Gladstone Street Wetlands Upgrade

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Cairnlea

About this project 

The Gladstone Street Wetlands are a constructed wetland system designed to filter stormwater from surrounding streets, parks and urban areas. 

Wetlands work like ecological kidneys. As stormwater moves slowly through shallow, densely planted ponds, pollutants such as sediment, nutrients and litter are removed before the water enters downstream creeks and rivers. 

This upgrade will restore the wetlands’ ability to effectively treat stormwater while enhancing the surrounding open space and natural values of the area. 

Why this work is needed 

Over time, sediment build‑up and ageing infrastructure can reduce how well wetlands perform. 

The upgrade will: 

  • Improve stormwater treatment and water quality 

  • Restore healthy water levels that support plant growth 

  • Improve water flow through the wetlands 

  • Enhance habitat for native plants and animals 

  • Help protect downstream waterways from pollution 

What the works involve 

  • Constructing a permanent high flow bypass pipeline to divert water around the wetland  

  • Temporarily lowering water levels so construction can be carried out safely Removing excess sediment and vegetation that is restricting water flow 

  • Reshaping the base of the wetlands to improve water depth and circulation 

  • Upgrading inlets, outlets and drainage infrastructure 

  • Revegetating the wetlands with a diverse range of native plants to improve filtering and habitat 

How wetlands work 

Constructed wetlands typically have three key stages: 

  • Inlet – Stormwater enters the wetland, slowing down so sediment and debris can settle. 

  • Treatment zone – Water flows through shallow, planted areas where micro‑organisms and plants remove nutrients such as nitrogen. 

  • Outlet – After spending time in the wetland, cleaner water is released into the local creek or waterway. 

Together, these stages help improve water quality and protect the health of our waterways. 

Local impacts  

We’ll make every effort to minimise disruption to the community and environment during construction. However, you may notice: 

  • Temporary closures or detours on nearby paths 

  • Increased truck movements 

  • Noise from construction activities during working hours 

  • Dust and increased truck movements 

  • Removal of some vegetation 

  • Mild odours as excavated sediment dries 

Access will be reinstated as areas are completed and new plants become established. 

Looking after the area 

Once complete, the upgraded Gladstone Street Wetlands will: 

  • Provide improved stormwater treatment 

  • Support thriving native vegetation and wildlife 

  • Enhance the local landscape 

  • Continue protecting downstream waterways for years to come 

Working hours 

The works will be completed during standard construction hours of Monday to Friday, between 7am and 6pm, and Saturdays from 7am to 1pm if required.  

We do not anticipate any impact on your water or sewerage services during these works. 

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