Water complaints down to one third

The number of discoloured water complaints received by Gosford Council in the past two months from the Peninsula "is less than a third of the number received over the same period 12 months ago", according to council.

It stated that the "large reduction" was a direct result of an extensive mains cleaning program that has included air scouring, upgrades to water treatment and programmed flushing of mains.

The next stage of the air-scouring program will commence during this year.

Council stated that the full program was likely to extend over a number of years.

"Discoloured water complaints are typical across Australia at this time of year," mayor Cr Laurie Maher said.

"During summer months settled materials may become mobile due to the higher temperatures and flow.

"Gosford Council is continually taking samples and conducting its flushing program and this has resulted in a huge reduction of complaints.

"The number of complaints is considerably down on last year's figures."

The water removed from pipes during cleaning is captured, re-treated at the Somersby treatment plant and distributed back into the system for consumption.

"Our air scouring project was also quite successful last year in the Peninsula," Cr Maher said.

"The program will be starting again soon and will recommence north of the Peninsula heading towards Gosford."

Council said that even after mains are cleaned, discoloured water can re-occur.

If people experience ongoing discoloured water, they can contact council during business hours on 4325 8222 or out of hours on 1800 680 828.

Press release, 5 Feb 2007 Tamara Paterson, Gosford Council