Goulburn applies for funding for re-use scheme

Plans are ramping up to use that product from the $30 million wastewater treatment plant on the city's sporting fields and parks.

On Wednesday, the council joined Hume MP Angus Taylor to announced a $4.5m application to the Building Better Regions fund. The council will also chip in $4.5m for the re-use scheme.

Design is almost complete on the project which will pipe highly treated wastewater to the city’s parks, fields and the racing club, says council general manager Warwick Bennett.

It will churn out 6.5 million litres during summer and half that during winter.

The project carries sporting clubs' blessing. Cr Kirk said they'd lodged 40 letters of support for the funding application.

"They're holding their breath waiting for this to happen," he said.

Currently, potable water is used on the fields. 

Construction on the re-use scheme is expected to start in July and take three years.

Mr Taylor said while its success was not known at this stage, he'd be throwing his support behind the bid.

“I strongly support infrastructure that promotes economic growth in the region, encourages small businesses to expand and new businesses to start up and create jobs," he said.

The BBR fund has pumped $80m into Goulburn Mulwaree projects over the past five years. This includes the Rocky Hill Museum, the Performing Arts Centre, Wollodilly Walking Trail and $10m for the Wastewater Treatment Plant.

An announcement on the success or otherwise of the re-use scheme application will be known in the next few months.

Meantime, Mr Bennett said he was aware of odour complaints about the wastewater treatment plant.

The council is decommissioning the old treatment plant, which is resulting in residual odour from the site.

It is working to address the odour with contractors who will establish on-site in mid February to de-water the pond from the old plant, as well as the remaining solids for removal off site.

“We are currently operating a misting system that aims to neutralise and mask the odours,” a spokesman said.

“The council has also hired an additional system that will arrive on site this week and be used to better neutralise the odours as a temporary solution while the decommissioning work is undertaken.

“(We) recognise odour has been a significant impact upon residents in this area and look forward to delivering the improved amenity in the immediate term. Residents’ patience while the final stage of the project is being completed is appreciated.”

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