$2.6 million septic upgrade for blackwood gets underway

Member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas today helped kick off the $2.6 million Blackwood Localised Septic Program, delivering on a promise to the local community to deliver a long-term solution for the town.

In collaboration with Central Highlands Water, Moorabool Shire and Western Water, the program will replace or upgrade faulty septic tanks in the Blackwood area.

The faulty septic tanks were identified through an audit conducted by the Moorabool Shire Council.

The audit found 24 per cent of septic tanks in Blackwood had faults ranging from cracked lids to major failures.

The works will provide an efficient outcome for Blackwood residents with obvious environmental benefits in relation to wastewater spills and leaks.

In addition, as part of the program an independent town planning and domestic wastewater management specialist have been appointed to assist interested landowners in conducting an initial feasibility investigation into development of their vacant land.

The first round of works commenced at the start of February 2017 at eight properties throughout Blackwood and Barry’s Reef with the next stage commencing in April 2017 at another 20 properties.

Quotes attributable to Member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas
"I’m pleased that we can now deliver on our promise to the residents of Blackwood to provide a solution that is not only cost effective, but beneficial for the environment and future generations in the area."

"We are delivering on the commitment made before the last election – to fully understand the challenges with wastewater in Blackwood and work with the community to get the best outcome."

Quotes attributable to Central Highlands Water Managing Director, Mr Paul O’Donohue
"To accompany the works, we will provide a support program for residents, which will include planning assistance for land owners wishing to build new on-site wastewater systems."