State Government unveiled plans Wednesday to develop 66 hectares of public parkland around Barwon Water’s heritage-listed ovoid sewer aqueduct in Breakwater.
Water Minister Lisa Neville said the proposal would help share the “significant heritage and biodiversity values of the area”.
“It would boost recreational use of the Barwon River by reopening a section that has been closed to the public for more than 20 years.”
Parliamentary Secretary for Water Anthony Carbines visited the site to make the announcement.
“We’ll continue to work with our water industry to unlock the recreational benefits of our waterways,” he said.
The announcement comes after the Indy last September revealed Barwon Water’s plans to build parklands at the site.
Barwon Water managing director Tracey Slatter said the authority had been investigating options for improving public access to the riverside land for years.
“Public safety has to be front of mind, and we look forward to hearing from the community through our engagement process.”
The 756-metre aqueduct allowed Geelong’s first main outfall sewer pipe to cross over the Barwon River from 1916 to 1992.
Authorities prohibited access under the structure – both on land and water -since 1995 due to the risk of falling concrete.
Barwon Water’s plan involves removing some aqueduct spans, subject to Heritage Victoria approval, to allow safe access to the river and bank.
The authority plans to retain the majority of the historic structure.
The parkland proposal also provides for walking tracks, viewing platforms, signage and seating on the north side of the river.
Barwon Water has worked closely with the Barwon River Parklands Steering Committee, Heritage Victoria and other agencies, and is seeking feedback from the broader community.
