An almost $250 million project to improve the security of Greater Hobart’s water supply is nearing completion, thanks to the Rockliff Liberal Government’s historic partnership with TasWater.
TasWater is completing the $243.9m upgrade of the Bryn Estyn Water Treatment Plant at Plenty.
Bryn Estyn is Greater Hobart’s primary source of drinking water.
Work on the site has been underway for about 18 months and the two-year construction is scheduled to be completed in the middle of 2023.
Acting Premier and Treasurer, Michael Ferguson, said the upgrade has been designed to allow for further capacity to be added to meet the increased demand of Hobart’s growing population over the coming decades.
“Residents of Greater Hobart will have improved security and reliability of the water supply with the completion of the upgrade, which is TasWater’s largest capital project,” he said.
“This upgrade will secure quality drinking water to the Greater Hobart area for the next 50 years.”
The upgrade has been supported by the Government’s $200 million equity investment to accelerate TasWater’s long-term capital program and improve water and sewerage infrastructure across Tasmania.
The Acting Premier said the project has also provided a significant economic boost for the local civil construction sector and its supply chain.
“Our Government is getting things done and this upgrade forms one part of the TasWater $1.1 billion capital works program of high-quality projects over the next four years,” he said.
“As a key partner in TasWater’s delivery of new and upgraded infrastructure around Tasmania, it is fantastic to see such a major project being successfully delivered and benefiting TasWater’s customers in the Greater Hobart area.”
TasWater CEO, George Theo, said upgrading the water treatment plant means generations of Tasmanians can have confidence in the quality and availability of their drinking water.
“This upgrade will mean there is safe, clean, and great tasting drinking water available when our customers need it,” he said.
“We are also looking to the future, and with further investment Bryn Estyn can have its output increased from 160 megalitres per day to 200 megalitres as our population grows.”
Hazell Bros Project Manager, Meg Lillico, said it was an exciting time to be working in the construction sector.
“Large scale projects in Tasmania, like Bryn Estyn, are great for ensuring companies have confidence investing in their future,” she said.
“The work allows the current workforce, along with new apprentices, to expand and develop their skills whilst staying within the State.”
