Invercargill’s Major Pipeline Project Accelerated to Avoid School Traffic
The Branxholme Pipeline Upgrade, a key infrastructure project for Invercargill City Council, is due to start in one of the city’s busiest areas early in 2024. This major work involves replacing around 10 kilometers of the pipeline network from the Branxholme Water Treatment Plant to the water tower on Gala Street.
Invercargill City Council Programme Director Lee Butcher, in collaboration with Rooneys Earthmoving, has revised the work schedule. Butcher explained, “Originally, this work was scheduled for later in 2024. But, given these streets are thoroughfares used by many residents… it made sense to try and complete this work while people were still trickling back after their holiday.”
The decision to begin work earlier aims to minimize disruption during the busy school period. Butcher added, “The work here means we’re required to shut a section of the roads to all traffic. With several schools in the immediate vicinity… it made sense to get as much of this done as quickly as possible.”
Herbert, Russel, and Kelvin streets will be closed to traffic from January 8, with the goal of completing the work by January 19. Butcher acknowledged the inevitable disruptions but hoped that “this measure will mitigate the impact this project has on Invercargill residents.”
The Branxholme Pipeline Upgrade began in mid-2022 and is expected to continue until the end of 2024. The existing pipeline, installed in 1958, has reached its end of service. The new pipeline will be more durable and modern, ensuring reliable access to clean, safe drinking water for future generations.
