RAINWATER TANK POLICY REVIEWED

Gosford and Wyong Councils' Water Authority Board today modified the policy on rainrwater tank rebates and water tank usage.

Community feedback about rainwater tank connections has led to a review of the policy while still encouraging residents to save on town water.

Until now, if rainwater tanks were connected internally to toilets or washing machines they were still subject to current water restrictions. This was because these connections usually require topping up by the town supply.

However the new policy allows water from internally connected tanks to be used outside except for use with fixed sprinkler systems and for washing down paved surfaces. Hoses must be hand-held, must have trigger nozzle control, and there must be no run-off from the use area.

This new policy recognises that internal rainwater tank connections have the potential to save more town water overall. By allowing some outdoor use of their tank water, more residents will be encouraged to connect internally.

Internal connection of tanks can be made in a number of different ways and result in different quantities of town water being saved. Connections which ensure the town water top-up is not used externally will receive an extra $500 rebate. Other internal connections will receive a $300 rebate.

Rebates and water usage for externally connected tanks do not change. Residents can get a Council rebate up to $500 depending on the size of their tank 

”Based on the feedback we've been getting from the community, the Board reviewed the policy to help provide more incentive for people to install a rainwater tank for internal use,” said Gosford Mayor Laurie Maher.

“Our aim is to ensure that people continue to use water, including rainwater, as sensibly as possible during the ongoing drought.

”Anyone who installs a rainwater tank still needs to be careful about how much water they use outside as it doesn’t take long for the collected water, particularly with smaller capacity tanks, to empty. This is particulary true during the extreme hot weather.”

Wyong Council Mayor Bob Graham said the change in policy aims to encourage a lot more people to install internally connected rainwater tanks.

“We've had many comments from people who either chose to connect their rainwater tank internally or have been mandated to install and connect one as part of their development application,” he said.

“People have been very confused and concerned about not being able to use this tank water outside.

“The Councils have recognised this problem but are still encouraging people to go careful with the amount of water they use.”

Residents are also encouraged to monitor their tank water use and ensure they only use it outside when it is not topped up from the town supply.

Today’s recommendation from the Board will now go to both Councils for apprpoval.

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Media contacts:

Janet Saunders 0438 191 328 (Gosford)

Lisa McDermott on 4350 5705 (Wyong)