- Preparatory work on efficient augmentation in readiness for drought or demand growth.
- The Gladstone-Fitzroy Pipeline will treat up to 30Glpa of highly turbid river water and pump it 115km to users.
- Scoping study, site selection study and development of business case estimates for seawater reverse osmosis projects.
In 2006/07, the Gladstone region of Central Queensland confronted both low dam levels and demand growth from a booming industrial sector. The region’s water board wanted to be ready to augment water supply within two years, if necessary. The board asked Arup to help define and deliver the preparatory work for a cost-efficient treatment and transfer system from the Fitzroy River. Assistance was also provided to understand and compare alternatives, particularly desalination.
Trust and mutual respect were crucial elements of the partnership. Complementing the board’s team, Arup used its experience of water infrastructure projects to create a comprehensive definition and shared understanding of the board’s technical, corporate and commercial aims. Trusted to act assertively beyond the boundaries of conventional consultants, Arup was able to achieve the required outcome flexibly, responsively and highly effectively.
Arup’s integrated role included project management, procurement, engineering, decision support, cost estimation, environmental and planning approvals, site investigations and community consultation. In contrast to many water authorities that have been forced to respond urgently to crisis conditions, the Gladstone board’s approach was both proactive and prudent. The pipeline project will now be held in a state of readiness until changed conditions trigger its construction.
Arup’s involvement in the project began in early 2006 and continues into 2009.
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