Kaikorai Valley pipeline work continues

Dunedin (Wednesday, 2 December 2015) – A multi-million dollar project to replace old and poorly performing wastewater and water pipes in Kaikorai Valley is well underway.

The first stage of the project, which began in June, should be completed by early 2016, but work in the area will continue until 2017/18.

DCC Water and Waste Capital Delivery Team Leader William Clifford says the project, which will also include some stormwater improvements, has to be done to ensure the ongoing performance of the networks in the area.

“A major project like this means road works and disruptions to services. We are trying to limit the disruption as much as we can and we are grateful to the public for their patience as we carry out this essential work.”

The poor performance of the wastewater network, due to the age and size of the pipes, was the main reason for the work being carried out. However, ageing water pipes in the area and low water flows for firefighting in some areas also had a bearing. It made sense to replace the water pipes at the same time.

Mr Clifford says most of the wastewater pipes at the northern end of Kaikorai Valley are about 100 years old. CCTV footage showed defects such as faulty joints, cracked pipes and some partially collapsed pipes. The poor condition of the pipes meant groundwater could enter the wastewater system.

The project has four phases of work. With the first two phases, all the work involves pipes under roads. Construction for the last part of phase two will start in December/January, with completion expected in winter 2016.

Phase three centres on improving environmental outcomes for the Kaikorai Stream by removing groundwater from the sewer pipes, which can cause sewer overflows during wet weather. As well as pipeline replacement, the size of culverts under the roads will be increased so water drains away more quickly and reduces the effects of flooding.

These improvements will have downstream benefits and will ease some of the flooding in South Dunedin. Currently sewers can overflow in heavy rain while being piped through South Dunedin on the way to the Tahuna Wastewater Treatment Plant. Phase three is being planned and designed, with construction expected to start in spring 2016.

Phase four involves the replacement of sewers in about 150 private properties. This phase is also at the planning stage, with work expected to take place in 2017/18.

The overall Kaikorai Valley project has an estimated cost of $12 million to $13 million. The actual cost will not be known until all the contracts have been let.

People can get more information and ask questions at a drop-in session on 8 December, 2pm to 7pm, at the Kaikorai Rugby Club. Visit www.dunedin.govt.nz/kv-pipeline-renewals for updates on the project.

ENDS

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