Construction on the new water treatment and recycle plant in Parkes has begun in order to provide a reliable and enduring water source for the New South Wales region.
The project is jointly funded between the Coalition Government ($8,725,000) (through the National Stronger Regions Fund) and Parkes Shire Council ($8,725,000).
Minister for Regional Development Fiona Nash said the new wastewater treatment plant and recycled water scheme would ensure Parkes will have a sustainable future.
“Coming from regional NSW myself, I know how important it is to have a secure and reliable water source, and this facility will help Parkes and the surrounding region during times of drought,” Ms Nash said.
“I aim to build the kinds of regional communities our children and grandchildren either want to stay in or come back to, and providing a secure and sustainable water supply is a big part of that.”
Federal Member for Riverina Michael McCormack said the facility will provide Parkes with access to recycled water which will benefit approximately 30,000 people per year.
“Once complete, the recycled water will have several uses including the watering of parks and gardens, and certain industry and farmland applications,” Mr McCormack said.
Parkes Shire Council Mayor Ken Keith thanked the Coalition Government for its contribution towards such an important piece of infrastructure for the Parkes Shire region.
“The new Parkes Advanced Recycled Water Facility will underpin a new recycled water scheme for Parkes, strengthening water security for the Shire and bringing water recycling activities up to current regulatory and industry best practice standards,” Cr Keith said.
“The project will provide advanced disinfection of the high grade effluent from the new sewage treatment plant next door, to supply vastly superior water quality to customers on the existing effluent reuse scheme, and also allow recycled water to be used to irrigate sports grounds and parks around the town.”
