Plan to investigate Correa Bay sediment

The draft Brisbane Water Estuary Management Plan has recommended an investigation of stormwater control measures to reduce sedimentation in Correa Bay.

It estimated that close to 70 tonnes of "suspended solids" flowed into the bay each year.

"There have been observations of large sediment loads in catchment flows draining from Woy Woy Creek into Correa Bay after wet weather," the plan states.

It recommended investigation of potential stormwater control measures "aimed at providing some pre-treatment of stormwater flows before they reach Correa Bay".

It suggested that a "bio-retention system of 12,000 square metres" had "potential to retain a significant portion of total suspended solids" from flows "from that portion of the catchment ... that contains the Bulls Hill Quarry".

This was "likely to result in a significant local water quality benefit, and indicates potential to improve stormwater treatment for the sub-catchments draining to Correa Bay", the plan stated.

"The action should be implemented as part of a larger Water Sensitive Urban Design strategy for the estuary catchment."

The investigation should include a site inspection "to identify sediment sources, and assess site constraints and opportunities".

It would include catchment modelling to assess potential sediment sources and options to reduce sediment loads in stormwater runoff.

Finally, the investigation would identify a preferred stormwater control measure.

Website, 13 June 2011 Items on Exhibition, Gosford Council