What's this project all about?

As part of our commitment to maintaining safe and reliable water infrastructure, TasWater is progressing planning for a future upgrade at Ridgeway Dam.

From March 2026, TasWater will begin geotechnical investigations and structural assessments at Ridgeway Dam.

These works will help us better understand the condition of the dam and confirm the safest and most responsible upgrade option – now and into the future.

Why is this work needed?

Ridgeway Dam has been a vital part of Hobart’s water network for more than 100 years. Like many assets of its age, it requires ongoing maintenance and care.

In 2019, the dam’s water level was lowered by four metres as a precautionary safety measure. Since then, detailed inspections and technical studies have been underway.

Progress has taken time due to complex geology, geotechnical and structural engineering considerations, and the need to carefully balance safety, environmental, heritage, and community factors.

The upcoming investigations will help confirm the integrity of the dam structure and fill important data gaps relating to underlying ground conditions.

What will the investigations involve?

Investigations will take place within the dam footprint and surrounding areas, with activities expected to run for around 12 weeks.

These investigation activities include:

• Concrete coring, geotechnical drilling, and sampling at the dam, with all areas re-grouted after assessment

• Trenching at several locations away from the dam to better understand geological conditions in the broader area.

Works will occur Monday to Saturday, 7.00 am – 5.00 pm.

An Environmental Assessment has been completed to guide the works and minimise impacts to surrounding vegetation.

What to expect?

We’ll work closely with the community to minimise disruption, wherever possible.

However, you may notice some temporary impacts within the dam footprint, including:

• Increased personnel, vehicles, and machinery

• Additional traffic movements near the site

• Some construction noise, dust and minor vegetation disturbance

• Restricted access to some areas for short periods during these works.

What are the next steps?

We’ll share further updates once investigations are completed and the next steps to progress the project are confirmed.