SYSTEM NO DRAIN ON BUSINESS
A REGION-FIRST drainage system will be trialed in parts of Ayr’s main street with plans to roll it out to other areas of the shire.
The new patented drainage design aims to drain water in areas with flat grades by using a grill running the length of the gutter carrying water directly into underground stormwater drains.
It was only January this year when overnight falls of close to half a metre of rain caused extensive flash flooding in parts of the Burdekin.
Multiple Queen Street businesses suffered water damage, some for a second time in 12 months.
Burdekin Shire Mayor Lyn Mclaughlin said the FRCPA Vslimdrain system could be used in other areas of the shire as upgrades are made, subject to its performance in wet weather.
“By having a grill running along the length of the gutter, rainwater will quickly be drained from street level and there will not be sections of pooling,” she said.
“I look forward to seeing the drain in action during our wet season.”
Burdekin councillor and Ayr business owner Michael Detenon said with several periods of significant wet weather over the past couple of years, the Burdekin’s drainage infrastructure had been put to the test.
“This innovative technology has the potential to lessen the build up of water on streets and ensure our local businesses remain open, rain, hail or shine,” he said.
“The installation of the Vslimdrain system is brilliant, as we will have the eyes of other councils on us to see if the technology is successful. Our shire is innovative and resilient, and I am very proud to say the Burdekin is paving the way for North Queensland.”