A draft plan aimed at reducing the risk of flooding and flood damage in Woolgoolga and its surrounds is going out for public comment from September 2 until October 12, 2015.
The Draft Woolgoolga Floodplain Risk Management Study and Plan follows the completion of a Flood Study for Woolgoolga in 2012, which produced comprehensive flood modelling data.
Last year, a series of community consultation activities were undertaken – including a questionnaire and public meetings – to seek local information on flood experiences from property-owners, residents and businesses. Locals’ views on future levels of development control were also sought.
The Draft Floodplain Risk Management Study and Plan has used the modelling and mapping from the 2012 study and the information provided through the consultation as the basis for investigating the impacts of flooding and possible flood mitigation options.
Some of the mitigation options considered in the Draft Plan include:
· Building levees; · Creating a flood detention area in an existing wetland; · Building a breakwater to provide a permanent open entrance to Woolgoolga Lake; · Improvements to drainage; · Voluntary property raising; · Flood-proofing of properties; · Education programmes; and · Planning and development controls.
Following the public consultation period, a revised final draft will be put before Council for adoption. Once adopted, Council will then be able to seek funds for the mitigation projects.
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