Clarks Beach Wastewater Treatment Plant upgrade and outfall pipe
Improving wastewater quality and supporting population growth in Glenbrook and Clarks Beach.
Duration
2024 - 2026
Location
Clarks Beach
Status
Construction
The latest
The final pieces of electrical infrastructure have been installed and we’re starting off the new year with cold commissioning - the first stage in bringing the upgraded wastewater treatment plant into service. During this phase, we’ll carry out a series of checks and preparation works to ensure the plant is mechanically and electrically sound and fully operational before the treatment process begins.
Project overview
We have two interrelated projects underway for wastewater treatment improvements in Clarks Beach. This work consists of an upgrade to the existing wastewater treatment plant and the construction of a new outfall. Delivering this work allows higher quality treated effluent to be discharged effectively on the outgoing tide and minimises our impact on the local environment.
Wastewater Treatment Plant
Currently, the plant treats wastewater from about 2,500 people in Clarks Beach and Glenbrook. Our upgrade will allow it to treat wastewater for up to 6,000 people, which is expected to cover growth through to 2030. The upgrade involves us installing membrane aerated bioreactor technology (MABR) which together with UV disinfection, will significantly improve the quality of the treated wastewater leaving the plant.
Outfall
We have finished building the new outfall pipe that will carry treated wastewater from the plant to about 100 metres off the coast in the Waiuku Channel. The outfall pipe has the capacity to take the treated wastewater of up to 30,000 people, ensuring its fit-for-purpose for the long term.
- It will discharge only on the outgoing tide further lessening the impact on the environment.
- It was constructed using a micro tunnelled tunnel boring machine and marine barges.
- The outfall and discharge were granted consent in 2018.
- Both the treatment plant upgrade and outfall construction will ensure we meet the conditions of this consent.
Watercare Clarks Beach dredging