The Toowoomba Regional Council (TRC) is planning for the future, endorsing three new studies to identify the water and wastewater infrastructure network upgrades needed to support continued growth in the region.
The studies into the sewerage networks in Pittsworth and Greater Western Toowoomba, and the water supply network in Yarraman, were endorsed at the Ordinary Meeting of Council on 15 April 2025.
TRC engineers undertook the investigations to determine which infrastructure projects should be included in the Local Government Infrastructure Plan (LGIP).
The plan helps prioritise infrastructure delivery to support urban development over the next ten to 15 years.
Across all three catchments, the proposed infrastructure upgrades are estimated to cost approximately $30.5 million over the next ten years, with projects expected to be incorporated into Council’s Capital Works Program.
TRC Deputy Mayor and Strategic Water Planning and Capital Delivery portfolio spokesperson, Rebecca Vonhoff, said the studies are a crucial step in planning for the region’s long-term growth.
“These studies have identified areas where water and sewerage infrastructure will need to be upgraded within the next decade.
“It’s vital these works are factored into our Capital Works Program to ensure we have the backbone infrastructure needed to support growth in the northern, western, and southern parts of our region,” she said.
TRC Water Infrastructure Services portfolio spokesperson, Bill Cahill, emphasised the importance of proactive planning for essential services.
“Water and wastewater services are some of the most critical functions Council delivers,” he said.
“We must continue to plan sustainably and ensure our infrastructure keeps pace with growth.”
The sewerage network studies revealed that both the Pittsworth Water Reclamation Facility (PWRF) and the Wetalla Water Reclamation Facility (WWRF) are projected to reach capacity at least a decade earlier than previously expected, based on updated growth data released in April 2024.
The Yarraman Water Supply Study identified the need for a range of upgrades and potential sites for a new water treatment plant, aimed at improving the current treatment process. This need is expected to become increasingly important as the local population grows.
The findings from these studies will also inform key Council documents, including the Toowoomba Region Planning Scheme.
The full water and wastewater study reports can be accessed here.
