30 September 2010
Next Steps on Toorourrong Reservoir Upgrade
Melbourne Water has outlined its concerns to the Heritage Council of Victoria over an order to stop important safety works at Toorourrong Reservoir.
Built in 1885, the 300 million litre reservoir no longer meets contemporary dam safety standards and poses a flood risk to Whittlesea.
Melbourne Water had begun upgrading the structure on September 13, but is now required to delay work following a decision by the Heritage Council of Victoria to issue an Interim Protection Order under the Heritage Act.
This decision comes after extensive consultation by Melbourne Water and an earlier determination by Heritage Victoria earlier this month to dismiss a previous Interim Protection Order application.
Acting General Manager of Capital Delivery, Paul Plowman, said it remained critical that work went ahead to maintain the structural integrity of the dam.
“We’ve always recognised the heritage significance of Toorourrong and why the community is fighting to protect it, but the reality is that it’s no longer safe by modern standards,” he said.
“The recent floods have shown how extreme weather can put people and property in danger, and we have a responsibility to make sure our assets can withstand sudden downpours.”
Mr Plowman said the Black Saturday bushfires had increased the urgency of the upgrade because the loss of trees from the surrounding area significantly increased the amount of runoff entering the reservoir.
“Toorourrong was one of our worst bushfire-affected catchments and that increases the amount of runoff from rainfall, which in turn magnifies the risks to the dam and the importance of the upgrade,” he added.
“Heritage is important but public safety is paramount. We’re concerned at the delay brought on by the Heritage Council’s decision and frustrated it comes after extensive consultation on engineering and heritage issues.
“Our engineers looked long and hard for ways to upgrade the dam without disturbing the original bluestone, but couldn’t meet modern dam safety standards. We’ve instead offered to work with the community to reuse the bluestone within the Toorourrong Reservoir Park,” Mr Plowman said.
As a result of the Heritage Council’s decision, Melbourne Water must now apply for a permit to continue works. The application will emphasise Melbourne Water’s statutory obligations under the Water Act to carry out the works in the interests of public safety.
Media Contact: Gavin Rainsford – 03 9235 1587 M – 0400 690 502