Port Adelaide Grand Trunkway Rising Main Replacement
We’re preparing to begin important upgrades to the local wastewater network in Port Adelaide.
As part of the Grand Trunkway Rising Main Replacement Project, we’ll be installing a new 4-kilometre sewer pipeline. This work is designed to improve the long-term reliability of our system, helping to ensure it continues to meet the needs of the community well into the future.
Project Overview
We’re preparing to begin important upgrades to the wastewater network in Port Adelaide. Construction is scheduled to start in early January 2026, following site preparation and setup in December 2025.
The works will be delivered by our construction partner, Fulton Hogan Utilities, using trenchless methods primarily directional drilling to reduce surface disruption and minimise impacts to the community. The project is expected to be completed by late July 2026.
Most construction will take place during standard daytime hours (6:30 am to 5:00 pm). However, some activities such as pipe pulling and road crossings will need to occur overnight (6:00 pm to 4:30 am) to help manage traffic and maintain safety.
Please note that all dates and times are subject to weather conditions and any technical challenges that may arise.
What to expect
The new pipeline will follow Grand Trunkway and continue through Whicker Road, Eastern Parade, Martin Avenue, Kapara Road, North Arm Road, and May Terrace.
Traffic management
To keep the community moving safely:
- Temporary lane closures, detours, and contraflow systems will be in place at different stages. Property access will be maintained, and no odour impacts are expected. If conditions change, we’ll contact affected properties directly.
- All traffic arrangements have been designed to support B-double freight vehicles and maintain access throughout the works.
- We aim to avoid full road closures wherever possible, keeping at least one lane open. However, Martin Avenue will be closed to through traffic, with access maintained for local residents.
- Full closures may be required on Kapara and North Arm Roads, with a detour via Wilkins Road that can accommodate B-double vehicles.
- Once confirmed, traffic management plans and project updates will be shared on this page.
Night works
While most work will occur during the day, some night shifts will be required to reduce traffic impacts and ensure safety. These include:
- Grand Trunkway (ElectraNet crossing – 2 shifts)
- Whicker Road and Eastern Parade
- Bedford Crossing
- Between Eastern Parade and Martin Avenue
- Kapara and North Arm Road
Noise and vibration
Most of the construction route passes through industrial areas. For residents near night work zones, we’ll provide advance notice. We’re committed to minimising disruption and will monitor noise and vibration impacts as needed.
Please see below a map which provides a snapshot of the areas we will be working on:
Key Dates
- Site compound setup: 24 November 2025
- Early works (clearing and grubbing-vegetation): 19-20 November 2025 – works will be on Eastern Parade. One lane will be temporarily closed to accommodate cleaning and grubbing works.
- Main construction: 7 January – 05 August 2026
- Site demobilisation: mid August 2026
Again please note that times and dates may change depending on weather conditions and any technical constraints our teams may face.
Stakeholder coordination
We’re working closely with key stakeholders who may be directly impacted by construction activities. If you have any planned works or events during the construction period, please let us know. We’ll do our best to coordinate with you to minimise disruption and ensure smooth delivery across all activities.
Contact us
We value your cooperation and are committed to keeping you informed throughout the project.
Thank you for your understanding and support as we deliver this important infrastructure upgrade.
If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact me via phone on 0491 283 598 or via email at Nadine.Rachid@sawater.com.au.
