Description Rating
A Free, unrestrictive flow Very good Very Good
B Mostly free flow, few disruptions Very good Very Good
C Stable flow Good Good
D Mostly stable flow, some delays Acceptable Acceptable
E Congested flow, delays common Bad Bad
F Forced flow Bad Bad
Source: Austroads Guide to Traffic Engineering Practice, Part 2
The volume and composition of traffic on a given road determines the level of interaction
between vehicles and is measured as its LOS. LOS decreases with increasing traffic volumes. LOS
A, LOS B, LOS C in a rural context are satisfactory, with a LOS D satisfactory in some
circumstances.
In cases where traffic, terrain or geometric data may not be precisely known, the AUSTROADS
Guide provides planning guidance on maximum AADT values that two-lane, two-way rural roads
can accommodate under various terrain conditions.
Page | 11
Page 17
Quarry Rehabilitation
Lake Macdonald Drive, Lake Macdonald
© 2012 - TTM Consulting (SC) Pty Ltd Reference No: 12SCT0037
Table 6.2 shows the values for various Levels of Service for a rural road in rolling terrain with
varying ratios of design hour volume to AADT.
Table 6.2: Maximum AADT’s for Various LOS on Two-Lane Two-Way Rural Roads
Level of Service
Design Hour Volume to AADT A B C D E
Ratio
0.10 1,100 2,800 5,200 8,000 14,800
0.11 1,000 2,500 4,700 7,200 13,500
0.12 900 2,300 4,400 6,600 12,300
0.13 900 2,100 4,000 6,100 11,400
0.14 800 1,480 3,700 5,700 10,600
0.15 700 1,800 3,500 5,300 9,900
(Source: AUSTROADS Guide to Traffic Engineering Practice, Part 2: Roadway Capacity, Table 3.9)
6.3 Operational Performance
For a Level of Service B, the maximum AADT values range from 1,800 to 2,800 depending on the
design hour volume to AADT ratio. The peak hour volumes along Lake MacDonald Drive are
anticipated to be approximately 13% (0.13) of the average daily traffic on a weekday. From Table
6.2 above, a maximum AADT of 2,100 is assumed for a LOS B.
Comparing these values with the average AADT levels along Lake MacDonald Drive from Table 4.1
being approximately 2,100vpd, indicates that the existing road corridor operates at LOS B.
Based on the above LOS criteria, TTM considers that the Lake MacDonald Drive corridor will
operate at a Level of Service B for the duration of the works.
TTM note that the road operating at a LOS B should have no significant road capacity issues, with
the predicted level of development truck traffic having a negligible impact on overall road corridor
performance.
6.4 Lake McDonald Drive Intersection Operational Criteria
In reviewing the intersection traffic operational requirements, TTM has made reference to RPDM
Chapter 13: Intersections at Grade: 13.5.4 Un-signalised Minor Road Intersections.
Table 13.4 indicates the maximum traffic volume combinations for uninterrupted flow conditions.
It is unnecessary to flare intersection approaches or carry out an intersection analysis when the
combinations of major road and minor road volumes are less than those in the table.
The proposed haulage activity will impact on the road network between the sending and receiving
quarry access locations.
The haulage activity will increase the estimated two way traffic on the impacted section of Lake
Macdonald Drive, however, the total volumes (including truck activity) on Lake Macdonald Drive
will be less than 3,000vpd and as such the haulage activity does not require a higher order road
than is currently provided.
Page | 12
Page 18
Quarry Rehabilitation
Lake Macdonald Drive, Lake Macdonald
© 2012 - TTM Consulting (SC) Pty Ltd Reference No: 12SCT0037
The estimated turn and through movements at each access location noted in Figure 6.1 do not
warrant a detailed capacity analysis i.e. Sidra Intersection Analysis Software, as they result in
uninterrupted flow conditions. As such the existing access layouts are considered to have suitable
capacity.
On the basis of the existing and predicted development peak hour intersection traffic flows, as
shown in Chapter 5, the level of peak hour traffic is below the criteria for a two-lane road type as
shown in Figure 6.1 (RPDM Table 13.4). It is therefore considered that the intersection will
operate at uninterrupted flow conditions in 2013.
Figure 6.1: RPDM Table 13.4 Intersection Capacity
6.5 Public Transport and Bicycle Facilities
The proposed haulage activities are not anticipated to adversely impact existing public transport,
mainly school buses. The Drivers Code of Conduct should identify that appropriate caution should
be taken in the vicinity of bus stops and buses.
