Richmond Wastewater Network Upgrades Begin

Sydney Water has commenced upgrades worth $185 million to its Richmond wastewater network to build resilience and accommodate a rapidly growing population. The upgrades will create close to 200 jobs during construction and double the capacity of the facility. 

The project will see the construction of a new seven-kilometre main which transfers wastewater from North Richmond to Richmond, doubling the capacity in Richmond.

A new wastewater pumping station and network upgrades will make the aging North Richmond wastewater treatment plant redundant. Sydney Water said that the project will contribute to “circular economy” benefits by expanding water recycling capacity at the site and the production of biosolid matter for reuse.

Wastewater will be transferred from North Richmond to Richmond

The plant has been troubled by the run off of toxic PFAS chemicals but Sydney Water said it monitors PFAS levels and they have remained below guidelines

An artists impression of the new wastewater facility at Richmond.

The improvements are in keeping with Sydney Water’s goal of building critical water and wastewater infrastructure to enable the construction of future dwellings in Greater Sydney.

Senior Project Manager, Greg Cable says the planned works will play a major part in ensuring a more sustainable future.

“Growth is set to increase by 70 percent over the next 30 years. The completed upgrades will help future proof the region’s rapidly growing population,”  Cable said. Upgrades to the Richmond WRP are due for completion by 2026.