Rowe Street better prepared for heavy rain

Published on 16 May 2025

Major drainage upgrades on Rowe Street have been completed in line with the promise made in Council’s 2024-25 budget to address longstanding localised issues on the street.

Mayor Cr Steve Rabie said Council listened and acted on a problem that had been troubling residents for many years.

“I’m pleased we were able to listen to the community and commit to fixing this problem. During heavy rain events, the legacy infrastructure on the street just wasn’t enough to cope.

“Essentially, we had a massive flow of water leading into pipes that were just too small for the volume of water needed. In the last budget feedback sessions, we heard from the community and made the commitment to invest in infrastructure that fit the needs of the community,” said Cr Rabie.

Inadequate stormwater drainage along the eastern side of Rowe Street previously led to water pooling on the road, sometimes preventing access to private properties.

Council replaced the existing 450mm drainage culverts with new 1200mm pipes to increase capacity. New 900mm culverts were also installed up to the intersection with Malcolm Street, with a new stormwater pit where the 2 pipes meet.

New kerb was constructed near the intersection of Hunter Street and the open drain leading to Ford Creek has been cleaned out and reshaped.

“The Rowe Street upgrades are an example of how Council is preparing our towns for population growth,” said Cr Rabie.

“We know there’ll be more stormwater coming down from Highton Lane as developments there go ahead. These upgrades mean we can handle the impact – Rowe Street will be able to cope with the water without creating problems for residents there.

“Council is investing in smart infrastructure upgrades to meet our growing community’s needs,” Cr Rabie said.

The project was funded with $444,904.10 from Council’s budget.