FAQs
Project Overview
- Upgrading the Richmond Wastewater Recycling Plant to receive additional flows from the North Richmond Catchment.
- Constructing a transfer main to move wastewater flows from North Richmond to Richmond
- Constructing a new sewer pumping station at the North Richmond Treatment Plant
- Upgrade of three existing Sewer Pumping Stations in Hobartville
- Constructing amplified gravity sewers in the North Richmond township.
- Upgrading and refurbishing existing Emergency Relief Structure to better prevent overflow to the local environment
- Decommissioning of North Richmond wastewater treatment plant
What is the Richmond System Wastewater Upgrade project?
The Richmond System Wastewater Upgrade is a program of work which will enable transfer of wastewater from North Richmond Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) to Richmond Water Recycling Plant (WRP) with a new transfer main and we will upgrade Richmond WRP to service the combined catchments.
Our work will include:
Why is Sydney Water undertaking this project?
As part of Sydney Waters commitment to improve the Richmond Wastewater System and facilitate growth in the catchment, meet current regulatory requirements and provide sufficient flexibility to meet more stringent regulatory requirements in the future. Sydney Water are upgrading wastewater services between Richmond and North Richmond.
Who will be doing this work?
Sydney Water and its delivery partner BMD will be carrying out site investigations to better understand ground conditions and help progress to finalising the design, followed by construction.
Where is the project currently up to?
Our delivery contractor BMD are nearing completion of detailed design, leading to construction in March 2024.
When will construction of the pipeline and associated upgrades start?
It is anticipated, once detailed design is finished, construction will start in March 2024.
When will the project be completed?
All construction works are planned to be completed in 2026
How can I receive updates on this project?
Sydney Water is committed to keeping stakeholders informed and will provide accurate and timely information throughout the project.
We welcome community feedback and enquiries on our projects and encourage everyone to get involved in the conversation via Sydney Water Talk.
If you wish to subscribe to email updates, please fill out this registration form.
If you would like more information about the project, please call 0483 337 201 or email richmondwsu@sydneywater.com.au
What are the hours of work?
Our standard work hours will be Monday to Friday 7 am to 6 pm and Saturday 8 am to 1 pm.
No construction works will be planned for on Sundays or Public Holidays
From time to time, we may need to work at night to avoid peak traffic times. We will notify the affected residents 7 days before starting night works.
Will there be disruption to my wastewater services during construction?
No, services will not be impacted while we are working on the upgrade.
Will my property be impacted during investigation work and/or construction?
We may require access to a small number of properties during this phase to investigate existing Sydney Water assets
If your property is going to be directly impacted by the investigation work, the new pipeline or surrounding construction, our community engagement team will contact you.
Can I connect to the new wastewater pipeline?
The new pipeline is a transfer pipe between the North Richmond Treatment plant and the Richmond Water Recycling Plant and you will not be able to connect to it.
If you need your property to be connected to the existing Sydney Water wastewater system, you will need to submit an application to Sydney Water.
A water servicing coordinator can help with your application to adjust, extend or connect to Sydney Water pipes. Coordinators can answer questions about your application and facilitate the project management, design, and construction of any required work. They are not employed by Sydney Water.
For more information, please refer to our Property Development Connection Application Water servicing coordinators (sydneywater.com.au)
Is this project related to the Richmond Bridge bypass project?
No, these are two independent projects and whilst we are working with Transport for NSW to align our plans, the wastewater network upgrades do not have anything to do with the bypass project.
Both agencies are working to different timelines and requirements for their projects.
Investigation Approach
- Site survey: to determine property boundaries and locations of work
- Geotechnical survey: Potholing to determine soil types beneath the ground surface and any ground water present. All areas disturbed will be reinstated; and Potholing and survey to locate existing services and drainage; and underground services locating, including pipework, electrical and communications All areas disturbed will be reinstated.
How will the investigation work be completed?
The investigation will be completed by a:
Will there be increased truck movements and road closures?
There will be some increased truck movements as we undertake geotechnical and half lane closures where potholing in road areas are required. This is mainly along Grose Vale Road and Francis Street.
Will there be noise and vibration impact during construction?
There may be some noise and vibration generated from work, trucks, concrete cutting, and installation of plates (if required). We will ensure to keep the noise and disturbances to the community at a minimum.
Will Sydney Water replace any trees and vegetation that are removed during the project?
Any trees and / or vegetation removed during investigation and/or construction will be reinstated like for like or where necessary, in agreement with affected landowners.