Upper Canal Control Gates

Improved safety features, increased canal efficiencies and enhanced management tools, are the key benefits of new water control infrastructure installed for WaterNSW. This multi-million dollar project was required to upgrade the Upper Canal which delivers up to 40% of Sydney’s drinking water. The Upper Nepean Scheme was established more than 125 years ago and includes a 64km canal which is comprised of 19kms of tunnels, 1km of pipe aqueducts and 44km of open canal, much of which is protected due to its historical value.

AWMA was engaged by Zinfra to design, manufacture and install a number of water control structures along the length of the Upper Canal. The upgraded sites include motorised water control gates with associated equipment i.e. trash racks, safety rails and access walkways. AWMA worked with project partners to ensure the upgraded infrastructure will deliver project objectives whilst protecting the heritage listed canal. AWMA’s customised gate solutions included rectangular and trapezoidal designs, stainless steel materials and numerous safety features.

The customised water control structures include:

• scour valves to drain the section upstream of the gate for maintenance work;
• trash racks to capture debris;
• safety features i.e. fall arrest system handrailing;
• access platforms to facilitate inspection, operation and maintenance of the gates;
• control systems including associated equipment

The new water control structures will regulate water levels in the canal to cater for varying flow rates and significantly improve the safe working environment for WaterNSW operators.