NQ WATER AQUIRES COUNCILS’ WATER ASSETS
Townsville and Thuringowa City Councils have accepted an offer of more than $32 million for their bulk water assets a part of a restructure proposal detailed by NQ Water.

That includes all remaining bulk water infrastructure up to and including the reservoirs said NQ Water Chairman, Ian Hamilton.

Townsville will be offered $18.32 million and Thuringowa offered $13.86 million in the restructure proposal, Mr Hamilton said.

"The Board’s and the councils’ roles are clearly defined under the changes to the Water Act 2000 and the Local Government Act," Mr Hamilton said.

"NQ Water’s role is the bulk water wholesaler and the councils are the retailers of water from the reservoirs to homes and businesses.

"Presently the bulk water assets are owned by three authorities and the Board feels the best approach is to bring it all under one umbrella to allow consistent planning for future bulk water infrastructure."

The major benefits of the restructure would be more effective management and greater surety of water quality, Mr Hamilton said.

"Under the proposal, the bulk water system will become a fully integrated supply network capable of rapid demand response," he said.