Work begins on pipeline
Construction is under way on a $22 million wastewater pipeline that will reduce the risk of overflows into local waterways like Kaipatiki Creek, improve access and service issues and cater for population growth in the Bayview and Beach Haven areas.
The new 2km pipeline from Kahika Pump Station to the existing pipeline from Easton Park Parade will replace a 50-year-old one that has failed during the past two years, resulting in complex repairs and significant clean-up costs.
As part of the spend, Watercare and construction partner CB Civil & Drainage Ltd will also divert four local network catchments away from the existing pipeline for it to be removed from service. Large sections of the current pipeline will also be decommissioned.
The construction of the new pipeline will be completed early next year with the remaining diversion and decommissioning works on track to be completed by mid-next year.
Watercare project manager Alastair Stewart says the work is critical to catering for growth in the area and to help protect the environment from overflows.
‘‘In the last few years we’ve seen leaks occur because of internal abrasion to both the concrete lining and the outer wall of the existing 450mm concretelined steel pipe.
‘‘Luckily, the leaks have been near the southern side of Kaipatiki Creek, which was relatively accessible and straightforward to clean up. The worry is that if a failure occurred at the northern side ... or the bridge that carries the pipeline over the creek, the cost of the clean-up and repairs – and ultimately to the environment – would be huge.’’
Stewart says to help ensure the resilience of the pipeline, it is being built using both 600mm polyethylene and 600mm fibreglass pipes that will carry twice as much as the current wastewater pipeline and are more resilient to internal abrasion.
‘‘We understand that these works are highly disruptive for residents who live or commute on Kaipatiki Road, where much of this work is taking place. This is why our contractor will have two construction teams working ... simultaneously, which halves the time we’re on site.
Although most of the work will be carried out on the road reserve, to get the work done safely and quickly, there will be reduced street parking, lane widths and speed limits, detours for pedestrians and bus stops, and traffic management. Traffic will be cut to one lane, with no access to Beach Haven from Easton Park Parade and Glenfield.
‘‘We’re working with residents and local government agencies in the area to help reduce the impact of these disruptions,’’ Stewart says.