adopted report for sustainable city future committee ... tamborine guanaba conservation reserves...
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625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 1 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Agenda
625 625
Adopted Report Adopted Report of the of the
Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting
Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting
held held
Tuesday, 29 November 2011 Tuesday, 29 November 2011
at at
02:00 pm 02:00 pm
G6 Committee Room Nerang Administration Centre
Nerang Southport Road Nerang
G6 Committee Room Nerang Administration Centre
Nerang Southport Road Nerang
Our positioning statement Working for our future - today Our city vision Defined by our spectacular beaches, hinterland ranges, forests and waterways, the Gold Coast is an outstanding city which celebrates nature and connects distinct communities with the common goal of sustainability, choice and wellbeing for all.
Our mission Leading the way towards a bold future that can sustain growth and economic development while retaining a lifestyle that is uniquely ‘Gold Coast’.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 2 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report
Index
Adopted Report 625
Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting
Tuesday, 29 November 2011
Item Direct. File Page Subject
1 CMS CS433/263/18(P1) 4 UPDATE ON THE PREPARATION OF A PROJECT PLAN FOR A COMPREHENSIVE MOUNTAIN BIKE STRATEGY FOR RIDING IN COUNCIL'S CONSERVATION RESERVES
2 PET LG115/926(P4) 15 URBAN DESIGN ADVISORY BOARD - MINUTES FOR MEETING NO. 29 HELD 9 SEPTEMBER 2011
3 PET CE196/440/36(P1) 47 PROPOSED TRANSFER OF OSPL FUNDS TO RESERVE
4 PET CE196/440/-(P20) 52 NATURE CONSERVATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM POLICY
5 PET PD113/1166/01/02/05(P3) 83 MARKETING AND COMMUNICATION PLAN – GOLD COAST RAPID TRANSIT CORRIDOR STUDY
6 PET PD98/1132/04/27(P4) 99 PLANNING SCHEME POLICY FOR EXTRACTIVE INDUSTRY USES
7 PET PD98/1132/01/09(P1) 107 DEVELOPING OUR BOLD FUTURE PLANNING SCHEME - SUBMISSION OF DRAFT PLANNING SCHEME FOR CONSIDERATION OF STATE INTERESTS
General Business
KEY: CEO - Chief Executive Officer BI - Business Improvement CG - City Governance CMS - Community Services EDMP - Economic Development & Major Projects ES - Engineering Services OS - Organisational Services PET - Planning Environment & Transport WR - Water Reform
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 3 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ATTENDANCE Cr P J Young Chairperson Cr G J Betts Cr D I McDonald Cr G J Pforr Cr C L Robbins Cr J Wayne Mr W Rowe Director Planning Environment & Transport Mr D Corkill Manager Strategic & Environmental Planning & Policy Mr D Hood Executive Coordinator City Plan Mr N Tzannes Executive Coordinator Growth Management Mr H Lawler Executive Coordinator Environment & Climate Change APOLOGIES ADOPTION BY COUNCIL 5 DECEMBER 2011 RESOLUTION G11.1205.007 Moved Cr Young Seconded Cr McDonald That the Report of the Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting held on Tuesday, 29 November 2011 covered by Recommendations numbered SC11.1129.001 to SC11.1129.007 be received.
CARRIED RESOLUTION G11.1205.009 Moved Cr Young Seconded Cr Shepherd That the Report of the Sustainable City Future Committee’s Recommendations of Tuesday, 29 November 2011, numbered SC11.1129.001 to SC11.1129.007, be adopted with the exception of:- Recommendation Numbers SC11.1129.005 and
SC11.1129.007 which were specifically resolved.
CARRIED
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 4 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 1 COMMUNITY SERVICES UPDATE ON THE PREPARATION OF A PROJECT PLAN FOR A COMPREHENSIVE MOUNTAIN BIKE STRATEGY FOR RIDING IN COUNCIL’S CONSERVATION RESERVES CS433/263/18(P1) 1 BASIS FOR CONFIDENTIALITY Not Applicable. 2 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Not Applicable. 3 PURPOSE OF REPORT The purpose of this report is to update the committee on the preparation of a comprehensive mountain biking strategy, as requested in part 2 of resolution SC11.0405.006 listed in Section 4 (below). 4 PREVIOUS RESOLUTIONS Ex Minute SC11.0405.001 refers:
“To place the Tamborine Guanaba Conservation Reserves Draft Management Plan on public display for a period of six weeks.”
