Upgrade work to the Knysna CBD sewer reticulation and the main sewer pump station has run into some delays, according to the Municipality.

The municipality recently decided to upgrade the pipeline following an increase in the population that has seen demand rise sharply, resulting in flooding.

Portfolio Chairperson for the Planning, Infrastructure and Development, Councillor Louise Hart, says the pipeline has also exceeded its lifespan which caused further regular blockages and groundwater infiltration.

The municipality accepted two methods for upgrading the line. One was conventional construction and the other was trenchless technology.

The decision was made to implement the trenchless method due to savings in cost, time and inconvenience to the community. The first section between the Waterfront Drive and Gordon Street was successfully completed using this method.

The second section between Gordon Street and Rawson Street then commenced. Various challenges were experienced which included the inability of the pipe cracking machines to crack the existing pipes.

Three different machines (35, 60 and 125 ton) were used but unsuccessfully. The decision to use the conventional method of digging and replacement has now been made in order to complete the work as soon as possible.

According to Hart “The work on Grey Street is to be accelerated weather permitting. However the contractor will vacate the site before proceeding with the final works to ensure that work being done does not interfere with the Oyster Festival. During this period there will be no exposed exaction pits and Grey Street will be opened to traffic”.

Currently Grey Street is closed from Gordon, Trotter and Rawson Street. However provision has been made for clients to access businesses safely. Cllr Hart urged residents and businesses to be patient.

“I understand the frustration that the businesses and residents in the area are feeling. However I plead for your patience as these improvements will improve the quality of life for local residents and ensure that this critical infrastructure remains in a good state for years to come.”