What we're doing
Enlarged Cotter Dam
With droughts tipped to be longer, drier and more frequent ACTEW Corporation is working to increase the ACT region's sources of water. The Enlarged Cotter Dam project is one component of a suite of water security infrastructure initiatives that are now being delivered by ACTEW.
What is the project?
This project involves building a new dam downstream of the existing one to increase the Cotter reservoir capacity from the current 4 gigalitres (GL) to around 78 GL, almost 20 times its current size.
ACTEW Corporation, working with ActewAGL, has formed an alliance with three companies to design and construct the dam. They include GHD, Abigroup and John Holland.
Why is it needed?
The Enlarged Cotter Dam forms part of ACTEW’s continued response to secure water supply for the ACT region’s increasing population and to address drought, climate change and variability.
What’s happening at the moment?
On 23 November 2009 construction of the Enlarged Cotter Dam began, with site fences, signage, site offices and a road network being established.
ACTEW has received all major planning approvals for the Enlarged Cotter Dam, having completed an Environmental Impact Statement, a Development Application and a Public Environmental Report. Environmental permits have also been received.
What effects will the new dam have on the environment?
One of the main advantages of the Enlarged Cotter Dam is that it will have relatively minimal impact on the environment. This is because it will be constructed in an area already impacted by the existing reservoir, on land that was badly affected by the 2003 fires and previous forestry plantations.
Protection of the environment is integral to the project. The dam design includes measures to protect fish populations, particularly to allow upstream migration of the endangered Macquarie Perch.
Will I still be able to visit the Cotter?
Visitors and the local community are encouraged to enjoy Casuarina Sands, reopened on 9 January 2010 after ACTEW’s upgrade of facilities including parking and additional shade, BBQs and picnic tables.
The community will have the opportunity to watch the Enlarged Cotter Dam progress from a viewing platform and trail to be constructed at the Cotter.
To ensure the safety of the public during construction of the Enlarged Cotter Dam, Cotter Avenue is closed for approximately two years from 9 January 2010. View ACTEW’s Recreational Areas Brochure for information about similar recreational areas you can visit during this closure.
How long will the project take?
Construction of the Enlarged Cotter Dam is expected to be complete in late 2011.
How can I stay informed?
Join the Friends of the Cotter community group to be kept informed about projects taking place at the Cotter and to share your memories of the Cotter Precinct with others. You can sign up at www.actew.com.au
Further project information is also available through the Water Security Information Line contact details below.