Ex Minute SC11.0405.006 refers:
1 That Council note the adoption of the Tamborine Guanaba Conservation Reserves Management Plan will result in the closure of the unauthorised and unregulated mountain bike tracks.
2 That the Director of Community Services bring forward a report on the preparation of a comprehensive mountain bike strategy within the next 6 months.
5 DISCUSSION 5.1 Introduction The Tamborine Guanaba Conservation Reserves Draft Management Plan was approved for public display at the Council meeting on Monday 11 April 2011. Following the public display period, this plan is to be presented to Council for adoption in its final form. Wongawallan Road is situated in the west of the Tamborine Guanaba planning area in and adjacent to Eagle Heights Conservation Area. The section of Wongawallan Road and the Conservation Area between the GCCC LGA boundary and the intersection with Welches Road is currently being utilised for high speed, downhill mountain biking. The downhill mountain biking track criss-crosses Wongawallan Road, is not safe and is not authorised.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 5 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 1 (Continued) UPDATE ON THE PREPARATION OF A PROJECT PLAN FOR A COMPREHENSIVE MOUNTAIN BIKE STRATEGY FOR RIDING IN COUNCIL’S CONSERVATION RESERVES CS433/263/18(P1) Four wheel drive ecotour vehicles, GCCC management vehicles and rural fire brigade vehicles also utilise this section of Wongawallan Road and there is a very real possibility of collisions between the bikes and vehicles. The incidental erosion and damage to the track and trackside vegetation caused by the downhill mountain bikes is significant. There is also a lot of unauthorised track construction work occurring such as removal of vegetation, construction of jumps and clearing of new tracks adjacent to the main track. Track counters were installed on this track between January and May 2010. These counters recorded approximately 290 downhill runs per month, each of which represents a one-way trip down Wongawallan Road. Approximately three times the number of bikes utilise the track on weekends as opposed to week days. Due to the unacceptable risk of a collision for which Council might be held responsible, and to allow ease of access by management and other authorised vehicles, the following actions have been provided in the Tamborine Guanaba Conservation Reserves Management Plan: A12.1 Close and gate Wongawallan Road and Caballo Road to all vehicular traffic except management and specially authorised vehicles. Such closures will be temporary road closures under the Local Government Act and will take effect over tracks labelled a, b and c on Figure 2. The locations of locked gates is shown in Figure 3. Mountain biking, horse riding and bush walking will remain permitted uses following road closure. Horse step-overs will be provided and gate keys will be issued to management and other authorised personnel. A12.2 Investigate the feasibility of modifying the existing downhill mountain bike track in Eagle Heights Conservation Area. This mountain bike track roughly follows Wongawallan Road from the border of Scenic Rim Regional Council through Eagle Heights Conservation Area and down to the bitumen surface of Welches Road. At present the track criss crosses Wongawallan Road and needs to be rerouted off the road to mitigate the risk of a collision between a mountain bike and another vehicle. If the track can be effectively rerouted, it will be left open for mountain biking. If not, an alternative location may have to be considered. Wongawallan Road and Caballo Road need to be closed to reduce the incidence of illegal four wheel driving, trail biking and car dumping currently occurring in the reserves. It is envisaged that with the road closure, the risk of a collision between a vehicle and a mountain biker will become somewhat lower (although not eliminated). If the current mountain bike track can be rerouted off the road sustainably, it will be left open for downhill mountain bikers to continue using in the long term. In addition, the following action is included in the management plan: A10.4 Investigate the possibility of scoping potential sites for sustainable mountain biking tracks (including downhill mountain biking) within GCCC land. The Sustainable City Future Committee resolved to place the Tamborine Guanaba Conservation Reserves Draft Plan of Management on public display at the meeting on 5 April 2011. During the same meeting, the following resolution was also passed: Ex Minute SC11.0405.006 refers:
3 That Council note the adoption of the Tamborine Guanaba Conservation Reserves Management Plan will result in the closure of the unauthorised and unregulated mountain bike tracks.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 6 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 1 (Continued) UPDATE ON THE PREPARATION OF A PROJECT PLAN FOR A COMPREHENSIVE MOUNTAIN BIKE STRATEGY FOR RIDING IN COUNCIL’S CONSERVATION RESERVES CS433/263/18(P1) 4 That the Director of Community Services bring forward a report on the preparation of a
comprehensive mountain bike strategy within the next 6 months.
