23 April 2009
NORTHERN SUBURBS WATER MAINS UPGRADE
Melbourne Water will next month start the second stage of a two-year, $60 million project to replace 10.5 kilometres of water mains in Melbourne’s northern suburbs.
The water mains, between Essendon Airport and Preston Reservoir, are between 81 and 115 years old and have reached the end of their service life.
The works will help to secure local water supplies and conserve the city’s precious water resources.
Following the replacement of 532 metres of water mains in stage one, areas adjacent to the works along Merri Creek will be weeded and revegetated with native trees and plants to improve the health of the waterway.
Stage two will upgrade 2.6 kilometres of water mains from Pascoe Vale railway station along Fawkner Road, Prospect Street, Cumberland Road, Olive Road, Hazel Road, Essex Street, Sussex Street, Leslie Avenue, Irene Street and Bakers Road.
Manager of Capital Delivery, Water Supply, Kieran Moran, said the project had been staged and measures implemented to minimise any negative impacts on the community.
“We are working with the local community, Yarra Valley Water, the cities of Moonee Valley, Moreland and Darebin as well as local transport operators to plan these important works,” Mr Moran said.
“To complete the work safely, traffic conditions will be altered, including temporary road closures which will cause delays for road users.
“We are working with VicRoads and local transport operators to manage traffic conditions and will keep road users informed through community bulletins and signage.
“We thank the community for their patience, as we work as quickly and as safely as possible to get these essential works done,” he said.
The project is being delivered by the Water Supply Alliance, a partnership between Melbourne Water, Baulderstone, United Group Infrastructure and Sinclair Knight Merz.
Further information about the project is available by calling 1800 027 571, emailing inquiries@melbournewater.com.au or visiting the Melbourne Water website.
Media Contact: Nicolas McGay +613 9235 2278 +61 (0)438 981 836