Tyabb-Somerville Recycled Water Scheme
We've investigated bringing recycled water to Tyabb and Somerville for use in peri-urban agriculture, nurseries and the irrigation of public open spaces.
We partnered with the Mornington Peninsula Shire Council with funding support from the National Water Grid Authority to undertake investigations into the potential for a recycled water scheme in the Tyabb-Somerville area.
We've investigated the feasibility of the Tyabb-Somerville Recycled Water Scheme which would involve building pipes and pumps to deliver Class A recycled water to the Tyabb-Somerville area. Supplying recycled water to local parks and agricultural landowners, the scheme would provide water security to the agricultural industry and help preserve drinking water supply, regardless of changing climate conditions. The scheme would aim to deliver approximately 1, 150ML of water each year to customers.
Proposed trunk main pipe route
Proposed reticulation main pipe route
There are many potential benefits of the scheme
Increasing agricultural production
Provides farmers with a high-quality and climate-resilient alternative water supply to increase food productivity.
Providing an alternative water source to surface water and groundwater for irrigation
These types of water are fully allocated, subject to restrictions and vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.
Supporting local food production and creating local jobs
By providing a reliable water source for the agricultural industry.
Promoting a circular economy by retaining water within the region
Utilising recycled water that is otherwise discharged to the ocean.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Tyabb-Somerville Recycled Water Scheme is a concept that we have investigated to deliver recycled water to the Tyabb-Somerville region.
If constructed, the scheme would support existing agricultural and horticultural activity in the region and provide active open spaces with a climate resilient water source.
The scheme itself would involve the construction of approximately 15.7 km of pipe and deliver up to 1,150 ML of Class A recycled water to the Tyabb-Somerville area each year.
Further information on recycled water can be found here Recycled water | South East Water.
The Class A recycled water for the scheme will come from Melbourne Water's Eastern Treatment Plant and accessed via the South Eastern Outfall.
The recycled water will be supplied to the Tyabb and Somerville areas as depicted in the map above.
To date, South East Water, the Mornington Peninsula Shire Council and the National Water Grid Authority have shared costs in all works done to date. Further funding is required to progress the project to the next stages.