A new $16 million pipeline will enable Cabonne Council to buy up to 160 litres of water per person per day from Orange in a bid to save Molong from running dry.
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Orange City and Cabonne Councils are commissioning the project, which is another major milestone for the NSW Government's $37 million Central West Water Security Project, which also included the construction of a pipeline from Orange to Blayney and Carcoar.
With no significant inflows into Molong Creek Dam, the commissioning of the pipeline will enable Cabonne Council to buy a small amount of water each day to ensure Molong does not run dry.
We are working with the State Government and neighbouring water authorities on ongoing solutions to the current situation.
- Cabonne Mayor Kevin Beatty
An agreement was reached late last year for Cabonne Council to buy up to 160 litres of water per person per day as an emergency measure should it be needed.
Despite Molong residents using below the targeted daily water consumption, Cabonne Mayor Kevin Beatty said extra water was required until other options, currently being developed by the council, are put in place.
"We are working with the State Government and neighbouring water authorities on ongoing solutions to the current situation," Cr Beatty said.
Latest readings showed Molong residents used 133 litres per person per day, well below the 160 litres target for current Level 5 restrictions in Molong.
Cr Beatty was full of praise for Orange council for its cooperation in developing the regional water security measure, adding it demonstrated the strong working relationship between the two councils.
Council warns, as is the case when there is a change of water source, Molong residents may notice some difference in the taste and odour of the water, however there is no cause for concern.
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