PROJECT UPDATE: Upgrade enhances water service reliability for the Cowes community
Residents and businesses in and around Cowes will enjoy enhanced water service reliability, thanks to a major upgrade of the Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV) near Phillip Island Tourist Road at Wimbledon Heights.
Work has commenced on the $745,000 project which involves replacing the existing PRV system moving it above ground to deliver lasting operational benefits and minimising disruptions to water services.
The Cowes PRV is a critical piece of infrastructure used to reduce water pressure in the network. It reduces the chance of water service disruptions resulting from high-water pressure coming from San Remo.
The existing PRV is reaching the end of service life and is located below ground, making it unreliable and high-risk for staff to access for maintenance purposes.
On Wednesday 19 March 2025, an alternative water supply was introduced as part of the works, requiring the existing water network to be taken offline. As a result, water may appear milky or cloudy due to trapped air. This is harmless, and the water remains safe to consume.
The appearance will clear once the aerated water is flushed from the system, however, aerated water can take up to 48 hours to clear. If you experience this, please flush your back tap until the water runs clear.
On occasion, the speed limit on Phillip Island Tourist Road at Wimbledon Heights will be reduced to 40km per hour to maintain public and contractor safety during the work.
The shared user path parallel to the road remains open however, we ask that path users observe signage and remain alert to changing conditions around the worksite.
The project is scheduled for completion after Easter.
Quotes attributable to Managing Director Westernport Water, Dona Tantirimudalige
“Upgrading water infrastructure at end of life ensures our assets can reliably meet growing demand, securing a sustainable water supply for the community well into the future.”
“The Cowes PRV is one of the few remaining sites where below ground, high risk entry, is required for workers to complete maintenance tasks. By moving the entire system above ground, we’re making it a whole lot safer.”
ENDS
Westernport Water media enquiries to Manager Communications and Engagement on 1300 720 711 or email | communications@westernportwater.com.au.
Department of Transport and Planning media enquiries on 9854 2160 or media@transport.vic.gov.au.
