News concrete channelling will be removed as part of a stream restoration project for Blackgate Reserve, Pitt Avenue foreshore and Laurie Gibbons Memorial Park has been hailed as a win for the environment.
Manurewa Local Board Chair Joseph Allan says concrete channelling will go as part of moves to improve awa and waterways throughout the area.
“A Healthy Waters initiative will complement the work we have done in partnership with Papakura and Franklin around the Papakura Stream, and our Te Puhinui Regeneration Strategy with iwi mana whenua and Eke Panuku, Healthy Waters and Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board.”
Healthy Waters plans to replace concrete channel and plant five metres deep along either side as part of a naturalisation project in Blackgate Reserve from Palmers Road to the stream entrance at Laurie Gibbons Memorial Park.
Construction should begin next month, with parts of the reserve closed for what is expected to be around six months. Planting will follow, but timings are yet to be confirmed.
The area will be fenced off for the duration of the project, with barriers in place so new stream banks and berms can stabilise, and grass re-establish.
“Healthy Waters will work with the community park ranger to organise planting days,” Allan says.
“Our communities have been enthusiastic volunteers at many planting days across the rohe, as people seek to take a hands-on role in protecting and enhancing their local environment.”
He says the work is consistent with the Board’s stated aim of ensuring the natural environment is valued, protected and enhanced.
“There can be no doubt that the proposed stream restoration and planting will improve water quality and amenity values within Blackgate Reserve.”
Stay connected
Want to stay up to date with all the latest news from your area? Sign up for our Manurewa Local Board E-news and get it delivered to your inbox each month.
