One of Hobart’s oldest water assets has been drained and will be upgraded to keep taps flowing for generations to come, TasWater has confirmed.
The Waterworks Upper Reservoir at Ridgeway was constructed between 1885 and 1888 and still plays an important role in Hobart’s Waterworks Reserve system, which captures water from the creeks and rivers rising on the higher slopes of Kunanyi/Mt Wellington.
TasWater has begun essential upgrade works, delivering the final stage of a long-term program to ensure the Upper Reservoir remains safe and reliable into the future.
Previous upgrades were completed in 2000, with significant water security improvements delivered between 2019 and 2021. The current works complement those earlier upgrades and focus on improving the reservoir’s outlet system.
The project will be delivered in two phases. Phase one involved draining the reservoir so construction can safely proceed.
Now the reservoir is drained, phase two will begin, with construction works including replacement of pipework inside the intake tower, upgrades to pipework at the entrance to the lower intake tunnel, and improvements to internal access within the intake tower to support safer maintenance into the future.
TasWater expects some temporary impacts during the works, including increased construction activity, traffic movements, noise and dust. Some areas within the Waterworks Reserve may also be temporarily closed for public safety.
TasWater General Manager Customer and Community, Callan Paske said keeping the community informed was a priority throughout the project.
“We know how much Waterworks Reserve means to Hobartians – it’s part of many people’s routines, whether that’s a walk, a run, barbeque, or just getting out in nature – so we’ll keep sharing updates as the work progresses,” Mr Paske said.
“This reservoir has been quietly doing its job for well over a century, and these upgrades are about making sure it can keep doing that for generations to come.
“We understand the draining and construction works can be noticeable, and at times disruptive, so we really appreciate the community’s patience while we get this important work done.”
Construction works are expected to continue through to late July 2026. Standard working hours will be Monday to Friday, 7am to 6pm.
For more information about the project, visit: Ridgeway Upper Reservoir Upgrade | Your Say.
