Bigger, stronger, more reliable: reservoir and pipeline upgrades complete at Harpers Hill

Hunter Water has completed major upgrades to its Harpers Hill Reservoir and its connecting pipeline, delivering a larger, higher-capacity storage facility and new pipeline to strengthen water supply for communities in and around Lochinvar, Greta, Branxton and North Rothbury.

The original steel reservoir, built in the 1950s and holding just 0.9 megalitres, has been replaced with a modern 7 megalitre concrete reservoir. This significant increase in storage will better meet current water demand and support future growth.

The project also included construction of a new 2.5-kilometre pipeline connecting the Lochinvar pump station to the reservoir, ensuring enough water can be delivered to fill the larger storage during periods of high demand.

Hunter Water Executive Manager Infrastructure Delivery, Justin Watts, said the upgrades will help reduce the risk of water supply interruptions and deliver a more reliable service for residents.

“This new, larger reservoir gives our community greater confidence that water will be there when they need it most, whether it’s on hot summer days, during times of high-water demand, or as our community continues to grow.

“By increasing storage capacity and improving the way water moves through the network, we’re strengthening the system for today while planning responsibly for growth over the next 15 to 20 years,” Mr Watts said.

Construction began in mid-2024 and was completed in February. The existing reservoir has also been decommissioned.

The project forms part of Hunter Water’s broader program of works to upgrade our infrastructure and improve the reliability of the region’s water network, ensuring the Lower Hunter continues to have safe, dependable drinking water.

Together with the nearby North Rothbury Reservoir, the upgrades support reliable supply for up to 3000 homes and businesses across the Lower Hunter.

“Projects like the upgrade at Harpers Hill help us stay ahead of growth and continue delivering the essential services that support our homes, local businesses and the broader economy.

“At the same time, we encourage our community to keep making Smart Water Choices, simple everyday habits that help protect our precious water supply. These small actions make a big difference, especially during hot dry periods and help ensure our water resources remain secure into the future," Mr Watts said.