Starting from July we’re doing some important restoration works along the Main Yarra Trail in Warrandyte. The Main Yarra Trail is much loved by our community and an important environmental asset to the area.
Unfortunately, the trail has been hit hard by unprecedented rainfall in the last few years. This has caused significant damage to structure of the trail and the native plants around it. Excess water has also caused some older trees to die prematurely, without younger trees ready to take their place.
After the heavy rainfall we implemented a series of temporary measures to stop further erosion and to keep the trail open. We’re now focusing on the long-term restoration of the trail and the environment around it.
The Manningham Green Wedge Infrastructure Plan has been considered in the design and approach to the restoration, to ensure the works are sustainable and sympathetic to the semi-rural character of the area.
To undertake these works we have engaged the services of an expert contractor. Their expertise will be instrumental in restoring the trail to its full potential, so it can be enjoyed for many years to come.
Where will the restoration works be?
We’re performing major maintenance works along the Main Yarra Trail from Everard Drive to Tills Drive in Warrandyte. Each section of the trail will receive different levels of restoration depending on the damage.
What will the restoration works include?
For the majority of the trail we are simply leveling out the rock bed, adding more rocks, undertaking weed removal and doing some additional planting.
For some small sections we may be required to undertake more extensive structural work, including:
Cement stabilisation under some sections of the path (that will be covered by rock and look the same as the remainder of the trail).
A retaining wall to stop the trail from eroding into the river (on a small section of the trail adjacent to Police Street).
Will there be any additional works?
There will be some improvements to the trail at the carpark on the public toilet side of Kangaroo Ground Bridge. The drainage in this location will be upgraded to reduce flooding from storm water in the area. We will also be installing a new concrete shared path that is designed to improve accessibility for wheelchairs, cyclists, and pedestrians. The concrete path treatment will be sympathetic to the visual amenity of the area.
When will the works occur?
We will begin works in July 2023 and we expect them to be complete toward the end of 2023. Works will begin on the section of the trail at Everard Drive and finish at Tills Drive. The construction timeline is subject to weather delays.
Will the trail be closed during restoration?
Small sections of the trail will be closed as we work through it. There will always be appropriate detour signage in place allowing the community to enjoy the trail as normally as possible while works are completed.
What happens if we don’t do this maintenance?
Due to the heavy and constant rainfall last year the trail is at great risk of long-term damage if we do not put significant measures in place to restore it. Every effort has been made to ensure the trail retains the same look and feel once works are complete.
