Council working with developer following Gisborne storm events

Macedon Ranges Shire Council is continuing to work with the developer of the Rosalia Estate following two intense storm events in late February that resulted in localised flooding in parts of Gisborne. 

The storms brought heavy rainfall and hail to the area, causing significant runoff through the Swinburne Avenue and Cherry Lane area where subdivision works are currently underway and sections of the permanent drainage network are still being completed. 

Chief Executive Officer Bernie O’Sullivan said Council understood the distress and disruption the flooding had caused for affected residents. 

“We recognise how concerning this has been for residents, particularly for those who experienced water entering their homes,” Mr O’Sullivan said. 

“Our teams have been on site following the storm events and we are working closely with the developer and their engineers to understand what occurred and to identify both immediate measures and longer-term solutions.” 

Council’s engineering and civil services teams have been inspecting the affected areas and are undertaking additional investigations into the performance of existing drainage infrastructure. This includes cleaning sections of the drainage network and carrying out CCTV inspections of Council-managed pipes to confirm they are operating as intended. 

At the same time, Council is working with the developer, ID_Land, to review the subdivision drainage network and determine the most appropriate sequence of works to improve stormwater management through the estate. 

Discussions are currently focused on measures to better manage stormwater flows along Cherry Lane and Swinburne Avenue, temporary drainage controls during the construction phase, and progression of key outfall drainage works connecting the estate drainage system to Honeysuckle Creek. 

As part of the ongoing subdivision works, the developer is also progressing staged road construction within the estate, including sections of Cherry Lane and Swinburne Avenue. Council is working with the developer to ensure the sequencing of road and drainage works supports safe stormwater management while construction continues. 

Mr O’Sullivan said Council had requested an updated program from the developer outlining the sequencing and timing of the remaining works. 

“Once that program is confirmed, Council will review the proposed works and monitor their implementation to ensure the necessary improvements are delivered,” he said. 

Council will continue to keep affected residents informed as further information becomes available.