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November 14, 2012

Continuation of next stage of Water of Leith floodworks to start shortly

The next stage of work in the Leith flood protection scheme will begin in the next few days, after Otago regional councillors let a construction contract to Lund South Limited.

The scheme is being constructed in eight stages, with the next stage centred on the Water of Leith from Leith Street to Forth Street. The Cumberland Street to Dundas Street stage was completed earlier this year.

ORC director of environmental engineering and natural hazards Gavin Palmer said the latest work was expected to be completed during February-March next year (weather permitting).

Dr Palmer said the works will reduce the flood hazard for part of the Dunedin central business district, including property and facilities owned or used by the University of Otago, whilst improving the area’s aesthetic appeal and physical access to the water.

The works would not be fully effective in reducing flood hazard until the other stages upstream were completed. The works’ design was arrived at after 12 months of constructive discussions between ORC and the university, Dr Palmer said.

There are numerous elements to it, mainly involving the removal of the upper sections of the existing concrete walls on both sides of the channel between the Leith Street footbridge and Clyde Street and the true right bank between Clyde Street and Forth Street. The lower sections of concrete wall will secure the edge of the river channel, whilst providing greater visual and physical access to the river bank.

The river will be widened by excavating both banks between the Leith Street footbridge and Clyde Street and the true right bank between Clyde Street and Forth Street.

Dr Palmer said the work is being carried out over the summer to coincide with the university holidays and minimise disruption to vehicle and pedestrian traffic. Access to the construction zone is prohibited while the work is under way, and a parking area adjacent to the university commerce department building on Clyde Street will be closed.

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