Figtree Place: a case study in water sensitive urban development (WSUD)

Abstract

Figtree Place is a water sensitive urban redevelopment consisting of 27 residential units located in Hamilton, an inner suburb of Newcastle, NSW, Australia. The site uses rainwater tanks, infiltration trenches and a central basin where cleansed stormwater enters the unconfined aquifer for water retention and retrieval. A two-year monitoring programme for roofwater, raintanks, hot water systems and first flush pits has commenced with samples taken from these sources tested for compliance with the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines (1996). Total water saving of around 60% has been shown to be feasible as well as almost complete storm runoff retention.