Narrabri flood study exhibition end nears

Time is running out for the public to have its say on the draft Narrabri Floodplain Risk Management Study and Plan.

The study has been on extended public exhibition until tomorrow, November 28.

Among the recommendations in the draft study and plan are significant zoning changes and building considerations for new developments.

Voluntary house purchasing and house-raising options to be made available to eligible residents in the most at-risk areas forms part of the mitigation measures.

Further analysis of channel widening and levee schemes for Horsearm and Mulgate Creeks as well as the investigation of suitable sites for new evacuation centres is also part of the recently released draft plan.

A key priority identified as part of the plan is to identify suitable emergency evacuation sites that can be easily accessible and not prone to flooding.

Continued devastating national rainfall patterns, plus a NSW government-funded requirement, means community members have the opportunity to have their say on the proposed study and plan.

Under the NSW government’s Floodplain Management Program, Narrabri Shire Council was funded and engaged WRM Water & Environment to prepare the Narrabri Floodplain Risk Management Study and Plan.

Scientific (hydrologic and hydraulic) investigation of flooding, including to existing waterways and drainage areas and existing land use and zoning areas resulting from Narrabri and surrounds rainfall events – plus data collection and existing data – produced the modelling for the study and plan.

Narrabri Shire Council has held several community information sessions for people to find out more about the draft plan.

For further information on the Narrabri Floodplain Risk Management Study and Plan, including proposed planning measures, people can contact council or see the details on its website.