City of Coffs Harbour Councillors have voted to proceed with works to duplicate a 40-year-old water main, saying the works will provide greater surety that northern residents have safe drinking water at the turn of a tap.
The works will see the duplication of the main water main between the Mullaway Reservoir and a point near Wiigulga Sports Complex in West Woolgoolga.
The existing water main, which is currently the sole connector for residents north of Woolgoolga, was identified as a vulnerability in a 2021-22 Coffs Harbour Water Supply Master Plan.
“By putting a second water main in play we will build resilience into the network supply system,” said Mayor, Nikki Williams.
“Being underground and out-of-sight, water mains are something often taken for granted in built-up areas – yet they are vital infrastructure and this is an investment in a critical service.”
The 2.3-kilometre stretch of a new main line represents Stage 1 of a project that will eventually see the pipe run all the way to Corindi.
“The existing trunk water main is the sole source of potable water supply to the Northern part of the Coffs Harbour Local Government Area, so a significant issue or break in this could leave residents without a town water supply,” said Council Infrastructure Director, Andrew Beswick.
“The new line will run largely through the road reserve of Solitary Islands Way and Tramway Drive, including some rocky areas, and will be established mostly by underground horizontal directional drilling with some short sections of open trenching.”
Council also resolved to award the $1,901,278 (excluding GST) contract to Ledonne Construction Pty Ltd following a competitive tender process.
Practical completion of the works is expected by July, weather permitting.
