Hallett Cove South Primary School pedestrian access upgraded with new steel ramp

Roadside Services and Solutions (RSS) has proudly delivered a major accessibility upgrade at Hallett Cove South Primary School, completing the full replacement of an ageing timber pedestrian ramp with a modern, fully compliant steel access ramp.

The project was managed under Ventia Australia’s leadership through the Across Government Facilities Management Arrangement (AGFMA) program and delivered on behalf of the South Australia Department for Education (DfE). Senior Project Manager Matthew Cook oversaw the works, ensuring alignment with DfE guidelines and Australian Standards.

A purpose‑built upgrade for safe, accessible movement

The project involved the complete removal of the existing timber ramp and construction of a new steel structure designed to meet AS 1428.1:2021, DfE requirements, and all associated accessibility and structural standards.

Working from a detailed design and documentation package prepared by RSS Project Engineer Ashish Koladia, the scope included:

• Pre‑installation planning – review of drawings, specifications, ramp layout, slope, dimensions, connection details and compliance requirements.
• Site preparation – demolition of the existing ramp, removal of obstructive vegetation and garden furniture, hydro‑vac excavation, concrete footings and piers, and precision surveying for upright placement.
• Steel frame fabrication and installation – hot‑dip galvanised frame positioned and fixed to achieve the correct 1:16 slope, with all components bolted or welded to specification.
• GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) grating installation – custom‑cut panels fixed to the steel frame and checked for flushness and trip‑hazard elimination.
• Handrail installation – Monowills two‑rail system installed to meet AS/NZS 1428.1:2009 Design for Access & Mobility.

Project timeline

A site meeting was held on 26 March 2026 with Ventia, school leadership and RSS personnel. Demolition and site clearing started on 31 March, followed by concrete footings poured on 7 May.

Structural assembly and installation progressed through June and July, reaching practical completion before the end of July 2026.

Our team and delivery partners

This project showcased the depth of capability across RSS’s civil and engineering teams.

RSS project leadership

• Paul Mitchell – Estimator / Project Manager
• Ashish Koladia – Project Engineer (construction and fabrication drawings)
• Warrick Stirling – Engineering & Construction Manager

RSS civil works team

Warren Warde, Kym Simons, Damien Jones, Jon Howkins, Stuart Hardinge and Jack Reynolds

RSS Engineering fabrication team

Shane Evans (Senior Welder), Josh Dwyer (Metal Fabrication Trainee), Apprentices Harry Tracey and Aiden Bubner supported by Ashish operating the total atation for precision placement of ramp support beams.

All steel fabrication and assembly were completed in‑house at the RSS Engineering Fabrication Workshop in Lonsdale, ensuring quality control and seamless integration between design and construction.

Challenges and solutions

Working within an active school environment required careful planning to maintain safe work zones and minimise disruption. The team also managed contingencies arising from unforeseen underground services, including an undetected concrete stormwater pipe, ensuring the project remained compliant and on schedule.

A standout achievement

One of the project’s greatest strengths was RSS’s ability to produce in‑house shop drawings, including design amendments and fabrication modifications. This capability ensured accuracy, efficiency and full alignment between engineering, fabrication and installation.

A future‑ready outcome for the school community

The new galvanised steel ramp provides Hallett Cove South Primary School with a durable, DDA‑compliant access solution that enhances safety and mobility for students, staff and visitors.

It also supports the school’s long‑term infrastructure planning, complementing previous upgrades and ensuring the precinct remains accessible well into the future.