This week, work begins on the planned Ferry Road wastewater pump station and pipe network project. This marks a significant step to modernise essential infrastructure to meet community needs and address environmental challenges.
The existing pump station on Ferry Road, which has been serving the community for more than 60 years, is no longer fit-for-purpose. The new pump station being built will include safety enhancements and electrical upgrades, and allow for increased pumping capacity, ensuring optimal performance well into the future.
Whakatāne District Council Team Leader Capital Works Jim Finlay highlighted the importance of adjusting infrastructure to accommodate growth and ensuring resilience.
“As the community grows, it's essential our infrastructure adapts to meet its evolving needs. The new pump station represents critical investment in the reliability and efficiency of our wastewater system.”
In addition to refurbishing the pump station, a 1.3km pipeline, known as a rising main, will be laid to connect the new pump station on Ferry Road to the Hinemoa Street wastewater pump station, which channels sewage to the Whakatāne Wastewater Treatment Plant.
"Not only will it provide us with increased capacity, but the construction of this new pump station and rising main is essential for addressing wastewater overflow issues, particularly during adverse weather conditions,” Mr Finlay said.
Construction is expected to be complete by August 2024. During the construction phase, access to and from the river path via Ferry Road will be temporarily closed to ensure the safety of workers and pedestrians.
Temporary traffic management measures will also be in place to minimise disruption to the surrounding area.
"We understand the inconvenience construction and traffic management may cause, but it is essential for the safety of both workers and pedestrians.
We appreciate the cooperation and understanding of residents and road users while we do this upgrade to our infrastructure,” Mr Finlay said.
For more information and updates on the Ferry Road wastewater project, please visit whakatane.govt.nz/ferry-road