Preventing wastewater pipe failure

Sydney Water has started emergency construction work to repair a leaking wastewater pipe beneath Zollner Circuit, Darling Harbour. While the issue is currently under control, it’s important that we act quickly to prevent further damage and keep the wastewater system working properly in the area.

Work started on 4 May and is expected to continue for about 3 months, weather permitting.

Because this work is urgent and needs to fit around events at the International Convention Centre Sydney (ICCS) at Darling Harbour, work hours will vary. Sometimes we will work during the day, and at other times at night, depending on ICCS events and construction needs. These changing work hours will continue until the project is finished.

We're continuing emergency work to manage and repair a leak in a wastewater pipe located deep underground near Darling Harbour. The leak remains contained, and we continue our ongoing investigation work to determine a safe and effective permanent repair solution.

What we’ve done so far

Stage 1 and 1a of the temporary flow management was completed before Christmas. This included construction of two diversion pipes, one at Wentworth Park, Glebe and the other at Quarry Street, Ultimo.

The diversion pipes are on standby and can be activated if the situation worsens. Currently they are only used when we do investigation work at the leak site as it diverts the wastewater from the leaking pipe, allowing access and visibility. This arrangement will remain in place until the permanent repair is done.

Current work - subsidence repair work on Jones Street, Ultimo

On Monday 9 February, a void was found under the road surface within the intersection of Quarry Street and Jones Street, Ultimo. A nearby maintenance hole was also found to be damaged. For safety reasons, we immediately fenced off the area and put traffic diversions in place so investigations could start.

This area will remain fenced-off and closed to traffic until repairs can be done. Traffic can still use Jones Street and Quarry Street outside the fenced area.

We'll update the community when we have more information.

This work will not interrupt your water or wastewater services.

Thank you for your cooperation and patience as we complete this critical work.