A new and larger pumping main taking wastewater from the western end of Ōhope to the community’s oxidation ponds on Wainui Road is to be installed progressively over the next five months.

Work was expected to begin in the Maraetōtara area this week, with approximately 3.2 kilometres of 250 mm pipeline to be installed using a combination of open trench and trenchless methods. New pumps will also be installed, which will almost double the pumping capacity of the wastewater system in this area.

The $1.8 million upgrading was initiated after a routine condition assessment indicated that the existing, 45-year-old asbestos cement line was nearing the end of its serviceable life and required replacement. The old 200 mm line will remain in service until the new line is commissioned.

The Whakatāne District Council expects that the work involved will cause some disruption for motorists, particularly at the northern end of Wainui Road, where space is restricted. Traffic flows will be managed using stop/go controls where necessary. The Council apologises for any inconvenience during this essential infrastructure upgrading project.