BALDIVIS MLA Reece Whitby has urged planning authorities and developers to do more research before building estates in flood prone areas such as Baldivis.
After a large downpour of rain on Wednesday many parts of the suburb were left flooded, closing roads and Tranby College due to flooding.
“I was out and about in Baldivis this morning and couldn’t believe the downpour – I saw some amazing scenes with flood waves in the car park at Stockland Shopping Centre, and water gushing out of the Baldivis Secondary College carpark,” he said.
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READ NOW“Baldivis was hit hard with torrential rain from 9am this morning with our schools, shopping centres and the estate of Rivergums copping a lot of water and flooding in low areas.
“I understand the local council and developer have done drainage work in the past to alleviate stormwater ponding and high levels in the lake, but the result of today’s downpour showed more work may need to be done.
“I think planning authorities also have to do their homework when assessing residential estates in areas that could be vulnerable to flooding because of water tables and clay soils.”
He said residents who were at work during the downpour were understandably anxious and had contacted his office for advice.
“Other residents have also contacted me with their concern about flooding, particularly for those who come home from work later today and are worried about what they may find when they get home,” he said.
“If any local householder has trouble with insurance claims for flood or water damage, please contact my office and I will try to assist.
“The deluge was particularly apparent in areas like Rivergums.
“Local shop owners at Stocklands and Baldivis Square put sandbags in front of entryways as water levels rose.
“Tranby College has also had to cancel school for all grades except for kindy today due to water damage.
“I am keen to hear from any property owner who is impacted by invading flood waters in Rivergums or other local estates.”