Artist impressions for the Belle Eden Park waterway naturalisation project was presented to the community at an information day on Saturday.
The project will see a barren and ecologically unhealthy drain transformed into a thriving natural waterway in an innovative approach to stormwater catchment and treatment.
An information day on Saturday, 5 December at Belle Eden Park revealed the designs developed following community consultation.
The session was an opportunity for residents to view the plans and speak to Councillors and project officers.
Bundaberg Regional Council environment portfolio spokesperson Cr Wayne Honor said the Belle Eden Park waterway naturalisation project was a first for Bundaberg Regional Council.
“This innovative approach to stormwater drainage and treatment provides a better result for the environment than traditional drainage solutions,” Cr Honor said.
“Native plants such as water reeds naturally treat runoff, improving the stormwater quality that ultimately finds its way to natural areas like Baldwin Swamp.
“Achieving these outcomes while creating a welcoming natural area for residents to enjoy is a win-win for the community and the environment.”
Divisional representative Cr May Mitchell said the Belle Eden Park waterway naturalisation design had been developed following community consultation held last year.
“One of the main things residents thought was important was creating a spot that families can enjoy where children can play amongst nature,” Cr Mitchell said.
“This has been incorporated into the plans which will not only create a stunning natural waterway but a new open space with facilities including footpaths, picnic shelters and stepping stones to cross the waterway.
“Footpaths will also improve connectivity to this area including a direct link from Longview Drive with an additional bridge crossing.”
Some of the main Belle Eden Park waterway naturalisation project features include:
- Rock lined low flow channel
- Reinstatement of a riparian corridor to reinstate the attributes and qualities of a natural waterway
- Several informal rock crossings
- New footpath from Belle Eden Drive to Gum Nut Drive Park
- New footpath from Longview Drive to Belle Eden Park including a new bridge crossing
- New park benches
- New picnic shelter
- Many new trees
For more information on the Belle Eden Park waterway naturalisation project head to ourbundabergregion.com.au.
This Bundaberg Regional Council project has been funded with support from the Federal Government Local Roads and Community Infrastructure project.
