Clarence Magazine: Maintaining a safe and reliable water supply
Published on 23 April 2025
Maintaining a safe and reliable water supply, as well as processing wastewater in an environmentally responsible manner, is a complex task. Council has several multi-million-dollar projects at various stages across the water cycle, from sourcing water from the Nymboida River to managing biosolids at the end of the cycle.
Nymboida Headworks
Water is supplied to the Clarence Valley and Coffs Harbour from the Nymboida River via a tunnel that has been excavated through the rocky hillside. However, since the second tunnel was damaged during the 2013 floods, there has been no backup in case the operational tunnel fails. Repairs to the damaged tunnel are planned to ensure the region’s ongoing water security. This repair is a top priority.
- ESTIMATED COST: $20M (to be shared with Coffs Harbour)
- STATUS: Concept development, call for tenders mid-2025.
Filtration plant for Rushforth Water Treatment Plant
Adding filtration to the treatment process would reduce suspended particles in town drinking water but comes at a significant cost. Modelling estimates the cost at approximately $83 million, with funding sources yet to be secured. Investigations into potential grants are ongoing, and other funding options may include water charge increases and loans. Once the Environmental Impact Statement is approved by the State Government, Councillors will consider whether to continue with the project.
- ESTIMATED COST: $83 million
- STATUS: Awaiting approval of Environmental Impact Statement, seeking government funding
Chlorine contact tank and 16ML reservoir
The existing reservoir has reached the end of its operational life, and a new, modern replacement has been designed for installation this year. The new reservoir will include a chlorine contact tank to improve chlorination efficiency, resulting in better disinfection.
- ESTIMATED COST: $19 million
- STATUS: Designs complete, early site works to commence mid-2025
Read the full story here