Council to be proactive on river bank concerns

The West Coast Council has invited representatives from Crown Land Services to meet with staff in Queenstown to discuss a number of matters, including an action plan for deteriorating river banks.

Concerns have been raised by residents and Council staff following an increase in river bank failures as a result of heavy rains over the past two months. River bank areas are not Council property and are generally the responsibility of Crown Land Services. 

“Council wants to be proactive in finding a solution, not wait until a scenario where property is lost as a result of river bank failure,” General Manager Dirk Dowling said.

It is hoped that the meeting with Crown Land will occur within the next month, with clarification of ownership, responsibilities and an action plan for remediation and preventative measures on the agenda.

Residents with concerns regarding river bank erosion can contact Crown Land Services on 6233 6413 or email [email protected].