Council approves Lake flood study and plan
Date Posted: 26 June 2012
Lake Macquarie City Council last night approved an updated flood management study and plan for Lake Macquarie, to assist in planning for risks of flooding and inundation around the Lake foreshore.
Council’s Manager Integrated Planning, Sharon Pope, said the Lake Macquarie Flood Study and Risk Management Plan takes into account major improvements to flood modelling since 1998 when Council’s previous flood study was adopted, and provides a better understanding of existing catchment and floodplain conditions.
“The updated study and plan adopts the NSW Government’s sea level rise benchmarks to plan for future lake flooding up to the year 2100,” Ms Pope said.
“It provides a framework for Council to work collaboratively with our community to find solutions that reduce current and emerging flood risks.
“The Plan uses more accurate data about foreshore topography available from the LiDaR (Light Detection and Ranging) survey system.
“It also provides a better assessment of ocean storm surge, and draws on new data and experience from the June 2007 ‘Pasha Bulker’ storm and flood.”
The Study and Plan, undertaken by independent environmental engineers WMAwater, have been reviewed and approved by the NSW Office of Environment and Heritage and the Lake Macquarie Floodplain Management Committee.
“Community consultation undertaken during the development of the Plan confirmed that residents want to be included in decisions relating to flood and inundation, and are concerned about protecting their property and investments,” Ms Pope said.
“Property owners are not required to make any changes to their existing properties as a result of the study and plan, but new developments will need to consider the study and plan.”
The sea level rise benchmarks and floor levels for new developments are very similar to those identified in Council’s 2008 Sea Level Rise Policy and reflect the NSW Government’s benchmarks for sea level rise.