Revitalising Ballarat’s Century-Old Sewer
Working with Central Highlands Water, Diona undertook these essential projects to modernise Ballarat’s ageing sewer system, originally built in the 1920s.
Project Overview
This initiative was designed to cater to the needs of Ballarat’s rapidly expanding community, ensuring efficient wastewater management while simultaneously preserving the city’s historical integrity. The project represents a harmonious blend of infrastructure enhancement and cultural heritage conservation, demonstrating a commitment to sustainable urban development and aligning with the broader vision for Ballarat’s future infrastructure.
Project Need
With Ballarat’s population expanding from 22,000 to 117,000 since the original construction of its century-old sewer system, upgrading this essential infrastructure became crucial. This project goes beyond enhancing the city’s capacity to support its growing community – it integrates a comprehensive approach to sustainable development. Aimed at efficient wastewater management, the initiative aims to minimise ecological disruption, incorporating innovative techniques for environmental conservation. Additionally, the project demonstrates a profound respect for Ballarat’s cultural heritage, thoughtfully protecting and integrating historical landmarks such as the Yarrowee River and its iconic bluestone structures. This approach not only addresses current infrastructure needs but also aligns with Ballarat’s broader vision for sustainable and culturally mindful community development.
Project Solution
Stage 1 involved laying 960 metres of sewer pipe beneath the CBD with minimal disruption, using microtunnelling for road crossings and off-site compounds for equipment. Stage 2 extends this with 2 km of new underground pipeline from White Flat Oval to south of Prest Street, incorporating innovative techniques to reduce environmental impact and preserve historical sites.
Value Add | Benefit
Sustainable Urban Development:
By upgrading nearly 100-year-old infrastructure, this project supports Ballarat’s sustainable development, ensuring efficient wastewater management for a growing population.
Heritage Preservation
The careful consideration of historical elements, like the bluestone channel, underscores a commitment to preserving Ballarat’s rich heritage.
Environmental Stewardship
With a focus on minimising ecological disruption, the project demonstrates environmental responsibility by enhancing natural habitats, improving water quality, and aiming for a reduced carbon footprint in construction processes.
ESG Alignment
The project demonstrates a commitment to environmental responsibility by implementing innovative techniques to minimise ecological disruption. This includes reducing the environmental impact of construction activities and preserving natural habitats. Additionally, the project aims to improve water quality and reduce the carbon footprint associated with construction processes, contributing to overall environmental sustainability.
By upgrading and modernising Ballarat’s sewer system, the project contributes to SDG 6 by ensuring access to clean water and sanitation for the city’s residents. Efficient wastewater management reduces the risk of waterborne diseases and pollution, promoting public health and environmental sustainability.
The project utilises innovative techniques, such as microtunnelling and off-site compounds for equipment, to upgrade the sewer infrastructure with minimal disruption. This demonstrates a commitment to sustainable infrastructure development and supports economic growth and innovation in the construction sector.
By enhancing the sewer system to accommodate the needs of Ballarat’s rapidly expanding population, the project contributes to SDG 11 by promoting sustainable urban development. The initiative aims to create a more inclusive, resilient, and environmentally friendly city that meets the needs of both current and future generations.
By focusing on environmental stewardship and reducing the carbon footprint associated with construction processes, the project contributes to SDG 13 by supporting climate action. Sustainable infrastructure development helps mitigate the impacts of climate change and build resilience to its effects.
The collaboration between Diona and Central Highlands Water in undertaking this project exemplifies how partnerships between different organisations can effectively work towards achieving sustainable development goals.
