Improved water quality and better enjoyment of the local natural environments will be the outcomes of two waterways rehabilitation projects approved by Council this week.
Meadowbank Rain Garden
Council has approved the installation of an innovative stormwater filtration system, commonly known as a “rain garden”, in Meadowbank Park. The system uses vegetation and soil to treat stormwater runoff by filtering out nutrients and pollutant before the water is release into the Parramatta River. Measuring approximately 30m long and 10m wide, the rain garden will be densely planted with native plants and will form a natural barrier between the dog walking area/hockey field and the park fenceline. The rain garden will also be used as a community demonstration and education site and is another example of how the City of Ryde continues to work towards improving sustainability of our natural water cycle. The estimated $70,000 cost is covered by a grant from the Department of Environment and Climate Change.
Looking Glass Bay Park Upgrade
The community has given its stamp of approval to a waterways rehabilitation plan for Looking Glass Bay Park, a small picturesque park on the banks of the Parramatta River. The Park contains remnants of bush land, saline wetland, stream habitat and bird life. Frequent high energy storm flows are contributing to ongoing erosion in this high density residential, commercial and roads environment. The plan to remediate the area includes:
- the construction of a stormwater quality improvement device to remove litter, debris and sediment from the creek
- Revegetation of areas with native species
- Stabilising the creek embankments with local rock
- Construction of a pedestrian bridge
- Landmark educational signage.
High Pressure Water
Senior students in the Ryde area have a chance to test their ‘firies’ skills shooting masses of high pressure water back into the Lane Cove River as part of Youth Week. The activity has been coordinated with West Chatswood Community Fire Unit who will show you how to use the hire pressure pumps on the Weir in Lane Cove National Park after school on Wednesday 1 April. A barbecue will follow. Numbers are limited so book now online at www.ryde.nsw.gov.au/youthweek
Media contact: Lee Kirkland, City of Ryde, T 9952 8083
