Construction Update

27 January 2012

Pipe installation

Pipe installation progressed well throughout December and into January with installation in NSW nearing completion. Six hundred metres of mild steel cement lined pipe has now been laid in the ACT uphill from the low lift and high lift pump stations. Installation of ductile iron cement lined pipe has also commenced in the ACT with approximately 300 metres laid so far. Blasting last week enabled progression of the trencher through the ACT section and further blasts may be used to ensure good production in this section. By the end of February, we expect to complete all pipe installation in the ACT.

Pipe installation adjacent Angle Xing Rd (Jan12)

Pipe installation adjacent to Angle Crossing Road

Hydrostatic testing of the pipeline occurred in December and will continue over the coming months. Traffic on Williamsdale Road will be impacted by short road closures during this testing. Rehabilitation works in the construction corridor are continuing, with rain in December helping to promote growth of sown species.

Roads update

Angle Crossing Road

As mentioned in the November 2011 Construction Update, it will be necessary to close Angle Crossing Road while we install eductor pipes from the Low Lift Pump Station to the Murrumbidgee River. Territory and Municipal Services have approved the road closure for a period of six weeks commencing Monday 30 January 2012 until Sunday 11 March 2012.

While the project team had hoped that we would be able to avoid a road closure by drilling under the road, this exercise was not successful, with the drill unable to progress accurately through the large cobble stones. We will now be trenching a deep hole across the road to lay the eductor pipes. During the road closure, the project team will also complete the widening and rehabilitation of the road in front of the High Lift Pump Station. These works were planned for later this year, however bringing these works forward should prevent further closures of Angle Crossing Road. Emergency services have been informed of the road closure, and the project team are working with the authorities to ensure all necessary emergency planning procedures are in place. If you have any concerns about the road closure, please contact TAMS on 13 22 81.

Williamsdale Road

Pressure testing of the pipeline from Gibraltar Pass to the Monaro Highway is planned for mid-February. In order to ensure public safety, it is proposed to close a short section of Williamsdale Road near Gibraltar Gap from 9am-3pm for up to three days during February as the pressure in the pipeline is increased and held to ensure it is water tight. The closure is proposed for the week beginning Monday 13 February. Access during the hours of the road closure will be via Burra Road and Old Cooma Road. ACTEW are in contact with landholders whose driveway access is likely to be impacted by the hydrostatic testing and are working with these residents to manage their access over the days of testing. Australia Post and the emergency services will also be kept informed of the closure. Further information on the exact dates of the pressure testing will be provided to local residents via letter-box drop, email, electronic messaging signage and SMS alerts. If you have any concerns about the road closure, please call Rachel Clarke on 6175 2409.

Monaro Highway

Installation of pipe across the Monaro Highway is likely to occur in late February 2012. While the highway will not be closed, traffic will be disrupted during the crossing, with a reduced speed limit and traffic controls in place. ACTEW will continue to provide the community with information about road closures and associated road works via the SMS alert system.

Work in NSW

The construction of the mini-hydro building near Burra Creek is now complete. The area around the building is now being backfilled with soil, leaving only around 30 centimetres of the building visible. The compacted embankment will be seeded with grasses, and trees and shrubs will be planted around the building. Over time this will serve to further screen the building from view. The turbine which will generate electricity at the mini-hydro will be delivered and installation will commence during February. 

Min hydro Jan12

Mini-hydro building

Angle Crossing Update

Internal and external pipe installation work at the high lift and low lift pump stations continued throughout December and early January, with most of these works now complete. Mechanical and electrical fit out will continue throughout the first quarter of 2012. The external structure of the High Lift Pump Station is now complete, although drainage, kerbs, footpaths and other external works will continue over the next few months. Delivery of the pumps for the High Lift Pump Station will commence from late January. 

Funding for Burra Creek restoration

ActewAGL’s Source Water Protection program is offering landowners within the Burra Catchment the opportunity to apply for funding assistance to undertake riparian restoration activities including:

  • fencing riparian areas;
  • alternative stock water; and
  • revegetation.

In addition to improving water quality, bank stability and biodiversity, these activities also add value and amenity to your property. To express interest in this funding program, or to get more information, please contact Angela Calliess at Greening Australia on 6253 3035 or 0413 921 281 or email  acalliess@act.greeningaustralia.org.au

Expressions of interest have been extended to 29 February 2012.