Construction is underway beside Lake Dunstan on Stage 2 of Cromwell’s drinking water upgrade - a $14.7M project that forms part of a wider programme to improve supply, boost capacity, and ensure compliance with national standards.

The lakeside site at Alpha Street is set to house three new buildings: one for electrical controls (known as a motor control center or MCC) and two bore head structures. 

Central Otago District Council’s capital projects programme manager Patrick Keenan said the work focuses on expanding and upgrading the town’s bore field.

“We’re upgrading two existing bores and have installed one new one,” he said. 

“Council’s water upgrade projects will provide the increased capacity needed to meet the growth needs of the rapidly growing population in Cromwell and surrounding areas.”

The current phase of works is scheduled to be fully commissioned by May 2026.

Council asks walkers and bikers to adhere to signage instructions while construction works to upgrade Cromwell’s water supply are underway near a popular trail. Photo: The Central App

Construction has involved tree felling and pipeline installation, with temporary disruption to the Lake Dunstan Trail.

“There are detours in place with signage when required,” Patrick said. 

“Residents nearby are being kept informed, and there are updates going out as needed.”

Contractor Apex Water has also established a site office adjacent to the existing water treatment plant building.

The project faced delays earlier this year due to supply issues with a key pump component, which have now been resolved. 

Patrick confirmed the total cost remains $14.7M and the work is on track to meet budget.

Markers flag new facilities to come on Cromwell’s lake edge. Photo: The Central App

While the council has emphasised clear communication and minimising disruption, the visibility of the new buildings on a popular stretch of lakefront has raised concern among some local residents.

Those spoken to by The Central App pointed to the loss of green space and disruption of views along the shoreline - a place many locals use to walk, bike, swim and unwind.

The council’s project page describes the upgrade as critical infrastructure needed to support Cromwell’s growth and ensure compliance with national standards, including protozoa treatment.

However, the upgrade won’t address one of the most commonly raised complaints from Cromwell residents: hard water. 

The council says the town’s supply meets aesthetic drinking water standards and is therefore not considered hard enough to warrant treatment.

Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected]