Coffs Harbour and Clarence Valley sign landmark water deal

John Howard was the Prime Minister of Australia and Shannon Noll was top of the pops with What About Me when City of Coffs Harbour and Clarence Valley Council last sorted an arrangement on the supply of bulk untreated water. 

The Bulk Raw Water Supply Agreement signed in 2004 determined among other things who was responsible for various infrastructure. 

Not surprisingly a lot of water has gone under the bridge since, and after 12 months of negotiations between the two Councils, a new deal has been reached. 

“The new agreement will ensure appropriate funding for the Regional Water Supply Scheme and a fair allocation of costs between the City and Clarence Valley,” City of Coffs Harbour City Infrastructure Director Andrew Beswick said. 

“It will also lock-in long term growth planning for the scheme.” 

The City and Clarence are joint owners and operators of the supply scheme which includes Nymboida Weir, Shannon Creek Dam and associated pumping stations and pipework. 

“The new agreement provides the commitment from both parties to future capital works such as essential tunnel infrastructure and a fishway at the Nymboida Weir. The agreement will also bring some administrative cost savings as the City will assume maintenance responsibility for Clarence’s Kremnos Pump Station, which services the City,” Mr Beswick said. 

A technical advisory committee with representatives from both Councils will oversee the operation of the new scheme and the updating of management plans. 

The 2024 agreement will be reviewed by the City and Clarence Valley during the next Council term. 

Photo: Shannon Creek Dam water release.