Waimea Weekly Locally Owned and Operated
Wednesday 17 May 2023
Page 5
JO KENT
24 Champion Road, Richmond wrfs.co.nz
Page 20
Mullet cut for MS
State of Wakefield’s water network ‘alarming’
PH 544 4400
Swim club magic
A country life for Wakatu Lodge
The majority of Wakefield’s main water network will need completely replacing after a series of pipe failures over the last year uncovered a larger-scale problem. The water supply covers the urban Wakefield area, Pigeon Valley and extends along Main Road Spring Grove as far as the Spring Grove church. The pipes, which were laid in 1973-1975, had a life expectancy of approximately 80 years so haven’t previously been prioritised or budgeted for renewal. However, it’s become apparent, following a series of bursts over the past year, that the lifespan of these particular mains is closer to 50 years. “The situation is alarming, but not surprising considering the known reputation of asbestos cement pipes in certain conditions,” says Tasman District Council’s community infrastructure group manager, Richard Kirby. He says the majority of the town’s water network will require renewal, but problematic sections have been prioritised for replacement. “We are in the process of obtaining costs associated with the areas which have been identified. Renewal planning for the district is ongoing and part of the Activity Management Plan, but budget constraints limit the amount of work that can be done at any given time,” he says.
Simon and Melissa Floyd are going to give Wakatu Lodge a new life in the country. Photo: Anne Hardie. Full story on page 4.
SEE PAGE 2
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