When communities rebuild after major disasters, decisions about where and how development occurs can have lasting implications. That's why independent engineering expertise plays an important role in helping the public understand both the opportunities and the risks.
In a recent interview with Channel 9 News, Dr Jessica Eisma from UQ School of Civil Engineering shared her perspective on plans to redevelop the former Toombul Shopping Centre site, which was severely impacted during the 2022 Brisbane floods.
Developers have proposed a new retail and mixed-use precinct featuring flood mitigation measures, including raising parts of the site and incorporating infrastructure designed to store floodwater during major flood events.
Dr Eisma explained that while engineering solutions can help reduce flood impacts, flood-prone sites will always require careful assessment.
"There are certain risks that will remain, regardless of how many engineering measures you try to implement."
She noted that mitigation measures can reduce risk at a particular location, but they do not remove flood risk altogether. Importantly, any changes to the way floodwater is stored or moves through a catchment must also consider potential impacts on surrounding areas and communities.
Her comments highlighted a key consideration in flood-resilient development: engineering can play a significant role in managing risk, but decisions must also account for broader community outcomes and long-term planning considerations.
"We do see plenty of these developments continuing. The question is always, is it the right choice?"
As Queensland communities continue to navigate the challenges of growth, housing demand and climate resilience, expert voices like Dr Eisma's help bring evidence-based perspectives to public conversations. By providing context around risk, mitigation and the wider implications of development decisions, engineering experts can help communities better understand the trade-offs involved in major projects.
Watch the Channel 9 News coverage on the proposed Toombul redevelopment to hear the Dr Eisma's insights.
