Local electrical and concreting providers are benefiting from the Manton Dam refurbishment, which is set to be completed by mid-2026.
The Federal and Northern Territory Governments said the $189 million project is now well over halfway complete, with a pump station now 80 per cent complete and the refurbishment of the Manton Dam intake tower now 90 per cent complete.
A rising main from Manton to the Strauss water treatment plant is also 90 per cent complete, with only 40 per cent of the Strauss facility constructed.
Once back in service, Manton Dam will provide a further 7300 megalitres of water per year to the Darwin region, helping to enhance water security and support future economic growth.
Exact Contracting has constructed 20km of new pipeline and infrastructure works since May 2024, with more than 70 per cent of personnel working on the project being local to the region.
The Strauss water treatment plant will play an important role in ensuring the highest water quality standards from the dam.
“It’s very exciting to see this project coming to fruition. It will deliver safe and reliable drinking water for people, while ensuring Manton Dam remains accessible for recreational use,” Federal Member for Solomon Luke Gosling said.
“Darwin’s water demand is expected to double by 2050, so this work will ensure our community can grow and develop with confidence.”
The Manton Dam project forms part of the $327.6 million stage one Darwin region water supply program, which is also focused on pre-construction activities at the Adelaide River off-stream water storage (AROWS) project.
Stage two of the supply program will involve the construction and commissioning of AROWS to support long-term water supply. Stage two of the Strauss water treatment plant will receive funding in this next phase.
The Federal Government is providing $300.6 million in stage one of the Darwin region water supply program, with the NT Government offering the balance.
