CurrentWe're upgrading the Waverley Road retarding basin spillway, located next to Scotchmans Creek Trail in Mount Waverley, to ensure a safe drainage system and to reduce the risk of flooding to surrounding homes.
Rain, storms and floods are a natural part of life in Melbourne, but they can have a big impact of way of life. That’s why at Melbourne Water, we manage a complex system of drainage across the city and plan for the impacts of stormwater on our iconic rivers, creeks and bays. The Waverley Road retarding basin spillway is an important part of the system that ensures rainfall is carried safely away from built up areas and into rivers and creeks, minimising the risk of flooding to the surrounding area.
About the project
Since the early 1960s the Waverley Road retarding basin has played an important function in protecting the local area during and storm and flood events. Melbourne Water manages more than 200 retarding basins. To ensure long-term flood risk reduction in the area, an upgrade has been necessary. That’s why at Melbourne Water we are currently undertaking works to upgrade the Waverley Road Retarding Basin Spillway.
We wish to advise that the completion date for the Waverley Retarding Basin Spillway construction has been extended to late 2026.
Due to changes to site conditions, our contractors had to make some important design adjustments. These changes will ensure the project meets the highest standards of safety, quality, and long-term functionality.
We appreciate your patience and we’ll continue to keep you updated.
We sincerely thank you for your ongoing patience while we undertake these important works.
What to expect
While Melbourne Water makes every effort to minimise disruption to the community, during works you may notice:
- Increased vehicle and truck movements in and out of Oxford Street, Lawrence Road and Regent Street.
- Potential diversion of Scotchmans Creek Trail around the retarding basin.
- General construction impacts to residents, such as dust, noise and path closures.
- Some vegetation will need to be trimmed or removed so that our crew and machinery can access the site. Any vegetation removed will be reinstated at the end of the works.
Please note there will be no disruption to your water services during these works.
We thank you for your patience and understanding while we undertake these important works.
How retarding basins work
Retarding basins are low-lying areas of land, set aside to temporarily store stormwater during heavy rain.
Many basins are grassy areas that also provide a recreational space for the community while dry. Others hold water permanently, supporting biodiversity.
When a retarding basin fills, the landscape is designed to hold back stormwater to reduce flood risk to the surrounding area. During this time, recreational areas may be affected.
The stored water is then slowly released into the downstream drain or waterway.
