Kyogle is on the path to improved sewerage infrastructure and better environmental protection, with the next stage of investigative work for a new high-tech wastewater treatment plant underway.
The next stage of development will help lay the groundwork for future upgrades, with concept designs and detailed site investigations expected to be delivered by the end of this year. This has been funded thanks to $379,500 from the NSW Government and $125,500 from Kyogle Council.
“Treated effluent is already recycled into our region through agricultural irrigation, and some of that also makes its way to the Richmond River, which is why our wastewater treatment process must remain at a really high standard,” Mayor of Kyogle Council Cr Danielle Mulholland said. “We know the sewage plant will eventually need to be replaced, which is why we’re busy preparing and doing our homework now so we’re ready to hit go on construction when the time comes.”
The existing Kyogle Sewage Treatment Plant was constructed in 1957, with only minor upgrades in the 1990s and 2000s. The ageing infrastructure is struggling to treat wastewater efficiently in line with environmental standards for effluent discharge needed to protect this iconic region.
“Kyogle is a gateway to the Border Ranges and Toonumbar National Parks, so we must have the best possible environmental protections in place, including ensuring local sewerage infrastructure, which services over 2500 people, is up to scratch,” Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin said. “While this upgrade is still in the design phase, it’s important that we dot the ‘I’s and cross the ‘T’s to enable the most informed investment decision down the track and get the best outcome for the community.”
This is why the NSW Government and Council have joined forces to progress the next stage of investigative work, which will enable the new plant to be shovel-ready when funding is secured at a later date.
“The NSW Government will continue working closely with Council to get these concept designs and detailed specifications done, which will give us a clearer idea of what a new sewage treatment plant could look like and how much it would cost,” Saffin said.
It builds on $225,000 funding from the NSW Government’s Safe and Secure Program and $75,000 from Kyogle Council for the early development phase of the project in 2022.
Learn more about the Safe and Secure Water Program.
