River Heart Parklands (River Heart) located along the Bremer River in the heart of the CBD is a widely recognised and commended leisure facility. River Heart Parklands marked the third phase of the ‘River Heart’ vision for the Ipswich city centre at its opening on 03 February 2007.
We are focused on making a reserve that is more flood resilient which can be re-opened more quickly and at a lower cost after each flood event.
Thank you to everyone who shared their feedback. A summary of what was shared can be seen below. The themes and insights identified through the feedback will be considered to determine the long-term future of River Heart Parklands. A copy of the Community Engagement Report can be viewed by clicking here.
The community was asked to provide feedback on how the parklands have been used in the past and how the community would like to use them in the future. The themes and insights identified through the feedback will be considered to determine the long-term future of River Heart.
Please see a summary of what was shared below, alternatively a copy of the Community Engagement Report can be viewed by clicking here.
Most respondents (91%) were supportive of a varied version of the boardwalk to ensure resilience of the site in future flood related events.
Suggestions identified by respondents included more greenery and a focus on environmental resilience, safety, accessibility, better linking of walking paths, increased connectivity to surrounding areas, minimise infrastructure, more opportunities for art and better access to the Bradfield Bridge from River Heart Parklands.
Other suggestions included bike paths, more active and healthy opportunities, more shade, improved lighting and events and entertainment.
The community raised concerns including dissatisfaction for the current state of the parklands, reduced level of maintenance and clean-up process after flood events taking too long. Other comments highlighted concerns for people sleeping rough and concerns with safety whilst visiting the parklands.
Over a four-week period between Tuesday 3 September and Sunday 29 September 2024, the community were able to contribute feedback through the online engagement platform (Shape Your Ipswich), in person at one of eight (8) pop ups, via email or phone.
River Heart is impacted by flooding events of all sizes, from minor to major due to its unique location. The site has experienced seven (7) event impacts since its opening. Following the flood events in both 2011 and 2013, River Heart Parklands was closed for approximately 3 to 4 months as the recovery consisted of a like-for-like replacement. All flooding events are different. The water velocity at River Heart Parklands was faster in 2022 compared to 2011. The damage at River Heart Parklands in 2022 was also compounded by the May flooding event, causing further damage due to the already saturated landscape.
Overwater Structures
The overwater structures on the site are exposed to high velocity water flow and also absorb the forces of debris travelling through the flood waters. These structures take repeated damage and are quite costly to repair due to the complexity of the riverbank.
We are focused on making a reserve that is more flood resilient which can be re-opened more quickly and at a lower cost after each flood event. The overwater structures at River Heart have been assessed and a decision has been made to remove specific overwater structures from the site.
The below image shows which structures are planned to stay and which will be removed. To view an image of the overwater structure, please click on the blue icon.
Riverbank Boardwalk
As a result of the repeated flooding events experienced, significant damage within the existing riverbank boardwalks has been identified which will require complex design modifications to ensure that the infrastructure is safe for public use and the site meets DDA compliance.
Currently the boardwalk is closed due to significant corrosion of its structural components. The metal joists used in the construction of the boardwalk have deteriorated significantly overtime due to corrosion. This is due to both environmental factors and the grade of material implemented at time of original construction.
To view images of some of the damage caused by the corrosion, please click on the red icons below.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY
Ipswich City Council respectfully acknowledges the Traditional Owners as custodians of the land and waters we share. We pay our respects to their elders past, present and emerging, as the keepers of the traditions, customs, cultures and stories of proud peoples.
Phone: (07) 3810 6666
Email: communityengagement@ipswich.qld.gov.au
Postal: PO Box 191, Ipswich QLD 4305, Australia
