Barwon Water wants to dismantle the 110-year-old Barwon River ovoid sewer aqueduct, after finding the structure can no longer be safely maintained.
The organisation said dismantling the heritage-listed structure which used to transport sewage across Geelong, is the safest way forward.
It was decommissioned in 1992 after carrying sewage across the Barwon River since 1915, it was replaced by a pipeline built under the river.
A heritage permit issued in November 2020 allows for four spans of the aqueduct to be removed, with the remaining 10 spans to be retained and conserved.
But Managing Director at Barwon Water, Shane Cumming said this cannot be safely maintained and the structure’s eventual failure is unavoidable.
“We have explored all avenues, with a range of experts,” Mr Cumming said.
“Unfortunately, there is no safe way to complete conservation works on the aqueduct, with any option for propping unable to prevent the eventual failing of the structure.
“Community and worker safety is our top priority, and this new way forward removes many ongoing risks that the deteriorating structure poses to the public.
“This is the safest remaining option that also provides the best heritage outcome.”
Access under the structure has been prohibited and the surrounding land and river has been closed to the public since 1995 due to safety concerns.
Barwon Water said dismantling the aqueduct would open up the 66-hectare space for public use, with plans to create a new cultural and community precinct.
