Improving wastewater facilities in Northbridge

• Trenchless technology used to reline Northbridge main sewer

• Work to extend sewer life by at least 50 years

• Work method reduces impact on residents

Water Minister Bill Marmion today announced work had started to reline the main sewer in Northbridge to extend the life of the infrastructure by at least 50 years.

Mr Marmion said the Water Corporation would use the latest trenchless technology to reduce the impact of the works on local residents.

"Maintaining wastewater infrastructure is a huge task, which has been made much easier by the use of trenchless technology," he said.

"Trenchless technology avoids digging up the streets to access the sewer, which would have caused major community disruption.

"It works by inserting a resin-impregnated, flexible tube into the sewer, and this tube is hardened with the application of hot water to form a liner within the existing pipe.  This results in a seamless, jointless 'pipe within a pipe' that has a smooth, continuous inner surface.

"Work will take place along Forbes Road and Stuart, Little Parry and Parry streets.

"Residents will notice activity along the sewer route, mostly in the form of truck-mounted equipment and small cranes, but everything is being done to minimise disruption."

The sewer relining work is due to be completed early this year.

      Fact File

• Sewer refurbishment also taking place in Fremantle, with final stage of a 4.5km project to be completed early this year

• Further info about project at http://www.watercorporation.com.au

• Liberal-National Govt has developed a $500million groundwater security strategy to cater for extreme dry years during next decade

Minister's office - 6552 6800

Photo caption:  Minister inspects site works with Charles Kretzmann, Water Corporation project director (orange high-visibility vest) and Keith Cadee, Water Corporation general manager, Acquisition Group