An image from the 1974 flood in Gosford
Gosford Council is seeking feedback from the community on its recent study into how current and future flood risks around Brisbane Water’s shores can be best managed.
The draft Brisbane Water Foreshore Floodplain Risk Management Study will be on public exhibition for three months.
Council’s Director of Governance and Planning Ms Danielle Dickson said the study is an important part of council’s efforts to tackle the flood threats facing residents near the foreshore.
“Brisbane Water has a unique layout and is close to the ocean, and many residents live in its lowlying foreshore areas,” Ms Dickson said.
“It’s crucial that we get the right measures in place to minimise the emotional and economic losses that our community could suffer from a flood in this area.
“Through our study we’ve identified and assessed a number of options to manage coastal inundation threats from storm surges, like that experienced in 1974, and longer-term issues posed by climate change.
“The key options include amending planning requirements, improving emergency responses and boosting the community’s understanding of flood risks.
“Our residents now have the chance to find out more about the potential impacts of coastal flooding around Brisbane Water and have their say on these options that are being looked at to deal with it.”
A series of public information sessions will be held during the exhibition period as well as a community forum.
“I would like to assure the community that we have carefully considered the effect these options might have on property values or insurance premiums, and other development issues, as part of the study,” said Ms Dickson.
“We’re very keen to hear from the community about the study’s options and any other relevant issues.
“The exhibition period has been extended to three months to give residents a better chance to review the study and discuss any concerns with our staff, especially those residents living near the foreshore,” Ms Dickson said.
Ms Dickson added that council has received part funding under the NSW Government’s Floodplain Management Program to complete the Floodplain Risk Management Plan for Brisbane Water in-line with the state government’s Flood Prone Land Policy.
Media release,
19 Aug 2014
Gosford Council Media