Figure 2 of the Tamborine Guanaba Conservation Reserves Management Plan. Recreation map of Tamborine Guanaba Conservation Reserves
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 7 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 1 (Continued) UPDATE ON THE PREPARATION OF A PROJECT PLAN FOR A COMPREHENSIVE MOUNTAIN BIKE STRATEGY FOR RIDING IN COUNCIL’S CONSERVATION RESERVES CS433/263/18(P1)
Figure 3. Proposed Infrastructure and existing management tracks within the Tamborine Guanaba Conservation Reserves
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 8 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 1 (Continued) UPDATE ON THE PREPARATION OF A PROJECT PLAN FOR A COMPREHENSIVE MOUNTAIN BIKE STRATEGY FOR RIDING IN COUNCIL’S CONSERVATION RESERVES CS433/263/18(P1) 5.2 Mountain Biking Mountain biking includes several different disciplines including cross country, all mountain, trail riding, downhill, dirt jumping and freestyle/free riding, all of which typically attract different riders. Downhill tracks are relatively short in length (compared to cross country) and the rider usually travels to the start of the descent by other means (i.e. car), whilst cross-country riders typically utilise a combination of fire trails or other off-road trails, and singletrack (a narrow trail which follows natural surface levels) for rides longer in duration. The Annual World Championships in mountain biking feature five different disciplines:
Cross Country events have expanded to three types; Olympic Cross Country (OXC), Marathon Cross Country (MXC) and the MTB 24-hour event.
In the ‘Gravity’ side of the sport there are now two events, those being the traditional Down Hill and the shorter and more spectator oriented Four Cross (4X).
The most popular form of mountain bike riding is cross-country (skills courses and pump parks are also becoming more popular: http://www.imba-au.com/imba-news/1673-nsw-and-queensland-announce-cycling-strategies). Downhill is only undertaken by a small number of mountain bikers that are capable of riding such extreme and dangerous courses. The track at Wongawallan Road is classed as a downhill track, although it does have cross country elements. The counters that were installed at Wongawallan Road indicate that there is a demand for downhill mountain biking at this location. However, it should be noted that the number of downhill mountain bike riders in South-east Queensland is small due to the extreme levels of skill required and the cost of purpose built bikes (downhill mountain bikes are so specialised that they are not able to be easily ridden on normal cross country tracks). Therefore many of the 290 runs per month are likely to be from the same individual making multiple runs on a given day (possibly no more than 50 – 100 riders in SEQ, although these figures are estimates only). There are other mountain biking venues close to the management cluster, including Nerang National Park, Mt Nathan and the Reserve Road (Coomera) cross country track. These venues offer cross country type experiences. In addition, cross country mountain biking can occur on other less steep management trails within Tamborine Guanaba Conservation Reserves. However, these trails and venues do not provide the opportunity for extreme downhill mountain biking. Various Councils in South East Queensland have adopted different approaches to mountain biking:
Brisbane City Council has provided a major mountain biking venue at Mt Coo-tha. The Mt Coo-tha Track Map shows 12.1 km of exclusive use mountain bike tracks and 31 km of multiuse, fire management roads. Most of the tracks offer cross country riding, but not downhill riding.
Toowoomba Regional Council have a downhill mountain bike track and other extreme type mountain bike tracks at Jubilee Park.
The Council of Mayors opened the Wyaralong Dam and My Joyce Recreation Park in July 2011. This features 40km of multi-use trails and about 25km of International Mountain Bike Association standard single-track trails, ranging from green to double-black diamond level* trails. The tracks include both cross country and downhill options.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 9 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 1 (Continued) UPDATE ON THE PREPARATION OF A PROJECT PLAN FOR A COMPREHENSIVE MOUNTAIN BIKE STRATEGY FOR RIDING IN COUNCIL’S CONSERVATION RESERVES CS433/263/18(P1)
Sunshine Coast Regional Council have recently announced the opening of the ‘Hennesey’s Hill’ track which is a 1.2 kilometre long IMBA black diamond rated* track incorporating jumps, drop-offs, rock gardens, steep banked berms, technical turns and obstacles.
(*Note: the trails above have been rated according to the International Mountain Biking Association Australia Standards as follows:
Easy (green circle) Likely to be a combination of fire road or wide single track with a gentle gradient, smooth surface and relatively free of obstacles.
Intermediate (Blue square) Likely to be a single trail with moderate gradients, variable surface and obstacles. Dual use or preferred use.
