Construction of Elmore’s new public toilets at Railway Place has been paused due to town infrastructure being discovered under the site.
A previously unknown water main was found in the early stages of construction after it began in May.
“During early construction works, a previously undetected water main was located under the former toilet block. It was a surprise to everyone,” City of Greater Bendigo presentation and assets director Brian Westley said.
“Coliban Water do not authorise buildings to be constructed over their water mains, and this has meant the city has had to change the location of the new building by several metres.
“The change to the location has required the city to undertake further consultation with various authorities and obtain permit amendments, which has resulted in the project delays.
“However, we are hopeful that construction works will resume in the near future.”
During this construction period, portable toilets have been installed on Railway Rd, near the Elmore Miniature Railway.
Mr Westley reaffirmed council’s goal for better accessibility, pushed by projects such as the new toilets.
“The City of Greater Bendigo is committed to providing accessible public toilet facilities in line with its public toilet strategy and to improving disability access across the Greater Bendigo community,” he said.
“When completed, the new Elmore public toilet facility will feature five unisex cubicles, two accessible unisex cubicles and a changing place to provide suitable facilities for people who cannot use standard accessible cubicles.”