A Conceptual Model For Designing Canal Estates to Maximise Water Quality

Abstract

Residential canal estates are constructed waterways that offer the opportunity to reside adjacent to navigable channels connected to estuaries and coastal waters. The shape and character of canal estates varies greatly depending upon their requirements and location. This study aimed to examine the properties of various canal estates in order to increase our understanding of the processes that can lead to the development of poor water quality conditions.Water property data were collected within three different canal estates. Two were connected to adjacent estuaries through open channels while the third was connected through an occasionally opened box culvert structure. It was found that variations in bottom depth and stormwater inflow induced horizontal stratification affects that led to a reduction in water quality. From the experimental results and consideration of land-based processes a conceptual model was developed.Application of the model could lead to designs that minimise occurrences of poor water quality.