SA Water is set to replace around 480m of water main in Loxton North, South Australia, over the coming weeks in an effort to improve services for local customers.
The works, which will install new pipes along Derrick Road, are part of SA Water’s $137 million investment to replace around 375,000m of water mains across South Australia between 2016 and 2020.
Eyed off as a priority project, SA Water’s General Manager of Asset Operations and Delivery, Mark Gobbie, said the refurbishment will install new PVC pipes, which are flexible and more resistant to ground movement than cast iron and fibro-cement pipes.
“There are a number of environmental factors like soil movement that can make it tough to prevent leaks and breaks from occurring, but we are committed to proactively working to limit their frequency and potential to impact our customers,” Mr Gobbie said.
“New water mains traditionally have a lifespan of approximately 100 years, which ensures this main replacement will help us continue to provide world-class water services to our customers in Loxton North well into the future.
“This is one of many water main replacements SA Water is undertaking this year, and we look forward to continuing our investment in communities right across the state.”
The upgrade is expected to take around one month to complete, with works typically occurring between 7am and 5pm.
“Our crews will be using a directional drilling method of pipe installation under Bookpurnong Road, which allows the new water main to be installed accurately while reducing traffic management impacts for commuters travelling between Loxton and Berri,” Mr Gobbie said.
“We will also ensure local residents are notified of any temporary water supply interruptions that are necessary when we move their connections over from the old to new pipes.”
