Ernie’s Roundabout, Bus Layover and Drivers' Facility

McIlwain delivered safety upgrades to Herston’s bus layover facility, including a new suspended drivers facility building, upgraded pavements, and essential services. The project improved safety, efficiency, and capacity for one of Brisbane’s busiest public transport hubs.

Located within the highly constrained Bowen Bridge Road corridor, this project required meticulous planning to maintain uninterrupted bus operations throughout construction. Works included a new driver facility supported on structural steel framing with a Bondek slab, major pavement upgrades using Fibrecrete, and the installation of new water and sewer services via tunnel boring.

To address vibration risks and site constraints, McIlwain proposed and delivered an innovative alternative design incorporating bored piers and micropiles. Compared to the original precast driven pile solution, this approach reduced vibration impacts, improved constructability, and minimised traffic disruption.

The environmentally sensitive site presented additional challenges, with contaminated soils containing lead and asbestos requiring specialised handling and disposal. Working adjacent to Enoggera Creek and nearby mangroves also demanded robust environmental controls to protect water quality and local ecosystems while maintaining the safety of workers and the surrounding community.