Published 5/08/2020
Wellington CBD gets new wastewater infrastructure
Wellington city’s wastewater network is getting an upgrade with construction of a new rising main in the CBD starting 17 August.
Wellington Water Group Manager Network Development Tonia Haskell says the pipe will be constructed from the Whitmore and Featherston intersection up Whitmore and Bowen Streets to connect to the main interceptor sewer outside Bowen Campus.
“This is an investment in new infrastructure to build resilience and capacity into the wastewater network within Wellington’s CBD, which is important as the city grows,” says Ms Haskell.
“Our focus is on the pipes that connect to the main sewer interceptor running through the CBD. This interceptor is the ‘highway’ taking wastewater from Ngaurangato the Moa Point treatment plant. The project is the first of a series of planned wastewater upgrades extensions over the coming years.”
Ms Haskell says several other construction projects are also underway in the same corridor, including the tower block development at the former Z Energy site.
“We are working closely with Wellington City Council to ensure projects are co-ordinated to minimise impacts on businesses and motorists.
“The work will require the temporary closure of two of the four lanes along Whitmore and Bowen streets, but continuous through-flow of traffic each way will be possible at all times. We do encourage drivers to avoid the area or travel at non-peak times where possible.
“We recognise that projects which require traffic management in the CBD can be disruptive, but believe Wellingtonians fully understand the importance of investing in our city’s water infrastructure, and appreciate their patience as we get to work.”
Traffic management will be in place 24/7 along Whitmore and Bowen streets while the works are underway. Starting in mid-August the work is scheduled to continue for six months. Regular updates will be available at http://www.wellingtonwater.co.nz/work-in-your-area/whitmore-street-rising-main/.