Published 3/06/2016
Molesworth Street stormwater and wastewater project delayed
Wellington Water, on behalf of Wellington City Council, recently began carrying out work on a stormwater and wastewater renewal project in Molesworth Street, Thorndon.
This work is aimed at improving environmental outcomes. Leakage of wastewater into stormwater networks affects the environment, particularly at stream and harbour outfalls.
Shortly after we began excavating a manhole on Molesworth Street, contractors uncovered evidence of chemical contamination of the soil. Samples were taken, and the contaminated area backfilled with sand to contain the contaminant and to minimise any risk to the public.
The samples show the chemical compound to be dry cleaning fluid. It appears to be related to historical dry cleaner activities, as there are currently no dry cleaning processes carried out in the vicinity of the site. There is a drycleaner’s agency nearby, but that serves simply as a “pick up and drop off” kiosk.
We’re working with various agencies to ensure we follow processes that will minimise any risk to the public and to workers on the site. Work on the stormwater and wastewater renewal project will begin again as soon as we have finalised our approach to safely manage the contaminated material. Work is now expected to be completed in November 2016.