Stormwater infrastructure in the Maraetotara East area of Ōhope is to receive a major upgrade with the installation of a new stormwater reticulation system. The work is scheduled to begin on 3 October 2016 and will be undertaken by Waiotahi Contractors; it is expected to take approximately ten weeks to complete, with the bulk of the work being undertaken along the dunes between the Maraetōtara Stream and Te Akau Street.

Tomasz Krawczyk, General Manager Infrastructure at Whakatāne District Council, says the upgrade involves the installation of a pipe running east to west along the dunes which will provide soakage and conveyance. Lateral lines running between properties at seven locations will collect stormwater and flow to the main line in the dunes which is proposed to discharge into the Maraetōtara Stream. This work follows other upgrades carried out to the Maraetōtara area last year.

“This area is low-lying and prone to flooding in extreme weather events,” Mr Krawczyk says, “so we looked at a variety of options before settling on the use of half-round chambers to provide soakage and conveyance and ensure a long-term solution. There will be substantial machinery activity within this area however, and we are asking that people keep well clear of the areas where work is in progress.” 

Waiotahi project managers and Council representatives will be available to discuss the project, and any concerns residents may have, at 5:30 pm on Thursday, 29 September, on the corner of Te Akau Street and Ocean Road, Ōhope.