Sydney Water appoints delivery partner to revive 1936 pipeline for modern growth

Sydney Water has awarded a significant delivery partner contract, marking a major milestone in reinstating a critical water main originally built in 1936, ensuring the network can meet rising demand across Sydney’s North Shore.

Delivery partners McConnell Dowell Constructors Pty Ltd and Gamuda Engineering Pty Ltd Joint Venture (MDGJV) will deliver a new drinking water pipeline, connecting the Ryde Pump Station to Pymble and the Wahroonga Reservoir.

Sydney Water selected MDGJV for its strong record delivering large, complex utility and tunnelling projects across Australia, along with its practical and collaborative approach to minimising community and environmental impacts.

Sydney Water Program Director, Darren Wharton, said the contract award is a significant step in securing long-term water resilience for one of Sydney’s fastest-growing regions.

“Reinstating this historic pipeline, which was retired in 2014, is about future-proofing Sydney’s water network so we can reliably support new homes, growing communities and a stronger economy,” Mr Wharton said.

“Gamuda and McConnell Dowell bring decades of major project experience, and together we will deliver this essential upgrade safely, sustainably and with minimal disruption to the community.

“This project restores a vital link in our drinking water system and ensures we can continue to deliver world-class services for decades to come.”

The upgrade forms part of Sydney Water’s major infrastructure program to support the NSW Government’s housing agenda and delivery of new homes in key growth areas.

Early works including environmental investigations and a detailed design will begin in early 2026 with project completion expected in 2028.

For more information, visit Sydney Water.