City of Darwin will soon start staged drainage works at Jingili Water Gardens to improve water flow and reduce stagnant water across the gardens.
The drainage system, which services the ponds and gardens, is no longer working effectively. Water is pooling across pathways and other areas, while drains have become blocked by silt and plant material.
Three drainage outlets into Rapid Creek are also blocked, preventing water from draining from the gardens into the creek. The works will clear these outlets and help restore drainage through the gardens.
The root systems from approximately 20 large palms that line the pathways are growing into the drainage system in the lowest parts of the gardens and will need to be removed to allow the drainage system to work properly.
Lord Mayor Peter Styles said the works were important to improve the health, safety and usability of the popular community space.
“We know people value the greenery at Jingili Water Gardens, and removing trees and palms is not something we take lightly.
“The palms being removed are those that are contributing to the drainage problem. We will only remove those that need to be removed, and where suitable we will replace them with native trees and turf.
“Jingili Water Gardens is a much-loved place for our community, and we want to make sure it continues to be a healthy and enjoyable place for people to visit.
“Parts of the gardens are holding stagnant water because the drainage system is not working properly. This is affecting water quality and creating conditions that can support mosquitoes and cane toads.
“These works will improve drainage, reduce stagnant water and help prepare the gardens for the wet season,” he said.
Works will be staged and are planned to start on Monday 7 September 2026.
Park users are asked to take care around work areas and follow pedestrian control signs while works are underway.
Tree removals are guided by City of Darwin’s Tree Management Policy, which ensures all decisions balance community needs with public safety.
For more information visit darwin.nt.gov.au/community/community-facilities/jingili-water-gardens