THE final piece in Bathurst’s 20-year flood management plan has been announced, with Bathurst Regional Council receiving $1.7 million in State Government funding to complete the final stage of the city’s levee system.
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Member for Bathurst Paul Toole, announced on Wednesday council had been successful in their application through the NSW Government’s Floodplain Management grants program.
The grant was awarded under the 2018-2019 Floodplain Management Program and will allow council to complete the final stage of the levee system, which will assist in managing local flood levels, risk and exposure in the Bathurst region.
Mr Toole congratulated council on successfully securing the funding for the construction of a levee in Perthville as part of stage two of their flood mitigation works.
In 1998 the first levee bank was built, stopping the flooding from getting into town.
- Mayor Graeme Hanger
Mr Toole said the floods that occurred back in 1986 highlighted the need for greater protection of homes across the area.
“A Royal Commission was held and it highlighted the need for works to occur,” he said.
“Over the last 20 years, Bathurst Regional Council has completed around 10km of levees to protect the city and the many households that were previously affected by the flood.
“This is the final piece in the puzzle and another great partnership between the NSW State Government and Bathurst Regional Council.”
As part of the final plan, a number of pump stations will also be installed around the Perthville area, which he said will protect more houses and more property in the Perthville vicinity.
Mr Toole said many residents will remember the devastation caused by the 1986 floods, and said thanks to Bathurst Regional Council's flood mitigation program, the city isn't seeing the flooding it has seen in the past.
Mayor of Bathurst, Graeme Hanger said the funding was "wonderful news."
"We're spending almost $900,000, and the State Government has announced $1.7 million funding to complete the levee bank, which will add to the almost 10km [already in place].
"In 1986 there were massive floods, and in 1998 the first levee bank was built, stopping the flooding from getting into town," saying it was a win for the community.