The second shipment of pipes for the city’s new water pipeline has arrived at the Port of Townsville.
About 475 lengths of 1.8-metre diameter pipe will be unloaded over coming days and delivered to work sites along the pipeline alignment.
Mayor Jenny Hill said the pipeline project was progressing full steam ahead.
“This is Council’s top infrastructure priority and we are getting on with the job to ensure it is built by the end of 2019,” Cr Hill said.
“The second shipload of pipes has arrived in Townsville and workers on the project will soon be starting to put these pipes in the ground.
“We know that praying for rain is no strategy for long-term water security and that’s why Council is totally committed to ensuring that this project is completed by December next year.”
Member for Townsville Scott Stewart said it was fantastic to see this critically important project progressing so quickly.
“This piece of infrastructure is essential for the Townsville community and it’s great to see the second shipment of pipes arrive in Townsville,” Mr Stewart said.
“The Palaszczuk Government has invested $225 million in the pipeline and water security for Townsville because we are committed to providing long-term water security for generations to come and creating substantial employment opportunities for the Townsville community.”
Townsville Water and Waste Committee Chair Cr Russ Cook said more jobs would flow from the pipeline project when the remaining two work packages to install the pipeline are awarded early next year.
“Council very deliberately structured the work packages on the pipeline project to ensure local firms – and local workers – had the best chance of securing a slice of the project,” Cr Cook said.
“The three work packages already awarded for clearing and installation work has supported 150 local jobs or more.
“The ramp up in construction on the project is also going to create even more job opportunities for locals.”
Council’s 3-point water security solution includes:
- The new 1.8-metre diameter pipeline
- A recycled water reuse scheme for public open spaces and industrial use
- Water Smart Package
The Queensland Government has invested $225 million in funding for water security in Townsville.
