Blast program comes to an end
Date published: 8 December 2016
The final of 12 major blasts to break up and remove rock from an old West End quarry site will take place tomorrow.
Work began at the Echlin Street site 12 months ago to make way for two future water reservoirs as part of the CBD Utilities Upgrade.
Some 250,000 tonnes of rock spoil has been removed as part of the project to lower the quarry floor. Works have also stabilised the existing quarry faces.
Infrastructure Committee Chairman Cr Mark Molachino said the works at the future water reservoir site were part to the overall strategy to upgrade water services in the CBD.
“Eventually the site will house two water reservoirs that will support the city’s long-term plan to position the CBD and a centre for residential and business activity,” Cr Molachino said.
“Upgrading the old utilities that lie under the CBD streets is a multi-faceted, $51 million program that is vital to ensure our city can sustain growth into the future.”
The first site blast took place in December 2015 to remove an unsafe overhanging boulder with fortnightly blasts taking place since July.
The blast program has been undertaken by specialist contractor Orica, under the supervision of contractor Mendi Constructions and managed in accordance with strict conditions due to the site’s proximity to residents.
