Construction works commence in Leeton. Photo: Murrumbidgee Irrigation.
Water supply company Murrumbidgee Irrigation (MI) has commenced construction on its new project to replace inefficient aging channels around Griffith and Leeton with 47.5 km of new pipeline.
The $62.2 million Urban Channel Pipeline (UCP) Project is being delivered in partnership with the NSW Government under its Resilient Rivers Water Infrastructure Program.
Through this project, 2675 megalitres of water will be recovered, a significant portion of which will be returned to the Australian Government to contribute to delivering the 450 gigalitres of additional environmental water for the Murray Darling Basin.
Outgoing MI CEO Brett Jones said it was pleasing to see the UCP project commence.
“The completion of automation across the network is not the end of the journey, simply the beginning of our next stage, focusing on delivering greater value from our assets and always looking for the next improvement opportunity to support our irrigators,” he said.
“The UCP Project will further enhance water use efficiency and improve system capacity through more precise water control. Updating aged and outdated infrastructure puts our communities and industries in the best possible position to weather water challenges and improve water security across Griffith and Leeton.”
MI General Manager, Asset Performance Delivery Steven Porter said the project was being undertaken in stages.
“Stage one of the project will cover 14 km, with works now underway in Leeton, Griffith and Yenda,” he said.
“We are looking forward to working together with federal, state, and local governments to complete this important project.”
According to MI, the Urban Channel Pipeline Project will provide a range of benefits to the community including enhanced road safety through the elimination of roadside open urban channels, improved roadside drainage, reduced road maintenance, and employment opportunities for local contractors.
“We have three contractors working across the region for this initial stage, while tenders for the next 5 km in Bilbul and Beelbangera have closed and are being assessed,” Mr Porter said.
Griffith Mayor Doug Curran said this was an important project for Griffith and the wider region.
“By replacing aging infrastructure with modern pipelines, the Urban Channel Pipeline Project will not only enhance water efficiency but also improve safety, reduce maintenance costs, and support our community’s growth,” he said.
“We’re pleased to collaborate with Murrumbidgee Irrigation and Leeton Shire Council to ensure this funding delivers lasting benefits for our residents and future generations.”
For residents in areas where works are planned, MI says an engagement officer will be in contact to discuss the works and connection options.
