CBD Watermain Replacement Project

CBD Watermain Replacement Project

CBD Watermain Replacement Project

CBD Watermain Replacement Project

CBD Watermain Replacement Project

October 2024 update

The Council’s Water and Wastewater Department has successfully completed the upgrade of approximately 1,732 metres of ageing cast iron water pipes, replaced with a modern polyethylene, fully welded system. This project represents a major step forward in enhancing the reliability and sustainability of our city's water infrastructure.

The original cast iron pipes, many of which were over 100 years old, were prioritised for replacement due to age, increased risk of failure, and suspected leakage at the joints. By transitioning to the new polyethylene system, Council is ensuring a more dependable and safe water supply for residents and businesses alike.

This upgrade was carried out using horizontal directional drilling, a technique that enabled faster installation, reduced costs, and minimised disruptions to the community compared to traditional open-cut excavation methods. All pressure tests were solid and independently verified by NATA-accredited third-party assessors, with bacterial and chemical testing confirming full compliance with Australian drinking water guidelines.

The completion of this project reaffirms Council’s commitment to providing essential services efficiently and responsibly. This critical upgrade ensures the city’s infrastructure remains robust and well-maintained, securing a reliable water supply for both current and future generations.

August 2024 update

All three planned water interruptions at Keen, Orion and Dawson Street are now complete. Keen Street and Orion Street. All services and meters are working off the new main. Concrete and asphalt restoration will be completed shortly. Dawson Street to Woodlark Street Testing, super chlorination and flushing is complete. Both mains are now active to allow service and water meter changeovers from old to new mains. Comprehensive trials were also completed on Woodlark and Dawson Street existing valves to ensure a smooth process for water main connections.

About the project

The project will involve:

• installation of new water mains;
• transfer of service connections; and
• decommissioning of original mains.

The preferred construction method is horizontal directional drilling where feasible to minimise disruptions. This technique involves drilling the pipe into the ground in sections, with minimal excavation and backfilling using a small excavator.

If this method proves impractical at any location, residents and businesses will be duly informed to mitigate impacts.

Works will be located at:

1. Dawson Street (Conway Street to McLennan Lane) - 96m, scheduled start: 28/02/24
2. Dawson Street (Conway Street to Orion Street) - 937m, scheduled start: 01/03/24
3. Keen & Orion Streets (Zadoc Street to Orion Street) - 330m, scheduled start: 13/03/24
4. Woodlark Street (Dawson Street to Keen Street) - 206m, scheduled start: 21/03/24
5. Zadoc Street (Molesworth Street to Keen Street) - 200m, scheduled start: 01/04/24

A laydown area for pipe delivery will be set up in the Harold Fredericks carpark opposite Oaks Oval, utilised until June 2024. 

Residents and businesses will receive a 14-day notice before works commence at each location.

Potential impacts of the project include:

• increased noise and dust levels;
• altered traffic conditions, including speed limit reductions and temporary lane closures. Traffic controllers will be present during construction hours;
• temporary road closures or night works may occur in case of significant traffic interference;
• temporary water supply interruptions, with affected parties notified at least 48 hours in advance;
• slight water pressure reduction during temporary supply usage; and
• temporary driveway access restrictions and footpath closures, with alternative access clearly indicated.

These projects are part of the Capital Works Water Pipelines initiatives, aimed at ensuring a secure and dependable water supply.