A brand-new water recycling scheme designed to conserve water has officially opening in Parkes.
Deputy Prime Minister, Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development and Member for Riverina Michael McCormack, who attended today’s official opening, said the scheme would create an entirely new water source capable of producing up to two megalitres of recycled water each day.
“New pipelines, pumps, pits, valves and a reservoir will relieve the stress on Parkes’ water supply,” Mr McCormack said.
“Often when agricultural resource demand is high, water storage is low. By replacing portable water used to maintain the town’s public spaces with recycled water, Parkes will be able to efficiently handle the extra demand placed on its water supply.”
Mayor of Parkes Shire Council Ken Keith said water security was one of the key issues facing rural communities and the Federal Liberal and Nationals Government’s contribution had assisted Council in delivering a new, local water source to help service the needs of the community now and into the future.
“Not only does the scheme reuse water that would otherwise be wasted, it’s supported by solar power to offset the energy costs of treating and transporting water, which reduces our greenhouse gas emissions,” Cr Keith said.
“The recycled water scheme strengthens the town’s water security at a time when Parkes is on the cusp of significant economic development and ensures Council’s green spaces are climate resilient.”
The project was jointly fund with the Federal Liberal and Nationals Government investing $8,725,000 million under the National Stronger Regions Fund, with Parkes Shire Council also contributing $12,175,000.
