Rookwood Serpentine Canal Restoration

Project Overview

The Serpentine Canal, part of Rookwood's historic heritage dating back to the 1880s, is surrounded by tranquil gardens and heritage-listed monuments. Modi was engaged to restore a section of the canal identified as a Work Health and Safety (WHS) concern. Despite challenging weather conditions, the project was successfully delivered over a two-week period with great sensitivity to the site's historical significance and operational needs — with no disruption to any funeral services or ongoing cemetery operations.

Scope of Works

• Clearing the canal bedding of vegetation and rubbish
• Removing and disposing of vegetation, plants, and stumps alongside the retaining wall
• Trenching along both sides of the canal's brick retaining wall and stockpiling spoil for reuse
• Careful dismantling of the existing brick retaining wall for assessment and reuse
• Sorting and reusing salvageable bricks; supplying and installing matching bricks where needed
• Reconstructing the brick retaining wall to reflect its original heritage style
• Installing weep holes every 4 meters along the new wall
• Installing drainage sill, geofabric lining, and 300mm granular backfill
• Backfilling trenches and restoring surrounding turf
• Providing temporary site fencing
• Ensuring proper waste disposal to licensed facilities
• Full compliance with WHS Act and CCC site requirements
• Coordinating works to remain quiet and cease operations during any nearby funeral services