The construction of a $1.6 million causeway crossing at Bandy Creek in Esperance has commenced marking a significant milestone in the project to replace the weir damaged in the major flood in 2007.
Department of Transport General Manager of Coastal Infrastructure Steve Jenkins said the design of the new structure would minimise future damage to the nearby boat harbour and surrounding landscape in the event of another major flood.
He said the remains of the old weir would be demolished and replaced with a durable concrete causeway that would naturally disperse excessive flood water.
"Agreement on the design of the new structure followed extensive consultation with relevant State authorities, the Shire of Esperance and traditional landowners," Mr Jenkins said.
In 2007 a severe storm resulted in more than 180mm of rain falling on Esperance in 24 hours and saw thousands of tonnes of sand deposited in the Department managed Bandy Creek boat harbour, trapping vessels in their pens and causing costly delays to commercial operators.
Mr Jenkins said the new low profile concrete causeway, incorporates 45 pipes positioned at the base of the structure to ensure tidal flushing and fish movement between the creek and the harbour and would have no adverse effect on the water level or quality of the Ramsar protected wetlands upstream.
"The new wider causeway will accommodate higher capacity flows and during flood events water will flow freely over the structure minimising water build up and the risk of erosion," Mr Jenkins said.
"The project will also see the adjacent river banks, which were significantly eroded in 2007, recontoured with rock protection at the base, and upstream an area of creek bed will be excavated to form a sand trap to reduce sediment and the speed of water flowing towards the new causeway.
"Pedestrian access across the causeway will be provided with the design also catering for emergency and service vehicles."
Construction will be undertaken by Yarnell Pty Ltd and is expected to be completed by July. |
