Lower Order Road Design Guidelines

Abstract

n 2012, IPWEA Queensland (IPWEAQ) developed the Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA) Guidelines for Restoration Works to assist those working in the public works sector with submissions to the Queensland Reconstruction Authority for works arising from natural disasters. Discussions with local councils in 2013 and 2014 highlighted the frustrations experienced during the submission process. In particular, the level of rectification required when accepting funding under NDRAA Guidelines exceeded the needs of many lower order roads and its users thereby placing councils in a difficult position. 70% of the roads in our network across Queensland are ‘lower order’ and unfortunately the funding required to maintain this network is reducing while the costs of upgrading continues to increase. This situation is worsened when guidelines impose a higher level of rectification than what is needed. A solution for reducing the gap between funding and the cost of delivery was to apportion the level of risk across the entire network and maximise the return on funds invested. And by applying a more cost effective treatment across a larger proportion of the road network in a targeted way, overall network risk is improved. A review of the design parameters was therefore required. IPWEAQ engaged Harrison Infrastructure Group (HIG) and formed a Steering Committee to develop an acceptable general Standard for lower order road design and construction; not just in relation to reconstruction following a natural disaster. McCullough Robertson Lawyers provided in-kind support and this publication was also reviewed by Jardine Lloyd Thompson. The Lower Order Road Design Guidelines (LORDG) were launched in October 2015 at the state conference in Mackay by Ged Brennan (IPWEAQ President, 2014-2015). Further amendments were made in August 2016 including an editable Table 19, ‘Hazard Treatment Evaluation Score Card’. These Guidelines specify minimum standards for the design and construction of lower order road assets and provide practitioners with a risk-based approach to capital improvements. It is important to note however, that these Guidelines are not prescribed Standards; they are simply guidelines. They will be reviewed regularly to ensure they reflect best practices together with a sensible approach to the design and construction of lower order roads across Queensland.