Work has begun on a project for future water security in the SA town of Port Elliot.

SA Water has begun works to install around 1,500 metres of new water main in Port Elliot, to help prepare for future growth in the area and ensure a continued reliable supply of water for the local community.

The pipe, which is being laid beneath Waterport Road, is among 47,000 metres of water main going into the ground as part of SA Water’s four-year, $155 million water main management program.

The new pipe will duplicate an existing main under Waterport Road, which will both increase capacity of the local water network and provide more resilience by reducing disruption in the instance of a break or leak.

“This particular part of the local network plays a vital role in providing water to Port Elliot, Middleton, Goolwa, Hindmarsh Island and other surrounding areas,” said SA Water’s General Manager of Sustainable Infrastructure, Amanda Lewry.

“Over the past two decades, we’ve seen a significant increase in new connections here, primarily driven by major developments, and with ongoing expansion projected for the next 30 years, we are proactively addressing this need now by augmenting the system.

“Warmer months of the year also bring heightened demand, driven by an influx of seasonal residents and rising temperatures, placing strain on the water network.

“This upgrade will help ensure we can meet water demand from the community all year-round both now and into the future. Additionally, the new concrete-lined pipe is more resistant to soil movement and has a lifespan of more than 100 years.”

Construction is expected to take several months to complete, subject to weather conditions, with works occurring Monday to Friday between 7am and 5pm.