As people opt for the rural life over living in cities, towns like Wallace and Bungaree are becoming more appealing, but the lack of a sewer system is stalling their growth.

Moorabool Mayor Paul Tatchell said a sewer could hold the key to the social and economic viability of the future of both towns going forward.

Both towns are subject to the Environmental Significant Overlay Schedule which protects potable water supply catchments.

Cr Tatchell said the shire had identified the small towns as having “excellent potential for growth due to their strategic locations in the vicinity of Ballarat and the Western Freeway and their existing infrastructure such as schools, sporting and community facilities”. 

“Bungaree and Wallace are being constrained due to the lack of a reticulated sewer,” he said. “A sewer would not only protect the water catchments, it would also alleviate public health risks associated with growth.

“Installing a sewer in these towns would allow council to develop a plan for their future and rezone land for residential and commercial use. Septic tanks are no longer a suitable option.”

Cr Tatchell said the shire, along with Central Highlands Water (CHW) is in the process of designing a low-pressure sewer system for the towns.

He said both organisations had committed funds but it needed another $3 million in government funding for it to become a reality.

He said it was something the shire would advocate strongly for in the lead up to the upcoming state and federal elections.

A CHW spokesperson said community input would be the key to a future system.

“High level work has been completed, including town planning, size and other preferred options that best facilitate growth and development, while ensuring public health and appropriate environmental outcomes,” the spokesperson said.

“Central Highlands Water looks forward to ongoing discussions with the Shire.”