5 December 2008
MAJOR WATER WORKS ON GREENSBOROUGH HWY
Upgrading the final piece of a century-old water main in Macleod will close two lanes of the Greensborough Highway, between Yallambie Road and Drysdale Street, from January to March 2009.
The works are the last section of a challenging, six-stage, 10 kilometre water main renewal program, which involves the replacement of one of the city's oldest mains running under one of its busiest roads.
Melbourne Water's, Manager of Capital Delivery, Kieran Moran said the original water main, which stretches from the Morang Reservoir to Rosanna, was constructed in 1892 and had reached the end of its life.
“Because of its age this main has been prone to bursts and leaks in recent years. Melbourne Water is investing more than $20 million to replace it as part of securing water supply to the local community and to help conserve the city's precious water resources,” said Mr Moran.
Mr Moran said that while the works would have an unavoidable effect on commuters, every effort would be made to reduce impacts as much as possible for the 10 week period. No impact to water supply is expected.
“We've scheduled these works to start during the school holidays and early in the New Year to take advantage of reduced traffic flow on Greensborough Highway,” he said.
“This final stage of the project will involve digging a large trench to access and replace the last 1.4km of the old main with a new steel pipe.
“We're working closely with VicRoads to plan the closure of two lanes of Greensborough Highway to ensure the safety of our works crews and the public. A two-way traffic flow will be maintained throughout the project but delays to commuters are likely,” added Mr Moran.
At the same time, other minor works will be undertaken to 'abandon' an additional section of old main that is no longer needed. It runs from Greensborough Highway (at Drysdale Street) to Lower Plenty Road and Rosanna Road, finishing at Station Street.
Residents and drivers will be notified of changes over the coming weeks through a comprehensive communications program including signage, advertising and door-knocking.
“We ask for the community's patience and understanding while we complete these important and essential works,” said Mr Moran.
This project will be delivered by the Water Supply Alliance, a partnership between Melbourne Water, Baulderstone, United Group Infrastructure and Sinclair Knight Merz. This Alliance will deliver several major water supply infrastructure improvement projects totalling approximately $350 million over the next five years, including this one.
Melbourne Water has also been working closely with Yarra Valley Water, Banyule City Council and local transport operators to plan these important works.
Further information about the project is available by calling 1800 034 505, emailing inquiries@melbournewater.com.au or visiting the Melbourne Water website.
Media Contact: Andrew McGinnes +613 9235 7277 +61 (0)403 930 846