THE first stage of a reticulated sewerage system has been completed in Cockatoo.
The ongoing Yarra Valley Water project is part of a State Government initiative to help improve the health of the Yarra River and its tributaries.
The completion of stage one will see 103 properties given the opportunity to switch from their current septic tanks to the new environmentally friendly sewerage system.
Tony Kelly, managing director of Yarra Valley Water, says that the new mains system will eliminate water pollution problems associated with septic tank systems.
“Poorly maintained septic tank systems leak potentially hazardous waste into soil, drains, creeks and waterways.
“When most of these septic systems were installed, environmental standards were very different from today.
“The performance of many of the systems is no longer acceptable or appropriate today.”
In the coming weeks, owners of properties in Edmunds Road, Haylock Avenue, Salisbury Avenue, Hillside Road, Haven Court, George Street and Dorchester Road will be approached by representatives from Yarra Valley Water.
During the visit a customer connection coordinator will provide connection kits and answer any queries about the new system.
Construction has already begun on stage two of the project.
This stage, which is expected to take approximately eight months, will incorporate another 635 properties in the area enclosed by Pakenham, Viewhill, Paternoster and Bailey soads.
Mr Kelly said: “I would urge property owners in Cockatoo to connect to the new sewerage system to ensure the future protection of the local community and environment.”
Ultimately, the project will give more than 1100 Cockatoo properties access to the new infrastructure.
– Paul Pickering
