Detailed design work underway for Gloucester's new reservoirs

Published on 27 August 2020

MidCoast Council’s consultant, AECOM Australia has started work on the detailed design for the construction of two new reservoirs, that will improve the reliability of Gloucester's water supply system.

“Through September, AECOM will conduct site investigations, geotechnical studies, surveys and prepare preliminary electrical, civil, mechanical, hydraulic and process drawings and designs for the project,” said Council’s Director of Infrastructure and Engineering and Services, Rob Scott.

The existing water supply system was developed over a long time with a number of small reservoirs and booster pumping stations constructed.

“Due to the location and height of the existing reservoirs, it’s not possible to always provide adequate pressure to parts of Gloucester and Barrington without the use of pressure booster pump stations,” said Mr Scott.

“A further problem is that during power outages, some areas of the town receive inadequate pressure to maintain adequate supply.”

In May, Council approved the concept design which identified the best option is to establish one new seven megalitre ground-level service reservoir and one new elevated service reservoir at the Cemetery Road site.

This makes efficient use of existing land and infrastructure including pipeline assets, access roads and electricity. There will also be no need to acquire new land.

The separate project to secure long term water security for Gloucester by constructing an off-creek storage dam for water security remains a longer term priority for Council and community.

Council has also completed a Review of Environmental Factors document, which assessed the proposed design to ensure the best environmental outcomes.

“A major consideration of the Review has been to ensure the works required will not impact on the habitat of the endangered grey-crowned babbler bird, which nests on protected land adjoining the Cemetery Road site for the new reservoirs,” said Mr Scott.

Specific conditions for the works will be included in the detailed design based on the Review’s recommendations.

Construction is expected to start early in 2021.

For more information as the project planning progresses, and the protection of the grey crowned babbler, visit www.midcoast.nsw.gov.au/gloucesterwater