Still no move on sewer works

THE State Government is still figuring out what do about moving the wastewater treatment plant at Macquarie Point.

The cost of removing sewerage works has been estimated at $145 million, but there is no agreement on who will pay and when it will be moved.

In Budget Estimates yesterday, Labor MP Scott Bacon asked State Growth Minister Matthew Groom when Tasmanians would see substantial progress.

Mr Groom said there was tangible progress at the site and a renewed sense of purpose around the development since Mona unveiled its vision for the site.

Mr Groom said the Government was still taking advice from the Macquarie Point Development Corporation in relation to the relocation of the wastewater plant.

“Part of the advice we are getting back from the corporation at the moment is around that,” he said.

“There is potential for significant development to happen at the site prior to the removal of the wastewater treatment plant.”

TasWater has ruled out paying for the relocation of the plant.

The State Government wants to take over TasWater, and if successful has pledged to complete the entity’s 10-year infrastructure plan within five years.

However, Mr Groom confirmed the fast-tracked infrastructure program did not factor in the relocation of the Macquarie Point plant.

“It’s not specifically included in that five-year plan but the Government remains committed to the removal of that plant,” he said.

“In order to realise the full potential [of Macquarie Point], it will need to be removed.”