17 November 2011
$2.8m Drainage Works Boost Baxter's Flood Protection
A major drainage upgrade has boosted the ability of the Mornington Peninsula town of Baxter to cope with extreme rain events.
Two retarding basins behind Baxter Pre-School have been replaced by large underground pipes and an aboveground swale to manage stormwater run-off and significantly increase the level of flood protection up to a 1—in-100-year rain event.
Removal of the retarding basins was necessary to make way for the new Peninsula Link Freeway.
The retarding basins were always intended to be a temporary measure and built in an area designated for the new freeway.
Pipelines (Sewerage and Drainage) Manager, Phil Corluka, said the $2.8 million works were designed with input from local residents.
“The swale will only operate during major downpours and floods,” Mr Corluka said.
“At other times the swale will resemble a shallow, dry creek bed adding a natural feature to the reserve.
“Flows will be within safe public limits and water will not be retained.
“Importantly, the upgraded system will help to protect the Baxter community against a one-in-one hundred year rain event,” he added.
As part of the works the existing BMX track was relocated to Reid Reserve and re-designed with input from local students and the Mornington Peninsula Shire.
To celebrate the completion of the project the Pipelines Alliance and Mornington Peninsula Shire will hold a free community BBQ on Saturday November 26.
The project was undertaken by the Pipelines Alliance, a partnership between Melbourne Water, Fulton Hogan, Jaydo and GHD.
Media Contact: Jess Wurf (03) 9235 1587; 0427 171 274