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Last Updated: Thursday, 19 January 2023 10:19

Published: Wednesday, 14 December 2022 10:16

Invasive species vegetation in a section of Gowrie Creek will be removed early next year as part of Toowoomba Regional Council’s flood mitigation works.

Council’s Infrastructure Committee Chair Cr Carol Taylor said vegetation in and along Gowrie Creek between the Railway Goods Shed at the Victoria Street bridge and Bridge Street will be removed to assist with flood mitigation in the broader CBD area.

“Toowoomba residents and businesses in the CBD are well aware of the past impacts of flooding in the city and this vegetation maintenance is a vital part of ongoing mitigation works for future flooding events,” Cr Taylor said.

“Council has obtained a Riverine Protection Permit from the State Government for the works. Generally, the native vegetation will be retained, however a lot of the exotic vegetation and rubbish will be removed.”

Cr Taylor said measures would be taken to minimise the environmental impact of the works.

“Roots will be left in place to minimise the disturbance of the bed and banks of the creek to protect against erosion and fauna spotters will be on site during the works to collect, remove and relocate any wildlife found at the site,” she said.

“A flood modelling report has shown that removing the exotic vegetation in the Gowrie Creek area just down from the confluence of West and East Creeks will help to increase the volume of water that the creek can convey.”

Cr Taylor said a contractor was expected to start the works in January next year.

Enquiries can be directed to Council on 131 872 or email yoursay@tr.qld.gov.au