Kempsey Shire Council has awarded a $51.28 million contract to design and build the Stuarts Point wastewater treatment plant, a key part of the Stuarts Point Sewerage Scheme.
The council accepted a tender from Haslin Constructions Pty Ltd at its June ordinary meeting, moving one of the shire’s largest infrastructure projects from planning towards construction.
The scheme will provide a modern sewerage system for Stuarts Point, Fishermans Reach and Grassy Head, replacing ageing on-site septic systems with a pressure sewer network and wastewater treatment facility.
The council says the project will improve environmental outcomes, protect public health and support the region’s long-term sustainability.
Funding is being provided through the Australian Government’s Housing Support Program, the NSW Government’s Safe and Secure Water Program and Kempsey Shire Council.
Mayor Kinne Ring said awarding the contract was a significant milestone following years of planning, investigation and community consultation.
“This is a once-in-a-generation investment in essential infrastructure for these Lower Macleay communities and an important step towards delivering a modern sewerage system that will serve our communities for decades to come,” Ring said.
“This project will deliver lasting environmental and public health benefits while supporting the future of Stuarts Point, Fishermans Reach and Grassy Head. We’re pleased to be moving into the next phase.”
Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water Senior Grants Manager, Kirsty Fenton said it was a significant milestone for the communities of Stuarts Point, Fishermans Reach and Grassy Head.
“Access to modern and reliable wastewater infrastructure is essential for supporting healthy, sustainable communities, and this project will deliver long-term benefits for local residents.
“By improving environmental outcomes, protecting public health and helping safeguard the region’s waterways, the scheme represents an important investment in the future of the Macleay Valley,” Fenton said.
Director Utilities, Wes Trotter, said the contract award demonstrated Council’s commitment to delivering reliable and sustainable wastewater infrastructure for the community.
“The new wastewater treatment plant is a critical piece of infrastructure that will provide a reliable, modern sewerage service while significantly reducing the environmental risks associated with ageing on-site septic systems,” Trotter said.
“Awarding the contract allows us to work closely with Haslin Constructions to progress the detailed design as the project moves through the final stages of the approvals process. Throughout delivery, Council will continue to engage with affected landowners and keep the community informed about upcoming works, property connections and project milestones.”
The contract has been awarded while the project remains subject to the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure’s assessment.
The council has submitted its Response to Submissions report to the department and will progress detailed design work while the assessment is completed. Construction will begin once the necessary approvals are in place.
The project has involved technical investigations, environmental assessments and consultation with government agencies, Traditional Owners, landowners and the local community.
Haslin Constructions will undertake detailed design work over the coming months, followed by construction of the wastewater treatment plant once approvals are secured.
Construction of the pressure sewer network and property connections will follow as the broader scheme progresses.
The project is part of Kempsey Shire Council’s multimillion-dollar investment in water, sewer and waste infrastructure.
More information is available at ksc.pub/stuarts-point.
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