Bayside - the Transformation of a Stormwater Asset into a Community Asset

This paper case studies a recently completed project in which an old stormwater pond and lined concrete channel are transformed into a valued community asset.

The stormwater pond in the Bayside reserve in North Shore City was in need of de-silting and the section of stream downstream of the pond had been identified to trial community based stream restoration and enhancement on private property. This provided the opportunity for an integrated project involving the Water Services, Parks, Environmental Programmes teams from North Shore City Council and the local community.

This paper presents those components of work which were carried out by council on public land. The project included the transformation of a concrete channel into a natural stream, construction of new forebays, de-silting the pond, installing two floating islands, a boardwalk, improved access, a unique outlet structure and re-vegetation. The project provided multiple benefits to the community such as: increased ecological values; improved water quality; increased amenity and improved access to the area, it also involved the community in parts of the decision making process.

A close working relationship with the contractor was necessary to achieve the best solution. All requested changes from the public were also included if possible. A number of new soft engineering solutions were used throughout the project.