Southern Water is opting to use horizontal directional drilling to avoid long disruption times as it cleans up its aging water supply.
The works aim to put an end to frequent bursts and discoloured water, as 4.5km of pipe, up to 80 years old, will be replaced.
New plastic pipes will replace the old water pipes. Southern Water says this will reduce the risk of discoloured water coming through taps and will also reduce the risk of bursts, leaks and interruptions to the water supply.
Project manager Jonathan Poll said the project was a timely step toward improving the supply of water for locals.
“Some of the water mains are made of cast iron and other materials. They have been in the ground for around 80 years, and despite regular maintenance they are beginning to show their age,” he said.
The utility says it has opted for trenchless technology to avoid digging up roads and pavements, avoiding unnecessary disruptions to the community.
Works began in August and are scheduled for completion in October 2026.
Do you have news for the international trenchless industry? Contact journalist Gerald Lynch at gerald.lynch@primecreative.com.au
To receive your weekly dose of trenchless news from across the globe, subscribe to the Global Trenchless newsletter.
