CRCWSC's tools quantify the benefits of water sensitive development. The Knutsford case study demonstrates water sensitive approach outperforming business-as-usual in water management, urban heat reduction, and economic viability.
Scale: Precinct
Development Type: Residential development, Strata/Multi-dwelling
Local Government: City of Fremantle
WSUD Solution: Rainwater storage, Waterwise landscaping
The Cooperative Research Centre for Water Sensitive Cities (CRCWSC) has developed tools to quantify the benefits of water sensitive development, addressing challenges like stormwater management and reduced scheme water use. These tools include an Infill Performance Evaluation Framework and a Benefit Cost Analysis (BCA) Tool. The Knutsford case study demonstrates the application of these tools to a proposed infill development in Perth.
Comparing scenarios, the water sensitive approach outperforms business-as-usual development in water performance, urban heat reduction, and architectural quality. The BCA Tool reveals positive net present value for developers, driven by increased dwellings and reduced water and energy costs. Integrating energy, water, and built form considerations, the study highlights the potential for water sensitive designs to enhance both environmental and economic outcomes.
Key considerations include early use of the Infill Typologies Catalogue for project clarity, defining comparison conditions, and adopting a multidisciplinary approach for design and analysis. This holistic approach supports improved business case development and demonstrates the viability of water sensitive solutions for urban development.
Our focus areas
Supporting community wellbeing and healthy environments within resilient and sustainable places throughout Western Australia.
