Watercare has started a $3.3 million project to reline more than two kilometres of sewer pipeline along the foreshore at Snells Beach and Algies Bay.

The work, which began this week, is designed to reduce the risk of saltwater entering the wastewater network during high and spring tides.

As part of the project, 40 manholes will also be renewed.

Senior programme manager Dirk Du Plessis says the goal is to protect key infrastructure, including the new Snells Beach Wastewater Treatment Plant, which is under construction.

He explains that saltwater is highly corrosive, damaging pipes, pumps and treatment plants, and can also disrupt the processes used to safely treat human waste.

By relining the pipeline with a spiral wound PVC liner, Watercare can restore structural integrity without excavation.

Work sites will be set up at both beaches, with crews working around low tides.

While most of the activity will happen along the foreshore, some work will also take place in residential backyards.

For Coasties who spend plenty of time at these beaches, the project means construction activity will be visible through summer.

Watercare says beach access will remain open, though people are asked to keep clear of work areas and keep dogs and children safe.

The rehabilitation is expected to be completed by late January.

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