Sydney Water prepares for expansion of NW Sydney

Sydney Water has announced its plan to increase wastewater treatment capacity across three of its water resource recovery facilities (WRRFs) as Sydney’s north-west continues to grow.

The utility is delivering the North West Treatment Hub Growth Program, starting with a $595 million upgrade of Rouse Hill and Riverstone WRRFs in partnership with John Holland, Stantec and KBR.

The 10-year program aims to accommodate an additional 200,000 new house connections.

Sydney Water Project Director Bernard Clancy said the first stage of the Growth Program will cater for an additional 110,000 households in the Rouse Hill and Riverstone WRRF catchment areas.

“Increasing the capacity at Rouse Hill water resource recovery facility is critical to allow for growth and handle the increased wastewater flows generated with the expanding population,” Clancy said.

“Treatment upgrades will also be undertaken to improve the reliability of recycled water supply for the Rouse Hill Recycled Water Scheme and to maintain the health of local waterways and the Hawkesbury Nepean River.”

Clancy said Sydney Water was focused on getting the best environmental outcomes. “This project will make sure the water we put back into local waterways is healthy, safe and protects the environment,” he said.

The initial stage of the Growth Program also includes upgrades to the Riverstone WRRF, with a new biosolids handling plant being built to ensure the ongoing beneficial reuse of product generated from the facility.

Design and procurement of critical pieces of equipment is now progressing, with construction expected to start late this year.

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