City drainage study flowing well

To achieve maximum benefits for optimum cost, Auckland City Council’s Works Committee today agreed to invest a further $1.5 million in the Integrated Catchment Study, a joint venture with Metrowater.

The Integrated Catchment Study (ICS) was approved by the Metrowater Board and the Works Committee in 2001 as a joint 50:50 funded venture to study Auckland City’s stormwater and wastewater systems. The project is programmed for completion by mid-2005.

The project was initially estimated to cost $20 million, with Metrowater and Auckland City each contributing $10 million. To maximise the benefits of the study, a further $3 million was recommended. To date, nearly $14 million has been spent or committed.

Among the main benefits of the project are the creation of integrated computer models that simulate water flow in Auckland city’s drainage network. The computer models will enable council to create “what if” scenarios to investigate the effects of population growth and development.

“The information provided by the Integrated Catchment Study will enable Auckland City and Metrowater to optimise approximately $700 million in new stormwater and wastewater infrastructure investment over the next 20 years,” says Councillor Bill Christian, chairperson of the Works Committee.

Metrowater Asset Planning Manager, Brian Sharman, explains that a key benefit of the project will be to ensure informed choices can be made about both maintenance of the current infrastructure and construction of new areas.

Eventually, the ICS will provide detailed information including: the performance of the stormwater, wastewater and combined systems; water quality in different areas of the city; areas where flood issues arise; how discharges affect local receiving environments (waterways) and the Waitemata and Manukau Harbours.

“This information will enable us to prioritise future works to maximise improvements for public health, amenities and the natural environment in a cost-effective manner, “ says Mr Sharman.

For more detail about the ICS, contact Metrowater on 0800 FOR WATER (0800 367 928) or visit the website www.metrowater.co.nz.

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