Kempsey Shire Council is pleased to announce the start of the procurement phase for the design and construction of a new water treatment plant at Willawarrin. The proposed plant will provide residents with safe, clean and reliable drinking water.
Following section 60 endorsement for the concept design by the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment in June 2022, Council has now completed the designs and technical specifications for the project and is preparing to put the project out for tender.
The plant will be located on the southern end of the Willawarrin sports field and is expected to be completed in 2024. The total cost of the project is $4 million, with Council contributing the bulk of the funds supported by a grant from the NSW Government's Safe and Secure Water Program.
Wes Trotter, Group Manager Water and Sewer, says he is excited to see this project move from the planning phase to construction.
"This plant will deliver water quality, water pressure and water security for Willawarrin," said Mr Trotter.
"The existing system is unable to provide water of a high enough quality during drought, flood or fire events, and major weather events between 2017 and 2022 have impacted Willawarrin's water supply. In each case, Council was forced to transport drinkable water to Willawarrin via truck. Using trucks to provide water for Willawarrin is not sustainable."
Council has met with the community twice regarding the proposed project and specifically the location of the Water Treatment Plant since 2018. Since the last community meeting, held in June 2020, Council and government regulators have confirmed the best approach and location to rectify the poor quality of tap water in Willawarrin.
To provide the community with more information on the proposed project, Council is inviting residents to an information session at the Willawarrin Community Hall at 3pm Thursday 16 March. The session will provide an opportunity for residents to learn more about the project and ask any questions they may have.
Kempsey Shire Council is committed to improving the quality of life for our community by delivering clean and safe water and ensuring water security.
DETAILS
WHAT: Willawarrin Water Treatment Plant Information Session
WHERE: Willawarrin Community hall
WHEN: 3pm Thursday 16 March
WHY: The Willawarrin community is invited to come and hear about the new water treatment plant and have their questions answered.
