Work begins on new pipeline to the 12 Apostles

WORK began on a multi-million-dollar upgrade of the sewage services that run to the Twelve Apostles Visitors Centre on Monday.

An $8.6 million dollar investment will see the 11-kilometre pipeline connect the Twelve Apostles Visitor Centre toilets to the Port Campbell Sewage Treatment Plant.

Parks Victoria are looking for the pipeline to provide an environmentally sustainable solution to the continually growing number of visitors the site attracts.

The construction, which is beginning at both ends of the pipeline, will see a section of the Great Ocean Road reduced to a single lane.

Parks Victoria chief executive officer Matthew Jackson says it is important for the popular destination to be supported by its infrastructure.

“The Twelve Apostles precinct can attract over 15,000 visitors each day at peak times. The dual pipeline is the best provision to protect the environment and cater for growing visitor demand.

“We worked with the community to explore the best options to meet demand at the Twelve Apostles and environmental protections. The pipeline solution will deliver a long-term, practical response.”

The need for change was evident last year, when 503 truckloads of water had to be delivered to the Twelve Apostles Visitor Centre.

The pipeline’s construction will use directional boring technology to minimise vegetation removal.

People travelling through the area are encouraged to plan for delays.

The works are anticipated to be completed mid-2020.