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This two-and-half day shut down will allow the newly constructed 99m length of pipeline relay to be connected to the existing pipeline. The bulk pipeline was reconstructed to enable upgrade operations of the stormwater network.

The stormwater channels in the Lwandle area will be moved to offer improved drainage. This service upgrade is being performed to manage recurring instances of stormwater run-off from ponding and flooding the area. To optimise the positioning of these channels, the bulk water supply main will be connected to a pipeline relay, shifting the water supply infrastructure and allowing the stormwater system to experience better free flow.

In anticipation of this work, a test shut down was conducted on Wednesday 2 June, which resulted in unexpected disruption to parts of Somerset West due to unforeseen circumstances, which was resolved. The City regrets any inconvenience caused during this time.

Next week’s shut down will cause reduced water pressure and minimal water disruption to Lwandle and surrounding areas.

In order to minimise the impact of the shut down on residents, water will be diverted from Blackheath and Helderberg Water Treatment Plants as well as other pipelines to support the reservoirs in the Somerset West and greater Helderberg area. Technical teams have already started with the changes to the network to allow enough time for the system to stabilise well ahead of the shutdown. Residents will have access to water supply, but may experience reduced water pressure due to this diversion.

Residents in the Helderberg area are encouraged to use water sparingly over this period to reduce pressure on the system while works are under way. Reducing water consumption will help reduce the impact on communities.

Although no significant water supply disruptions are anticipated from this project, a water tanker will be on standby in the area to provide water, where required, for domestic use.

The City regrets any inconvenience caused, however this operation will ensure future continuity of water supply to residents and reduce instances of flooding due to better drainage of stormwater run-off.

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