The Lower Macleay Flood Risk Management Study and Plan

Lower Macleay Flood Risk Management Study and Plan – Project Completed

The Lower Macleay Flood Risk Management Study and Plan is now complete, marking a significant milestone in reducing flood risks and enhancing community resilience.

What Is the Lower Macleay Flood Risk Management Study and Plan?

This project is a designed to assess flood risks and propose effective mitigation measures for the Lower Macleay River floodplain. Completed in accordance with the Floodplain Development Manual, the plan outlines actions to safeguard the community, infrastructure, and environment while enabling sustainable development.

Why Was the Study Conducted?

Flooding has long posed significant risks to safety, infrastructure, and the local economy. This study aims to provide evidence-based solutions to reduce long-term costs associated with flood damage and improve the community’s ability to respond to flood events.

What Area Does the Study Cover?

The study focuses on the Lower Macleay floodplain, a 500 km² coastal area downstream of Kempsey, extending to South West Rocks, Crescent Head, Hat Head, and nearby villages.

Key Objectives

• Assess flood impacts on properties, roads, and infrastructure.
• Develop a prioritised list of flood risk management measures.
• Assist with planning controls for future developments on the floodplain.

Key Findings and Outcomes

Flood Mitigation Measures Evaluated:

• Physical infrastructure improvements such as levees and drainage upgrades.
• Property-specific measures like voluntary house raising and floodproofing.
• Community-focused actions, including enhanced flood warning systems.

Climate Change Considerations:

• Future flood risks were assessed based on scenarios for 2050 and 2100, incorporating projected sea level rise and increased rainfall intensities.

Community Safety Enhancements:

• Improved flood warning systems.
• Recommendations for infrastructure upgrades to maintain critical access during floods.

Recommended Measures

Flood Mitigation Measures (FM):

• Raise and extend the Smithtown Levee.
• Emergency flood access ramps at Crescent Head Road/Pacific Highway.
• Maintenance and remediation of existing levees and drainage infrastructure.

Planning Measures (PM):

• Revise Flood Planning Levels and policies.
• Amendments to planning instruments such as the Local Environmental Plan (LEP).

Response Measures (RM):

• Enhance flood warning systems and emergency management planning.
• Relocate emergency services facilities and establish stock refuge mounds.

Community Involvement

Community engagement was helped shape the plan:

• Workshops and feedback sessions were held with residents and stakeholders.
• A Flood Reference Group, comprising community representatives, agency officials, and local experts, provided insights and guidance.
• Feedback was gathered through public surveys and consultation periods.

Implementation

The prioritised plan’s recommendations will be implemented through collaboration with government agencies, funding partners, and the community. Efforts include pursuing state and federal grants and further studies to refine mitigation measures.