Hamilton region water supply project well underway

11 August 2016

An important project to secure the future of the Hamilton region’s water supply is well underway.

Wannon Water is replacing more than one kilometre of water mains throughout the townships of Hamilton, Coleraine and Merino in a commitment to ensure the ongoing security of supply for customers now and into the future.

Local residents may have seen construction crews working in a number of streets since the project began earlier this year. Water main renewals are occurring in Hamilton’s Gordon Street (250m) and Hector Street (310m), in McLeod Street in Coleraine (205m) and along Henty Street (235m) in Merino.

The project is being carried out using a cost-effective approach of laying new water mains adjacent to the existing pipelines, which are then decommissioned.

Wannon Water Project Manager Robbie Frawley said the $188,000 project was an investment that reduced the need for costly and disruptive repair works into the future.

“The water mains being renewed were installed as early as the 1950s and all are reaching the end of their serviceable life, which can create operational issues in the form of bursts and leaks,” he said.

“The replacement works will ensure the supply of water to Hamilton, Coleraine and Merino remains efficient, effective and reliable, with the new modern and robust mains expected to have a lifespan of 80 years.

“We thank everyone for their patience and understanding while this key project has been underway.”

The project has been undertaken by local south-west contractor Molan Plumbing and Civil who has worked with Wannon Water, local residents and businesses to minimise disturbances to property access and water supply.

Customers along the alignments have been notified in advance of any planned water supply interruptions necessary to switch over from the old water main to the new infrastructure.

The water main replacement works are now nearing completion, and full reinstatement of the alignments will be finalised as warmer weather arrives.