Slowing the flow in Knox

In days gone by, there was a focus on moving water through urban areas as quickly as possible, to reduce the risk of flooding. This means that natural waterways were often converted into concrete drains or diverted into underground pipes. Nowadays, there is a growing push to slow the water back down again and re-instate the natural features of waterways, which trap sediment and pollution and result in cleaner water entering the ocean. These re-natured spaces also provide a vital haven for people, plants and wildlife within the urban landscape.

Members of the Living Links Coordination Committee recently toured a site where Knox City Council’s Biodiversity and Stormwater Teams have worked together to re-engage a small creek line flowing into Dandenong Creek in Bayswater. Previously, stormwater flowed through an underground pipe and emptied straight into Dandenong Creek. However, by bringing the water out of the pipe and letting it flow through a series of revegetated depressions along an existing old creek line, the team has been able to create a beautiful natural space that not only treats stormwater, but also provides valuable habitat and supports local biodiversity.

Living Links Committee members inspecting one of the new stormwater treatment ponds

 

Situated within the old creek line alignment, the site once again provides habitat for frogs and other wildlife