SA Water has begun installing around 990 metres of new water main at Port Vincent to help prepare for future growth in the area.
The new pipe will be laid beneath Lime Kiln Road, Kent Road, Alma Street and Correll Street. It is part of SA Water’s four-year, $155 million water main management program.
SA Water’s General Manager of Sustainable Infrastructure Amanda Lewry said these works would involve upgrading an essential section of pipe in Port Vincent. The new water main will transport water to residents and businesses in and around the area. It will help ensure they continue receiving a reliable supply of safe, clean drinking water.
“Replacing water mains near the end of their operational life with new modern pipes minimises the potential for leaks and breaks. They can happen due to various reasons such as soil condition, ground temperature and water pressure changes,” Lewry said. “As regional communities see population growth, demand for services, including water and wastewater, is increasing.”
Port Vincent water main important for the future
“We’re planning and preparing for this future growth to ensure we can continue to provide reliable services to our regional customers,” she said. “Our water mains have a lifespan of up to 100 years. Most of what we install as part of our replacement program is made of PVC. It is a material known for its better flexibility and resistance to movement, compared to fibro-cement.”
Construction in Port Vincent is expected to take around nine months to complete. Works will typically occur throughout the week between 7 am and 5 pm.
“To safely facilitate this project, we ask road users to please take note of traffic management in place while our crews are on site,” Lewry said.
“Together with our contractors, we’re committed to minimising any impacts to the community during construction. This includes dust or noise caused by heavy machinery and increased vehicle movement in and out of our worksite.
“As work progresses, we will also ensure our customers are notified of any temporary water supply interruptions necessary when moving connections from the old to new pipes.”
For more information on where SA Water is upgrading water mains around the state, visit the interactive map at sawater.com.au.
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