Work progressing well
Update on progress
To date, Water Corporation work to upgrade the Vasse Diversion Drain has been progressing to plan.
Bank stabilisation with jute matting and brush walling at the ocean end of the drain has been completed. (See photos for before and after comparison.)
From New River to College Ave the old rock walls on either side of the drain have been demolished in preparation for new, stronger concrete walls to replace them.
At both ends of the drain, temporary clay walls have been built in the channels to keep water away from construction sites in the interests of safety. Temporary pipe networks have been established to divert flows in the drain.
Earthworks along the drainage channel from Queen Elizabeth Ave to Chapman Hill Rd (shown in orange and purple on map below) to demolish and reconstruct the banks is also progressing. Large machinery is being used for this work and is regularly moving around the 5.5 km site.
Impacts to residents
Residents in the Queen Elizabeth Ave to Busselton Bypass section (shown in orange on the map above) may experience vibrations during this work. Please rest assured anticipated vibration levels were assessed when selecting construction methods. Vibrations on this project are not expected to reach levels that cause damage to nearby buildings.
To ensure safe driving conditions are maintained throughout this work, the speed limit has been changed to 60 km along Chapman Hill Rd.
Due to weather conditions heightening the risk of bushfire in the region, our work may need to stop with short notice if fire bans and vehicle movement bans are put in place. This may increase the volume of dust near site, as dust suppression vehicles cannot be used.
We understand this work can be disruptive, and we thank you for your patience and understanding while we complete this essential work.
Environmental management
88 fauna shelters have now been installed in bushland adjacent to the drain to complement the 15 rope bridges that have been installed. These installations will provide possums and other wildlife with safe passage during the project and for years to come.
The 37,000 relocated Carter’s Freshwater Mussels are being monitored weekly and water levels are being maintained in the Upper Vasse for their protection.
Recently, around 3,000 fish were relocated from parts of the construction area to areas with adequate water. Further relocation is planned to take place early February.
A note on COVID-19
Water Corporation continues to dedicate all necessary resources and management focus in response to the COVID-19 pandemic – rest assured it is our absolute operational priority.
We are monitoring the local health situation daily and adjusting our business operations as needed. Safety is always our number one priority.
At the time of publishing, the information in this article is correct. However, given the unpredictable nature of a pandemic and associated restrictions that may impact our work, plans may change without notice.
