The future security of the region’s water supply took a major step forward last week, with the first pipes laid to mark the start of construction of the Mardi to Warnervale Pipeline.
Central Coast Mayor, Lisa Matthews, said the 9km pipeline would not only provide water to the expanding northern growth corridor but would enhance the water supply network for the entire region.
“Council is investing over $61M in this pipeline project, making it one of the largest single investments in the future security of our region’s water supply and a project we can be very proud of,” Cr Matthews said.
Council’s Director of Water and Sewer, Jamie Loader, said managing the water supply was a key priority for Council and the pipeline project was a prime example of then delivery of essential infrastructure.
“Recent conditions including extreme weather events and water restrictions that have faced our community and indeed communities across our state and nation, bring into sharp focus how important water security and water resilience is for everyone,” Loader said.
“The Mardi to Warnervale Pipeline will ensure a stable long-term water supply to new and growing areas in the north of the region to support anticipated levels of growth and development we need to deliver as part of the Central Coast Regional Plan 2036.
“In addition, we will see an enhancement in bulk water transfers between ourselves and the Hunter which enables better planning for future water resourcing for both regions.”
The complex project has been developed over the past six years and has included close and ongoing consultation with the community.
“Extensive investigations, design and planning have been undertaken to ensure the construction is delivered using the best technology available, including innovative trenchless construction techniques that will ensure sensitive environmental areas are protected,” Loader said.
“During the current COVID-19 crisis, our construction and field services crews continue to deliver essential services to the community.
The Mardi to Warnervale Pipeline project will be delivered by joint venture partners Spiecapag and Seymour Whyte and is expected to be commissioned in 2021.
In a webinar with local business groups on May 13, Council CEO Gary Murphy said the project had generated over 70 local jobs and that around 40 per cent of construction works and services had been procured from local suppliers.
Source:
Media release, May 8
Central Coast Council