Member for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall at Malpas Dam, where Guyra’s future water supply could be sourced.
Tuesday, 8 August 2017
GUYRA now has a silver bullet solution on the table to its looming water woes on the table – and Member for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall wants the community’s help to make it a reality.
With Armidale Regional Council having finalised the business case for a $10.5 million water pipeline from Malpas Dam to Guyra, Mr Marshall said the voice of locals could help the project get funded.
The local MP met with Deputy Premier John Barilaro last week in Parliament to seek funding for the important water security project.
“This pipeline could singlehandedly solve Guyra’s water security and quality issues for decades,” Mr Marshall said.
“With low rainfall threatening to leave Guyra dry in recent years, it’s clear that action must be taken soon to allow the community’s continued growth as a residential and horticultural destination.
“I want to demonstrate to the government that this is a high priority for the Guyra community and every voice I take to the Parliament strengthens my case for the funding to be provided without delay.”
Mr Marshall has released a petition which he is encouraging members of the public to sign to show their support for the pipeline.
“The petition calls for the government to fund the pipeline project to ensure Guyra can grow, develop and attract further businesses and residents,” he said.
Guyra uses an average 423 megalitres of water each year, with demand steadily increasing, which far exceeds the town’s storage capacity of 277 megalitres. The pipeline will expand that capacity to more than 740 megalitres, exceeding anticipated growth over the next 30 years. Water quality will also be dramatically improved.
“With demand for water in Guyra growing and far outstripping the current supply and storage capacity, this pipeline is essential to ensure Guyra’s future,” Mr Marshall said.
“After analysing all the options, Armidale Regional Council had produced a compelling business case for the preferred option – a 15 kilometre pipeline between Guyra and Malpas Dam.
“The project offers substantial benefits for locals, while promoting the sustainable growth of the local horticultural industry.
“With all those boxes checked, I intend to show the government that Guyra won’t accept any more delays in funding for this essential project.”
The petition to upgrade Guyra’s water supply is now available in Mr Marshall’s Armidale electorate office (175 Rusden Street) and Armidale Regional Council’s Guyra administration office in Bradley Street. The petition is also available online at www.adammarshall.com.au/petition
“If you feel as strongly about Guyra’s water security as I do, I’d encourage you to add your signature to my petition,” Mr Marshall said.
“I’d like to see every local get on board – and trust that many others will join the fight. Together, we can ensure that Guyra’s water security is no longer a pipe dream.”