INVESTIGATIONS STEPPED UP INTO NORTHERN PIPELINE

5 January 2007

Work to determine the route of a water pipeline linking the Sunshine Coast and Brisbane is being stepped up following the Christmas-New Year break, Acting Premier Anna Bligh said today.

Ms Bligh said early field investigations into the proposed pipeline study corridor had recommenced this week, with a dedicated survey team beginning in earnest next week.

“From Monday, a team comprising environment, construction, planning and land experts will be inspecting the potential pipeline corridor between Morayfield and Lake MacDonald near Noosa,” Ms Bligh said.

“This may require them to seek access to private properties to get a good look at the topography of the area. About 247 landowners in the study corridor were advised by letter before Christmas about the investigations,” Ms Bligh said.

The project involves construction of two sections of pipeline – one between Morayfield and Lander’s Shute, near Baroon Pocket Dam, and a second between Image Flat and Lake McDonald near Noosa. These will link into existing pipeline networks on the Sunshine Coast.

“I recognise that there could have been better communication with landowners and the general community when the initial studies began,” Ms Bligh said.

“We are addressing this. Public notices informing the general community about the investigations occurring will appear in local newspapers from tomorrow.

“I thank landowners in the study corridor for their cooperation to date. This project is an important part of the State Government’s strategy to secure the south-east’s future water supplies.

“We will be working to identify the best route that has the least impact on landowners and the environment. The current study corridor essentially follows existing power and road easements.

“I expect these preliminary investigations for the southern section will be finalised in February and a preferred pipe route identified.”

Ms Bligh said the initial pipeline survey work was being undertaken by the Southern Regional Water Pipeline Company – which is building the pipeline between Brisbane and the Gold Coast - on behalf of The Coordinator-General.

“When completed the new pipeline will have the capacity to move surplus water between Brisbane, Caboolture and the Sunshine Coast,” Ms Bligh said.

Associated works involving the construction of a new water treatment plant at Ewen Maddock Dam and an upgrade of the existing treatment plant at Image Flat are being progressed by the local water service provider, AquaGen.

Media contact: Deputy Premier's office 3224 6900