Pressure Tunnel and Shafts

The Pressure Tunnel is an underground water pipe in Potts Hill that extends a considerable distance and contains two cylindrical tubes measuring 1.8 meters in diameter. Seventeen shafts positioned along the route provide access points for maintenance and dewatering work.

Construction began in 1921 and the project faced technical difficulties including cracks in the lining. These challenges led to an official investigation in the 1930s.

The tunnel represents a significant advancement in civil engineering practices of the early 20th century, influencing future water infrastructure developments in New South Wales.

The tunnel runs underground and is not directly accessible to visitors, but serves the city's water supply. You can see the shaft entrances scattered across the area from ground level.

The system ranks among the world's largest high-pressure water pipes and uses steel linings protected by concrete to prevent internal corrosion. This combination of protective layers represents a notable engineering solution from that era.

Location: New South Wales

GPS coordinates: -33.89540,151.12980

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:21