Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to commonly asked questions about the project.
Where is the project located?
The project area is located within the Cowes WWTP boundaries at 261, Pyramid Rock Road as shown in the Figure below.
What does the project involve?
The upgrades will be based on the proven technologies of the existing plant. However, new treatment technologies, the latest design principals and allowances for the future will be incorporated into the new integrated system and structure.
Key components of the project include:
- Interim and replacement work – additional mixers to improve bioreactor performance whilst upgrade works are occurring. Replacement of aging mechanical infrastructure at inlet works.
- Treatment tanks – bioreactor 1 repurposed as an influent lagoon providing peak flow buffering, and bioreactor 2 retrofitted with diffusers and internal baffles.
- Anaerobic digester – decommissioned and converted to an additional effluent storage tank.
- Clarifiers – upgraded with increasing hydraulic capacity by biomass densification to improve solids settleability, improving clarifier and bioreactor performance.
- New mechanical dewatering facility – eliminating geobags from process, providing opportunities for third party sludge management.
- Electrical upgrades – to support the new infrastructure.
- Future improvements – exploring opportunities to increase access supply and the expansion of Class A and Class B recycled water reuse.
When will construction occur?
Subject to planning approval, design options will be developed for consideration, and we estimate construction to commence early to late 2026.
What can we expect during and after construction?
Wastewater & Recycled water services are anticipated to remain unaffected throughout the project. Should unplanned interruptions occur, affected customers will be notified at least 24 hours prior.
Odour, air and noise will be managed on-site and kept below government limits to protect people and the environment.
Local roads/amenity. Truck movements will be temporarily increase during construction, however roads will be kept safe and accessible. Once construction has finished, traffic will return to normal levels.
Once the upgrades are complete by approximately 2029, wastewater discharge quality is anticipated to improve through a reduction in nutrients. Discharge volumes are anticipated to increase. We’re working to increase Class A and B recycled water use to divert from ocean outfall.
Cultural Heritage & Environment. Compliant with planning approval requirements to protect and manage Bunurong cultural heritage and the natural environment.
How is the project boing funded and how much will it cost?
Subject to approval from the Department of Treasury and Finance, the project is being funded via customer revenue as part of the price submission budget approved by the Essential Services Commission.
Subject to market conditions, we anticipate that the project will cost approximately $27M (2025$).
Contact us
For more information on Westernport Water’s Next Generation Upgrade Project please email the project team via E | cowesupgrade@westernportwater.com.au or call our Customer Service Team on T | 1300 720 711 8.30am – 5.00pm Monday – Friday and ask to speak with the Project Manager, Harsha Puvvala.