Cambridge bridge closure for water leak repair
The Victoria Bridge in Cambridge was closed on Sunday 17 November while an emergency repair was made on a bulk water main.
The extent of the leak was revealed when contractors excavated the road late afternoon to investigate the source. A road closure was required to undertake the repair.
Council’s service delivery group manager, Dawn Inglis, said the repair went like clockwork.
“Unfortunately leaks do happen from time to time and it’s important to have experience at your side when things go wrong. Our thanks goes out to the incredible team at Waipā Civil who worked tirelessly to repair the leak for our residents and reopen the bridge before too many people were affected.
“Thanks also to the vigilant community member who alerted us to water on the bridge earlier on Sunday. Due to their diligence, we were able to get on site quickly and get this repaired within the day.”
The leak was caused by a failure in the gibault, an industry standard fitting that joins two sections of pipe together. Due to the location and size of repair required, the bridge was closed so the repair could be undertaken safely.
On this occasion the leak appeared to have been created over time and was caused by a number of factors.
“This event is a good reminder as to how important it is to protect our bridges and a reminder why heavy vehicles are also prohibited on the high-level bridge. The engineering of the low-level bridge is better equipped to handle heavy loads.” Inglis advised.
“We were disappointed to hear reports of heavy vehicles still using the high-level bridge, despite the rules in place which help protect our vital infrastructure.”
The bulk water main carries water to central and north Cambridge and is one of two in the town. The second bulk water main is located at the low-level bridge which meant residential water usage was not affected.
The section of the bridge excavated during the repair will need to be resurfaced which will occur overnight.
Roading manager Bryan Hudson said it was fortuitous to have minimal traffic disruption for such a major leak.
“It was good fortune that this happened on a Sunday when there is less traffic on the roads. We ask that drivers reduce their speed and take extra care while the temporary road seal is in place. The section of bridge will be resurfaced as soon as we have the appropriate weather.”
Motorhomes, trucks, and vehicles towing boats or large trailers are advised to use the Fergusson Bridge, known as the low-level bridge, at all times.