Highfields is set to benefit from a significant long-term water infrastructure upgrade, with Toowoomba Regional Council (TRC) commencing work on the Highfields Reservoirs Project. This initiative is designed to bolster water security and support the ongoing expansion of the community for decades to come. The project, located on land adjacent to Lawrence, Harch, and Kieman roads, will introduce two new drinking water reservoirs aimed at increasing storage capacity and enhancing the resilience of the water supply.
TRC Deputy Mayor and spokesperson for Strategic Water Planning and Capital Delivery, Cr Rebecca Vonhoff, highlighted the council’s proactive approach to infrastructure development. “Highfields is a vibrant and fast-growing community, and Council is determined to ensure our water network evolves with that growth,” Cr Vonhoff stated. “This project is about looking decades ahead and making smart, strategic investments now so that residents can rely on a secure, resilient water supply in the future.” This forward-thinking strategy ensures that the region’s water security is strengthened, maintaining Highfields as a desirable place to live for future generations.
The Highfields Reservoirs Project will be delivered in three distinct stages to effectively manage current needs and projected population increases. Stage 1, commencing in early March 2026 and concluding in late June 2026, will involve the installation of underground water mains by TRC’s construction crews. Stage 2 is scheduled for 2027, focusing on the construction of the first reservoir to immediately enhance storage capacity. The final stage, Stage 3, is planned for 2056, with the delivery of the second reservoir timed to align with long-term growth forecasts.
Temporary disruptions, including single-lane closures on Lawrence Road and the closure of the left northbound lane of the New England Highway, will be necessary to facilitate the safe completion of Stage One works. These measures are part of TRC’s commitment to delivering essential infrastructure while minimising inconvenience to residents. The council has also previously invested in other upgrades, such as a new trunk water main completed in late 2024, which aimed to accommodate anticipated growth and improve water pressure and supply to existing residents.
This comprehensive plan underscores TRC’s dedication to robust water management and infrastructure planning. By investing in projects like the Highfields Reservoirs Project, the council is ensuring that the community’s water needs are met not only for the present but also for the future, supporting sustainable growth and maintaining a high quality of life for all residents.