Local Councils play a key role in the implementation and advancement of Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD). As the closest level of government to the community, Councils are uniquely positioned to integrate sustainable water management practices into urban planning and development. By embracing WSUD, local Councils can enhance the resilience, liveability, and environmental sustainability of urban areas in New South Wales.

What is WSUD?

Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD) is an approach that integrates the management of the urban water cycle into urban planning and design. It aims to minimise the impacts of urbanisation on the natural water cycle by promoting practices that capture, treat, and reuse stormwater. WSUD incorporates a range of techniques, including green infrastructure, rainwater harvesting, permeable pavements, and constructed wetlands, to create sustainable and resilient urban environments.

The Importance of Local Councils in WSUD

Local Councils have several key responsibilities that make them crucial to the success of WSUD initiatives:

1. Urban Planning and Development Control: 

Councils oversee land use planning and development approvals within their jurisdictions. By incorporating WSUD principles into planning schemes and development control plans, Councils can ensure that new developments are designed to manage stormwater sustainably.

2. Infrastructure Management: 

Councils are responsible for the maintenance and management of local infrastructure, including roads, parks, and drainage systems. Integrating WSUD into infrastructure projects can improve water quality, reduce flood risks, and enhance urban amenity.

3. Community Engagement and Education: 

Councils have direct relationships with their communities and can play a significant role in raising awareness about WSUD. Through community engagement and education programs, Councils can encourage residents to adopt water-sensitive practices and support local WSUD projects.

4. Policy Implementation and Compliance: 

Councils can develop and enforce local policies and regulations that promote WSUD. By setting clear guidelines and standards for stormwater management, Councils can ensure that developments comply with best practices in sustainable water management.

Strategies for Local Councils to Advance WSUD

1. Incorporating WSUD into Planning Instruments:
   • Update local planning schemes and development control plans to include WSUD principles and requirements. This can ensure that all new developments consider sustainable stormwater management from the outset.
   • Develop specific guidelines and toolkits for developers and planners to facilitate the integration of WSUD into their projects.
2. Investing in Green Infrastructure:
   • Prioritise the incorporation of green infrastructure, such as rain gardens, bioswales, and green roofs, into public spaces and infrastructure projects. These elements not only manage stormwater, but also enhance urban biodiversity and aesthetics.
   • Retrofit existing infrastructure with WSUD elements to improve its functionality and resilience.
3. Providing Incentives and Support:
   • Offer incentives to developers and property owners who implement WSUD practices. This could include grants, tax rebates, or expedited approval processes for projects that incorporate sustainable stormwater management.
   • Provide technical support and resources to assist developers and homeowners in adopting WSUD techniques.
4. Enhancing Community Engagement and Education:
   • Conduct workshops, seminars, and demonstration projects to educate the community about the benefits of WSUD and how they can get involved.
   • Develop educational materials and campaigns to raise awareness about the importance of sustainable stormwater management and promote water-sensitive behaviours.
5. Collaborating with Stakeholders:
   • Partner with state and federal government agencies, research institutions, and industry bodies to share knowledge and resources. Collaboration can lead to more innovative and effective WSUD solutions.
   • Engage with local businesses, community groups, and residents to build support for WSUD initiatives and foster a sense of ownership and responsibility.
6. Monitoring and Reporting:
   • Implement monitoring programs to assess the performance of WSUD projects and their impact on water quality, flood management, and urban amenity.
   • Report on the progress and outcomes of WSUD initiatives to the community and stakeholders to maintain transparency and accountability.

Case Studies: Successful WSUD Implementation by Local Councils

Several local Councils in New South Wales have successfully integrated WSUD into their planning and development processes, demonstrating the potential benefits of this approach:

1. Blacktown City Council: 

Known for its progressive development control plans, Blacktown City Council has implemented WSUD principles across various projects, including the installation of rain gardens, swales, and constructed wetlands. These initiatives have improved stormwater quality, reduced flooding risks, and enhanced the urban environment.

2. Northern Beaches Council: 

The Northern Beaches Council has adopted a comprehensive approach to WSUD, incorporating green infrastructure into public spaces and new developments. Their efforts include the implementation of permeable pavements, bioswales, and stormwater harvesting systems, contributing to better water management and urban resilience.

3. City of Sydney: 

The City of Sydney has been a leader in promoting WSUD through its Sustainable Sydney 2030 vision. The Council has implemented numerous WSUD projects, such as green roofs, rainwater harvesting systems, and urban wetlands, to create a more sustainable and liveable city.

Local Councils play a crucial role in advancing WSUD and promoting sustainable stormwater management practices. By integrating WSUD into planning instruments, investing in green infrastructure, providing incentives and support, enhancing community engagement, collaborating with stakeholders, and monitoring progress, Councils can lead the way in creating resilient and sustainable urban environments. The efforts of local Councils in New South Wales demonstrate that with the right strategies and commitment, WSUD can significantly improve urban water management, protect the environment, and enhance the quality of life for residents.