Navigating Stormwater Quality Offsets

How can Councils control runoff when urban development sites are too constrained to incorporate effective site-based stormwater quality treatment systems such as wetlands and bioretention systems? Similarly, how can Councils ensure that privately built stormwater quality treatment systems don’t fail in the future causing more bad than good? One answer to both these questions may be Stormwater Quality Offsets.

Stormwater Quality Offsets seek to control stormwater runoff at a catchment-scale using financial contributions from development within the catchment.

BMT WBM and project partners, recently provided a comprehensive planning framework for application of stormwater offsets in Ipswich. The offsets scheme is being used to deliver new stormwater treatment systems under the care and control of Council such as a stormwater harvesting wetland/detention basin integrated with a new sports field at Redbank Plains (also designed by BMT WBM and Council).

While offsets provide an attractive option for holistic integration of land and water planning, they are inherently complex and require careful evidence-based planning to ensure appropriate provisions are made for future development and equitable contributions from stakeholders. BMT WBM is one of the few specialist water management firms that is experienced in stormwater offsets and sustainable urban water planning.

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