Safeguarding the Kempsey Riverside Precinct from the devastating impacts of floods is a step closer with the award of a grant to prevent erosion and preserve this vital public space.
The Precinct, a cherished social gathering space for the local community, has been subjected to recurrent flooding, jeopardising the safety, accessibility, and enjoyment of the area. The March 2021 floods inflicted extensive damage, necessitating prolonged closures and causing further erosion, loss of land, and open space. This situation prompted the urgent need for a long-term solution.
Kempsey Shire Council has been granted $3,548,261 through the joint Australian and NSW Government funded Community Assets Program, to install a 243 metre sheet pile wall along the riverbank. This retaining structure, consisting of interlocking steel sheet sections with a capping beam, will serve as a bulwark against further erosion. This will in turn revive the lost community open space, improve flood resilience, and make the precinct more enjoyable for residents and visitors alike.
Michael Jackson, Director Operations and Planning, said Kempsey Riverside Precinct is not just a recreational hub but also holds historical and indigenous significance.
“This is a unique space connecting our Kempsey CBD to the Macleay River that is a central hub for Shire-wide community gatherings and activities,” said Mr Jackson.
“There are many benefits to this project. The Precinct will witness an increase in community activities and participation, catering to various age groups and abilities. Additionally, major events, like the Kempsey Riverside Markets and Christmas Carols, will thrive with a larger, safer, and more functional open space. Furthermore, the improved flood resilience will reduce post-flood recovery times.”
The Precinct features a wide array of community assets and infrastructure, including playgrounds, barbecue and picnic facilities, jetties, a boat ramp, pathways, and event spaces.
The stabilising project extends its reach to protect critical assets like the Kempsey Traffic Bridge and the CBD flood levee, ensuring that these vital components remain intact, enabling unimpeded access to key areas of the town. A comprehensive analysis was conducted, considering various factors such as local river ecology and community needs.
The sheet pile wall was chosen for its adaptability and small footprint, which allows for the integration of future infrastructure.
The grant represents an essential step towards the revitalisation of Kempsey’s Riverside Precinct, further cementing its status as a regional jewel and a source of pride for the local community. Stage 2 of the project will build on the successes of Stage 1, providing even greater resilience and future-proofing the precinct for generations to come.
