Excavation works have started on Townsville’s new 1.8m diameter water pipeline, as part of the council’s three-point water security solution.
Both CivilPlus and NQ Excavations have started digging trenches, which will accommodate the new pipeline.
Mayor Jenny Hill said the start of excavation work was another key milestone on the pipeline project.
“The trenches are being dug and up to 100 local workers will be required to install the pipes — which is expected to start soon,” Cr Hill said.
“This is council’s top infrastructure priority, and we are totally committed to delivering the new pipeline by the end of 2019.
“We know praying for rain is no strategy to deliver long-term water security, and that’s why council is totally focused on our three-point water security solution.”
The three-point water security solution includes:
- The new 1.8m diameter pipeline
- A recycled water reuse scheme for public open spaces and industrial use
- Water Smart Package
Cr Hill said council had deliberately structured the work packages on the pipeline to ensure local businesses got the best chance of winning work on the project.
“We have awarded half the installation packages, and that work has already created up to 100 jobs,” Cr Hill said.
“Early in the new year, council will award the remaining half of the work and we are expecting to create a similar number of jobs for locals.
“Jobs will keep flowing from the pipeline, and it’s one of the major projects helping our economy to turn the corner.”
Member for Townsville, Scott Stewart, emphasised the importance of creating employment opportunities for the Townsville community while ensuring water security for decades to come.
“This is why the Palaszczuk Government committed $225 million in the pipeline and water security for Townsville — to boost the local economy, create jobs for Townsville locals and ensure water security for the future,” Mr Stewart said.
“We’ve listened to Townsville residents and taken action, and it’s fantastic to see the pipeline continuing to take shape into 2019.”
The Queensland Government has invested $225 million in funding for water security in Townsville.
