An official sod turning ceremony for the Stage 1 levee has marked a key milestone in the effort to increase flood protection for Roma residents into the future.
Stage 1, which involves the construction of a 4.9km levee, house raising and other property-specific solutions, is designed to protect against a 1 in 1000-year flood event.
Maranoa Mayor Robert Loughnan said he was extremely proud to see the project now at the construction phase with the levee to provide flood protection for approximately 500 affected residential and commercial properties.
“This is a very exciting day for Council as we officially kick off works for our Stage 1 levee.
“The project has been reviewed and advanced throughout its life to include specific data from each flood event. Following extensive community consultation Council approved the design and construction of the Stage 1 levee in March this year; with the final alignment determined at its meeting in July, following discussions with property owners.
“With the alignment known, tenders were called for the levee’s design and construction; after an extensive tender evaluation process, the contract was awarded to Ostwald Bros Pty Ltd.
“It’s been a process getting the most effective, overall community solution – the input we have received from affected residents and business owners throughout the consultation process has been invaluable.”
The construction of the Stage 1 levee is expected to be complete in April 2014.
The Stage 1 levee is expected to cost $15 million, with funding from Council, State and Federal Governments.
