Hawthorn East Main Drain

We're undertaking testing on the Hawthorn East Main Drain - one of Melbourne Water's significant drains. In Melbourne, rain and storms are part of our way of life. As our city develops and more homes, buildings and streets are built, rainfall that falls on the ground and flows through the landscape needs to be safely carried away from built-up areas and into rivers and creeks. 

The Hawthorn East Main Drain (HEMD) is part of the complex drainage system which Melbourne Water manages. A recent inspection of the HEMD found that sections may be reaching the end of their working life, resulting in brick separation and some brick loss.   

That’s why at Melbourne Water we are upgrading the HEMD so that it can continue to ensure that rainfall and ground water can safely flow away from built-up areas into rivers and creeks.  

What to expect

We will make every effort to minimise impacts of these works onto the local community. However, during our works you may notice: 

• Noise – Our trucks and machinery will create some noise. All works will be performed in line with EPA Guidelines. 

• Working hours – All of our investigative works will be completed during standard construction hours, Monday to Friday, between 7:00 am - 5:00 pm  

• Vegetation removal – Some trees and vegetation may require removal or trimming. An independent arborist will be engaged to assess vegetation prior to any removal. Melbourne Water understands the significance of vegetation and we will work closely with Council to develop a reinstatement strategy as part of the works completion. 

Further information about the construction schedule, traffic changes and community impacts will be provided as the project progresses. We’ve been speaking with people who will be the most affected, and we’ll continue to plan for and manage local impacts by working closely with residents, landowners, businesses and community.

Timeline