How long will works take to complete?
Works will start the night of Sunday 21 July and take about 13 weeks to complete, with an additional 2 weeks for reinstatement.
We will let you know as soon as possible if there are changes to our work timeline.
Project overview
We’re upgrading the water main along Swanston Street, Melbourne between Flinders Street and Collins Street. The existing main was built in 1928 and is reaching the end of its operational life. By upgrading the water main, we will ensure continued water security in the area now and into the future.
These works have been timed to coincide with the construction of the new Town Hall Station which forms part of the Metro Tunnel project. By collaborating with other city infrastructure projects we can reduce costs, minimise community disruption and improve efficiencies.
Works will be delivered by AquaMetro on behalf of Greater Western Water.
Project updates
Stay up to date with the latest news on this project.
Construction started in July 2024 and was expected to finish in September 2024. During our works, we encountered unexpected ground conditions and other services very close to the water main. These conditions have caused delays in our works.
Construction is now expected to be complete in October 2024.
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When will works take place?
Works will take place at night from Sunday to Thursday, between 8pm and 6am.
We will be working at night to minimise disruption to trams, pedestrians and businesses in the CBD.
What do the works involve?
We will be using a combination of pipe bursting and slip-lining methodologies on this project. Pipe bursting involves inserting the new pipe inside the existing main, and the old pipe cracks to make space for the new pipe. This approach limits how much of the footpath we disrupt, as we don't have to trench the whole alignment to lay new pipe.
Slip-lining involves inserting a new, slightly more narrow, pipeline inside the existing water main. This methodology reduces the amount of road we need to cut into and limits disruptions to traffic, pedestrians and local businesses. We will use the slip-line method where Swanston Street intersects with Flinders Street.
There will be disruption to the footpaths along the eastern side of Swanston Street during construction. Traffic management will be in place to help pedestrians safely navigate our works.
What can you expect during works?
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Footpath disruption
There will be disruptions and partial footpath closures on the eastern side of Swanston Street (between Collins Street and Flinders Street). Traffic controllers will be on site to help pedestrians, cyclists and people using mobility aids safely navigate the area.
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Construction noise and dust
There will be construction noise and dust from machinery and vehicles during working hours. We will do the noisiest works earlier in the shift wherever possible.
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Changes to traffic conditions
Changes to traffic conditions will include partial lane closures, reduced speed and impacts to parking.
Traffic controllers will be on site to help vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians safely navigate the area.
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Businesses are still open!
Swanston Street will still remain open for business! We will be working closely with all traders to ensure it's business as usual for locals and visitors.
Traffic controllers will be onsite during work hours to help you navigate the area and continue accessing your favourite spots.
Project map
Below is a map of the alignment. The blue line shows the location of water main.
Questions for the project team?
OpenDo you have a question? Simply submit your question and we will get back to you on here.
