01/07/2005 - A significant
investment to stabilise the North Esk River
Edge will improve river health, boost flood
protection, increase recreational opportunities,
and improve access to the river's edge, by
replacing a section of 100-year-old rotting
piles.
The $3 million investment over the next four
years, announced today by Australian Government
Minister for the Environment and Heritage,
Senator Ian Campbell, will fund the Tamar
River Piling and Town Point Levee Stabilisation
projects.
Senator Campbell said the funding was critical
to prevent further stream bank erosion and
the numerous flow-on problems it causes.
"Stream bank instability can have various
adverse effects including damaging intertidal
vegetation, and increasing siltation and turbidity.
Downstream, this can mean poor water quality
for fish and other native animals that call
the Tamar River home, as well as for the people
who enjoy the recreational benefits the river
has to offer," Senator Campbell said.
In addition to the environmental and recreational
benefits of the project, the project will
also address safety concerns.
"The project will see a section of the
river's edge stabilised by replacing old rotting
timber piles and improving the adjoining flood
levee. This will both alleviate erosion and
allow the waterway area to be increased, which
will in turn improve river navigation and
help to reduce flood levels in the North Esk,"
Senator Campbell said.
"An improved river edge could also initiate
a land-use review for enhanced recreational
activities.
"A revitalised riverfront means opportunities
for wildlife and vegetation to recover, which
in turn makes the riverfront more attractive
in terms of recreational and environmental
values."
Senator Campbell congratulated the Launceston
City Council for their work in the planning
process.
"The council has done an excellent job
of laying the groundwork for this important
project and should be congratulated for their
detailed planning efforts," Senator Campbell
said.
