Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Michael McCormack was in town on Friday to officially open a new Advanced Water Recycling Facility in Parkes that will produce high-quality recycled water for irrigation purposes and reduce commercial demand for potable water.
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The facility is phase one of a three-phase Wastewater Treatment Plant and Recycled Water Scheme development.
Mr McCormack said the project gave the region greater water security into the future.
“Water is the lifeblood of our regional towns and cities and the Advanced Water Recycling Facility will ensure Parkes can thrive into the future,” the Member for Riverina said.
“Not only will it leave more water available for domestic use, it will also provide a water source that is drought-resistant.”
Minister for Regional Development, Territories and Local Government John McVeigh said the project represented a major investment in local jobs and the region’s economic future.
“This project will deliver substantial benefits to the Parkes community, supporting 61 jobs during construction,” Dr McVeigh said.
“The facility reduces the need to pump water 25 kilometres from Lake Endeavour Dam, and 30 kilometres from the Lachlan River and Lachlan Borefields, saving money and providing substantial energy savings for the Parkes community.”
Deputy Mayor of Parkes Shire Council Barbara Newton, said the Advanced Water Recycling Facility provides state-of-the-art treatment to produce high-quality recycled water.
“It creates an entirely new water source for the town, allowing us to maintain our parks and sporting grounds year round, while reducing the demand on potable water,” Cr Newton said.
“We would like to thank the Australian Government for partnering with Parkes Shire Council to make the Advanced Water Recycling Facility possible.
“This will provide water security and build community capacity, positioning Parkes well into the future.”
The $21 million Advanced Water Recycling Facility and Recycled Water Scheme is being jointly funded with the Coalition Government investing $8.725 million and Parkes Shire Council $12.275 million.
