The Nyngan to Cobar Pump Station and Pipeline project is one step closer to delivery after SMEC Australia was awarded the contract to carry out the concept design work.
Minister for Lands and Water Kevin Anderson said SMEC had more than 70 years of experience delivering major infrastructure projects around the world and a proven track record in delivering projects in areas like Cobar.
"This is a significant milestone for the Nyngan to Cobar project and shows significant progress in getting this project finished. SMEC's first class engineers taking on the design for this project is a major win for the community," Mr Anderson said.
"We have already locked-in funding to deliver pump stations at Cobar, Hermidale and Nyngan thanks to a partnership with the Australian Government and we are working hard to get shovels in the ground as quickly as possible."
NSW Nationals Upper House MP Sam Farraway said the engineers will begin by developing a concept design for the new pipeline from Nyngan to Cobar.
"Cobar is one of the driest locations in Barwon but also one of the most productive, with a thriving mining and agricultural industry that employs thousands of people," Mr Farraway said.
"I am pleased to see this project in its final stage of development because it will play a critical role in securing the long-term water supply that is required to support the region's economic growth.
"The NSW Liberals and Nationals are delivering new pump stations that will be larger to cater for an increase in demand and will use the latest technology to regulate flow and pressure as water travels the 130 kilometres from the Bogan Weir pools at Nyngan to Cobar."
The project team has commenced environmental studies, and cultural heritage investigations are planned to be carried out in early 2023.
