Hawthorn East Retarding Basin Upgrade
Current
We're upgrading the Hawthorn East Retarding Basin, located next to Rathmines Reserve, to ensure a safe drainage system and to reduce the risk of flooding to surrounding homes.
Why this is important
In Melbourne, rain and storms are part of everyday life. Floods are a natural part of our landscape and an essential part of the weather cycle. Melbourne Water manages more than 200 retarding basins. They are designed to reduce flooding by catching heavy rainfall which hold in a reserve of low-lying land. Once storm water is collected, it follows the natural drainage which continues to flow through to our rivers, creeks and eventually the bay.
About the project
For over 100 years the Hawthorn East Retarding Basin has played an important function in protecting the local area during storm and flood events. Melbourne Water manages retarding basins in line with the Australian National Committee on Large Dams (ANCOLD) guidelines. Recent investigations show that the Hawthorn East Retarding Basin requires an upgrade to meet the ANCOLD guidelines.
The new retarding basin will significantly increase water storage capacity, reducing flooding events and keeping our community safe today, tomorrow and for generations to come.
Location of Hawthorn East Retarding Basin
The Hawthorn East Retarding Basin is located near Rathmines Road Reserve and Ryeburne Avenue. See the map below which shows its location.
Mid 2024
Civil Work Contract award
We will award the civil work contract to one of our preferred contractors, who will then create a schedule and construct a construction methodology for the project. This information can be shared with the community once the contractor is on board.
Late September 2024
Site Establishment
Site establishment works will commence on 30th September in anticipation of works commencing on site.
The site compound will be established on William Angliss Reserve.
You may notice some increased vehicle movement and noise as we set up the site compound.
Mid October 2024
Construction
Construction will commence on Friday 11th October. Works will consist of increasing the depth of the basin and expanding the width of the basin to upgrade the capacity and fully utilise the site.
You may notice increased heavy vehicle movement entering the basin site. Increased noise and some vibration during works, temporary pedestrian and cycling detours will be in place to ensure safety around the works area.
Works will occur between Monday to Friday, 7am-5pm, weather dependent.
If weekend works are required, all operations will be followed in line with EPA regulations and requirements.
Late October 2025
Shelter installation
Once all works on the basin have been completed. A new viewing shelter will be opened on the eastern side of Rathmines Road Reserve for the community and for supporters to watch local sporting clubs.
2025
Project completion
Once construction is completed, clean up and reinstatement of the area will be undertaken.
Construction impacts
While every effort is made to minimise disruption, during works you may notice:
- Truck movements in and out of Ryeburne Avenue and Harcourt St, Hawthorn East
- Truck movements along Rathmines Road and Kildare Street, Hawthorn East
- Potential path diversion around retarding basin
- General construction impacts to residents i.e. dust, noise and path closures.
We will work to ensure the community disruption is kept to a minimum.
More information
Find out more information about how retarding basins work.
Contact us
To find out more about this project and other activities, please contact:
Please note this inbox is monitored Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.