Residents of Townsville and Thuringowa can expect a more efficient provision of water as a result of initiatives outlined in a restructure proposal accepted by councils.

A commitment to increased water quality standards and efficiencies will follow improvements in three areas, said NQ Water Chairman Ian Hamilton.

"We aim to produce a better product at a more affordable price," he said. "Firstly, NQ Water will own all the assets, where before they were split among the two councils and the Board. That means we can take advantage of cross-boundary distribution."

"Also, NQ Water has managed to keep the cost of producing water the same for the last five years and those existing efficiencies will now be introduced to the whole system.

"On the financial level, NQ Water will be renegotiating operating contracts to introduce competition, improve efficiencies and account for expansion."

NQ Water would also be developing a Strategic Planning and Consultative Committee to better manage bulk water infrastructure, said Mr Hamilton.
It will be made up of members from the two councils and members of the board.

"The committee will be looking at a number of other issues such as head works policy, water quality standards, infrastructure priorities and other strategic-type planning that is required.

"Again, we will be looking at the provision of this essential service beyond city limits, on a regional basis.

"We are confident that the restructure will have the effect of keeping the price of water down and increasing service standards."