Level 3 Investigation –
Wallamore Road Culverts.
Client.
Tamworth Regional Council
Location.
Tamworth, NSW
Project Description.
Ductile Consulting Engineers was engaged by Tamworth Regional Council to investigate the condition and structural capacity of two culverts located on Wallamore Road, crossing Boltons Creek and Savages Creek.
Wallamore Road is an important freight route connecting rural industries with Tamworth’s saleyards, abattoirs and Taminda industrial area. Previous inspections had identified significant concrete spalling and deterioration, prompting the need for detailed structural assessments and advice on appropriate remediation or replacement options.
The project focused on establishing the extent of deterioration, evaluating the culverts’ load-carrying capacity and identifying practical, cost-effective solutions to support the continued operation of this important regional transport route.
Our Role
Ductile’s scope included Level 2 inspections with detailed defect mapping and quantification, together with Tier 1-2D structural assessments to evaluate the culverts’ capacity under relevant heavy vehicle loading conditions.
The investigation was designed to provide Council with a clear understanding of each structure’s condition and capacity, along with recommendations for remediation or replacement.
A second stage was also proposed, if required, to assess alternative solutions through route and hydraulic assessments, high-level cost estimates and cost-benefit analysis.
Value Delivered
The project was designed to provide Tamworth Regional Council with an evidence-based foundation for managing two deteriorating culvert assets on an important regional freight route.
By combining condition inspections with structural capacity assessments and remediation options, Ductile’s approach supported informed decisions about maintenance, renewal investment and heavy vehicle access. The staged methodology also allowed Council to determine whether further investigation was warranted before committing to more extensive assessments or replacement works.
Other Projects.
Level 3 Structural Assessment – Walcha Council
We undertook a Level 3 structural assessment of G R Hicks Bridge, evaluating its load-carrying capacity and investigating concrete deterioration. We provided recommendations for targeted repairs, heavy vehicle access and ongoing asset management to support the bridge’s long-term serviceability.
PMHC – Bridge Assessment Program
Port Macquarie Hastings Council engaged Ductile Consulting Engineers to assess heavy vehicle capacity across its bridge network. Ductile evaluated 91 bridges and, using automated tools, delivered efficient insights and clear recommendations to guide access.
Orlando St Bridge Level 3 Inspection
Routine inspections of the Orlando St Bridge revealed significant deterioration, leading to Ductile Consulting Engineers being engaged. Their analysis confirmed no load restriction was needed and informed repairs to extend the bridge’s life by at least 30 years at a fraction of replacement cost.