Federation Council is set to boost water security and the future growth potential of Howlong following a $7.8M grant funding injection from the Federal and NSW State Governments.
Funding delivered under the NSW Sustainable Communities Program's Economic Development and Infrastructure Round, will deliver the Howlong Water Reservoir Replacement project. Matched with a $2M co-contribution from Council's Water Fund, the total investment in Howlong's future reaches $9.8M.
This initiative will replace the aging 3.7ML water reservoir with a brand-new, 7ML reservoir and add an upgraded pump station at the Water Treatment Plant on Pearce Street.
Residents will see direct, tangible improvements to their daily lives. The project will fundamentally resolve the poor water pressure issues frequently experienced during peak times by boosting the township's water head pressure from 20 metres to approximately 25 metres. Furthermore, the expanded capacity ensures full operational compliance with the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines for chlorine contact time.
The current water infrastructure limitations have historically forced Council to restrict housing developments. By nearly doubling the town's water storage capacity, this upgrade serves as the primary unlocking mechanism for Howlong's local economy. It provides long-term planning certainty to support the projected demand for 1,500 new dwellings over the next 30 years, catering to a growing population out to 2054.
Federation Council Mayor, Cr Cheryl Cook highlighted the profound impact this funding will have on the community's resilience.
"This is a monumental win for Howlong and the broader Federation Council region," Mayor Cook said.
"Water security is the foundation of any thriving community, and this grant funding allows us to replace a critical asset that was reaching the end of its life. By increasing our local water storage to 7 megalitres and upgrading our pump station, we aren't just fixing infrastructure - we are removing limitations that have stalled growth in our town of Howlong."
Mayor Cook said this project directly addresses the community's feedback, from the structural concerns raised in our planning papers to the low water pressure reported by residents.
"This project gives us the vital infrastructure we need to confidently unlock land for housing, welcome new families, and ensure major employers like Cool Off can double their production and secure local jobs," she said.
Federation Council General Manager, Adrian Butler thanked both governments for their substantial investment and extended his congratulations to the Council staff who worked diligently to secure the funding.
"Securing a highly competitive grant of this scale requires an immense amount of rigorous planning, data modeling and strategic collaboration," Mr Butler said.
"I want to sincerely thank the Federal and New South Wales Governments for recognising the vital need for this project, Local Member Justin Clancy for his support and strong advocacy, the Howlong Community Progress Association and congratulate our council staff who put together a successful application."
Following the completion of the concept design work, Council expects the formal Request for Tender (RFT) process to roll out smoothly, allowing construction contractors to mobilise on-site in early 2027.
