Water upgrades in the pipeline

THE region’s recycled water network is set to be expanded following one-million dollars in State Government funding going towards upgrading the Ballarat North Water Reclamation Plant.

The upgrades aim to deliver additional recycled water capabilities for the city’s irrigated recreational complexes, which Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison said will foster a greener city.

“What we want to do is futureproof Ballarat not only for residents but also make sure that our green, beautiful city remains that way regardless of climate change,” she said.

“We know climate change is real and it’s a huge challenge for us as a government as well as a community.

“So, anything we can do to save our precious water resources, to reuse our water resources means we’re going to have more water to look after our city and keep it beautiful.”

The plant’s Class A recycled water facility will increase to five million litres daily once works are complete.

As part of the works supply capacity for Lake Wendouree will also be increased, and new recycled water connections will be installed for Wendouree West Recreation Reserve and Victoria Park.

Central Highlands Water has contributed $2.55 million to the project alongside $500,000 from the City of Ballarat.

The funding is part of the first round of the $14.1 million Integrated Water Management Program, with Ballarat home to one of 18 statewide initiatives.