Cooks River Bank Naturalisation

Sydney Water, in partnership with the Sydney Metropolitan Catchment Management Authority, local councils and other land and water managers is developing a river bank naturalisation project for the Cooks River.

The project covers the area from the freshwater sections at Centenary Drive Strathfield to the tidal saltwater sections of the river leading into Alexandra Canal at Sydney Airport. The project is focusing on identifying opportunities for naturalizing parts of the Cooks River banks.

The Cooks River was originally a natural river. The Cooks River Improvement Act of 1946 saw the building of orderly, concrete panels along the ‘unruly’ natural river banks. This resulted in the loss of the river’s natural environment and the creation of the concrete channel we see today. Some sections of the concrete channel are in poor condition and will soon require replacement.

This presents an historic opportunity for Sydney Water to look at options for bank naturalisation for these sections. Sydney Water is considering replacing the concrete channel with river banks that are more natural. This will improve the river’s health and natural character.

What is river bank naturalisation?

River bank naturalisation can take different forms, but generally involves the removal of some, or all of the steep concrete channel bank and creating a more gently sloping bank. This is stabilized with native plants, trees and rocks. Naturalisation creates a softer landscape feel and can greatly improve the river bank habitat for native birds and animals.

Wetlands can also be established as part of the naturalisation process. Wetlands have a positive role in improving the river’s ecology and healthy by treating stormwater runoff from streets and industrial areas, before it enters the river.

Image of deteriorated concrete panel on bank of Cooks River

Community Consultation

In April 2008, a project newsletter about the potential river bank naturalisation was distributed to Cooks River residents and stakeholders. In December 2008, a newsletter and survey, which were about three initial sites that have been proposed for naturalisation was distributed.

Sydney Water has used the feedback received to help develop final designs for the priority sites. Check this website for updates on the project's progress.

What happens next?

Final designs are being developed. Check this website for updates on the project’s progress.