Helderfontein Outfall Sewer nears completion

11 February
2020 Construction of the R12 million
Helderfontein Outfall Sewer, situated in Riverside close to Fourways is nearing
completion. The construction of this outfall sewer will result in the unlocking
of a new development and become a major part of the infrastructure for the
area. This will create economic growth and is a catalyst for further
development and job creation for local communities.

Icon Group was
contracted in July 2019 by Century Property Developers to carry out the
development with completion scheduled for February 2020. On completion of the
project Century Property Developers will hand the outfall sewer to Joburg
Water. This pipeline will become the main line for the area and form part of
the main infrastructure for the area allowing Century Property to start the
development of Phase 2 of the Helderfontein upmarket housing estate on the Northern
side of the Jukskei River.

With their large
range of inhouse construction equipment and experience in large dam pipelines,
Icon Group made use of various ecological construction methods to prevent
flooding and protect the ecology of this sensitive area. The company made use
of a restricted method for clearing of the site minimizing damage to the
sensitive environment and where necessary relocated trees.

Wayne Neary, Managing
Director of Icon stated, “This very sensitive site runs along the flood plain
of the Jukskei River and during excavation we had to be conscious of how we
approached this job in order to protect the flood line and ensure that there was
no damage to the surrounding environment.”

The pipe being used
is spigot and socket HDPE sewer pipe that is light weight and durable with a longer
lifespan than traditional concrete sewer pipes. The use of HTPE plastic pipe
that is more cost effective, easer to install and better product has resulted
in reduced maintenance and a longer life span for the project. In addition,
these pipes are lighter to transport resulting in a lower carbon footprint for
the project. This 8-month project included the excavation and laying of 3km of
500dia HDPE pipeline, backfilling of the line, construction of 53 manholes and
the excavation and backfill of 10 000 cm³. 

The substantial
amount of rock at depths of up to 7m during excavation proved challenging but
the use of Icon’s new hydraulic hammers proved effective in the conditions
resulting in minimal blasting being required on site. Icon’s hydraulic hammers allow
precision rock breaking without over breaking and wastage.

Contact:

Wayne Neary, Managing
Director

ICON Group

010 591 6828

[email protected]
www.iconearthworks.co.za