St Albans Reservoir Bypass Pipeline

Current

Project location

The works will be conducted on Melbourne Water property at the St Albans Reservoir, located at 227 Taylors Road in St Albans.

What we’re doing

To ensure a reliable and resilient water supply, we are constructing a new 350-metre bypass pipeline at the St Albans Reservoir. This vital piece of infrastructure will directly link the existing St Albans to Werribee Pipeline with the Western Transfer Main and to the Greenvale and Winneke reservoirs. This strategic connection will significantly strengthen our water network, enhancing our capacity to meet increasing water demands and safeguard the region's water security for the future.

Why we’re doing this project

Melbourne's western suburbs are rapidly expanding and to keep pace with this growth, we need a strong and reliable water supply.

That's why we're undertaking this vital project.

Our goal is to connect Melbourne Water's water network with Greater Western Water's distribution system. This integration will ensure we can consistently deliver enough water from our upstream reservoirs, like Greenvale and Winneke, to key downstream reservoirs, even during peak demand or unexpected disruptions.

What works are happening when

To install the new bypass pipeline, works will commence from Thursday 27 March until late September 2025 at 227 Taylors Road in St Albans.

These works will involve:

  • some tree and vegetation removal
  • excavation for new trenches, pipe laying and backfill
  • asphalt road reinstatement
  • commissioning of the new bypass pipeline.

Why are we removing trees and vegetation?

Prior to construction, we carefully plan our works to minimise impacts on local trees and vegetation. While some tree and vegetation removal is necessary for the bypass pipeline, we prioritise keeping trees wherever possible.

Expert arborists and environmental specialists guide our planning and construction, ensuring responsible management and maximum preservation of trees and shrubs in the work area.

In collaboration with Brimbank City Council, we will repurpose removed vegetation for sustainable and community-focused initiatives, including donating timber to the Westvale Men’s Shed and utilising mulch in local parks and gardens.

Complete
 

May 2024

Award for construction to Aqua Metro Services

Complete
 

Late 2024

Early investigations

Complete
 

Early 2025

Detailed design finalised

Not Started
 

Late March 2025

Site establishment and commencement of works

Not Started
 

April 2025

Excavation of trenches, pipe laying and backfill

Not Started
 

Mid 2025

Testing and commissioning of new bypass pipeline

Not Started
 

September 2025

Bypass pipeline activated and operational

Not Started
 

Late 2025

Project completion

What to expect

While we work, you may notice temporary disruptions, including increased machinery noise and vehicle traffic in the area.

As a guide, we have listed some impacts you may notice during these works:

  • Noise and dust: There will be a short-term increase in noise in the area, but we will do as much as possible to reduce the construction noise. We will actively monitor noise and dust levels throughout the project to ensure strict compliance with Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) thresholds.
  • Traffic, parking, bike riders and pedestrians: At times, there may be temporary changes to traffic conditions, including lane closures, road closures and parking restrictions. We encourage you to follow all directions and take care around work areas.

We will make every effort to minimise the impact of these works on the local community and the environment.

Working hours

We will be working Monday to Friday, 7am to 5.30pm and on Saturdays, 7am to 1pm.

Residents will be advised if any work is necessary outside these hours. Dates may change subject to weather conditions.

Thank you for your understanding and patience during these essential works.

Acknowledgement

Melbourne Water acknowledges the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung and Boon Wurrung peoples of the Kulin Nation as the Traditional Owners of this land.

Further information

If you have feedback or would like more information about this project, contact us.

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