A park in Dickson has been suggested as an option of the Sullivan’s Creek project. Photo: ACT Government.
The ACT Government has released a draft options paper on the re-naturalisation of Sullivan’s Creek, which sets out a plan to convert the Inner North watercourse from a concrete drain to a place where people can “sit, enjoy, relax, play and learn”.
“Right now, Sullivan’s Creek is a concrete labyrinth that runs right through the heart of our city, often collecting sediment and algae that are really detrimental to water quality,” ACT Environment Minister Rebecca Vassarotti said.
“That’s why we want to open a dialogue with Canberrans about bringing Sullivan’s Creek up to its full potential, turning it into an ecological corridor that protects water and fosters even greater biodiversity down the spine of the Inner North.”
The creek had been used by Ngunnawal people for thousands of years but has gone downhill (metaphorically) in recent times, according to the options paper released after a period of public consultation.
“Deforestation, agriculture and grazing have caused degradation of the creek,” the report stated.
“The stream and its tributaries were converted into straightened concrete drains and most fringing vegetation removed… the current concrete channel offers limited value to the community or environment.”
Initiatives suggested to improve the landscape include constructing turtle tunnels, establishing a continuous tree canopy along creek corridors, removing barriers that impede water flow and building wildlife-friendly bridges.
Sullivan’s Creek will soon be returned to its natural state with plans to rip out the concrete and replace it with natural plants. Photo: Supplied.
Possible projects flagged include creating an urban linear park in Dickson and a wetland between Barry Drive and Condamine Street.
“Create an ephemeral shallow or wetland along the section of Sullivan’s Creek between Barry Drive and Condamine Street, Turner to provide a valuable biodiversity stepping stone in addition to planted embankments along the channel creek,” the report described as a possible key project.
Minister Vassarotti said there were numerous benefits to re-naturalising Sullivan’s Creek.
“[Such as] restoring the native habitat and supporting the movement of native species, improving water quality, building resilience to climate change and enhancing our connection with nature,” she said.
“The report released today is aspirational but will set the vision for an area that brings our community together and revitalises the landscape. This report will be used as the foundation for any future plans for the site, subject to the considerations of the next government, and further consultation and investigation.”
The costs of the Sullivan’s Creek options have not been released, but the project is part of a $2.95 million ACT Government initiative to address the impact of habitat loss, fragmentation and climate change.
A final report on the matter is expected to be released before the end of the year. More information can be found on the ACT Government’s YourSay Conversations project webpage.
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