RESIDENTS of Beveridge Rd in Thornlands are once again sounding the alarm over severe flooding issues that continue to plague the area, with Redland City Council representatives under growing pressure to take immediate action.
The ongoing flooding problems have been exacerbated by recent development projects in the area, which residents argue have worsened the flooding risks.
Council decisions made in the past, particularly the approval of small-lot developments, have faced heavy criticism from residents who now contend that the infrastructure cannot support the density of these projects, resulting in regular flood damage to homes.
Cr Paul Golle, representing Division 3 (Thornlands, South Cleveland, Victoria Point West), has been an outspoken advocate for better flood management and planning oversight.
In an email to his fellow councillors, Cr Golle expressed frustration over the Council’s approval of developments in flood-prone areas, despite warnings from residents.
“I also remind you of your decision to approve a development situated between Faith Lutheran College and Champions Church,” he wrote.
“At the time, I strongly urged you not to support this approval, warning that it would only worsen the ongoing flooding issues.
“Despite these concerns, the majority accepted the officers’ assessment, with the reasoning that you didn’t want to risk going to court and potentially losing.”
Local resident Steven Kelly has been among the most vocal critics of the council’s handling of the situation.
Mr Kelly shared a series of videos with Cr Golle, showing the extent of the flooding at his property on Beveridge Rd.
The footage demonstrates the severity of the problem, as water flows across Mr Kelly’s property and into neighbouring areas.
“I urge Council to reconsider and expedite urgent works for this issue to be rectified – an issue that Council themselves have admitted is a known problem,” Mr Kelly wrote in an email to Cr Golle, which was shared publicly.
“How much more evidence do we need??”
The ongoing issue has led to increased distress for local families, with many residents now calling for urgent intervention from the Redland City Council.
“We have had enough,” Mr Kelly said.
