In Melbourne, our rivers and creeks are essential to our way of life. That’s why we’re transforming an underground drain in Werribee into a natural waterway and creating a more desirable open space where native wildlife can thrive and communities can come together in a cooler, greener place. 

What are we doing?

With your help, we’re looking to design a space that best meets the needs and wants of your community.

The project will:

  • Transform a 980 metre section of underground concrete drainage channel, known as the 'D1 Drain', into a natural waterway
  • Revitalise 4.2 hectares of open space to improve shade and cooling
  • Improve biodiversity and habitat 
  • Help to reduce flood risk in the area
  • Provide new community infrastructure assets.

D1 Drain, Werribee

vegetation growing in the D1 Drain project area Werribee

Ibis and ducks call the D1 Drain Werribee home
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Where will the works take place?

The section of D1 Drain to be naturalised sits within the Heathdale Glen Orden Basin, between Derrimut Road and Heaths Road in Werribee.

The location near the Werribee Business District means improvements will benefit lots of people. The area connects residents, schools, community and youth centres, sports grounds, and health care.

The D1 Drain site forms part an existing green corridor with links to the Glen Orden Wetlands. This means that the work we do will improve biodiversity and habitat for birds, frogs, insects and other animals. The area’s size and layout allows for many opportunities to create meaningful, innovative, and sustainable changes for the community.

Your say

In October 2022, you told us what you love about the area, how you use the space, and what future improvements were important to make it a more inviting place for the community to enjoy. We are now using your feedback and ideas to develop the concept designs. 

Visit the Reimagining the Werribee D1 Drain online consultation page to read about what we heard, project timelines, and what's next. 'Follow' the page for project updates.

Map showing project area for Reimagining D1 Drain
Reimagining D1 Drain - project area

 

About the Reimagining Your Creek Program

Melbourne Water's Reimagining Your Creek Program works collaboratively with councils, communities, Traditional Owners and local residents to transform stormwater drains and concrete channels into natural waterways and desirable open spaces. 

The program has seen the transformation of sections of Tarralla Creek in Croydon, Arnolds Creek in Melton West, an upstream section of Blind Creek in Boronia. Works are also currently in progress along Moonee Ponds Creek in Oak Park and Strathmore, and our biggest project yet - a downstream section of Blind Creek from Scoresby Road into the Lewis Park Precinct in Wantirna South. 

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