Toowoomba Regional Council has paused construction on its $4 million Perth Street Culvert Upgrade project following the discovery of timber during early excavation works.
Council Construction and Maintenance portfolio spokesperson, Councillor Carol Taylor said Council was collaborating with the Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI) to investigate the timber discovery.
Cr Taylor said work stopped as soon as the timber was unearthed about one metre below Lake Annand’s concrete floor.
“Council notified DETSI in accordance with legislative requirements,” Cr Taylor said.
“The discovery site has been secured and protected while Council engages a suitably qualified archaeologist to undertake a detailed investigation of the timber.
“The investigation will assess the significance of the find and recommend appropriate next steps. A report will be provided to DETSI when the process is finalised and works will recommence as soon as possible.
“These discoveries have the potential to add to our Region’s historical records and help us understand the innovative solutions that were deployed at various times to help communities cross our creeks.”
The project involves a significant upgrade to the culvert on Perth Street between Kitchener and Mackenzie Streets, which will deliver improved flood mitigation, safety and resilience for the surrounding community.
“The existing ageing culvert will be replaced with a modern, higher capacity structure that is designed to better manage flood flows during severe weather events,” Cr Taylor said.
“This upgrade is an important investment in the safety and resilience of our local road network.”
This project is funded under the Emergency Response Fund’s (ERF) Flood Recovery and Resilience Package, with $3.35 million provided by the Australian Government and $650,000 provided by Toowoomba Regional Council.
