We considered building the pipeline underwater during the early planning stages. However, this approach posed several significant challenges, which dismissed this as a viable option:

Environmental constraints: Potential impacts on threatened species and ecosystems within the waterway. There are also a number of significant heritage sites along the shoreline which we have avoided.

Engineering challenges: Constructing a pipeline underwater requires highly complex engineering solutions.

Cost implications: The cost of underwater construction is substantially higher than the chosen route.

The areas we’re working in are very confined, and laying a fuel line alongside the sewer main is not feasible. Attempting to do so would introduce serious risks:

• The trench is not wide enough to safely accommodate both lines and making the trench wider would profoundly impact threatened species and Aboriginal Heritage. The alignment for the 4.3-kilometre pipeline has undergone extensive environmental and heritage assessments.
• If a break or leak were to occur in either the fuel or sewer line, their proximity could cause severe complications.

We prioritise ensuring safety and minimising long-term risks so the fuel line and sewer main cannot share the same trench.

The existing rail corridor was explored during the planning stages. However, this option presented several constraints:

Heritage considerations: The rail corridor includes areas of heritage significance.

Construction challenges: Extensive work would be required to accommodate the pipeline, significantly increasing the project's cost.

After careful assessment, the chosen route was deemed the most feasible and sustainable option.

During the construction period, there will be temporary traffic changes to ensure safety for workers and commuters. We will provide advance notice of any disruptions and work to minimise inconvenience wherever possible. Ensure you follow the project to receive direct notifications of traffic changes and construction plans.

The project has undergone a thorough environmental assessment and approvals process to ensure it meets stringent environmental standards. This includes:

• Minimising impacts on local ecosystems and threatened species.
• Implementing measures to reduce noise, dust, and other construction-related disruptions.

The Selfs Point Sewage Treatment Plant Expansion Project is crucial to:

• Improve capacity: Supporting Hobart’s growing population and infrastructure demands.
• Improving the health of the Derwent: By streamlining the operation of Macquarie Point and Selfs Point into a single modern facility, we will help improve marine health by removing tonnes of nitrogen and phosphorus from the Derwent each year.

To stay up to date with the latest information, including construction timelines and progress, follow our YourSay project page: yoursay.taswater.com.au/selfs-point-sewage-treatment-plant-expansion-project.