Better data on flood risks

Friday, 16 October 2015

Council uses the latest flood modelling techniques and topographical information to map potential flood patterns across the City.

"Having the most accurate information is vital to predict the way a flood will impact life and property and ensure swift action to alleviate risk," Penrith Mayor Karen McKeown said.

Council has recently adopted a new study for Penrith's City Centre which includes updated information about potential flood prone land and drainage paths.

"The Penrith CBD Catchment Flood Study reaffirms the 2006 Overland Flood Study but with more detail. Council has now secured more accurate topographical information and also used up-to-date flood modelling techniques so the new flood study more accurately defines the flood affected areas," Cr McKeown said.

Having accurate information about overland flow enables Council to prioritise mitigation work and also provide property owners with a good understanding of how flooding may affect their property.

"Around $7 million will be spent in the coming year improving drainage and stormwater channels," Cr McKeown said.

Council will also develop a comprehensive Floodplain Risk Management Plan for the City Centre area, bounded by The Northern Road, Jamison Road and Mulgoa Road.

Council is writing to residents in the Penrith CBD flood study area if their property is likely to be impacted by flooding or flood related controls.

"It's important to know the likelihood of flooding on your property in advance and have a plan in place of where you'll go, what you need to take and also carry out any preventative action to ensure the damage to your property is minimised," Cr McKeown said.

"This can include removing rubbish and other objects which might become dislodged during a flood."

Other work, including the South Creek Floodplain Risk Management Study, Little Creek Overland Flow Flood Study and College, Orth and Werrington Creeks Overland Flow Flood Study are also underway.

For more information go to the Floodplain Management page.

Information contained within this news release was correct as at Friday, 16 October 2015.