$1.5m project commences to improve sewer capacity and reliability

25 Jan 2024 |
25 January 2024

Southern Downs Regional Council has commenced critical works to upgrade the 2.4 kilometre stretch of sewer mains between Market Square and the Warwick Sewerage Treatment Plant.

The $1,518,241.50 upgrade project will increase network capacity and reliability by installing a new 450mm pipe and an additional 450mm gravity main between the discharge maintenance hole and the inlet works.

This project was developed with the support of the Queensland Government’s Building our Regions Program in association with Council.

These upgrades are essential as the existing mains are reaching the end of their design lives, current maintenance costs are high, and potential failures could lead to sewer overflows that have an adverse impact on human health and the environment.

Southern Downs Mayor Vic Pennisi said these works complement recent onsite upgrades to shore-up the reliability of essential sewerage services to the community.

“Council is committed to addressing ageing infrastructure, and through external funding streams like the Queensland Government’s Building our Regions Program, we can turn the tide with minimal cost to the ratepayer,” Mayor Pennisi said.

“The existing mains have been showing signs of deterioration. Ongoing repairs to ageing assets and overflow clean-ups are costly, with potential environmental impacts and compliance penalties from the Department of Environment and Science.

“Council has already delivered the Market Square pump station upgrade, and this next stage of renewing the sewer mains will complete the works to improve reliable operation and delivery of essential sewerage services to the community.”

The new mains will be constructed entirely within road reserves owned by Council. The section of the existing mains that is currently located in the middle of private property will be relocated to the road reserve.

The work is scheduled to be completed in September 2024.

Council appreciates the patience and cooperation of the community during the refurbishment and looks forward to providing the improved services this project will deliver.

Last edited date 23 Feb 2024