The study, which aims to look at minimising existing flood risks in the area, future flood risks and the impact of development, was put on public exhibition for 32 days ending on November 2. There were 12 submissions.

Six "climate change" scenarios based on combinations of increased rainfall intensities and increased sea level rise were considered.

Staff had recommended that councillors adopt a scenario that included a 10 per cent increase in rainfall intensity plus 900mm sea level rise.

However, Cr Mike Cusato was against the move and wanted to adopt another scenario option which had a sea level rise of just 400mm.

He was supported by Cr Rob Turner.

In addition, Cr Cusato moved that council develop a 'plain English' explanatory note in conjunction with the floodplain risk management study and management plan to explain the implications of the adopted flood data.

It included information for the public on what actions council would take in implementing the floodplain plan.

Crs Lisa Intemann and Peter Alley opposed the 400mm sea rise option and pushed for the adoption of the staff recommendation.

Cr Cusato said council had the opportunity to have reviews put in place to cater for any potential changes in sea levels.

In the report tabled at the meeting, the new 2018 flood study will provide council with current and reliable flood information to assist planning and development.

"Importantly, it will provide a sound modelling platform for assessing floodplain mitigation options as part of the next stage of the floodplain management process," the report said.

The Wrights Creek Flood Study covers Wrights and Yarranabee creeks in Port Macquarie.

Council eventually adopted Cr Cusato’s option preference along with the 'plain English' explanation.

Crs Alley and Intemann voted against.

Director Melissa Watkins said it is important for local residents living within the catchment areas to understand what the proposed changes might mean for them.

“Council needs to ensure that existing flood risk is minimised, future flood risk is managed and that new development does not create additional flooding problems,” Ms Watkins said.

“There are a number of changes that may be relevant to some properties that are now considered to be in flood prone areas.

“These include a change in how land can be used, what sort of development can take place, home values, flood evacuation measures and possible changes to insurance of property and personal assets,” Ms Watkins said.

Council’s are required to undertake flood studies of identified catchment areas as an obligation to implement the NSW State Government’s Floodplain Management Program and Flood Policy.

The updated flood studies define the characteristics of future flood events influenced by a range of scenarios, including potential impacts like rainfall intensity and rising sea levels.

Read more: Have your say on floodplain policy

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