Bullock Creek will benefit from modifications made to the nearby Alpha Series stormwater retention pond when work starts next week to improve the infrastructure.

Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) property and infrastructure general manager Tony Avery acknowledged Bullock Creek’s importance, shown through the many years of volunteer work by community groups to preserve the area’s ecological significance and community heritage.

“Following development activity in the upstream catchment, council has been exploring opportunities to improve how stormwater enters and flows through Bullock Creek Hatchery Springs Wetland, into Bullock Creek, and on to Lake Wānaka…,” Tony said.

“I’m pleased to share that we're progressing several modifications to the Alpha Series stormwater retention pond nearby, which will lessen the impact of urban stormwater runoff entering this highly valued natural environment and help protect this feature for future generations to enjoy.”

Friends of Bullock Creek, a group which works to protect and enhance Bullock Creek catchment with a range of activities - including advocacy for more protection of the waterway - said the improvements were a step in the right direction.

“We are optimistic that the current QLDC project will improve the quality of stormwater making its way into Bullock Creek,” Friends of Bullock Creek told the Wānaka App.

“We continue to support the QLDC solution being the Stone Street Pipeline Diversion Project as outlined in the Long Term Plan.”

Tony said the modification project will begin next Monday (February 23) and include modifications to the existing outlet on the nearby retention pond to reduce standing water, allowing for more gradual release of water from the pond, as well as water quality improvements through a longer and modified flow path and the planting of hundreds of native plants.

Installation of a flow retention device on the nearby retention pond will also help manage high discharge rates, Tony said.

Some disruption is likely around the western end of Bullock Creek Hatchery Springs Wetland while crews work in the area, which will include construction machinery and truck movements near the site, and may include some noise and vibration.

PHOTO: Wānaka App