Project Start Year: 2025
The Silver Stream Capacity Improvements project upgrades stopbanks and associated flood resilience works for Silver Stream, increasing the levels of protection to Mosgiel and East Taieri.
The Silver Stream Capacity Improvements project restores and increases the stream’s ability to manage floodwaters along the section between Wingatui Road, Mosgiel, and where Silver Stream joins Taieri River. Sediment movement and erosion have changed the stream’s shape and reduced its capacity, limiting the effectiveness of the Gordon Road spillway.
This project involves carefully removing sediment and restoring the channel to improve water flow, while maintaining the ecological values of the stream. The work is designed to improve the spillway’s operating threshold, reducing flood risk to properties downstream.
Benefits
The project protects around 13,000 people, more than 5,000 homes, 11,000 hectares of farmland, critical roads, rail lines, schools, Dunedin International Airport, and essential services. By improving the stream’s capacity, the project reduces flood risk, supports infrastructure reliability, and safeguards homes and productive land.
Adaptation
By restoring the channel’s capacity and stability, the project helps the Lower Taieri Flood Protection Scheme cope with more frequent and intense flood events linked to climate change.
Resilience
These improvements increase the resilience of the community and environment by ensuring the stream and spillway continue to function reliably during high-flow events, protecting people, property, and key infrastructure over the long term.
Collaboration
This project has been co-funded through central government’s Regional Investment Fund (RIF) and Otago Regional Council
The project builds on existing partnerships with local suppliers, councils, and central government. Local expertise is prioritised to continue supporting the regional workforce.
Through these upgrades, Silver Stream will better manage floodwaters, helping Mosgiel and surrounding areas remain safe, resilient, and prepared for the future.
