The unpopular decision to close half of the Springwood Reservoir roof was made in the interest of water security.
A report detailing the decisions and interactions leading to the closure of half of Springwood Reservoir was tabled before Logan City Council this week.
The reservoir complex services the Springwood low-level water supply zone, the major reservoirs located within the Kimberley Park and Beenleigh zones and services more than 200,000 people.
The roof of the reservoir complex consists of a flat concrete space which has been used by the public for recreational activities such as bike riding and skateboarding.
It is popular with young families, with the rooftop offering views over Logan and the hinterland.
Logan City Council issued a notice of works in May last year, advising of works to mitigate risk to drinking water quality and prolong the life of the reservoir, with works commencing that June.
The works included sealing of reservoirs against leaks and vermin, removal of redundant piping and renewal work.
Works on the reservoir caused access to the whole roof to be closed last year.
Division One Councillor Lisa Bradley blasted the lack of community consultation regarding the closure.
Councillor Bradley says the community deserved to be compensated for the loss of access.
“Behind the scenes last year, I asked for the community to be compensated for what is considered as a community asset.”
The space was partially re-opened for public access in January, while the roof of reservoir two remains fenced off and isolated from public access.
Division Six Councillor Tony Hall says that the security of water is of paramount importance.
“I understand that people were allowed to use the reservoir and have access to it for other reasons as to why it was originally built, but it was originally built for the holding of water.
“It was opened up to allow people to have access and do extra activities on there, but those extra activities were never the intention of this reservoir being built.
“The reservoir is now being utilised as to its original intention and I believe in the current climate we’re in, water is one of the most important things this city can have and we should be doing everything we can to make sure that water is safe and clean.”
Works are almost complete on reservoir two, with some minor electrical works, adjustment to one access ladder and water testing and transfer expected to be completed by the end of March.
