Works to repair and replace the rock armouring around the Ōpōtiki Wharf are set to start this week, before the wetter winter months risk damaging the town’s vital flood protection structures.
Bay of Plenty Regional Council’s Rivers and Drainage Operations Manager, Bruce Crabbe, said the works were likely to be completed by mid-May assuming the weather and COVID-19 rules allowed.
“The area near the wharf was damaged during the floods in 2019 and because they are so important to the town’s flood protection, we need to get these essential works underway before the wetter winter months risk exacerbating the issue.
“Given the nature of the works and the ability for workers to keep an appropriate distance, contactors will be working in line with national COVID-19 guidelines for social distancing,” Mr Crabbe said.
Local residents are asked to avoid the area and particularly keep an eye out for truck and machinery movement around the wharf carpark and surrounding streets.
“The wharf, the boat ramp, the carpark and some of the surrounding areas will be fenced off and closed to the public while the works are being carried out. That includes the river-edge playground as well, although with current COVID-19 restrictions in place, we don’t expect that to be an issue.
“We just ask that people out and about in the area take extra care for the coming couple of weeks and the contractors will be extra vigilant as well,” Mr Crabbe said.
On completion, reinstatement works will tidy the area and it will be returned to normal access and use.
For any questions or concerns, you can call Bay of Plenty Regional Council on 0800 884 880.
