The team behind the rebuilding of the flood-devastated Grantham community in Queensland has received formal recognition for their community design.
Following the devastation of the January 2011 floods, extensive consultation with the local residents revealed that they wished to remain in Grantham, but in a relocated community.
The resulting rebuild was a joint effort between the Lockyer Valley Regional Council, Queensland Reconstruction Authority and state government agencies, and has drawn praise from the independent EnviroDevelopment sustainability accreditation system, which has certified the new community in the areas of Ecosystems and Community.
EnviroDevelopment National Manager, Kirsty Chessher said the Grantham rebuild respects the history and natural character of the site.
“Over 80 per cent of existing trees have been retained on the site and all new species planted are local to the area.
“Two new parks are being established on the banks of Sandy Creek to act as a new community space with facilities like walking and cycling tracks.
“Water sensitive urban design helps maintain water quality in adjacent waterways with bio- retention basins helping to treat road runoff and trap pollutants," she said.
Space has also been dedicated for future development of new showgrounds, and further community infrastructure, such as a school.
Stage one of the 10,000sq m development was completed in December with the construction of the remaining 284 homes now underway.
ImageSource: Queensland Reconstruction Authority
