Whale Bay wastewater reticulation design consultation begins

Waikato District Council will be starting its consultation with residents in the Whale Bay area about its planned wastewater reticulation project for Whale Bay at Raglan.

While the community was consulted about the project under the 2009 – 2019 Long Term Council Community Plan, it was deferred until the Structure Plan was completed. With the Structure Plan work now completed, the council will begin the design phase once it has consulted with and gained feedback from residents and iwi.

General Manager Water & Facilities Richard Bax says the council will be working closely with Whale Bay residents about the project as it goes through each stage of its development.

“With Whale Bay’s geological structure on a rocky outcrop, as well as clay soils which become saturated during the winter, it’s important that we get the new pump stations at each property in place so that we do not face ground saturation and run-off problems, (no future development can occur until this is resolved).
“Raglan is becoming increasingly popular, both as a holiday destination and with those making the town their permanent residence. As such, we must ensure that we care for our environment and make sure that we do not have any potential for health risks from wastewater discharges,” Mr Bax said.

The council will be contacting residents with information throughout the project to ensure they are both informed, and able to provide the council with feedback.

Background:

Whale Bay does not presently have a reticulated wastewater system. In 2004, in response to concerns raised by residents and Environment Waikato, investigations showed that the majority of on-site systems were not working, and were causing run-off into neighbouring properties and into waterways.

Following resident feedback, a preliminary report with recommendations was put on hold pending the outcome of the Structure Plan to confirm the level of future development. With the Structure Plan now completed, the project recommendations are continuing through the consultation process.

The project proposes a low-pressure system and installing storage tanks and pumps at each property. The waste will be pumped to the existing wastewater treatment plant at Raglan.