Bridging the Divide - The Omega Pond Project

Successful Integrated Catchment Management Planning includes establishing the connectivity between catchment issues and the other landuse driven complexities, such as transportation development, to ensure that multiple benefit solutions are achieved.

The Te Ara Alexandra Project encompasses the integration of a major public cycleway project with stream restoration, wetland enhancement and stormwater infrastructure improvements. One component of this wider catchment project involves enhancing Omega Pond, located adjacent to the Alexandra Stream in the Oteha Valley, North Shore City. This project is a shining example of how stormwater and transport practitioners can bridge often conflicting philosophical approaches to the management of the riparian area. The result being improved performance of a Council asset, enhanced public amenity of the open space area and an optimised cycleway design.

This paper documents the planning and design processes that have underpinned this project. In particular it will address the following key elements:

• Overcoming often divergent views between council entities regarding management of riparian reserves,
• Blending stormwater, amenity, transport and environmental objectives to get the best bang for your buck,
• Identification of design elements through the planning phase of the project,
• Linking design elements back to planning objectives throughout the design process.