Multi-Residential Demolition Project

A large-scale, high-exposure demolition project in Footscray, Melbourne involving the full removal of four residential houses along Geelong Road, one of the busiest arterial corridors in the city.

Project Overview

Project

Residential Demolition

Location

Footscray, Melbourne

Client

Footscray, Melbourne

Duration

Fast-Tracked Multi-Property Demolition

Scope

Full Demolition of 4 Houses, Traffic-Adjoining Works, Material Removal, Site Levelling and Tracking

Phase 1

High Exposure Roadside Planning and Traffic Safety Setup

Demolition along a major arterial road demands a higher level of planning than a standard residential site. The Melway team began by developing a traffic safety strategy that protected both workers and the public. Secure fencing, controlled exclusion zones, and designated machinery access points were established along the frontage to ensure demolition could proceed without affecting live traffic conditions.

This phase is essential in high exposure environments because it reduces risk and maintains predictable movement around the site. Clear boundaries also help prevent debris migration and ensure that machinery can operate safely within a narrow roadside footprint.

Phase 2

Staged Demolition of Multiple Dwellings

Demolition commenced across the four dwellings in a controlled sequence. Each house was dismantled methodically using excavator led techniques that allowed operators to manage debris direction, maintain safe access, and keep the extended frontage organised.

Staged demolition is critical when working across multiple properties because it prevents overlap between demolition fronts. By progressing house by house, the team maintained full control over debris movement and ensured that each structure was removed safely without disrupting the workflow of the next.

Phase 3

Coordinated Material Handling and Continuous Load Out

Due to the scale of the project and the limited space available along the roadside, continuous material removal was required throughout the demolition works. Rubble, timber, brick, and concrete were processed into manageable piles and loaded into trucks in ongoing cycles.

Efficient material handling is vital on high exposure sites because there is no room for stockpiling. Continuous load out keeps the frontage clear, maintains safe access for machinery, and prevents congestion that could interfere with traffic safety controls. This approach also supports strong recycling outcomes by ensuring materials are separated and transported promptly.

Phase 4

Concrete Removal and Ground Level Clearance

Once the structures were removed, the team shifted focus to the slabs, footings, and remaining hardstand areas. Hydraulic attachments were used to break down reinforced concrete into transportable sections. Steel reinforcement was separated for recycling and the ground was cleared of all remaining obstructions.

This phase is essential for delivering a site that is genuinely ready for redevelopment. Removing all ground level elements ensures that future construction can begin without delays or unexpected excavation requirements.

Phase 5

Final Site Levelling and Project Completion

The project concluded with full site levelling and tracking works across the extended frontage. Remaining debris was removed and the ground was shaped into a clean and consistent surface ready for redevelopment.

The completed project demonstrates Melway’s capability to manage large scale demolition in high exposure environments. By combining controlled sequencing with strong traffic safety measures and efficient material handling, the team delivered a safe and streamlined transformation along one of Melbourne’s busiest roads.

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