The ACT government is pushing for more medium-density housing options in Canberra to provide residents with increased housing choices and accommodate a surging population. However, the aging stormwater infrastructure raises significant concerns about whether the current systems can handle the additional demands that come with higher population densities. This has become a pressing issue as severe thunderstorms and flash flooding recently caused damage to local areas, highlighting vulnerabilities in the existing infrastructure.

Residents and community leaders, including Julia Tresidder from the Curtin Residents Association, have expressed their worries at an ACT Legislative Assembly inquiry. They emphasize that upgrades to the stormwater systems are crucial for future housing developments, particularly in light of recent climate patterns that suggest increased storm intensity. The fear is that without adequate infrastructure improvements, the benefits of new housing plans could be undermined by flooding and other stormwater-related issues.

As the ACT government contemplates this ambitious housing initiative, the integration of infrastructure enhancements alongside development strategies will be vital. Stakeholders are calling for planners to prioritize stormwater capacity to ensure that the communities can sustain growth without compromising safety or quality of life. This situation places pressure on local authorities to strike a balance between development and necessary infrastructure investments, making it a critical juncture for Canberra's urban planning efforts.