Lanco Group Consultants, the project managers, envisaged the sewer installation would be done via standard boring, until the contractor encountered large loose rock under an existing Melbourne Water drain, which made boring impossible. Tunnelling for approximately 20 metres at a depth of 8 metres was the only solution.
The tunnelling works became even more challenging because of the surprising discovery of timber piers that were in place during the 1800’s, when Chapel Street was once a wharf along the Yarra River. Back then, Yarra River bridge works were constructed in dry land conditions before the river was diverted back to its current location under the new bridgework. Adding to the challenge was the discovery of ground anchors and contaminated soil from an old petrol station.
Traffic management was also required for over a year, as one of the lanes in Chapel Street needed to be closed during the project.
This difficult project was successfully managed by Lanco Group Consultants, who rose to every challenge with the assistance of their contractors and South East Water employees.
For further information, contact Peter Kandyliotis, Land Development Officer, on 9552 3430.
Beginning of sewer tunnel at the Chapel Street Shaft.
300mm diameter sewer in 8m deep tunnel with support rods prior to backfill.
Ground Ground anchors were discovered through the project.
Construction works along Chapel Street.