A replacement pipeline connecting Dungowan Dam to Tamworth's water treatment plant in Calala is slated to assure the delivery of water to the city, yet no total cost or the estimated delivery time has been confirmed.
NSW Minister for Water Melinda Pavey joined local leaders on Friday 5th February to announce the design and construct contract has been awarded to Queensland based company MPC Kinetic.
"This is the same contractor who did the Chaffey pipeline," said Minister Pavey, "They are familiar with local businesses and the local community."
Minister Pavey could not confirm the total price tag attached to the infrastructure project, despite the contract already being awarded.
"We have a significant amount of money set aside for the pipeline process as a part of the state and federal governments commitment to this project," Minister Pavey said, "We won't know (the total cost) until they have done the designs."
The current pipeline, built-in 1958, is not sufficient said Mayor Col Murray and would stunt future growth in the region.
"This unlocks a lot of potential into the future," Mayor Col Muray said, " Companies that are prepared to invest in the city like Baiada, are very pleased with the announcement because it ensures they will have sufficient water into the future to conduct their business."
Despite the lack of confirmed details, Minister Pavey said it's likely the design phase will be finished in the next 6 to 7 months, and then discussions will commence with landholders along the new pipeline path.