The Drivers Code of Conduct should also include information regarding the treatment and
awareness of on road cyclists when entering, exiting or travelling along the haulage route.
As further noted, it is recommended that the speed limit is temporarily reduced to 60km/h for the
duration of the works activity.
Page | 13
Page 19
Quarry Rehabilitation
Lake Macdonald Drive, Lake Macdonald
© 2012 - TTM Consulting (SC) Pty Ltd Reference No: 12SCT0037
7. Site & Internal Access Review
This Chapter reviews the adequacy of the Westridge Quarry access and White Pit Quarry access
intersections to adequately cater for the predicted development traffic demands.
7.1 Westridge Quarry Access Review
The intersection layout is a typical priority 3-arm intersection as shown in Figure 7.1, and has
good inter-visibility in both the north and south directions, with the following traffic and
geometric attributes:
A posted speed limit of 80km/hr;
Approximately 7 metre wide carriageways on all approaches; and
A wide entry width with high radius curve leading into the Westridge Quarry access.
It is noted that a residential dwelling shares the Lake Macdonald Drive access. It is anticipated
that the residential driveway will not significantly adversely impact or be impacted upon by the
proposed development. The property owner should be made aware of the proposed haulage
activities and their comments should be taken into consideration for haulage activities.
Table 7.1 identifies the characteristics of the Westridge Quarry access with respect to Council
requirements. The last column identifies the compliance/provision of each design aspect.
Table 7.1: Westridge Quarry Access Characteristics
Design Aspect Council Requirement Existing Compliance/Provision
(AS2890.1/AS2890.2) Provision
Crossover type/width for:
Cars 6 – 9m undivided 10m Provide 9m sealed cross-over
Design service 20m divided 10m
vehicle
Minimum distance to
adjacent feature:
Minor intersection 6m 300m+ Council Compliant
Major intersection 6m 300m+
Adjacent driveway 6m 120m
Exit queue capacity 2 vehicles, 40m 50m Council Compliant
Gradient of first 6m 1 in 20 (5%) Less than 5% Council Compliant
Page | 14
Page 20
Quarry Rehabilitation
Lake Macdonald Drive, Lake Macdonald
© 2012 - TTM Consulting (SC) Pty Ltd Reference No: 12SCT0037
Aerial View
Northbound View Southbound View
Figure 7.1: Westridge Quarry Access: Aerial and Site Photographs
7.1.1 Sight Distance Review
The Austroads document, Guide to Road Design - Part 4A: Unsignalised and Signalised
Intersections, provides details on intersection visibility guidance.
The sight distance to the north and south of the access is adequate with visibility greater than
200m as shown in Figure 7.1.
Page | 15
Page 21
Quarry Rehabilitation
Lake Macdonald Drive, Lake Macdonald
© 2012 - TTM Consulting (SC) Pty Ltd Reference No: 12SCT0037
7.1.2 Warrants for Turn Treatments Review
A review of warrants for turn treatments in Austroads Part 4A identifies that with the anticipated
traffic volumes, basic right (BAR) and basic left (BAL) turn treatments are required at each access
location.
Given the duration of haulage activities taking place and low existing background traffic volumes,
it is recommended that adequate signage be provided in lieu of the turn treatments noted above,
with any signage to be in accordance with the Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices
(MUTCD).
Page | 16
Page 22
Quarry Rehabilitation
Lake Macdonald Drive, Lake Macdonald
© 2012 - TTM Consulting (SC) Pty Ltd Reference No: 12SCT0037
7.2 White Pit Quarry Access Review
The intersection layout is a typical priority 3-arm intersection as shown by Figure 7.2, and has
good inter-visibility in both the north and south directions, with the following traffic and
geometric attributes:
A posted speed limit of 80km/hr; and
Approximately 7 metre wide carriageways on all approaches.
Table 7.2 identifies the characteristics of the White Pit Quarry access with respect to the Council
requirements. The last column identifies the compliance/provision of each design aspect.
