Council Achieves Milestone in Long-Term Water Security
Parkes Shire Council (PSC) is pleased to announce the successful completion of Stage 1 of the Parkes Water Security Program, marking a significant milestone in securing Parkes’ long-term water supply. This stage of upgrades is part of the broader $65million Parkes Water Security Program, partly funded by an $11million investment from the Australian Government, $26million from the NSW Government and funding from Parkes Shire Council. The Parkes Water Security Program is critical to proactively addressing the town’s increasing water demands while enhancing infrastructure resilience.
This Stage 1 project had a combined investment exceeding $13million, jointly funded by Parkes Shire Council (more than $7million) and the Australian Government ($6million).
A key component of this project was the construction of a new Raw Water Storage Lagoon (RWSL), which has increased the Parkes Water Treatment Plant’s storage capacity by more than 20 megalitres. When full, the RWSL provides 24-hours of additional raw water supply, significantly improving Parkes’ resilience during droughts, emergencies or utility outages. The RWSL also enables greater operational flexibility, such as pumping raw water using solar power or during off-peak electricity tariff periods.
The project also delivered major upgrades to the Lachlan River Pump Station, significantly boosting the volume of water that can be transferred from the Lachlan River to Parkes.
In line with PSC’s sustainability objectives, a solar array and battery system were also installed as part of this project. These systems reduce the energy costs and carbon emissions required to power the transfer of raw water.
Mayor of Parkes Shire, Cr Neil Westcott, emphasised the positive impact of these developments.
“This project represents a critical investment in the future of Parkes. By enhancing our water infrastructure, we’re ensuring that our residents, businesses, and industries have the reliable resources they need to thrive. It’s a game-changer for local and regional development in the Central West.”
The Parkes Water Security Program, when all stages are complete, will help ensure Parkes can meet both present and future demands for domestic supply, along with supporting key industries such as Evolution Mining Northparkes Operations and the Parkes Special Activation Precinct (SAP). The SAP is expected to stimulate business activity, bolster economic development and result in the substantial creation of new jobs.
General Manager of Parkes Shire Council, Kent Boyd, highlighted the broader community benefits.
“These water security upgrades are transformative for Parkes Shire. They address immediate water demands and lay the foundation for sustainable growth, supporting industrial expansion and strengthening our community’s resilience to water security challenges.”
The impact of these upgrades when completed will extend beyond Parkes, fostering regional economic integration and responsible water management.
Parkes Shire Council’s Director of Infrastructure and Sustainability, Andrew Francis, underscored the importance of innovation in responsible water management.
“From increasing water storage by 20 megalitres to integrating sustainable solar-powered features, this initiative exemplifies forward-thinking water management. These upgrades contribute towards securing Parkes water future, enabling us to meet growing demands while minimising environmental impacts.”
The completion of the Stage 1 upgrades paves the way for the next stage of the Parkes Water Security Program, which includes the construction of a raw river water pre-treatment plant. These shovel-ready projects will further enhance Parkes’ water security.
Aligned with the NSW Government’s Lachlan Regional Water Strategy and Parkes’ Community Strategic Plan, the Parkes Water Security Program supports sustainable growth and enhanced resilience for Parkes and the surrounding region.
https://www.parkes.nsw.gov.au/Council/News-media-and-projects/Community-News/Parkes-Shire-Council-Completes-Major-Milestone-In-Securing-Long-Term-Water-Security