Essential tree removal in Wangaratta to protect water and sewer Infrastructure
28 February 2025
North East Water will be undertaking essential tree removal along an area over major sewer and water mains in Wangaratta next week.
General Manager Environment, Systems and Operations, John Day, said the work on Willow Drive will protect critical infrastructure, reduce service disruptions and prevent sewer spills to the environment.
“Tree roots have blocked the sewer main causing significant spillage on several occasions and the only way to prevent this is to proactively ensure trees are not sitting on or within 2 metres of this critical infrastructure”, Mr Day said.
“The area in question also includes a major water main which is more than 50 years old and supplies water to parts of the city.
“Protecting this infrastructure is essential to prevent unexpected water outages and ensuring a reliable supply for the community.”
Mr Day said approximately 60 regrowth trees need to be removed from this narrow corridor of bushland because they were within 1 metre either side of the sewer and water lines.
“The majority of the bushland in the vicinity would be retained including the large established gums.
“The works will be carried out by a licenced contractor from 6 March and it is expected to take 2-3 days to complete.
“Most stumps will remain in place to provide stability and minimise any potential impact removal may have on the underground mains.
“There is likely to be some noise disturbances during the process and we appreciate the community’s understanding and patience while we undertake this necessary work to safeguard our water supply, reduce impacts to the environment and protect vital pipework.”