Infrastructure and Transport heavyweight Michael Deegan backs satellite techology for WestConnex

The new CEO of Inner West Council has implored the State Government to harness satellite imaging technology to determine the impact of WestConnex construction on inner west properties.

• WestConnex class action looming
• Imaging reveals WestConnex damage

The new CEO of Inner West Council has implored the State Government to harness satellite imaging technology to determine the impact of WestConnex construction on inner west properties.

Michael Deegan, who is the former boss of Infrastructure Australia and South Australia’s transport department, has written to Roads and Maritime Services urging the agency to make use of the ground breaking technology “as a matter of priority”.

“In my review of the technology, it seems to be first class and cutting edge and I think it will make a significant difference to the consideration of the dilapidation risk that people may well be at.”

His comments carry significant weight given his 40 years of experience as a government leader and industry expert including his stint as the Director-General of the NSW Department of Transport.

Inner West Council CEO Michael Deegan is a former transport and infrastructure chief.

Satellite imagery recently released by Otus Intelligence Group indicates the so-called 50m “zone of influence” for damage caused by WestConnex construction has been “grossly underestimated”.

The stark imagery has linked tunnelling with ground movements at sites up to 300m away, including at Sydney Airport’s international terminal and Terry St in St Peters.

Mr Deegan made the comments as the council adopted independent Pauline Lockie’s motion calling on the NSW Government to make the technology available free of charge to residents living at least 300m from the WestConnex route.

The cause of damage outside the 50m zone is frequently attributed to dry weather but the imagery is expected to open the floodgates to damage claims as it may help residents prove the damage is caused by the road project.

Crs Rochelle Porteous and John Stamolis broadened the scope to also write to the NSW Government requesting dilapidation reports be provided to property owners living up to 300m away.

Satellite imaging shows ground movement at 120 Terry St, Sydenham.

Cr Lockie said it was important for the council to support and advocate on behalf of residents who have experienced cracking in their homes.

“The reason (the imagery) is significant is because up until this point, a lot of residents have experienced quite severe damage including one resident who is looking hundreds of thousands of dollars to repair her home,” Cr Lockie said.

“But the issue they are having is proving causality in regards to definitely being able to say WestConnex surface construction or tunnelling near their properties is what’s actually caused the damage.

“The imagery shows not just the extent of the damage but but also the timing at which it took place so this will really help people with their legal cases and I think we should be doing what we can to advocate for them.”

Stephanie Dennett had her damage claim rejected despite severe cracking in her home. (AAP Image/Quentin Jones)

An RMS spokesman said the agency is committed to ensuring property owners are treated fairly and will hold construction contractors accountable for any damage judged to be caused by WestConnex construction works.

“Roads and Maritime recognises that satellite technology can be a valuable tool to help assess ground movement over time,” he said.

“We are currently considering a range of providers who offer this satellite service. The service will be procured in line with Government requirements, ensuring there is no conflict of interest and the best value for money is secured.

“If appropriate, we will use satellite data to assist the independent Property Impact Assessment Panel in their review of property damage claims.

“This data will be used, in addition to any other available data the panel considers necessary, to thoroughly review claims.”