Barwon Water seeks to demolish heritage aqueduct

BARWON Water has applied to demolish the Ovoid Sewer Aqueduct near Breakwater to re-open a key stretch of the Barwon River corridor.

As part of the permit application, the 14 towers and aqueduct spans would be removed, paving the way for 66 hectares of land and water to reopen.

Barwon Water managing director Shane Cumming said the application has been lodged and is open for submissions with Heritage Victoria.

“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.

“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.”

The surrounding area has been closed to the public since 1995 and until long-term works are complete, Barwon Water is encouraging people to keep out of the area.

The Ovoid Sewer Aqueduct is heritage-listed, but its condition has been rapidly deteriorating since the 1970s, with technical advice determining it is not viable from a safety and constructibility standpoint.

Barwon Water will seek to conserve and activate the stair landings at either end of the aqueduct and the pier bases below each truss span.

The two elements would then be incorporated into the rehabilitated landscape, with opportunities to salvage segments of ovoid pipe, original concrete and reinforcing steel to also be explored.

A detailed Heritage Interpretation Plan would also be developed if a permit is granted.

The plan has the potential to include a site-based interpretation, off-site interpretation, online exhibits and temporary events and activities.

Barwon Water has gathered feedback on the best way to recognise the site and its heritage significance, receiving 114 responses from an online survey.

For more information and to view the permit application, head to heritage.vic.gov.au/protecting-our-heritage/currently-advertised-permits