The McAdam Square Carpark improvement project was initially requested by traders to improve the functionality and safety of pedestrians and vehicles within the carpark. To make the project unique, and to complement the civil construction works, Council approached Melbourne Water on behalf of square traders to determine if Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD) principals could be implemented as part of the works.
Melbourne Water’s commitment to WSUD projects as part of their Living Rivers Program allowed Council to access funding to treat stormwater runoff from the carpark to achieve best practice targets to ensure the reduction of pollutants entering natural watercourses.
To facilitate these improvements to water quality, the removal of trees was required. This will be offset by significant replacement planting, which will collaborate with the stormwater improvement elements of the project. As these water treatment methods are unconventional, the organic (i.e. plant-based) component of the project is essential to treating the runoff. Consequently, the new vegetation - including canopy trees - has been specifically selected for the new conditions (i.e. treating the run-off).
Trees have been removed at McAdam Square after extensive consultation with traders and the community in preparation for the carpark works.
The large majority of the trees removed were of the eucalyptus variety. These trees will be replaced with eight yellow box, six native frangipani and 13 crapemyrtle hybrid varieties. Other new plantings to be undertaken as part of the project include 49 native fuschias and about 1700 strappy leaf plants and ground covers. Planting of new vegetation is expected to take place in May.
For any further information about this project, please contact Anton at Council on 9298 4435.
McAdam Square Landscaping and Water Sensitive Design Plan
Landscaping and Water Sensitive Design Plan (PDF, 925kB)
