Marlborough District Council adopted its Water Services Delivery Plan (WSDP) at its meeting on 7 August, establishing a long term direction for the delivery, maintenance and enhancement of drinking water, wastewater and stormwater services across the district, under the Government’s Local Water Done Well framework.

The WSDP sets out the intended service delivery models and associated investment requirements. Drinking water, wastewater and stormwater services will be delivered through a new water services organisation (WSO). The plan assesses the current state of waters infrastructure, existing service areas, regulatory compliance and identifies the future investment needed to support growth and service improvements.

It includes a strategic approach to funding and infrastructure planning, ensuring financial sustainability and service continuity. The WSDP reflects Council’s commitment to long-term planning, environmental stewardship, and continuous improvement in the delivery of these essential services.

It also includes a transition plan so that the WSO can be incorporated from 1 July 2026, with a one year transition to full operations from 1 July 2027. Marlborough District Council will be its sole shareholder, appoint its board of directors and set its direction via a binding Statement of Expectations, holding it accountable to the people of Marlborough.

Council will also establish a water services governance and oversight committee to oversee this transition, made up of the mayor, the three committee chairs and chief executive. Council will submit its final WSDP to the Secretary of Local Government for formal review and approval by 3 September 2025. Once finalised it will be posted on Council’s website.

To read the background to the Local Water Done Well process go to: www.marlborough.govt.nz/services/utilities/local-water-done-well

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