Split Rock crest work underway

6 September 2011

Construction on the $7.6 million Split Rock Dam safety upgrade is progressing to schedule, with excavation of the top section of the dam crest nearly complete and concrete pouring commencing.

The upgrade is one of seven being managed by State Water throughout regional NSW to enable the dams to safely pass extreme flood events.

State Water project manager Kock Ooi said the Split Rock project involves removing the top section of the dam crest and constructing a two-metre concrete parapet wall to reinforce and prevent the structure overtopping.

“Since taking possession of the site in April project contractor John Holland has established the site and set about demolishing pavement and excavating materials,” Mr Ooi said.

“They are also progressively placing the filter material as they pour the concrete for the parapet wall.”

The next few weeks will see concrete pouring and filter placement continue, along with placement of rock and reinforcing the wall.

Reinforcing steel, concrete, small tools and labour hire for the project will be sourced from Tamworth, with plant hire also from Tamworth and Manilla as well where possible.

John Holland is accommodating staff in the local area, contributing further to the local economy.

NSW Public Works was awarded the contract for site management during construction and the detailed design for the project was done by URS Australia in 2010.

The permanent storage capacity, normal water releases and dam operations will not be affected by the upgrade.

Works are scheduled for completion in early 2012.

Media contact: Jane Urquhart (02) 6841 2087 or 0429 449 711