One of Geelong’s engineering marvels is another step closer to being dismantled.
Barwon Water has lodged a permit application to safely demolish the Ovoid Sewer Aqueduct, a 756m-ling, 53m-tall concrete and steel structure crossing the Barwon River near Breakwater.
Constructed between 1912 and 1915, the aqueduct was decommissioned in the early 90s, with the surrounding area closed soon after due to safety concerns around falling concrete.
After years of investigations, Barwon Water announced in March the aqueduct’s structural failing was “inevitable”.
This week Barwon Water managing director Shaun Cumming said the application for the structure’s removal had been lodged with Heritage Victoria and was now open for submissions.
“Making the area safe is the only way the community can again pursue a range of interests and experience the heritage and significance of the site,” Mr Cumming said.
“We are now committed to creatively recognising the aqueduct’s historical values and ensuring its contribution to the water industry is known to visitors and the wider community.
“Until long term works are completed, we remind community members to keep out of the area for safety reasons.”
The permit application includes plans to conserve the stair landings at either end of the aqueduct and the pier bases located beneath the 14 towers, incorporating them into the rehabilitated landscape.
Sections of the ovoid pipe and original concrete and steel would also possibly be salvaged, while a Heritage Interpretation Plan could see parts of the structure featured off-site.
The application was made after a broad engagement process, including consultation with the project’s community reference group and gathering more than 100 responses through an online survey.
