Creating livable subdivisions using stormwater, recycled water and groundwater

Integration of green infrastructure (comprising urban lakes, wetlands and parklands) within an urban centre subdivision can significantly improve its livability. Stormwater generated within the urban centre, which is often considered as water carrying significant amounts of pollutants, can be used to create green infrastructure within the subdivision. In addition, recently, “sewer mining” is being used to supplement the non-potable water for urban centres. This source of recycled water is primarily used to satisfy the water required to maintain healthy green infrastructure. Extensive research conducted in recent years have also led to the plan of utilizing constructed lakes and wetlands, as part of green infrastructures, for storing and improving stormwater quality. Furthermore, they serve as significant water features within an urban centre increasing property values. In this work, we present a case study of a local government area (LGA) in Western Sydney, to provide some insights on how using urban lakes (which besides serving as stormwater purifying system) can greatly add to recreational value to a subdivision. City Councils in Western Sydney have successfully created parklands and physical exercise amenities around these constructed wetlands and lakes. These areas attract a large number of visitors throughout the year. The beneficial value of the urban lakes is demonstrated by the increasing values of the properties which are located around these lakes. We conclude that by employing best practices for managing stormwater runoff provide both socioeconomic and environmental benefits to urban centres, and cansignificantly increase the economic value of the region.