Jacana Retarding Basin Upgrade Project
Community Bulletin
October 2015
Melbourne Water will soon undertake upgrade works to the Jacana
Retarding Basin to ensure it continues its safe operation
Background
The Jacana Retarding Basin was originally constructed in 1967 and plays a
crucial role in managing stormwater in your area.
When heavy rain occurs, the retarding basin embankment holds back
stormwater and slowly releases it downstream into the Moonee Ponds
Creek, reducing flood risks to residents.
The Jacana Retarding Basin has the largest capacity of all Greater
Melbourne retarding basins and the largest consequence in terms of loss
of life in the event of failure.
1
Why are works necessary?
Melbourne Water is responsible for 200 retarding basins across Greater
Melbourne, which we continually assess and maintain.
Although the likelihood of problems with the Jacana Retarding Basin in its
current state is minimal, our assessment shows works are needed to
further ensure embankment safety during extreme flood events.
Timings
Melbourne Water is currently in the process of appointing a construction
partner to undertake these works. Estimated timings are:


Construction Start: February 2016
Construction End: June 2016 (weather permitting)
Potential impacts for surrounding residents
As with all major projects within residential areas, we do anticipate some
impacts to our neighbours including:



Increase in number of truck movements through the Gowanbrae Estate
Temporary closure and diversion of Moonee Ponds Creek Trail through
Moonee Boulevard and Valley Crescent, Glenroy
Residents in the immediate vicinity of the work area will experience some
noise and dust, and may experience vibration from the works.
To reduce these impacts we aim to:




Restrict truck movements to off peak times
Undertake works Monday to Friday only
Use water suppression carts where necessary to reduce dust, and stop works
if dust levels are deemed too high
Liaise with local bike riding groups and provide clear signage of shared user
path detours.
Opportunities
As part of these works, Melbourne Water has identified an opportunity to
further open up the retarding basin land for community recreation.
This includes:


Removing the cyclone fence to the south of the retarding basin within the
Gowanbrae Estate and replacing it with more user friendly fencing.
Looping the shared pedestrian and bike path around the retarding basin and
linking with the Moonee Ponds Creek Trail on the east side.
2
Environment
Melbourne Water is aware of the variety of flora and fauna living within
the wetlands to the north of the retarding basin.
In addition to construction being limited to the outer south facing side of
the embankment, fencing will be established on the upstream side
creating a buffer zone to the wetlands to ensure habitat is not disturbed.
Silt control measures will be put in place to ensure sediment run off does
not have an adverse effect on the creek. This will include silt fencing and
sediment ponds where required.
More information or provide feedback
Melbourne Water is committed to minimising impacts throughout the
delivery of this project and will provide regular updates. To get in contact
with our team:


Email - rbupgrades@melbournewater.com.au
Call - 131 722
For more information about retarding basins www.melbournewater.com.au/retardingbasins
TTY - 13 36 77
Interpreter Services - 13 14 50
3