July 28, 2008
THE Mackay Regional Council has looked to the regions with the announcement of key water and waste infrastructure projects for Sarina and Mirani.
Yesterday, in the lead-up to its first budget, the newly-formed council revealed that the construction of a $9 million water pipeline to Sarina and a $4.7 million water treatment plant at Mirani would form part of a $60 million investment in Water and Waste Services in the 2008-09 financial year.
Mackay Regional Mayor Col Meng said the "significant investment would have a cost on what the community has to pay in associated levies and charges" but it was part of council's vision to provide necessary infrastructure to all its customers.
"The projects are the cornerstone of Council's commitment to deliver key infrastructure to all residents in the region," Cr Meng said.
Water Services portfolio councillor Deirdre Comerford said the $9 million Sarina Water pipeline was part of a memorandum of understanding between the previous Mackay City and Sarina Shire councils.
"It will ensure residents have a safe and reliable water supply to meet future growth needs.
"We will also see the completion of the landmark $154 million Mackay Water Recycling Facility this financial year," she said.
The new facility will result in the closure of the Mt Bassett Treatment Plant, ending the strong odour on Harbour Road and surrounding area.
Key water service projects are: - $9 million to commence construction of Sarina Pipeline project. - $10 million upgrade to Nebo Road Water Treatment Plant. - $4.7 million to build a new Mirani Water Treatment Plant. - $8 million upgrade to pump stations at Gordon Street and Coles Road.
Cr Greg Thomsen, of the Waste Services portfolio, said council would spend $885,000 to build new waste transfer stations at Mirani and Sarina.
"The State Government has strict environmental standards for landfill sites and we have an obligation to adhere to those requirements," he said.
Other waste service initiatives are: - $40,000 improvement to Koumala transfer station. - $80,000 upgrade to Hay Point landfill. - $117,000 to complete Eungella transfer station.
More Mackay Investor News