Table 7.2: White Pit Quarry Access Characteristics
Design Aspect Council Requirement Existing Provision Compliance/Provision
(AS2890.1/AS2890.2)
Crossover type/width for:
Cars 6 – 9m undivided 7.5m Provide 9m sealed cross-
over
Design service 20m divided 7.5m
vehicle
Minimum distance to
adjacent feature:
Minor intersection 6m 200m+ Council Compliant
Major intersection 6m 200m+
Adjacent driveway 6m 200m+
Exit queue capacity 2 vehicles, 40m 50m Council Compliant
Gradient of first 6m 1 in 20 (5%) Less than 5% Council Compliant
Page | 17
Page 23
Quarry Rehabilitation
Lake Macdonald Drive, Lake Macdonald
© 2012 - TTM Consulting (SC) Pty Ltd Reference No: 12SCT0037
Aerial View
Northbound View Southbound View
Figure 7.2: White Pit Quarry Access: Aerial and Site Photographs
Page | 18
Page 24
Quarry Rehabilitation
Lake Macdonald Drive, Lake Macdonald
© 2012 - TTM Consulting (SC) Pty Ltd Reference No: 12SCT0037
7.2.1 Sight Distance Review
The Austroads document, Guide to Road Design - Part 4A: Unsignalised and Signalised
Intersections, provides details on intersection visibility guidance.
The guidance indentifies that a typical drivers eye height is 1.15m for a passenger vehicle,
however, this guidance also provides details on a typical truck drivers eye height being 2.4m. Due
to the design vehicle predominantly being a truck, this height has been used in assessing the
available intersection/access sight distance.
This additional height (2.4m) provides additional visibility for truck drivers over the crest to the
north of the site access, as shown in Figure 7.3. The available northern sight distance between the
drivers height at the site access (2.4m) and drivers height on Lake MacDonald Drive (1.15m) is
approximately 85m, which is further limited due to vertical downgrade alignment on Lake
MacDonald Drive.
In a review of the Austroads documentation: Guide to Road Design - Part 4A: Unsignalised and
Signalised Intersections an Approach Sight Distance (ASD) of 114m is recommended for an
80km/h speed environment.
However, if the through speed is reduced to 60km/h an ASD of 73m would be required, which can
be achieved on the basis of northwards truck driver visibility.
The sight distance to the north of the access is adequate with visibility greater than 200m.
7.2.2 Warrants for Turn Treatments Review
A review of warrants for turn treatments in Austroads Part 4A identifies that with the anticipated
traffic volumes, basic right (BAR) and basic left (BAL) turn treatments are required at each access
location.
Given the duration of haulage activities taking place and low existing background traffic volumes,
it is recommended that adequate signage be provided in lieu of the turn treatments noted above,
with any signage in accordance with the Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD).
Page | 19
Page 25
Quarry Rehabilitation
Lake Macdonald Drive, Lake Macdonald
© 2012 - TTM Consulting (SC) Pty Ltd Reference No: 12SCT0037
7.3 Proposed Site Access Arrangements & Adequacy
The proposed access arrangements generally comply with Austroads and Council Requirements.
However, it is recommended that adequate site access widths are provided to allow for an
incoming vehicle to pass two vehicles waiting to exit and that their approaches are sealed for at
least 20m prior to entering Lake MacDonald Drive.
The sight distance requirements at the White Pit Quarry access have been reviewed, with the
northbound visibility hindered due to the existing vertical road alignment of Lake MacDonald
Drive. Adequate sight distance can be achieved for truck activity based on a speed reduction to
60km/h. However, TTM have road safety concerns in relation to drivers observing this speed limit
and the level of slow turning truck activity.
It is therefore recommended that this site access is used for a short period in order to establish
the site and enable for a secondary site access to be internally constructed and located
approximately 100m to the north. The location of this secondary access will provide adequate
sight distance in both the north and south directions, as shown in Figure 7.3.
Aerial View
Southbound View Northbound View
Figure 7.3: White Pit Quarry Secondary Access: Aerial and Site Photographs
Page | 20
Page 26
Quarry Rehabilitation
Lake Macdonald Drive, Lake Macdonald
© 2012 - TTM Consulting (SC) Pty Ltd Reference No: 12SCT0037
7.4 Internal Site Access Review
7.4.1 Internal Parking and Manoeuvring
TTM understands that a dedicated on-site compound will be established, which will provide
dedicated parking for up to 5 vehicles and adequate turning areas for truck activity.
7.4.2 Bridge Structures
TTM understands that the established creek crossing structure(s) along the Westridge Quarry
access have been designed to cater for the predicted development truck loads. TTM anticipates
that the structures will adequately cater for the development demands; however, a further
inspection by a structural engineer may be warranted.
