The repair of the Makara No 1 flood detention dam near Elsthorpe is underway.

Work started on site on 13 January by the contractor HBRC Works Group using sub-contractor, Gair Contracting to complete the earthworks.

The first stage was to prepare the site and improve access. Makara No. 1 Dam wall has also been excavated to allow replacement of the corrugated steel pipe with new 2 metre concrete pipes. Pipe-laying is programmed for mid-February.

The $1.28 million project is expected to be completed during April.

Elsthorpe residents have been kept informed on progress and the arrangements for warnings should there be any heavy rainfall. During the construction period when the dam is out of operation, the flood detention effect of the dam is not possible so that there is some increased flood risk. Carrying out the work in the drier summer months reduces this risk. A warning system has been set up with warning criteria and a phone list established with residents.

A water level recorder and alarm has been installed in the diversion channel to monitor water levels and provide additional warning of potential flooding.

ENDS

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