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2. Cleaner Industries, Healthier Waterways - Industrial Catchment Improvement Program (ICIP)

Urban areas with heavy development often struggle with poor water quality in their creeks and rivers - a challenge known as Urban Stream Syndrome. In Hornsby Shire, this issue is especially relevant in our three main industrial precincts: Hornsby, Thornleigh, and Mount Ku-ring-gai.

These areas have historically contributed to pollution in nearby waterways. That’s why Council has launched a targeted program to improve water quality in these catchments through smarter monitoring, investigation, and action.

What We’re Doing?

  • Our approach combines data, science, and collaboration to tackle pollution at its source:
  • Analysing long-term water quality data to understand historical trends in industrial catchments.
  • Profiling local businesses to assess their potential pollution risk using a risk-based framework.
  • Tracing pollutants through the stormwater network to identify and address point-source pollution.
  • Combining education and regulation to help businesses reduce their environmental impact.

Where are we at:

  • Completed desktop research and historical data analysis
  • Finished business profiling and pollution risk assessment in Mount Kuring-gai

Next steps:

  • Begin business profiling and pollution risk analysis in Thornleigh and Hornsby industrial precincts.

By working together with local businesses and the community, we’re taking meaningful steps to protect our waterways and create a cleaner, healthier environment for everyone.