Phase two of a multi-million rand project to replace asbestos-cement water supply pipes in Clubview kicked off on Wednesday morning.
The R15-million project was expected to be completed by mid-April 2020.
Phase one, the replacement of the pipes along Lyttelton Road as well as the internal part of Hennops Park, was completed last year.
ALSO READ: Water disruption in Mnandi as metro converts pipelines
Phase two will see the replacement of about 6 700m of mainly 60-year-old cement-asbestos pipes mainly in Clubview and also around Hennops Park.
The project was described by officials on Thursday as “vital” due to the dolomitic nature of the ground in the area.
WATCH:
The concern is that leaking or burst pipes might lead to sinkholes, said local ward councillor Ina Strijdom.
“As we all know, it costs millions to repair sinkholes and therefore we are very grateful for this project,” she said.
Strijdom’s ward has one of the largest numbers of sinkholes in the area.
“Currently I have around six sinkholes in my ward. Residents in the area, although a bit frustrated at the sidewalks being dug up, have also expressed their gratitude.”
She also described the area where pipes were being replaced as one where pipe burst on a weekly basis.
Work has already started in Durham Road, Clubview, where public works staff appointed by the Tshwane metro were currently excavating portions of the sidewalk.
ALSO READ: Metro launches water-pipe replacement project in Centurion
According to project manager, Annaline Cronje, residents can expect intermittent water outages depending on the scope of work that was needed at that stage.
“If the water interruption will last more than a few hours and affect a large portion of the area residents will be provided with prior notice,” she said.
Cronje also explained that plans had already been made to accommodate a nearby school in Hennops Park so that construction doesn’t affect learning.
“Work in the area will be scheduled during school holidays. Once the holidays are over, the workers will return to Clubview.”
All paving, concrete and road surfaces damaged during the construction will also need to be repaired by the contractor, Motla Projects.
ALSO READ: Water pipes run dry in Rooihuiskraal, The Reeds
Do you have more information about the story? Please send us an email to editorial@rekord.co.za or phone us on 083 625 4114.
For free breaking and community news, visit Rekord’s websites:
For more news and interesting articles, like Rekord on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram
