Central Otago District Council
(CODC) has awarded Apex Water the tender to design and construct Cromwell’s new
water treatment plant and borefield upgrades.
"The $14.7 million project
is a significant step forward in ensuring a sustainable and secure water supply
for the growing Cromwell community," CODC’s Capital Projects Programme
Manager Patrick Keenan, said.
Construction activities are set
to begin shortly, with work concentrated near the Alpha Street playgrounds and
waterfront, and McNab Road.
“It is exciting to get to the
next stage of this project and start delivering tangible progress,” Mr Keenan
said.
“This is Apex’s first major
project collaborating with CODC and we look forward to seeing their expertise
benefit the Cromwell community.”
A New Zealand-owned and operated
company, Apex Water, is known for its commitment to preserving and enhancing
the natural environment – a value that aligns with CODC’s goals for sustainable
water management.
“The new water treatment plant
and upgraded bores are part of a larger Council initiative to meet the
increased water demand driven by Cromwell’s population growth,” Mr Keenan
said.
The Cromwell Water Upgrade
Programme is a multi-stage initiative designed to enhance water capacity and
compliance. With the pipeline component already completed, the focus now shifts
to Stage 2, which includes detailed design, procurement, and construction of
the treatment plant and bore upgrades.
Once complete, the facility will
employ advanced ultraviolet (UV) treatment, significantly improving the safety
and quality of Cromwell’s water by addressing protozoal risks.
“This upgrade ensures that
Cromwell’s water meets New Zealand’s latest water safety standards,” CODC’s
Water Services Customer and Compliance Team Leader, Philippa Bain
said. “While the taste and feel of the water are expected to remain
consistent, the enhanced treatment process will provide even greater protection
against waterborne illnesses.”
The completion of Stage 2 is
anticipated by late 2025. Mr Keenan said the project team will communicate
ongoing developments with the community and key stakeholders as the project
moves forward.
