Armidale Regional Council Mayor Simon Murray said water usage had not fallen at all since the introduction of water restrictions in Armidale. So, to conserve remaining water supply, council had decided to align with the Level 3 restrictions already in force at Guyra.
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In fact, water usage increased over the last couple of months in Armidale, when compared to this time last year.
- Cr Simon Murray
As of Tuesday afternoon, dam levels in Guyra were 40.2 per cent and Malpas Dam sat on 54.9 per cent capacity, and Cr Murray said the community had not heeded council's advice and reduced water consumption around the home and in the garden.
"In fact, water usage increased over the last couple of months in Armidale, when compared to this time last year. We all need to make serious changes to our water usage," he said.
- Under level 3 restrictions, Armidale residents are now not able to use garden sprinklers and fixed hoses, hand held hoses, drip irrigation for lawns and gardens, high pressure cleaners nor to fill private swimming pools.
- Buckets and cans may be used for the gardening and for washing vehicles for two hours only, but not between 9am - 4pm (the hottest time of day).
- Aged and disabled residents are able to use a sprinkler or fixed hose for 15 minutes on Wednesdays and Sundays.
"Council is taking this step now in an attempt to avoid higher level restrictions having to be imposed in the future," said Cr Murray.
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"We don't want to find ourselves having similar issues to other regional areas that are now experiencing very serious water concerns."
Council will commence water patrols in Armidale on Monday April 29.
For business
Businesses who rely on water for their commercial operations may be able to apply for an exemption by contacting council on 1300 136 833 or email council@armidale.nsw.gov.au or download exemption form from the website.
Businesses or organisations applying for an exemption must complete an additional Water Saving Action Plan form available on the website to demonstrate water saving practices that significantly reduce water consumption.
Under the Acts
Under the Local Government Act 1993, the maximum penalty that may be applied for a breach of imposed water restrictions in $2,200 for corporations and $220 for individuals. Council is also asking the community to be vigilant and contact council if people ignore the level 3 water restrictions.
Council is also guided by the Water Sharing Plan for the Macleay River Catchment and the Water Management Act 2000, under which it is obligated to release water down the Gara River. Under the plan, water releases from Malpas Dam will cease, as the dam level has dropped below 55 per cent.
You may find more information here.
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