22/06/2026
Conquered in Camden đ§±
In February this year the BluegumLP team undertook a large project replacing an existing besser block wall and concrete pathways situated in Sydneyâs outer southwestern suburbs.
Meeting with Mende and Courtney onsite, the first thing we discussed was the need to replace the existing boundary retaining wall, it possessed a significant lean cutting off side access to the property and more importantly becoming a safety hazard.
Like almost all walls in NSW council approval was required prior to construction. Particularly most of these meet CDC requirements under the planning act however I have built multiple that require DA approvals as well.
Retaining walls are significant structures that if not built correctly, fail often. The importance of engineering, architectural planning, Sydney water approval and Home warranties insurance are all paramount steps in constructing the right retaining wall. These days there arenât many walls that meet Exempt development and we always urge customers to go down the route of gaining the correct approvals.
The removal of the existing wall that was 1.6m high and 43lm took some serious work to remove. However part of its failure was the lack of drainage behind the wall, as well as steel not being tied into the existing footing.
Once demolished a new engineered concrete sleeper wall was installed. Holes were excavated as deep as 1.9m for a 1.6m high wall, concrete sleepers with 3 x N12 steel reinforcement, significant drainage components and correct pinning and packing for sleepers.
New fencing was installed behind the wall using 4.2m 65x 65 steel posts that were anchored into the same concrete pier as the wall.
New concrete pathways were poured down both side passages with the correct storm water system installed and replaced.
The end product - a huge difference and upgrade, but most importantly the reassurance that everything has been constructed correctly with sign offs from private certifiers and engineers.
We battled plenty of harsh conditions during this build. Hot humid days demolishing the existing wall, large excavation, significant downpours filling holes and causing delays. However we persevered and got it done.
We couldnât have done it without the help from our clients Mende and Courtney. Their hospitality was second to none and Mende jumped in on plenty of occasions to help us dig, clean and finish up. Much appreciated.
The end result a massive one. Thank you the Mitch and Conor for coming to help stack the sleepers, Borny and Mark for their excavation and to all our suppliers.
This was a very physically demanding project for myself and Wayne. Keep posted for our current projects đ”â«ïžâȘïž
