Central Coast Council has recently completed the second stage of a major project to upgrade Everglades Catchment Drainage in Umina Beach.

Council Director Roads, Transport, Drainage and Waste, Boris Bolgoff said the project is significantly reducing the risk of nuisance flooding in the area.

“The topography of this part of Umina Beach is very flat and has been prone to flooding which can limit access to properties,” Mr Bolgoff said.

“Flooding is often caused by a build-up of sediment in the drainage system that causes blockages.

“Our solution to resolve this problem is to install specially designed sediment pits to contain the sediment and stop blockages from building up.

“We monitor the pits regularly but we encourage residents in the area to notify Council if they see sediment levels getting higher.

Mr Bolgoff said Stage 2 works have focussed on the section of the Everglades Catchment Drainage that stretches from Carpenter Street to Glenn Street.

“The current stage of works represents a $490,000 investment by Council and has focussed on the installation of the sediment pits.

“Stage one of the project represented a $500,000 investment and involved blockage removal from the open channel along Carpenter Street and an upgrade of the drainage pipeline between the open channels to Carpenter Street.”

Mayor Jane Smith said the Everglades Catchment Drainage project is delivering significant benefits for Umina Beach residents.

“This project is a great example of Council delivering an innovative solution that makes a real difference to the lives of our community,” Mayor Smith said.

“Roads, drainage and transport projects make up the largest component of our capital works program and we are committed to making every effort to secure more funding to deliver for our region.”

Council determines areas that require major drainage through a multi-criteria system that assesses frequency, extent and potential damage of flooding.

Futures stages of the Everglades Catchment Drainage project are currently in the design phase.