Parkes is taking the next step in recycling with the first sod turned for Phase 2 of the Parkes Recycled Water Scheme on Monday. The ground-breaking ceremony marks the start of construction for the Recycled Water Rising Main, a purpose-built pipeline for high-quality recycled water to irrigate selected public greenspaces around Parkes.
“We are incredibly proud to be delivering such a visionary project that will strengthen our water supply and reduce demand on stressed natural water sources,” said Parkes Shire Mayor, Councillor Ken Keith OAM.
“NSW is currently suffering through what has been called the worst drought in living memory, and water security is a key issue facing many communities. Parkes has the additional challenge of being remote from natural water sources. This scheme provides Parkes with an entirely new and local drought-proof water source by saving water and giving us a second use for the same water, which in turn reduces the pressure on our drinking water supplies.”
Mayor Ken Keith said that it was not only cheaper to produce recycled water, but utilising solar systems to power the network meant the new scheme significantly reduced the operational costs of maintaining parks and gardens.
The project will reduce the need to pump water 25 km from Lake Endeavour Dam, and 30 km from the Lachlan River and Lachlan Borefields, saving money and providing substantial energy savings for the Parkes community.
Construction will progress around Parkes in staged works, and will take approximately 12 months to complete.