Virginia Grove Land Development

Located to the north of Adelaide and next to busy Port Wakefield Road, the Virginia Grove Land Development is within a re-zoned area that will eventually house 23,000 residents. The re-zoning is part of the state government’s vision for land development in the 30-year plan for Greater Adelaide. Tonkin collaborated with Lanser Communities to revise the local planning scheme to accommodate the re-zoning of the Virginia area. Infrastructure for the new community was an important concern and Tonkin created a model that demonstrated cost contributions for water, gas, sewer, stormwater and road infrastructure. Tonkin designed thoughtful plans to reduce traffic noise for future residents and provide an improved amenity for people living in surrounding communities.

Tonkin took a lead role in addressing several practical challenges that were present at Virginia Grove due to the site’s proximity to Port Wakefield Road, the flat profile of the area and the poor soil conditions. A variety of sustainable water management solutions were put in place, including methods to move stormwater through the development and a sewerage network that would support future growth. We worked collaboratively with the local council at the early stages of the project, enabling us to have open conversations and paving the way for effective cooperation throughout the duration of the project.

For large housing developments, innovative ideas can make a big difference. For example, Tonkin optimised the earthworks design so that it minimised the need for imported fill, which can be expensive in large quantities.

Tonkin worked with Lanser Communities to minimise the road grades and earthworks volumes. The altered design was pushing the edge of road design requirements so we worked closely with the council to find a solution that was satisfactory to both parties. 

A pump station was installed to take sewage from Virginia Grove and the surrounding farm areas. When the farms are developed into housing in the future, the sewer systems will already be place. The flat ground made it difficult to provide cost effective stormwater solutions. The intelligent use of basins and swales assisted the passage of stormwater through the development, formed recreation areas for residents and reduced the risk of flood for local farmers.

A landscaped mound that blocked noise from the busy Port Wakefield Road was a significant engineering and architectural challenge. The noise mound is now a useable area, maximising leisure space for residents. The development won the 2018 UDIA Best Master Planned Development – SA award.

At Virginia Grove, Tonkin has put in place plans for a high functioning, sustainable community with cost effective infrastructure.

By ensuring a positive relationship with council was created, solutions for future growth were put in place and practical challenges were met with creativity and foresight, Tonkin added significant value to the project.

Tonkin's fresh approach to planning for effective infrastructure has resulted in a high functioning, sustainable community.