Water restrictions in Manilla, Barraba go up a level, bulk filling limited to carters

Residents from both towns have raised concerns in recent weeks, with one group seizing control of Manilla's bulk filling station, protesting its use to fill up Tamworth pools.

When Australian Community Media asked Tamworth mayor Col Murray how much influence the community concern had in the decision, he said "that's a difficult one to answer".

"The staff brought along some really good statistical information and forward predictions," Cr Murray said.

"Over the last couple of months, the bulk filling station has only been responsible for 10 per cent of Manilla's water use. In reality, there isn't a huge amount coming back to fill Tamworth pools like the community argued.

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"The community concern was part of the decision, but the statistics and predictive information is probably the more relevant thing."

Regardless, Cr Murray said the move should alleviate community concerns about what the water is being used for.

TRC water director Bruce Logan said by limiting access to register water carters for domestic use only, the council would able to police where the water was going, as carters were required to fill out a logbook.

"Because there will be a significantly reduced number of users, we'll be able to check what they're using it for," Mr Logan said.

"Because they get an access card from council, if we find that they're doing the wrong thing, we can cancel their access card and they can no longer get access."

A community meeting about the Manilla and Barraba water situation will be held at 3pm on Wednesday, January 15, at the Manilla RSL, but no council staff will be attending.