Cambridge’s new wastewater treatment plant project is progressing faster than planned, remains on budget, and is set to open next year.
With work ahead of schedule, Waipā District Council has brought forward a portion of the budget from the 2025-26 financial year to enable the project to continue to meet its milestones.
Water services manager Karl Pavlovich says the adjustment, which brings forward $5.8 million, is simply a matter of timing.
“We’ve managed to shift funding from next year’s budget to this year, which gives us more financial flexibility. This, combined with progress ahead of schedule, means we can maintain momentum and keep the project moving quickly and efficiently.”
The team proactively accelerated the delivery of key infrastructure by ordering large pieces of plant ahead of time, in parallel with the ongoing earthworks, as well as pre-fabricating a large portion of the pipework.
"Instead of waiting until the groundwork is completed, we’re taking steps to ensure the essential plant components are on-site before they are needed for installation,” Pavlovich said.
"This approach allows us to save valuable time and ensures we’re progressing at the best pace possible.”
When the Cambridge Wastewater Treatment Plant is commissioned in 2026, it will provide the community with a state-of-the-art facility that will meet the highest possible environmental standards, ensuring effective wastewater treatment and high-quality discharge to the awa to align with Te Ture Whaimana o te Awa o Waikato, the Vision and Strategy for the Waikato River.
The new facility will include an onsite solar farm, that will generate enough energy to power the plant during the day.
The wastewater treatment plant will play a crucial role in supporting the growing community of Cambridge, ensuring sustainable water management, and enhancing the infrastructure for future generations.
