More dates to learn about EP’s future water supply

SA Water has reactivated plans to enhance the Eyre Peninsula’s potable water supply network with a new seawater desalination plant, and is inviting the region’s residents to hear more and share their feedback at a series of community open days this month.

Interested residents on the Eastern and Central Eyre Peninsula regions can drop-in to community open days at The Franklin Harbour Institute at 8 Main Street in Cowell between 2pm and 6pm on Monday 26 November 2018, or at the Gawler Ranges Cultural Centre at 48 Ballantyne Street in Wudinna between 2pm and 6pm on Tuesday 27 November 2018. 

West Coast residents are also invited to visit the Ceduna Memorial Hall at 31 Poynton Street, between 2pm and 6pm on Wednesday 28 November 2018.

Sessions are being held across the Eyre Peninsula to ensure residents can share their views during the planning stages.

SA Water’s General Manager of Communications and Engagement Anna Jackson said a new seawater desalination plant was identified as the preferred option to supplement future supply in a long-term plan developed with the local community and Natural Resources Management Board in 2008.

“Community engagement was integral to the development of the long-term plan, with more than 20 community information sessions and forums held, and the help of a reference group that included 11 Eyre Peninsula councils and a number of other agencies, so we’re confident it was well-informed and robust,” Anna said.

“We’re keen to continue this approach as we investigate the proposed seawater desalination plant, to ensure community and customer interests are considered during its planning and design.”

Water produced from the proposed desalination plant would supplement groundwater from the Uley South Basin, and help improve water aesthetic issues like hardness, which is a natural characteristic of the region’s groundwater.  

Potential desalination plant sites were assessed in 2009, looking at a range of criteria including the marine and terrestrial environment, geotechnical, cultural and infrastructure considerations, with the location validated again this year.

“A site at Sleaford Bay was identified as the preferred location for a stand-alone desalination plant, based on a number of factors like its proximity to the water supply network, strong ocean currents and accessibility.

“We now need wider community input to help shape the proposed desalination development in a way that meets the Peninsula’s long-term water security needs.”

Eyre Peninsula residents unable to attend one of the community open days can join the conversation by visiting watertalks.sawater.com.au, calling 1300 SA WATER or emailing project@sawater.com.au.

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