Page | 21
Page 27
Quarry Rehabilitation
Lake Macdonald Drive, Lake Macdonald
© 2012 - TTM Consulting (SC) Pty Ltd Reference No: 12SCT0037
8. Haulage Route Condition Review
8.1 Introduction
This assessment has been prepared to establish the existing road conditions which will enable
robust and detailed investigation mitigations to be undertaken for Lake Macdonald Drive between
the Westridge Quarry access and the White Pit Quarry access. Figure 1.1 and Figure 2.1 identify
the proposed haul route in the regional and local context respectively.
As noted in Chapter 3, Lake Macdonald Drive is identified as a major road in Council’s Planning
Scheme. Lake Macdonald Drive is bitumen sealed with a road width between 7m to 9m, and has a
speed limit of 80kph along the proposed haul route.
Lake Macdonald Drive primarily serves rural residential properties, industrial activities (quarry /
brickworks) with access to Lake Macdonald and Noosa botanical gardens.
Along the 1.4km section of Lake Macdonald Drive proposed for haulage activities, there are three
minor intersections: Lake Ridge Court, Racehorse Lane and Hoy Road.
This assessment reviews the pavement condition of the proposed haulage route on Lake
Macdonald Drive only. This length of road is considered for review as identified in Sunshine Coast
Regional Council pre lodgement minutes.
The section of Lake Macdonald Drive proposed for haulage activities has been visually assessed by
TTM to determine its current condition and for the recommendation of any maintenance and
repair strategies.
8.2 Road Observatory Survey
Lake Macdonald Drive was assessed on Wednesday 4th July 2012, with dry conditions during the
survey. As noted above, this road was only surveyed between the Westridge Quarry (Brickworks)
access and the White Pit Quarry access.
The surveyed section of Lake Macdonald Drive is sealed for its entire length with full pavement
construction between the two quarry access locations.
Lake Macdonald Drive is in a relatively well maintained condition with limited rutting, potholes, or
edge breaking along the surveyed section. Table 8.1 provides a summary of the existing Lake
MacDonald Drive road condition.
Page | 22
Page 28
Quarry Rehabilitation
Lake Macdonald Drive, Lake Macdonald
© 2012 - TTM Consulting (SC) Pty Ltd Reference No: 12SCT0037
Table 8.1: Observed Road Key Issue Condition Summary
Chainage Observed Road Condition
Westridge Quarry Access to Hoy Full pavement construction in relatively good condition.
Road
No major cracking or breakup of carriageway observed.
Unbound gravel surface leading from Lake McDonald Drive into site.
Hoy Road to Lake Ridge Court Full pavement construction in relatively good condition.
No major cracking or breakup of carriageway with minor surface
distress observed.
Lake Ridge Court to White Pit Full pavement construction in relatively good condition.
Quarry Access
No major cracking or breakup of carriageway with minor surface
distress observed.
White Pit Quarry Access Full pavement construction in relatively good condition.
No major cracking or breakup of carriageway observed.
Unbound gravel surface leading from Lake McDonald Drive into site.
8.3 Limitations of the Survey
TTM note that this study is a visual study of the existing road condition only. There has been no
soil testing carried out on the road material or the road foundations or any measurement of the
depth of gravel or road capping.
As noted, minor areas of maintenance concern or road deterioration have been observed, with
the following site pictures, as shown in Figure 8.1 indicating typical road pavement conditions
along the haulage route on the Lake MacDonald Drive corridor.
Page | 23
Page 29
Quarry Rehabilitation
Lake Macdonald Drive, Lake Macdonald
© 2012 - TTM Consulting (SC) Pty Ltd Reference No: 12SCT0037
Figure 8.1: Typical Haulage Pavement Conditions: Lake MacDonald Drive Corridor
Page | 24
Page 30
Quarry Rehabilitation
Lake Macdonald Drive, Lake Macdonald
© 2012 - TTM Consulting (SC) Pty Ltd Reference No: 12SCT0037
8.4 Maintenance and Repair Strategy
It is not expected that any significant pavement damage will occur to Lake Macdonald Drive
during the haulage activities.
The haulage operator is fully aware of the importance of early dialogue in raising any road
maintenance issues, as significant road deterioration could impact the haulage activities and
potentially cause damage to haulage trucks.
It is recommended that the operator undertake a maintenance review of the haulage route on a
monthly basis. Furthermore, it would be beneficial for a Council Roads or Maintenance Engineer
to also review the haul route during operations in order to identify any maintenance issues that
may require immediate attention.
