Otago Regional Council (ORC) has begun public engagement on the enhancement of the Forth St to Otago Harbor reach of the Water of Leith, one of the final stages of the Leith Flood Protection Scheme.
ORC Director Engineering, Hazards and Science, Dr Gavin Palmer , said that this stage of the long-term project is an exciting opportunity to transform the area.
“ This section is well-known for its high walls and concrete channels, products of historic flood protection and reclamation of shoreline work going back to the early 1900s. Although the deep channels have made accessibility difficult, we believe it has the potential to become a new and functional space for the public ,” said Dr Palmer.
“ Before our team begin concept design development, we want to hear what the public would like to see happen in this area. Any enhancement work will complement the improvements already made with our previous flood protection works, and will maintain the flood protection aspect of these channels .”
ORC is also taking a joint approach to design development; a working group for the project has been established, with representatives from ORC, Dunedin City Council, University of Otago, Otago Polytechnic, and Aukaha on behalf of Kai Tahu.
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