Figtree Place is a water sensitive urban redevelopment consisting of 27 residential units located in Hamilton, an inner suburb of Newcastle, NSW, Australia. The site uses rainwater tanks, infiltration trenches and a central basin where cleansed stormwater enters the unconfined aquifer for water retention and retrieval. A two-year monitoring program for roofwater, raintanks, hot water systems and first flush pits has commenced with samples taken from these sources tested for compliance with the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines. Total water saving of around 60% has been shown to be feasible as well as almost complete storm runoff retention.
Is zero afflux the question or answer to better flooding outcomes?
Presentation by Peter J Coombes and Andrew Allan at HWRS 2022: Is zero afflux the real challenge or solution for better flood management? It is vitally important to establish science and legally based rules for fair administration of the objectives and exploration of options that respond to flood risks. Otherwise, there will be a substantial administrative burden for marginal benefit. Our professionals and agencies need to be prepared for a different and challenging future, and our methods need to be fit for purpose from a whole of society perspective.