Emergency storage tank reduces sewage overflow risk

The risk of sewage overflow will be significantly reduced when a new emergency storage tank is installed at Waitangi Major pumping station in Puketona Road.

The longitudinal tank is needed to reduce the risk of overflows from the pumping station in the event of a power outage or other breakdown. The tank is for emergency use only and will only contain sewage when the pumping station fails.

Despite its expected infrequent use, odour control measures are incorporated into the contract to minimise any odour that could arise in the event of an emergency.

The tank installation under State Highway reserve land up the hill beyond the Nautilus and towards Haruru Falls, follows the $5.7millionWaitangi pipeline replacement commissioned earlier this year.

Work on the $820,000 Fulton Hogan contract starts this month and is expected to be finished before Christmas. The excavation work will be monitored in case any archaeological or cultural remains are discovered during the project.

Utilities Manager Peter Johnson says there will be reduced traffic lane availability during the construction period and a traffic management system will be put in place to minimise any general delay in traffic flow that could result from the work.

“No work of this nature can be completed without some effect on residents, visitors and commercial activities in the area,” he said. “This is why the contractor is required to make contact with all directly affected parties and keep them informed on an ongoing basis”

As with the Waitangi pipeline replacement project, a project liaison team comprising council, contractor, community board, iwi, Northland DHB, Transit NZ and Northland Regional Council representatives will meet regularly to keep key agencies informed of progress.