More than 100 tonnes of soil and rock was excavated to accommodate the 120-kilolitre tanks, which will be used to store rainwater captured from the new car park and from surplus backwash water generated by the Como pool directed into the sewer system.

The captured water will then be used to irrigate the newly turfed areas.

The project is part of the $2.156 million works program to redevelop the pleasure grounds.

The $216,000 cost of the tanks was allocated from the Federal Government under its Regional and Local Community Infrastructure Program.

The remainder of the money has come almost exclusively from Section 94 (developer) funds. Works undertaken at the popular park since May 2009 include stabilisation of the knoll to arrest erosion and improve safety; restoration of the heritage sandstone stairs; playground refurbishment; new pathways and development of new seating and barbecue areas; planting of new vegetation and turf near the car park; redevelopment of the car park, including lighting, fencing, planting and signage; and development of buildings to house new toilets, a baby change area and showers.

A Sutherland Shire Council spokesman said the works had been scheduled to suit weather conditions and minimise disruption as much as possible during high-use periods, such as school holidays.

All of the work, except development of the new toilet/amenities block, is expected to be completed by mid-2010.

Tenders for the new toilet/amenities block are now open and a contractor is expected to start work next February or March, when the summer swimming season ends.

What do you think of the new tanks?