Copeton Dam spillway
Electrical upgrade project
To improve the reliability of Copeton Dam’s spillway gates, WaterNSW is upgrading the electrical equipment as part of ongoing works to bring existing infrastructure to modern engineering standards.
Construction of the dam was completed in 1976 with an auxiliary spillway added in 2013.
The main spillway has nine radial gates about 500 metres from the dam wall. The gates are 14.6 metres wide and 13 metres high, weighing 87 tonnes. The gate hoist system is controlled electrically from a small switch room and control panels located on the spillway bridge. When the water level in the dam gets too high, the curved radial gates are raised to allow flood waters to pass through.
Planned work
We're planning to:
- establish a site compound and laydown area
- upgrade the control room and renew the electrical systems for the nine radial gates.
The work will not interrupt water supply or affect our recreation areas.
At times, there may be short delays to traffic crossing the spillway bridge to allow for the supply and removal of equipment and materials. Traffic control will be in place during these times for the safety of road users and workers. Please allow additional time for your journey.
Some parking spaces in the spillway lookout carpark may also be closed for a short time while we upgrade the lightning poles. Please follow all site signage and be aware of construction traffic.
Timeline
Work to upgrade the electrical equipment of the Copeton Dam spillway will start in May 2025 and will be completed by mid-2026, weather permitting.
Location
Residents and visitors might notice extra cars, trucks and equipment travelling along Copeton Dam Road. The main construction will take place adjacent to the spillway bridge, in areas not accessible to the public.
Consultation
WaterNSW will work closely with impacted stakeholders and residents and provide updates throughout the project.
Contact
For more information about electrical upgrade to the Copeton Dam Spillway, please contact our Engagement Team at engagement@waternsw.com.au or call 1300 662 077.
WaterNSW acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands and waters on which we work and pay our respects to all elders past, present and emerging. Learn more