Long Term Plan - Spring Creek stop bank upgrade
Critical flood protection works to ensure Spring Creek is protected from future flooding is scheduled in Council’s Long Term Plan.
The $8.7M upgrade of two primary stop banks along Peninsula Road is needed to prevent the banks failing, compromising the safety of Spring Creek township and State Highway 1.
Rivers and Drainage Engineer Andy White said the stop banks were critical pieces of flood protection infrastructure that became compromised in the 2016 Kaikoura earthquake and 2021 and 2022 floods.
While repairs have been carried out the stop bank is vulnerable along its entire length, he said.
“Action is required with some urgency to upgrade the stop banks,” he said. “Until the work is undertaken they remain at an elevated risk of failing before reaching their design limits, compromising the safety of Spring Creek township during a flood event.”
Initial estimates suggest 35,000 tonnes of rock will be required, most of which will come from the nearby Pukaka Quarry.
Given the risk to transport infrastructure of national importance, the works were submitted to Government as part of the Before the Deluge business case for co-investment. If successful the project could potentially receive a 60 per cent contribution.
Council’s Long Term Plan consultation document will be available for public submissions from 4 April.
Public consultation begins 4 April on Council’s Long Term Plan (LTP) 2024-2034. This plan, reviewed every three years, highlights the key projects, services, facilities and funding Council has planned to invest in Marlborough’s future, our people, quality lifestyle and outstanding natural environment. Consultation is the key to a good plan and we need your help in shaping Marlborough’s next 10 years and beyond. Please have your say from 4 April.