Late last month a resource consent application was lodged with Environment Canterbury for a new water source located near Bells Pond, Ikawai.
Over recent years, the scheme had experienced occasional spikes in nitrate levels, including instances where levels exceeded the maximum acceptable value (MAV).
In a statement chief executive Stuart Duncan said the council was doing what was best for the residents and was excited to have finally put the issue behind them.
"The lodging of the resource consent marks the beginning of the final phase.
"Once approved, council will move quickly to issue a tender for construction works."
The most recent breach in December 2024 prompted a "cease water consumption" notice until levels returned to safe limits.
In response, the council implemented an emergency temporary solution by sourcing water from the Waitaki River, which provided water at reduced nitrate levels, well below MAV.
At the same time, work began to identify a permanent alternative water source.
Following months of sampling and raw water quality testing, the new source near Bells Pond was selected for its excellent water quality and, crucially, its very low trace levels of nitrate.
The solution includes about 4.5km of new pipe work connecting the new source to the existing treatment plant, along with minor modifications to the plant itself.
The current bore will be retained for resilience, provided it remains compliant with drinking water standards.
The solution also replaces the previously proposed denitrification plant and offers several key advantages: it can be set up much faster and will result in considerably lower operating costs, ultimately saving ratepayers money.
The milestone has been achieved through close collaboration with key stakeholders, including landowners, Morven Glenavy Ikawai Irrigation, Te Rūnanga o Waihao, and industry representatives. — Allied Media
