I strongly support Graham Clarke's well researched assessment regarding the ill-conceived Southern Pipeline. From what I can see TCC Southern Pipeline costs have skyrocketed from $19 million in 2004 to around $130 million in July 2010, an increase of 700%. In fact, the current figure when the contingency fee is added (which will be used up like night follows day) is around $255 million as at today's date.
This is patently ridiculous as the pipeline shouldn't go to Te Maunga at all. There must be a new stand-alone treatment plant constructed at Tauriko, likely to cost $20 – $30 million if based on Project Pure at Wanaka. The answer is just get the sewage contractor who did Wanaka to inspect the Tauriko site and quote at no cost to Council and see what this expert says about the logistics. I ask why won't Tauranga Council do this? If the critics are proved right, that's $100 million at least saved. If they are wrong, then nothing has been lost.
When the Southern Pipeline goes ahead in its present form, people's rates will increase by 50% ($1,000 per annum) just for this one project. The choice is with TCC ratepayers put up with the obscene cost, along with huge road and traffic disruption that will occur in the Tauranga City area or take some meaningful action to stop this travesty happening immediately. Apathy is not the answer!
R Paterson, Matapihi.