In the heart of Ginninderry, a sophisticated water management system is quietly working to protect one of the ACT’s most precious waterways. 

Pond B10, as it’s known to the project team is currently under construction and represents thoughtful environmental engineering.

Beyond basic stormwater management

Robert Dunkley, Development Manager at Ginninderry, explains that Pond B10 is far more than a simple retention pond. This carefully designed system forms part of a comprehensive water treatment network that addresses the environmental impact of urban development before it reaches the Murrumbidgee River.

The pond sits strategically between two bioretention basins that function as large-scale filters, capturing stormwater runoff from roads and infrastructure. This water then passes through a series of sands, filters, and treatment systems before emerging as clean water that continues its journey downstream to the river.

Engineered for multiple scenarios

The design of Pond B10 demonstrates sophisticated planning for various weather events. Under normal conditions, water maintains a consistent level that forms an attractive water feature for the community. During larger storm events, excess water flows through a dome structure designed to handle increased volumes safely. In extreme weather events, a specially designed corridor provides additional overflow capacity, ensuring the system never fails to protect downstream environments.

Integration with community spaces

What sets this infrastructure apart is how seamlessly it integrates with community amenities. The completed pond will feature native plantings extending from the embankment to the water’s edge, creating habitat corridors and natural beauty. A pedestrian footpath will allow residents to walk alongside the water feature, while maintaining access for essential maintenance vehicles.

This dual-purpose approach exemplifies Ginninderry’s commitment to infrastructure that serves both environmental and community needs. Rather than hiding necessary water management systems, the development transforms them into attractive community assets.

Timeline and community benefits

With the landscape phase currently underway, the project is expected to reach completion by January 2026. Once finished, Pond B10 will provide residents with both environmental protection and recreational amenities, demonstrating that responsible development need not compromise on liveability.

The pond represents a broader Water Sensitive Urban Design philosophy at Ginninderry: that excellent engineering can enhance rather than detract from natural systems. By treating stormwater runoff before it reaches the Murrumbidgee, whilst simultaneously creating attractive community spaces, Pond B10 embodies the kind of integrated thinking that sustainable communities require.