Sewer system expands into planned growth area

Let it flow: Central Highlands Water head of capital delivery Alison Pitcher and senior project manager capital delivery David Scott onsite at the Ballarat North Trunk Sewer Project. Photo: SUPPLIED

CENTRAL Highlands Water staff are seeking to plan ahead for the city’s proposed expansion into the Ballarat North Growth Zone.

Known as the Ballarat North Trunk Sewer Project, the water utility is working to install $3 million worth of wastewater infrastructure in the BNGZ precinct.

This project is set to see a one-kilometre gravity sewer pipeline constructed which will carry wastewater for a predicted 15,000 people within 6000 homes.

The pipeline is also expected to cater to the new Mount Rowan Ballarat Showgrounds site, and a nearby proposed Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action office and regional depot facility.

“We are committed to continuing to invest in the future of our region,” said CHW managing director Jeff Haydon.

“The one-kilometre pipeline for the Ballarat North Trunk Sewer Project will contribute to the wastewater needs for the planned growth zones in the future.”

Paddocks and farmland in Ballarat’s north has been highlighted by City of Ballarat officers as an ideal location for residential growth into the future.

The City’s director development and growth Natalie Robertson said the Victorian Planning Authority is progressing with a precinct structure plan for the area.

“The PSP is currently in the early stages of development which will ultimately provide high level direction for the planning of the new community,” she said.

“All land uses, including details such as schools, medical facilities and retail will be determined by technical reports and set out in the final PSP.

“It is expected that the PSP will be incorporated into the Ballarat Planning Scheme by 2026.”