Uralla Shire Council Deputy Mayor Robert Bell, left, Mayor Michael Pearce, Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall and general Manager Andrew Hopkins discussing plans for the new $5.25 million sewerage system for Bundarra today.
Monday, 10 October 2016
MEMBER for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall has today announced a $3.675 million grant for Uralla Shire Council to provide the township of Bundarra with a sewerage system, replacing the old and antiquated septic service.
Mr Marshall said the funding, provided under the NSW Government’s Regional Water and Waste Water Program, would give Bundarra a modern, safe and secure sewerage service.
Uralla Shire Council will contribute 30 per cent ($1.575 million) of the total cost of the $5.25 million sewerage project.
“I’m delighted to announce this funding,” Mr Marshall said.
“The construction of a sewerage system in Bundarra will mean the end of any potential risks associated with ageing private septic systems, especially those located on properties close to the Gwydir River.
“With this injection of funds, council can now be able to move ahead with this longstanding project and construct a reticulated sewerage collection and treatment system for the 400 residents over more than 100 properties.
“Bundarra residents will soon get a service that many people in the rest of this region take for granted every day.
“That’s a great outcome for everyone in Bundarra.”
The Bundarra project is one of 30 approved across NSW designed to help build and modernise vital waste water and water infrastructure in country towns.
Mr Marshall said Uralla Shire Council would oversee the project, constructing a pressure sewerage system to accommodate for the low density residential housing landscape and local area topography.
Uralla Shire Mayor Michael Pearce welcomed the State Government funding and said council was looking forward to getting on with the project.
“Bundarra currently relies upon septic tanks, which can be problematic in periods of high rainfall and can lead to health and odour issues,” Cr Pearce said.
“In 1989 council undertook engineering investigations to scope options for the collection and treatment of sewerage for the town. However, the capital costs associated with the sewerage project have always been cost prohibitive.
“There are few, if any, rural councils which could fund these types of projects by themselves.
“Council is delighted the State Government has recognised the importance of this project and our sincere thanks go to our local member Adam Marshall for negotiating this significant capital contribution on our behalf.”