DCWC provided detailed cost estimating for Yarra Valley Water's planned Doncaster Hill Recycled Water Facility.

As part of Yarra Valley Water’s (YVW) commitment to sustainable water supplies for the community, they are constructing a new water recycling facility (RWF) within the Tram Road Reserve. This underground facility will provide recycled water to about 5,000 designated households in the Doncaster Hill area and local green spaces.

The project is a vital part of YVW's strategy to optimise water resources in the face of climate uncertainty and unreliable rainfall. By using recycled water from this facility, YVW aims to save 2.5 million litres of drinking water each week. The facility will cover an area of approximately 75m x 37m x 11m deep and will include:

• An underground pumping station with piping for sewage transfer to the RWF
• A state-of-the-art underground RWF with an advanced wastewater treatment system and odour control unit
• A Class A underground water storage tank paired with a distribution pump system
• An underground pumping station for returning waste to the sewer
• Two above-ground structures for access and egress
• Above-ground extraction stacks for dispersing treated air into the environment
• Comprehensive civil and landscaping works to seamlessly integrate the facility into its natural surroundings

In 2021, DCWC was engaged by Arup on behalf of YVW to provide detailed cost-estimating services for this project. DCWC developed multiple cost scenarios, including:

• Base Case with 1.3 ML/Day Capacity;
• Balanced Case with 1 ML/Day Capacity; and
• Minimum Case with 0.5 ML/Day Capacity.

Throughout the estimating process, DCWC posed targeted questions for each component of the scope to ensure that all elements, including necessary temporary works, were accurately captured in our estimates. Our team provided valuable insights into constructability, project sequencing, and potential risks, along with their associated cost implications, empowering YVW to confidently advance with the construction of this essential facility.

YVW has secured the necessary planning and environmental approvals to proceed with the construction of the underground water recycling facility within the Tram Road Reserve. Preparation work will be undertaken to fulfil approval conditions, with construction expected to commence in 2025. The Doncaster Hill Recycled Water Facility marks a significant milestone in sustainable water management for the community.