Dam works damn needed

REPAIRS to the dam wall at Kennington Reservoir will be undertaken by the City of Greater Bendigo next year.

The $2 million project will include replacement of the wall’s outflow pipe, spillway and fishing platform repairs, and works to the waterside of the structure like waterproofing, plant removal, and the installation of anti-erosion measures.

“The works are necessary to ensure the ongoing safety of the community and the City has obtained a planning permit for the project to proceed,” said Brian Westley, municipal director of presentation and assets.

“Kennington Reservoir is a unique nature conservation and passive recreation area that is greatly valued by the community and the City is planning to undertake the works to have the least impact possible on aquatic wildlife.

“However, the work will require the removal of some vegetation and trees.”

Kennington Reservoir was built in 1861 and last saw major works in 1929 when it was widened and repaired due to leakage.

“It has not had any major renewal works undertaken on it since that time,” said Mr Westley.

“Over the past decade the City has commissioned a specialist engineer to undertake regular monitoring and assessment reports on the dam wall that have recommended repair work be undertaken to ensure the dam can continue to remain safe, and open to the public.”

Works at the site are slated to get underway early 2023 and be completed by the end of the year.