The drilling works are part of an investigation in to the construction of a permanent pipeline between Chaffey and Tamworth.

NSW Water is also carrying out a range of studies and consultations to determine the route of the pipeline, which will either follow Back-Woolomin Road and or Nundle Road.

The final route should be determined by the end of the month.

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Meanwhile, NSW Water is planning the construction of two soil block banks, at Dungowan village and the Jewry Street bridge, to dam up the Peel River.

Construction of Dungowan's temporary weir is expect to start in mid-October and be completed in a matter of weeks, while work on the pipeline will start in November and finish in March next year.

WaterNSW executive manager of assets, Ronan Magaharan, said the work was being prioritised and the community would be kept abreast of progress.

"The drought projects being undertaken at Tamworth - both short term and long term - are being fast-tracked in response to the crippling drought conditions being experienced and the impact that is having on inflows into Chaffey Dam," he said.

"As we continue with preparations to undertake the short-term emergency works at Dungowan and elsewhere we are simultaneously planning for construction of the permanent pipeline between Chaffey and Tamworth."

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