Walker inject $150m to fast track Appin water infrastructure

Walker Corporation has announced today a new $150 million investment to fast-track the delivery of drinking, waste water and recycled water infrastructure for thousands of homes in future Appin communities.

Under a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by Walker, Sydney Water and CoNEXA, the parties will work together to bring forward the required planning and delivery of water and wastewater infrastructure before the construction of housing commences and as new housing is delivered.

The $150 million funding boost adds to the $2 billion investment already offered by Walker to allow Appin to provide vital housing to greater Sydney as soon as possible.

Walker managing director and chief executive officer David Gallant said they have the capacity and a proven track record to deliver vital infrastructure first.

“This is a major investment by Walker into our future Appin communities to ensure residents have access to essential water infrastructure for drinking and recycling,” Mr Gallant said.

“Our integrated approach to water management will include a highly efficient recycled water supply system to provide water to homes and irrigation and flushing to high quality public open spaces.

“By leveraging the expertise of Sydney Water and coNEXA, we’re delivering an innovative solution that maximises the use of recycled water and stormwater for non-potable use, which will reduce demand on drinking water.”

This is also a major first for Greater Macarthur, with Sydney Water and private industry partnering to deliver water infrastructure which is fit for purpose and maximises benefits for the local community and environment.

The artist’s impression of the planned Recycled Water Treatment Facility in Appin (top) also unveils plans to integrate a cutting-edge research and development component.

This feature will serve as a platform for local universities and the community to delve deeper into understanding the intricacies of wastewater treatment, water reticulation and sustainability within the water cycle.

Sydney Water’s head of Western Sydney development Paul Higham said he is pleased to be working with Walker and coNEXA to ensure major infrastructure is delivered in time for the planned communities, at no cost to existing customers or the NSW Government.

“We work hard to keep bills as low as possible for our customers, so we welcome this type of partnership,” Mr Higham said.

“We know new housing is critical right now, and this collaborative relationship will enable the timely delivery of water and wastewater infrastructure for the region,” Mr Higham said.

CoNEXA are also investing capital and their chief executive office Kurt Dahl said the partnership will provide a great opportunity to deliver the next generation of water services which provides a fully integrated solution, enhancing the local environment to be healthier, greener and cooler, making Appin a more attractive place to live.

“Walker’s approach to early planning and delivery of water, wastewater and recycled water infrastructure is to be highly commended. Through working closely with Walker and Sydney Water, we can ensure this infrastructure is delivered on time and provides long-term benefits to residents,” Mr Dahl said.

Walker says their vision to deliver three connected, sustainable communities within Appin, supported by infrastructure and services includes:

new major roads and transport links;

water and sewer infrastructure;

at least four schools, including up to two high schools;

1.08 million square metres of public spaces including parks, playgrounds, sports fields and a 200,000 square metres regional park;

More than 17km of cycling, hiking and walking trails and 30km of on-road cycleways;

three neighbourhood shopping centres and a large local town centre;

community, health and wellbeing services.

Walker says these new communities, along with vital infrastructure, will be delivered in stages over the next 20 years.