We're replacing the fire-damaged trickling filters with an activated sludge reactor.

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Once up and running, the new reactor will fix the long-standing odour issues experienced since the fire. It will also significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and accommodate the needs of our growing population.

We can build the activated sludge reactor without disrupting current operations. In the meantime, we’re working hard to keep the damaged plant operating with minimal odour and will keep the community updated on progress.

Construction underway

HEB Construction has been confirmed as the contractor for the construction of the activated sludge plant, and construction is getting underway.

Here’s what you need to know about noise, dust and traffic management:

  • Noise and vibration will be monitored at the site boundary, with strict limits in place. If these limits are exceeded, mitigation measures will be put in place.
  • Dust control will include visual monitoring, water carts, speed limits, and other suppression techniques to keep dust to a minimum.
  • Traffic management is being planned with HEB’s ground improvement subcontractor to reduce impacts on the community. During ground improvement work, there may be up to 30 trucks per day coming to the site. We haven't yet confirmed the route trucks will take to the site but we will share this once we know.

Work hours will be Monday to Saturday, 7.30am to 6pm. If any work needs to happen outside these hours, we'll notify the community in advance.

The new reactor will be a substantial structure, 67m x 67m and 7m high, housing a blower room to mix air with incoming wastewater. The design process has been accelerated by working closely with contractors and using 3D design technology. Once construction begins, our goal is to move quickly, with commissioning of the plant currently targeted for 2028.

Check out this timelapse video of the trickling filters being demolished.

Estimated timeline for design and construction

September 2024

Design consultant engaged

Aecom has been engaged to provide the detailed design of the Activated Sludge Plant. 

November 2024

Demolition of trickling filters begins

Work to demolish the trickling filters started on 21 November 2024. Southern Demolition is carrying out the work, which is expected to take around five months to complete.

February 2025

Design scope confirmed

All relevant design elements confirmed. 

March 2025

Demolition of trickling filters complete

Demolition of the trickling filters was expected to be complete by April. 

May 2025

Site prepared for construction

The site will be prepared and made safe, ready to be handed to the main contractor. 

May 2025

Structural design complete

The majority of the activated sludge reactor design is complete and ready for tender. 

September 2025

Mechanical and electrical design complete

The entire design for the activated sludge reactor, including mechanical and electrical components, is complete. 

November 2025

Main contractor awarded

The main construction contract awarded to HEB Construction.

January 2026

Site establishment

The main contractor will set up on site in preparation for construction. 

February 2026

Construction begins

Construction of the activated sludge reactor will begin. 

January 2028

Commissioning process begins

We'll start the process of decommissioning the temporary plant and commissioning the new plant. This will take until the end of 2028.