Marx Hill to Raleigh Watermain Replacement Project

• Project typeInfrastructure Upgrade - Water
• Project value$10.5million
• Contractor nameTo be appointed

Project overview

Bellingen Shire Council is progressing the Marx Hill to Raleigh Water Main Replacement Project to replace ageing water infrastructure and strengthen the seaboard water supply network. The project involves constructing approximately 8 kilometres of new 375 mm diameter water main between the Marx Hill Reservoir and Raleigh Reservoir. The existing water main was constructed in the 1960s and is approaching the end of its service life. This significant infrastructure investment will modernise a critical section of Council's water network, improving reliability and resilience while helping ensure the continued delivery of safe and secure drinking water services to the community.

Why is this project needed?

The existing water supply network services communities across the southern part of the local government area.

The new water main connection will:

• Improve network capacity
• Increase reliability of water supply
• Improve resilience during outages and maintenance activities
• Support future service needs and network growth
• Strengthen Council's water infrastructure network

Project scope

The project includes:

• Detailed design development
• Environmental assessments and approvals
• Property investigations and consultation
• Construction of approximately 8 km of new water main
• Connections to Marx Hill and Raleigh Reservoirs
• Site restoration and rehabilitation
• Testing and commissioning of the completed infrastructure

Construction activities will require a work corridor of up to three metres either side of the water main alignment, with vegetation clearing required in some sections of the route.

Environmental investigations

Council previously undertook environmental investigations for the project in 2018 and completed construction of minor sections of the pipeline in 2022. Changes to environmental legislation mean additional field surveys and assessments are now required to ensure project approvals reflect current site conditions and regulatory requirements. These investigations will help inform detailed design and approval processes before construction begins.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will construction begin?

Subject to approvals and funding, construction is expected to commence in early 2027.

Has this project been proposed before?

Yes. Environmental investigations were undertaken in 2018 and minor sections of the water main were constructed in 2022. Council is now progressing updated investigations and approvals required under current legislation.

Will Council contact affected landowners directly?

Yes. Directly affected landowners will be contacted throughout project planning to discuss investigations, access requirements and property-specific matters.

Will property owners receive compensation for easements?

Where easements are required, Council will undertake the necessary processes, including property valuation activities, and will discuss compensation arrangements directly with affected landowners.

How can I stay updated?

Project updates will be published on this webpage and shared through Council's communication channels.