Federation Council has announced the public exhibition of its long term Stormwater Servicing Plan (SSP), a strategic masterplan designed to service earmarked future urban growth areas over the next 40 years or more.
The plan, which will be open for community feedback from 20 May to 17 June 2026, outlines the essential drainage and water quality infrastructure required and provides for the necessary water quality treatment and conveyance of local rainfall runoff to the receiving waters (i.e. to the Murray River in the case of Corowa, Howlong and Mulwala).
At the heart of the proposal is the innovative "Chain of Ponds" system. Moving away from traditional concrete drains, this approach uses constructed waterways and shallow ponds to manage floodwater, while offline wetlands filter pollutants before they reach our river systems.
Federation Council General Manager, Adrian Butler said the plan represents a shift toward more sustainable and attractive urban environments.
"This isn't just about moving water from A to B; it's about creating 'blue-green' corridors that enhance our region," Mr Butler said.
"The 'Chain of Ponds' approach allows us to manage stormwater effectively while providing high biodiversity and public amenity. We are essentially building nature-based corridors that will make our future residential areas more beautiful and environmentally resilient."
The SSP is currently at a concept design level, with the location and sizing of infrastructure serving as an indicative guide. As development occurs over the coming decades, these concepts will be refined into detailed designs.
"We want to be very clear with our community that this is a 40-year vision," Mr Butler added.
"As we progress from concept to reality, we will be working closely with directly affected property owners. This exhibition period is the first step in a very long-term conversation about how we maintain our lifestyle while supporting growth."
Council is also exploring a variety of sustainable funding models for the infrastructure, including developer contributions, user charges, and state and federal grant opportunities.
Residents are encouraged to participate in the consultation process through online resources or by attending face-to-face drop-in sessions in Corowa, Howlong, and Mulwala.
- Corowa: Tuesday 26 May, 3pm - 6pm (Corowa Civic Centre)
- Howlong: Wednesday 27 May, 3pm - 6pm (Howlong Council Office & Library)
- Mulwala: Thursday 28 May, 3pm - 6pm (Mulwala Council Office & Library)
Public submissions close at 5:00 pm on Wednesday, 1 July 2026.
Full details of the plan and information on how to have your say are available on Council's website.
