A major upgrade is underway to futureproof wastewater services in Bowral and protect the local environment.
With construction well underway, the $55 million upgrade to Bowral’s sewage treatment plant is setting the stage for a more resilient and environmentally conscious future. Located in the Southern Highlands and operated by Wingecarribee Shire Council, the plant services Bowral, East Bowral and Burradoo—areas experiencing steady population growth and rising infrastructure demands.
Council General Manager Lisa Miscamble said the upgrade was a proactive move to stay ahead of future needs.
“Although the existing Bowral STP is operating well and within its licence, the plant is nearing its design capacity and needs to be upgraded to accommodate future growth within the catchment,” she said.
She added that the new works will “protect the local environment and improve public amenity for years to come.”
The project includes a wide range of upgrades: new inlet works fitted with mechanical band screens, bioreactors, secondary clarifiers, and a UV disinfection system. These core changes will help the plant better manage peak flows while maintaining high treatment standards. A new sludge handling facility and odour control systems are also part of the works, ensuring minimal disruption to surrounding communities.
The upgrade is more than a technical overhaul—it’s a statement of long-term investment in regional sustainability. Originally last upgraded in 2006, the current works will bring the plant in line with modern standards and regulatory expectations across New South Wales.
Council has published a draft Review of Environmental Factors (REF) outlining the potential environmental impacts and mitigation measures. Community members can review the REF online, and Council is hosting an open-site tour on Saturday 20 November to encourage public engagement and transparency. Locals interested in attending can RSVP via email to capital.projects@wsc.nsw.gov.au.
This project forms part of a broader state-wide initiative to modernise wastewater infrastructure, ensuring treatment facilities meet the dual challenges of population growth and environmental stewardship.