8.5 Summary
In summary, TTM found no major or significant maintenance issues that would impact on the
typical routine maintenance costs for Lake Macdonald Drive.
Page | 25
Page 31
Quarry Rehabilitation
Lake Macdonald Drive, Lake Macdonald
© 2012 - TTM Consulting (SC) Pty Ltd Reference No: 12SCT0037
9. Traffic Management Plan
TTM understands that a further Traffic Management Plan will be prepared prior to any on-site
activities, which will be in accordance with the MUTCD.
TTM further understand that a Drivers’ Code of Conduct will be undertaken to ensure maintain a
high level of safety during the haulage operation.
It is recommended for a reduction in the existing speed limit to 60km/h during the period of
operational works. This will help in reducing vehicle speeds and minimising any potential
interaction between the truck activity and passing through traffic on Lake MacDonald Drive.
Page | 26
Page 32
Quarry Rehabilitation
Lake Macdonald Drive, Lake Macdonald
© 2012 - TTM Consulting (SC) Pty Ltd Reference No: 12SCT0037
10. Developer Contributions
TTM understand that the applicant will make a submission in relation to the reasonable
application of Infrastructure Charges under the current State regime for consideration by
Council’s Infrastructure Policy Branch.
Page | 27
Page 33
Quarry Rehabilitation
Lake Macdonald Drive, Lake Macdonald
© 2012 - TTM Consulting (SC) Pty Ltd Reference No: 12SCT0037
11. Summary
11.1 Proposed Development
The proposed development is anticipated to haul approximately 900,000 tonnes of material on
Lake MacDonald Drive for an approximate distance of 1.4km between the existing Westridge
Quarry and White Pit Quarry accesses. The duration of this activity is predicted to be
approximately 2 years.
11.2 Road Network
A traffic capacity review of Lake MacDonald Drive has been undertaken, with adequate road
corridor and intersection capacities along the extent of the haulage route. It is not expected that
the level of truck activity will impact on any capacity.
11.3 Site Access
The proposed site accesses have been reviewed, with the northern White Pit Quarry access
having a restricted north visibility due the vertical alignment profile of Lake MacDonald Drive. It is
recommended that this access is only used for a short period to establish the site and allow for
the construction of a secondary access further to the north. This will help to maintain road safety
along the corridor and provide adequate visibility in all directions.
11.4 Existing Road Pavement Conditions
The existing road pavement has been reviewed with no significant road maintenance issues
indentified from the site visit. It is recommended that Lake MacDonald Drive is inspected on a
monthly basis, with any maintenance issues indentified and acted upon.
11.5 Bicycle / Pedestrian Review
TTM do not anticipate that the level of truck activity will impact existing public transport, cyclist or
pedestrian activity along Lake MacDonald Drive.
It is intended for a Drivers Code of Conduct to be implemented which will also include information
to the treatment and awareness of on road cyclists when entering, exiting or travelling along the
haulage route.
11.6 Internal Site Operation
TTM understands that a dedicated on-site compound will be established, which will provide
dedicated parking for up to 5 vehicles and adequate turning areas for trucks.
11.7 Traffic Management Plan
It is recommended that a Traffic Management Plan to be prepared prior to any on-site activities,
which will be in accordance with the MUTCD.
Page | 28
Page 34
Quarry Rehabilitation
Lake Macdonald Drive, Lake Macdonald
© 2012 - TTM Consulting (SC) Pty Ltd Reference No: 12SCT0037
11.8 Developer Contributions
TTM understand that the applicant will make a submission in relation to the reasonable
application of Infrastructure Charges.
11.9 Recommendations
TTM note the following recommendations:
It is recommended that Lake MacDonald Drive is inspected on a monthly basis, with any
maintenance issues indentified and acted upon.
It is recommended that the White Pit Quarry access is only used for a short period to establish the
site and allow for the construction of a secondary access further to the north. This will help to
maintain road safety along the corridor and provide adequate visibility in all directions.
It is recommended for a Traffic Management Plan to be prepared prior to any on-site activities,
which will be in accordance with the MUTCD
It is recommended that both the Westridge Quarry and White Pit Quarry accesses are sealed for
at least 20m from Lake MacDonald Drive.
It is recommended that the speed limit on Lake MacDonald Drive is temporarily reduced in
conjunction with the traffic management plan requirements.
Page | 29