Wannon Water undertakes largest ever treatment plant upgrade
by Cecilia Harris
Wannon Water’s $40 million Warrnambool Sewage Treatment Plant upgrade project has been approved by Victoria’s Environment Protection Authority (EPA), with the revamp set to be the largest project ever undertaken by the regional utility.
Serving Warrnambool, Allansford and Koroit, the treatment plant is currently operating near capacity and the upgrade will ensure sufficient capability for a projected increase in sewage volumes, while continuing to protect public health and the environment.
Wannon Water Managing Director Andrew Jeffers said the utility welcomes the EPA’s independent review and approval of the project.
“This is a great outcome and gives the green light for Wannon Water to deliver this important upgrade to cater for our region’s growth needs and provide opportunities for future economic development,” Jeffers said.
Jeffers said the project will allow the utility to continue to service the communities within its remit and uphold its commitment to taking care of the environment.
“This upgrade is the latest in a string of investments in sewage treatment and environmental protection over the last 30 years, reflecting the increasing community value placed on protecting the environment,” he said.
The project will involve constructing two new treatment tanks to complement the existing four tanks, a move which will increase the plant’s capacity by 50%.
The upgrade will also include improving inlet and outlet screening and water quality, strengthening the plant’s sewage treatment capabilities.
Jeffers said the upgrade will also provide a necessary foundation to enable further improvements to be considered in future, including the potential for increased recycled water use, further tertiary treatment and extending the ocean outfall.
“Some of these improvements have been flagged in the Development Licence and we look forward to working with the EPA and community over the next 10 years to continue investing in protections for our natural environment,” he said.
Wannon Water will soon commence tendering for the project, which is expected to generate 122 new jobs to support construction over two years. The upgraded plant is expected to create over 1500 new jobs and boost the regional economy by $200 million over the next 20 years.
