The city’s current cast iron network was constructed over 100 years ago, making it one of the oldest sewer systems in Australia.
With age, the infrastructure is becoming increasingly prone to blockages, break and frequent outages.
Mr MacDonald has said that polymer tubing will be used to reline the ageing pipes, improving the network’s performance without the need to dig open trenches.
“It’s exciting to see renewal in Newcastle’s Inner City, and the NSW Government is ensuring our infrastructure is ready for the forecast boom in residential and business growth,” said Mr MacDonald.
“Hunter Water is using innovative Trenchless Technology to significantly minimise the impact on the community by avoiding the need to excavate deep treanches, cut under building, across streets and though backyards,” he continued.
The relining project will commence with CCTV inspection and condition assessment, ahead of a full-scale cleaning operation using high-pressure hoses and impact cutters.
Once cleaning is complete the pipes will be relined use a polymer-based steam cured liner.
Mr MacDonald said “The rehabilitated pipes are structurally sound and once cured are expected to have an additional 50 years added to their working life.”
The rehabilitation work will cover pipes under 16 inner-city streets, with work expected to be complete in June 2016.
The project is part of Hunter Water’s 10-year, AU$115 million upgrade package for Newcastle’s sewer infrastructure.
For further information visit the Hunter Water website.