Tank water 'not cost-effective'

The use of 7000 rainwater tanks on the Peninsula would not be as cost effective as the groundwater scheme nor viewed as an alternative to the scheme due to the depth of the drought, according to Gosford Council's manager of asset management Ms Pam McCann.

Ms McCann was responding to comments suggesting that the provision of 7000 rain water tanks would be more cost effective and more reliable than planned ground water extraction plans.

Ms McCann said the use of rainwater tanks was "strongly encouraged by the councils and that is why rebates are offered for the installation of the tanks" and that the installation of the tanks was an important component in the current drought contingency measures.

"However, as the Central Coast is experiencing the worst drought on record, the solution is not just one activity.

"There are a suite of drought contingency activities to stop the decline in the water storage including the groundwater, the Hunter Connection and temporary desalination units in addition to many demand-reduction activities such as rebates."

Ms McCann also noted that the labelling of tank water as "Not for drinking" was due to State legislative requirements.

Press releases, September 6, 7 Pam McCann, Gosford Council