Spectrum Comms with Transport for NSW (TfNSW)

Project Objectives

Newcastle Light Rail involved the design and construction of a stabling and maintenance facility, six stations and 2.7 kilometres of high capacity light rail through the centre of the Newcastle CBD. Major construction was completed in 12 months, expedited by consideration of community and social impacts and extensive community consultation.

Our Role

We were the interface with the TfNSW team to identify and assist in the management of risks and opportunities and develop strategies to address them. Our role included mitigating a highly charged political environment driven by local MP offices along the route and the long history of emotionally charged public debate over the removal of the heavy rail line.

At Spectrum we developed tailored strategies in consultation with businesses and residents, such as a concierge service for residents who lost access to their off-street parking.

Delivery of noise mitigation treatments to affected properties as part of the Operational Noise and Vibration Management Plan was a key element of our role.

Outcomes

• Responses to business surveys shaped the development of the Business Activation Strategy to help businesses thrive during construction.
• Construction commenced in September 2017, was completed in late 2018 and went operational in February 2019.
• ‘War rooms’ were held with key opinion leaders from the community to test strategies and plans prior to public launch.
• Spectrum developed a curriculum-based schools program presented to more than 6,000 students.
• Creating a legacy and lasting benefits was important to the project team: A plain wall became a giant piece of public art for the entire community to enjoy.
• The project was awarded Building A Strong Economy, in the 2019 Premier’s Awards as part of the Revitalising Newcastle Program.