Hunter Water invests in water security and infrastructure

Hunter Water is investing in the future of its water storage network by progressing key reservoir upgrades to enable water security, support regional growth and ensure the long-term reliability of infrastructure.

Hunter Water project teams and contractors are delivering a series of six projects at the following sites:

• Morisset
• Arcadia Vale
• Harpers Hill, between Lochinvar and Greta
• The Hill Reservoir in Newcastle
• Cameron Park and West Wallsend
• North Lambton
   

Hunter Water’s Executive Manager Customer Delivery, Glen Robinson, said current upgrades involve an investment of over $30 million through the renewals program, demonstrating the organisation’s commitment to sustainable asset management.

“Each year, we carry out extensive works to maintain and extend the life of our infrastructure so we can continue delivering safe, reliable and efficient water services. By refurbishing reservoirs that provide adequate water storage capacity, rather than replacing them, we’re ensuring a smart, cost-effective investment that benefits our customers now and into the future,” Robinson said.

The planned upgrades will include structural repairs, internal relining and roof replacement, all of which will maintain water quality, increase storage capacity and enable continued reliability for customers.

The current refurbishment works to the Morisset Reservoir will allow for additional water storage capacity, enabling its ability to provide a safe and reliable water supply to a rapidly growing region. Once this milestone is achieved, work will begin on the Arcadia Vale Reservoir.

“Projects like this aren’t just about maintaining infrastructure. They’re about future-proofing our network and delivering value for money for our customers, making sure we maximise the life of these assets without unnecessary costs,” Robinson said.

Alongside these refurbishments, Hunter Water is replacing its Harpers Hill Reservoir with a larger, more efficient structure to meet the demands of a growing population. Part of this project involves construction of a new pipeline to improve water transfer.

“We know our region is growing, and we’re making the necessary upgrades now to stay ahead of demand. This work will support water security for the next 15 to 20 years, accommodating new residential and commercial developments while maintaining reliable services for existing customers.”

Work is also progressing at The Hill Reservoir, one of Newcastle’s historic water storage sites. The heritage restoration of the external brickwork is set for completion in the coming weeks, with the full restoration of The Hill Reservoir No. 2 to be finished by June.

Heritage preservation works on the decommissioned Hill Reservoir No.1 will continue through to December 2025.

In Cameron Park, a new reservoir, pump station and associated trunk main is under construction to replace the existing smaller West Wallsend Reservoir and the old pump station. Expected to be operational later in the year, this project will provide greater water pressure and a more resilient supply for the rapidly growing community.

In addition, the North Lambton Reservoir detention basin is undergoing a much-needed upgrade to ensure smooth operation.

“Hunter Water remains committed to proactive asset management, ensuring its water storage and supply network continues to operate efficiently and sustainably,” Robinson said. “We’re focused on making responsible investments that extend the life of our assets and provide long-term benefits to our customers. These projects are about making sure our infrastructure is not just fit for today, but for decades to come.”

Image caption: Cameron Park Reservoir under construction. Image: Supplied.