CPB Contractors, a subsidiary of CIMIC Group, has secured a contract from Sydney Water to carry out the Orchard Hills Water Filtration Plant (WFP) Reliability Upgrade (Pre-treatment) project.  

The project involves building a new pre-treatment facility to treat raw water before filtration and upgrading the current chemical storage and handling systems.  

It also includes demolishing unused buildings and concrete structures, and undertaking site works such as improvements to pipework, roadways and the power supply. 

Construction is scheduled to begin in the third quarter of 2026. 

ACS Group and HOCHTIEF CEO and CIMIC Group executive chairman Juan Santamaría said: “This upgrade is critical to ensuring Sydney Water continues to deliver safe, high-quality drinking water to a growing population. 

“By integrating advanced pre-treatment technology and leveraging CPB Contractors’ proven delivery capability, we are enabling a facility that will operate efficiently and reliably for decades during periods when raw water is impacted by extreme events.” 

The project will improve the reliability and resilience of the drinking water supply for around 260,000 customers and assist with future development in the Blue Mountains and Penrith areas. 

CPB Contractors will deliver the project with partners Veolia, BG&E, CWT, Atlas, CNFiTech and EIC Activities.  

The contract is expected to generate approximately A$150m ($106m) in revenue for CPB Contractors. 

CPB Contractors managing director Craig Nuttall said: “Having delivered more than 100 water projects, including major water and wastewater treatment and distribution infrastructure, CPB Contractors has a proven track record spanning decades. 

“Working closely with our specialised design and technology partners, we are committed to delivering innovative, value-for-money solutions that strengthen Sydney Water’s network and ensure reliable, high-quality drinking water for the growing Orchard Hills community.”