Treasurer, Michael Ferguson, today announced significant progress in the Tamar Estuary River Health Action Plan (TERHAP).
"This momentous occasion marks the commencement of the new sewer pipeline project and the recent completion of the Margaret Street diversion project, two pivotal steps toward the revitalisation of the Tamar Estuary," he said.
"TERHAP, a collaborative initiative between the Tamar Estuary Management Taskforce and the Launceston City Deal, is dedicated to enhancing the health of the kanamaluka/Tamar Estuary. The Plan embodies a powerful message: "Our River," "Our Future." Revitalising the Tamar is a special landscape that connects our community and our history.
"We understand the importance of the estuary to Launceston and the broader community. That's why the Rockliff Liberal Government is making strategic investments to secure its well-being for generations to come. TasWater is leading the way on several projects aimed at improving the efficiency of their combined sewage and stormwater network, aligning with TERHAP's objectives.
"The recently completed Margaret Street Diversion project and the commencement of the new Sewer Pipeline Project represent significant milestones.
"The transformative pipeline project will enhance TasWater's capacity to manage sewage and stormwater, significantly reducing overflow events and ensuring a cleaner and healthier estuary. This project stands as one of the largest of its kind in the southern hemisphere.
"During the construction of the Pipeline project, eight local Tasmanian contractors, including Gradco, Poly Welding Solutions, Clennett Hire, Paneltec, MJ Cook Agricultural Supplies, Phieffer Cranes, Tasmanian Tree Care, and Tasman Geotechnics, will be actively engaged.
"To realise the ambitious infrastructure projects that are part of the TEHRAP, a substantial investment of $129.2 million has been allocated, with contributions from the Tasmanian Government, Australian Government, TasWater and City of Launceston under the Launceston City Deal to implement the key actions in the plan.
"At its peak later this year it is expected, around 60 people will be working on construction sites at both the New Sewer Pipeline and the New Margaret Street Sewage Pump Station Upgrade projects.
"These projects are all about working together to create a place where we can live well and leave a healthy environment for our children and grandchildren. We can't wait to see the positive impact of these projects on our community and the environment."
