Articles

Zancon's Project Controls in the Metro Martin Place Project

Written by Zancon | Nov 12, 2024 12:40:27 AM

In the dynamic realm of urban development, effective project controls are essential for successful project delivery. A prime example is Zancon’s pivotal role in the Metro Martin Place project, where we collaborated with Macquarie Bank as a key client. This collaboration showcases how meticulous planning and stakeholder engagement can streamline processes, ensuring compliance with governance requirements while also ensuring disruptions to contractor activities. 

The Challenge

The Client faced a challenge: Carrying out the development in compliance with their obligations under agreements with various stakeholders, including the Department of Planning’s following Site-Specific Development Applications (SSDA) conditions to activate and complete the Metro over station buildings in the heart of Sydney CBD. This task involved navigating a complex web of compliance requirements and conditions through continual stakeholder engagement.

Given the scale of the development, the precision required to map and execute compliance requirements was substantial, with any potential delays having the consequence of far-reaching impacts on timelines and, consequently, budgets.

 

Zancon’s Strategic Approach

Zancon implemented a robust strategy to tackle these challenges head-on. We developed a comprehensive development program that acted as a live strategic management tool. The development program focused on the Client’s deliverables, acting as a dynamic framework designed to align with the contractor's schedule, ensuring that the Client had early warning of its’ decision making timelines, to ensure any potential impact on the Contractor’s program was identified, mitigated and controlled.

The first step in establishing a robust project controls process for the project, was to create and maintain an integrated development program. This was vital to the Project Controls process. By synchronising the developer's program with the contractor’s schedule, Zancon created a master development program bringing together both timelines. This integrated master program allowed Zancon to monitor the Client’s obligations effectively and assess the impact of decision-making on project progress. If any delays arose, the consequences were clear, empowering the bank to act swiftly and maintain momentum.

 

Collaborative Workshops and Stakeholder Engagement

The developer’s program was prepared by identification of key work streams aligned with the Client’s project organisation structure, then intensive programming workshops for program development, sequencing and timing.
The workshops transcended traditional meetings; they were collaborative environments where ideas thrived, and solutions found. Zancon engaged with the relevant work streams to delineate the steps required to meet contractual obligations and regulatory conditions, particularly concerning integrated fitouts and compliance with diverse planning instruments.

By promoting open communication and collaboration, Zancon ensured that every stakeholder understood their responsibilities and the timeline they were working towards. This collective approach clarified expectations and also built a sense of shared ownership over the project's success.


Continuous Monitoring and Adaptation

Zancon’s commitment to the project extended beyond initial planning. We implemented a robust monitoring system, conducting monthly status workshops to review the progress of the master development program. This approach allowed for real-time adjustments and reinforced the importance of proactive decision-making among stakeholders. The Client was thus equipped to manage its obligations effectively, ultimately influencing positive outcomes for the overall project.


Positive Outcomes for All Parties

The results of this concerted effort were successful. The Client successfully navigated its complex governance and approval requirements while maintaining the contractor's momentum. The integration of project controls established by Zancon not only met governance and regulatory requirements but also strengthened the Client’s internal risk management processes.

The Metro Martin Place project stands as a testament to the effectiveness of strategic project controls and collaborative partnerships. Zancon’s expertise in navigating the complexities of development projects enabled Macquarie Bank to achieve its objectives, thereby reinforcing the importance of meticulous planning and stakeholder engagement in achieving successful outcomes in large-scale developments.

In conclusion, Zancon’s role in the Metro Martin Place project highlights the critical significance of project controls in managing complex urban developments. Their strategic approach, characterised by integration, collaboration and continuous monitoring, not only addressed the needs of Macquarie Bank but also laid the groundwork for a successful partnership that benefitted all stakeholders involved.

- Julia Chamaa

 

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