A long-term wastewater management solution for Forrest is in the pipeline with Barwon Water endorsing a business case to introduce a reticulated town wastewater system.
Years of advocacy and collaboration between Council, Barwon Water and the Forrest community resulted in the important milestone, with Barwon Water to begin detailed infrastructure design work in 2027.
Proposed infrastructure would include a sewer network, onsite pressure units and a water recycling facility to replace privately owned septic systems.
Mayor Jason Schram said the project is a significant step forward for Forrest.
"Council, Barwon Water and the Forrest community have worked for many years toward a shared outcome," he said.
"It's fantastic to see that our effort and collaboration have resulted in this significant investment into Forrest, establishing a long-term solution to wastewater management in the town.
"Forrest has seen incredible growth in recent years and I thank the community for the integral role they have played in keeping this issue on the agenda, working together toward a positive outcome," Cr Schram said.
Under Barwon Water's proposed financial model, the organisation would fund the infrastructure and property owners in the Declared Sewer Area would pay for on-property connection costs and ongoing operational costs.
A submission from Council supported the overall project and proposed funding model, which was also supported by a majority of respondents to a community survey conducted by Barwon Water.
Timing of construction will be informed by design work and funding timeframes determined through Barwon Water's upcoming five-year plan.
"There is still work to be done, but endorsement of this project gives a clear pathway forward and demonstrates what can be achieved when Council, community and key agencies work together," Cr Schram said.
