Engineering Boronia Apartments for Affordable housing in Sydney

Client Greaton Development
Builder Multiplex
Location
- Sydney
Sector
- Hotels and Hospitality
- Infrastructure & Bridges
Services
- Civil
- Structural
Year 2023

Last Project
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Delivering independent verification through complex conditions, Northrop provided continuity and confidence for TfNSW across a decade-long, high-profile development on Sydney’s Darling Harbour waterfront.

Partnership

Northrop has partnered with Transport for NSW (TfNSW) across multiple major infrastructure projects, developing a strong understanding of their expectations under the Works Authorisation Deed (WAD). Our ongoing involvement through periods of contractor and developer insolvency on The W Hotel project enabled continuity, proactive guidance, and informed risk management through complex delivery phases. This long-term relationship supported open communication, timely verification, and strategic issue resolution—helping maintain project momentum despite significant disruptions.

Project

The W Hotel is a landmark mixed-use development in Darling Harbour, incorporating a five-star luxury hotel, IMAX theatre, retail, and public spaces positioned between two bridges managed by TfNSW. Delivered over more than a decade, the project faced major challenges, including multiple contractor insolvencies and complex public–private interfaces within a constrained urban site. Ongoing verification was critical to ensure compliance with TfNSW standards and maintain quality, safety, and continuity throughout the works.

Delivery

As the appointed Project Verifier under the TfNSW Works Authorisation Deed, Northrop provided independent verification of civil and structural works impacting public transport assets. Our work ensured design and construction compliance with TfNSW technical standards, safety requirements, and asset protection obligations.

Throughout a decade of delivery, including periods of contractor and developer insolvency, Northrop maintained continuity of service—collaborating closely with TfNSW, Greaton, and Multiplex to uphold project compliance and mitigate risks. We reviewed design documentation, conducted regular site inspections, and verified critical hold points, supporting the management of complex interfaces with nearby infrastructure. Northrop’s consistent technical leadership and adaptable verification strategy contributed to the successful delivery of this challenging urban development in a high-profile location.

Impact

The W Hotel has transformed Darling Harbour’s southern precinct, reactivating the site with high-quality public amenities, accommodation, and cultural offerings. Northrop’s consistent involvement ensured TfNSW’s public transport assets remained protected and compliant throughout construction. Our work supported the delivery of a resilient, safe, and connected precinct that contributes to the broader regeneration of Sydney’s CBD waterfront.

Explore what we’ve learned from years of verification experience with TfNSW here.

“Every time I take my young family to the playground that formed part of this project, I feel an immense sense of pride. It’s moments like these that remind me why I became an engineer - to help deliver projects that give back to the community. Whether it’s a road that keeps people safe or a playground beneath a TfNSW bridge like this one, this is why we do what we do.”
— Martin Lee, Project Verifier, Northrop