8 December 2009
Recycled water supply for nearly 20,000 homes in West Werribee came a step closer with more than $100 million funding confirmed today for a salt reduction facility and related pipes, pumps and storage tanks.
City West Water Managing Director Anne Barker said the multi million dollar project will see 3 billion litres of waste water from the Western Treatment Plant in Werribee treated to Class A standard. The water will then be piped direct through a separate ‘purple pipe’ system to households and for use by Wyndham City Council.
Ms Barker said the funding represents a boost for residents and the Wyndham City Council, who’ll all have access to thousands of litres of recycled water each year.
“Climate change and 13 years of drought mean that our traditional water supplies are no longer meeting all of our water needs, so we’re investing in extensive water recycling projects to satisfy our water needs,” Ms Barker said.
“We are committed to expanding the use of recycled water in our service area, whether it is for our large industries, or in this case, for thousands of residents for use in and around the home.
The water treatment facility will remove salts and other contaminants, resolving the issue of high salt levels which has previously made recycled water unsuitable for domestic use. As part of the project, more than 20km of distribution pipelines and large storage tanks will also be constructed.
Ms Barker said that once complete, the water treatment facility will pipe water to 2000 existing homes and another 17,200 housing allotments to be built over the next 20 years.
“The Wyndham area is one of the fastest growing areas in the country, and with recycled water set to be piped directly to nearly 20,000 homes over the coming years, it helps make that growth more sustainable.
“Once recycled water is flowing, residents will be able to use it for toilet flushing, car washing, and watering of gardens and lawns, providing more freedom than current water restrictions.”
Ms Barker said the project will be a great boost to hundreds of households, Wyndham City Council and Werribee Racing Club who have been waiting for recycled water for a number of years.
“This announcement is great news for the residents of the Manor Lake, Bluestone and Riverwalk estates who’ve been patiently waiting for access to recycled water,” Ms Barker said.
“While we regret the delay, with funding now confirmed, we can assure residents and those looking to move to the area that recycled water will be readily available in 2013.”
Ms Barker said a contract for construction will be awarded in 2010 with works expected to begin shortly thereafter.