Construction has begun in WA to replace a 27km section of the Water Corporation’s Albany to Mount Barker water pipeline.
WA Water Minister Mia Davies said the new $10million pipeline would run from Chorkerup to Mount Barker and would be completed by the end of 2014.
“Mount Barker’s steady population growth means the 30-year old pipeline which serves the town is reaching capacity,” Ms Davies said.
“This is especially evident during the peak tourist season when demand increases dramatically.
“Mount Barker is a major regional commercial and administrative centre that serves as the tourist gateway to the Great Southern region, and an improved water supply system is essential.
“This work will help the area continue to grow and prosper and consolidate its reputation as a great tourist attraction.”
The Minister said the Water Corporation would also build a new pump station in Kokokup as part of the project, which would further improve the reliability and capacity of the system.
“This is the start of the Government fulfilling its election promise of a complete $30million upgrade of the Mount Barker area’s water infrastructure,” Ms Davies said.
The 27km pipeline will be constructed as close as practical to the road reserve, and will run along the edge of a number of private properties to minimise disruption to the community.
This route was chosen after the Water Corporation conducted extensive environmental, heritage and geotechnical surveys.