SA Water will invest an additional $55 million over the next four years to replace 375,000 metres of water mains across the state, with the aim of reducing the number of bursts and leaks.

The increased focus on pipe replacement will reduce the impact of water main issues on SA Water customers and the wider community.

It will also help to lessen impacts of water main incidents on commuters, through the upgrade of water mains on several main arterial roads, including Anzac Highway, Greenhill Road and Main South Road.

Up to 150 local jobs are expected to be required to carry out the expanded main replacement programme, creating a boost to job growth in the state.

"The State Govern-ment is committed to providing a reliable water network for South Australians now and into the future", Water and River Murray Minister Ian Hunter said.

"We are focused on making smart investments to improve our infrastructure and build the state’s economy through the creation of more local jobs.

"We support SA Water in its collaborative approach with other agencies – such as local councils – to ensure a minimal impact on residents and commuters when the main replacement work is carried out", he said.

Greek Tribune