Environment Southland has an important role in maintaining and protecting the integrity of a large network of stop banks around the region.
To support this work, Southland Flood Control and Drainage Management Bylaw 2020 recognises the risks that trees close to stop banks pose, and requires vegetation removal if it’s within 7.5 metres of the stop banks.
The stop bank network is an important asset to protect Invercargill from flooding.
There are a number of large blue gum and pine trees along the Waihopai stop banks on the true right bank between the Preston Street Pump Station and North Road that need to be removed. These large trees may cause damage to the stop bank in a flood, and could potentially lead to the stop banks failing.
This work will begin on Monday 16 January 2023, and is expected to take up to four weeks. The walkway track will be closed with security fences between the Preston Street pump station and the North Road entrance to minimise public access. We’re working with businesses in the area to minimise any disruptions.
Once the work is complete, repairs will be made to the stop banks and walkways.
