The Western Australian Government has announced a multi-million dollar drilling program to establish if the Western Canning Basin in the Pilbara region can support industrial use water supply will begin this week.

 

The program, expected to be completed by December this year, is predominately funded by BHP Billiton Iron Ore, Fortescue Metals Group and North West Infrastructure and is being undertaken by WorleyParsons.

 

State Minister for the Environment and Water Bill Marmion said that Aboriginal heritage and flora and fauna surveys have already been completed in the area.

 

“Investigations undertaken before the decision to undertake a full scale drilling program indicated that a potential 10 billion litre source contained water fit for industrial use and of a sufficient volume to support a major scheme,” he said.


“If the results prove positive, the next step will be to enter into commercial negotiations for the development of a fit-for-purpose industrial water supply scheme.”


The Minister said if a scheme for industrial water use was developed, the current Hedland Water Supply Scheme would be prioritised for residential use and community amenities.


“This drilling program is a great example of the State Government working closely with industry to support the ongoing growth of WA’s Pilbara region,” he said.