Darebin Sewer Project
We're planning to construct a new sewer pipeline from Reservoir to Bundoora as our existing sewer network is nearing capacity. The proposed new pipeline will ensure our network has capacity to service future growth and reduce the risk of spills into local waterways.
To support our planning, we're completing investigations in Reservoir, Thomastown and Bundoora.
When we have completed these investigations and assessed the findings we can progress options and plans for constructing the new sewer.
Our investigation area
Ground investigations
From May to September 2025 we completed geotechnical investigations. These involved checking for existing underground services using specialist scanning equipment, non-destructive digging and drilling narrow, vertical boreholes at 14 locations. These boreholes allowed us to collect soil and rock samples for analysis and testing. At some borehole sites we installed groundwater monitoring bores that will remain in place so we can continue to check water levels.
Map showing Ground Investigation sites
Read our Community Notice, May 2025
Ecolological surveys
In November 2025 we completed a detailed ecological survey of the investigation area to identify and record ecological value.
Cultural Heritage investigations
In February 2026 we will complete cultural heritage investigations at 4 locations. We'll be looking for artefacts and other signs of indigenous culture to determine the nature and extent of any Aboriginal cultural heritage that may be present in the area. Soil is removed from hand-dug shallow test pits , placed in a sieve, inspected and analysed. The selection of the sites was based on an archaeological assessment of the project area, in consultation with the Wurundjeri Woi-Wurrung Aboriginal Corporation.
Map showing Cultural Hertage sites
Read our Community Notice, January 2026
What's next?
We need to analyse the results from these and other investigations as part of our planning.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will your investigations start?
Our geotechnical investigations were completed in September 2025 and our ecological investigations were completed in November 2025. Our cultural heritage investigations are planned for February 2026.
Why are you completing these investigations?
We are planning to construct a new sewer pipeline from Reservoir to Bundoora. Our existing sewer network is nearing capacity and these investigations will help us plan the new pipeline, and ensure our network has capacity to meet future growth and reduce the risk of spills into local waterways.
Why are you completing investigations near my property?
The location of our investigations has been selected due to its proximity to a potential new sewer. Where possible we have tried to select sites that have minimal impact on property owners, neighbours and the community. Most of our investigation sites are within open space reserves, parklands or road reserves.
If you are concerned about our planned work, please contact the project team on 13 27 62 or email [email protected]
Where will the new sewer pipeline go?
Before we can decide where the new sewer pipeline will be located, we need to complete these investigations and analyse the findings to have a better understanding of the conditions in the area.
Contact us
For more information about these works:
Phone: 13 27 62
Email: [email protected]