DETAILS of a promised new and coordinated approach to reduce the severity and frequency of flooding in Wallsend have been announced, almost two decades on from the Pasha Bulker storm.
It is based on a return-to-nature plan for Ironbark Creek involving an upgrade of 660 metres of the stormwater channel which runs through the Wallsend CBD.
That will include widening of the stormwater channel, new floodwalls and, where possible, "naturalisation" to help reduce flood impacts and improve environmental outcomes.
The nature-based solutions, such as the introduction of rock features and plants and floating weirs, aim to enhance biodiversity by improving water quality and creating a better habitat for native species, including turtles, fish, and birdlife.
Backed by a formal Direction from the NSW Government, the project will be delivered by Hunter Water as part of a coordinated response across all three levels of government to address longstanding flood risk in Wallsend.
The first step is a six-month intensive design phase including engagement with landholders and the broader community being run by Hunter Water.
Construction is expected to start early to mid-2027, almost two decades after the 2007 floods inundated homes and businesses and cut across the CBD.
Labor pledged to investigate the feasibility of flood prevention works in the suburb on the eve of the 2023 election.
The upgrade will complement the City of Newcastle's program of bridge upgrades over Ironbark Creek, helping ensure flood mitigation works across the CBD are aligned and deliver the strongest possible benefit for the community.
The federal Minister for the Environment and Water, Murray Watt, said the government was investing in projects across the country that conserve, protect, and sustainably manage Australia's natural environment and heritage through the Local Environment Projects Program.
"We're backing Hunter Water with a $10 million investment to help transform Wallsend's Ironbark Creek from a concrete stormwater channel into a naturalised urban waterway, while providing crucial flood mitigation for Wallsend," Senator Watt said.
"The project will connect the creek with restored riparian corridors and improve the quality of water that flows downstream into the internationally significant Hunter Estuary Wetlands.
NSW Minister for Water Rose Jackson announced the upgrade during a visit to the flood-prone suburb on Wednesday (June 17), along with Wallsend MP Sonia Hornery and the managing director of Hunter Water, Jennifer Hayes.
"This project shows what can be achieved when governments work together to deliver long-term solutions," Ms Jackson said.
"It shouldn't have taken this long to address the issue in what is the most flood prone area in the Hunter Water catchment.
