A $37 million infrastructure project, funded by the Western Australian Government, has been completed to support growth in Perth’s northern suburbs by providing reliable wastewater and drainage services.
Delivered by Water Corporation, the project’s final stage saw the installation of almost 2 kilometers of wastewater pipeline in Clarkson, passing under the Mitchell Freeway into Neerabup, completing the 11.6km northern wastewater network in the City of Wanneroo.
The project will support long-term growth, as the City of Wanneroo’s population is expected to increase by almost 60% to 368,000 residents between 2024 and 2041.
The project utilized a laser-guided tunnel-boring machine, named Bakton through a community naming competition, to drill four massive tunnels between 6 and 27 meters underground, housing pipes with diameters ranging from 1.8 to 2.2 meters. The longest tunnel was 637 meters, running under the Mitchell Freeway and Joondalup rail line.
The new system allows for the diversion of wastewater flows from pump stations across the City of Wanneroo to the Alkimos Wastewater Treatment Plant.
Water Minister Simone McGurk stated:
“The completed expansion of wastewater infrastructure in the northern suburbs is essential for supporting population growth, both in the present and the years to come.
“This project exemplifies the Government’s dedication to backing major infrastructure projects that enable our city to grow and develop in a sustainable manner.
“Water Corporation has closely collaborated with the community to minimize disruption while installing crucial infrastructure through established neighborhoods.”
MLA Mark Folkard of Burns Beach commented:”This investment will bolster ongoing growth as more people choose to settle in the sought-after northern suburbs.
“Not only does it lay the groundwork to accommodate our future population, but current residents can be assured that their services will not be negatively impacted by future developments in neighboring areas.”
Source :Western Australian Government
