The next steps towards building a modern, sustainable, and more efficient water reclamation plant in Castlemaine are now underway. Coliban Water has submitted a licence application and planning permit to get the ball rolling on this exciting new project.
Subject to approval, these proposed upgrades will include the construction of a new water reclamation facility with a new solids handling treatment within the 30-acre site’s existing boundaries.
These upgrades will aim to utilise the best available technologies and techniques for wastewater treatment, maximising benefits for the local community and helping improve long-term water security.
Castlemaine Program Director Danny Childs said these submissions were a huge milestone for both the local community and the project.
“This is a crucial step for this once-in-a-generation upgrade. Our application for our Langslow Street site has been years in the making. Even though it might not seem very visible from a public perspective, we’ve been busy behind the scenes preparing for the upgrades by completing detailed investigations.
“This will ensure we design a sustainable, adaptable and robust plant that meets community and environmental needs well into the future.”
The Development Licence Application is currently open for public feedback on the Engage Victoria website until 16 December 2024. The Mount Alexander Shire Council will advertise the planning permit application in the future.
“We encourage feedback from the community and look forward to progressing this project,” Mr Childs said.
“We’ve conducted environmental assessments around noise, odour, water, biodiversity and habitat considerations. Protecting Campbells Creek, including local wildlife such as platypus and macroinvertebrates, is crucial.
“We’ve heard from the community that there is strong support for seeing high-quality treated water continue to be used to support the health of Campbells Creek, and we acknowledge the important role it plays,” Mr Childs said.
“We want to understand all the angles of how this project can affect the community and the different people and groups that have a strong interest in the upgrades,” Mr Childs said.
If you want to learn more about the project, Coliban Water is hosting a drop-in session at Maxi IGA Castlemaine, at the corner of Mostyn and Hargraves streets, on Tuesday, 3 December, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
It is also hosting an information session at Castlemaine WRP in Langslow Street on Saturday, 7 December. Please register your interest in this event by filling out the form at connect.coliban.com.au/castlemaine-wrp
You can also call 1300 363 200 and email us at coliban@coliban.com.au
