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Horizons Regional Council

Monday 2 July, 2012

Councillors inspect Ashhurst flood protection works

Last week Horizons staff and councilors headed to Ashhurst to inspect the town’s recently completed flood protection works.

Works on the Ashhurst Stream Scheme commenced in 2008-09 and now provide ‘100 year’ flood protection to the township. 100 year flood protection is the accepted standard applied by Horizons for residential areas.

Horizons senior engineering officer Ian McMahon led the tour as he explained the work that has been involved over the last three years. Over two kilometres of stop banks or flood walls have been constructed alongside the clearing of channels, the installation of culverts and the building of new fencing and stock gates. In most areas re-grassing and planting have also improved the visual aspects of the works.

“Completing a project on this smaller scale in a semi-urban environment can be very complex due to the number of land owners involved, access issues and even physical obstacles and infrastructure,” said Horizons group manager - operations Allan Cook.

“In some ways building flood protection works on larger scales can be easier as there are fewer hurdles to overcome”

The works were in part a collaboration with Palmerston North City Council who completed road and culvert improvements.

“By being able to work in partnership with the City Council we were able to progress with the work more quickly and ultimately save on costs for our mutual ratepayers,” said Mr Cook

“Councillors appreciate the opportunity to see the work we are doing around the region first hand as it gives us a better understanding of the projects Horizons are involved in and the effect on local communities,” said Horizons operations committee chairperson Murray Guy.

“We are really pleased with the result and congratulate the team who has tirelessly worked on this project.”

ENDS

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