Kahibah Creek to be rehabilitated

Kahibah Creek will be fully rehabilitated with riparian vegetation under a plan approved by Gosford Council.

Council approved $161,000 of extra funds for the creek to perform initial urgent works and it will consider additional funds of $342,000 as an annual maintenance cost, which will be reviewed annually.

Previously, $4000 to $20,000 had been allocated each year for maintenance of the creek.

Maintenance activities included typha reed removal by cutting and painting of stems, spraying exotic flora, Bushcare assistance and some council supervision over the community-based Bushcare group.

According to council, Kahibak Creek needed to be regularly maintained to protect the built area near the creek from flooding.

Council officers reported that the creek had characteristics that made it susceptible to flooding including many tributaries, a narrow floodway and a long, flat longitudinal gradeline.

Clearing of excess vegetation was a necessary part of maintenance, the report said.

Council agenda, February 27