Notice of works: construction underway on new sewer trunk main for Mount Barker

GMB Water has commenced construction of a new Sewer Trunk Main to support Mount Barker’s growing community and ensure the ongoing reliability of the wastewater network. The project involves the installation of approximately 2.1 kilometres of new sewer pipeline, running from the Laratinga Wastewater Treatment Plant through the reserve that runs parallel to Parkview Drive, Bald Hills Road and Hartman Road, and finishing at Emerald Way. This significant infrastructure upgrade forms part of GMB Water’s long‑term planning to meet current and future wastewater demands while protecting the local environment.

Project benefits for the community

The new Sewer Trunk Main will deliver a range of long‑term benefits for residents, businesses, and the broader Mount Barker area, including:

• Increased capacity
  The new pipeline will improve capacity for existing wastewater flows and support future growth, ensuring a reliable wastewater service for years to come.
• Improved environmental protection
  Upgraded infrastructure reduces the risk of leaks and overflows, helping to protect local waterways, reserves, and natural areas.
• Reduced service disruptions
  Modern infrastructure requires less maintenance, resulting in fewer interruptions to wastewater services for households and businesses.

What to expect during construction

As works progress, residents and road users may notice increased activity in the area. Construction impacts may include:

• Construction activity - Workers, machinery, and construction vehicles operating along the project alignment.
• Temporary laydown area and compound - A construction compound and laydown area will be established within the reserve on Parkview Drive, between Scarborough Way and Melville Street.
• Traffic and pedestrian management - Traffic and pedestrian controls will be in place where required to maintain safety. This may include reduced speed limits, temporary footpath, lane or road closures, and detours. Please follow all signage and traffic directions.
• Noise, dust and vibration - Some construction activities may generate noise, dust or minor vibration. Equipment such as vacuum trucks can be particularly noisy at times. Dust and noise control measures, including water trucks, will be used where possible to minimise impacts.
• Vegetation removal - Some vegetation removal is required to deliver the project. This will only occur where necessary and in consultation with Council’s Urban Forest Officer. Sections of Parkview Drive have been redesigned to retain native vegetation wherever practicable.

Construction methods

Two construction methods are being used to install the new sewer pipeline:

Open trench construction

This is the primary method for the project and involves excavating a narrow trench to install the pipe. Once installed, the trench will be backfilled, compacted, and the surface restored to match existing conditions, including roads, footpaths, and landscaped areas.

Horizontal directional drilling (HDD)

HDD will be used beneath the golf course (Stage 3) to reduce surface disturbance and minimise the need for vegetation and tree removal. This method involves drilling an underground path between entry and exit pits and pulling welded pipe sections through the bore.

Construction hours and timing

Construction will occur between February 2026 and January 2027 and will be carried out during both day and night shifts.

Standard construction hours:

• Day works: Monday to Friday, 7:00am to 5:00pm
• Night works (Bald Hills Road only): Sunday to Thursday, 7:00pm to 5:00am

Due to high traffic volumes on Bald Hills Road, night works are required during this stage to ensure the safety of workers and road users. Detours will be in place during night works.

Works will not occur on weekends or public holidays unless approved by GMB Water, or during periods of extreme weather.

Site restoration and updates

Once construction is complete, all disturbed areas will be fully reinstated, restoring roads, footpaths, and land to their original condition or better.

GMB Water understands that construction can be disruptive and appreciates the community’s patience and cooperation while these important works are carried out. Further updates will be provided as the project progresses through each stage.