A new 20-megalitre reservoir in Port Douglas will guarantee both water supply and economic opportunity for the region.
Federal Leichhardt MP Warren Entsch said the reservoir would support sustainable population growth in the region for the next 100 years.
“This new reservoir will provide water to around 7,000 people a day during peak periods, helping to shore up the existing supply,” Mr Entsch said.
“About 1,500 cubic metres of concrete has been used to build the tank, making it the largest project ever undertaken by the Douglas Shire Council.
“The installation of a 2,500 square-metre aluminium roof on the reservoir and the construction of a new water transfer station and booster pumps will help ensure the water gets to where it’s needed most before it dries up.”
Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack said the federal government’s $6.745 million investment would generate new job opportunities in the region.
“In addition to the 35 jobs created during construction, the additional security of water supply for the region will help provide economic certainty and a firm base for future business opportunities, particularly in the tourism sector,” Mr McCormack said.
“Vital infrastructure such as this gives industry and developers greater confidence, which will lead to increased investment in and around Port Douglas.”
Douglas Shire Mayor Julia Leu said the reservoir would deliver significant benefits to the region,
supporting future residential and tourism development, while significantly strengthening the resilience of Douglas Shire when natural disaster strikes.
“Council has delivered a huge, multi-million dollar project that shows we are committed to achieving high standards of adequate, reliable and compliant water supply in Douglas Shire,” Cr Leu said.