Difficult (Single black diamond) Likely to be a challenging single trail with steep gradients, variable surface and many obstacles. Single use and direction.
Extreme (Double black diamond) Extremely difficult trails will incorporate very steep gradients, highly variable surface and unavoidable, severe obstacles. Single use and direction. Optional lines.)
5.3 Nature Based Recreation Strategy A strategic approach to mountain biking across the city is required. In accordance with Action 24 of the 2009 Nature Conservation Strategy, Parks and Recreational Services will lead the preparation of a City Wide Nature Based Recreation Strategy for the Gold Coast. The objective of the City Wide Nature Based Recreation Strategy has been defined as follows:
The strategy will allow GCCC to build a nature based recreational network that is sustainable (ecologically, financially & socially) and where possible provides recreational opportunities that can best meet existing and future demand without compromising the ecological integrity and resilience of Council’s natural area estate. In addition, the city wide strategy will assist Council to deliver all relevant Bold Future and Nature Conservation objectives and actions.
Mountain biking will be addressed in this strategy and it is envisaged that the strategy will recommend further work be carried out to determine the level of demand and type of facilities required for various types of nature based recreation including horse riding, mountain biking and bushwalking. In 2011, the Natural Areas Management Unit commissioned Eco-Logical Australia to prepare a scoping study for the City Wide Nature Based Recreation Strategy. This was completed in June 2011. This scoping study developed a methodology and project plan for the strategy to undertake and has identified that the City Wide Nature Based Recreation Strategy needs to:
Clearly define the facilities and services that may be offered/available; Complete extensive community and stakeholder engagement; Identify the timeframes in which goods and services could be delivered; and Identify the relative costs that would be involved in their delivery.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 10 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 1 (Continued) UPDATE ON THE PREPARATION OF A PROJECT PLAN FOR A COMPREHENSIVE MOUNTAIN BIKE STRATEGY FOR RIDING IN COUNCIL’S CONSERVATION RESERVES CS433/263/18(P1) Work on the City Wide Nature Based Recreation Strategy will commence in January 2012 and will take 18 months to complete. The strategy will showcase some of the many existing nature based recreation opportunities that have been identified to date during the conservation management planning process. It is envisaged that a number of more specific studies will evolve from this strategy, including one devoted to mountain biking. In the interim, officers have been researching mountain biking issues and how mountain biking can be accommodated on the Gold Coast as follows:
Officers have investigated the possibility of scoping potential sites for sustainable mountain biking tracks (including downhill mountain biking) within GCCC land. A number of sites have been identified as possibilities.
Officers have begun to communicate with mountain bike club members. In September 2011, Parks & Recreational Services staff met with the Australian National Director of the International Mountain Bicycling Association to discuss site suitability and issues related to the provision of mountain biking tracks in Council reserves.
Whilst the Tamborine Guanaba Conservation Reserves Management Plan was on public display (a six week period from 18 April to 30 May 2011), officers wrote to, emailed and telephoned a number of members of the Gold Coast Mountain biking community (both within and outside of the Gold Coast Mountain Bike Club) to invite them to make submissions on the plan. No submissions were received within the submission timeframe.
On October 19 2011, the Natural Areas Management Unit received an email from a representative of the Gold Coast Mountain Bike Club requesting a meeting with Council to discuss the following issues:
1. Closure of illegal downhill mountain bike trails within the Gold Coast City Council’s areas of responsibility, and
2. Commencement of dialogue with Gold Coast City Council with a view to identifying possible sites for the establishment of suitable downhill mountain bike trails.
Officers will meet with the club representative(s) in the last week of November 2011 to open up this line of communication in preparation for the City Wide Nature Based Recreation Strategy.
Officers will continue to liaise with the mountain bike clubs and flag the fact that the City Wide Nature Based Recreation Strategy will be prepared soon, and that public consultation on mountain biking will be sought to inform the strategy. 6 ALIGNMENT TO BOLD FUTURE VISION, CORPORATE PLAN, OPERATIONAL
PLAN Bold Future Key Focus Areas to which this proposal aligns in the Corporate Plan 2009-14, and outcomes/action statements on which this proposal will deliver, are listed below: Key Focus Area:1 A city leading by example Outcome 1.2: The community is actively involved in the city. 1.2.1 Actively involve Gold Coast citizens in shaping the decisions and actions which will
impact on the city now and in the future.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 11 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 1 (Continued) UPDATE ON THE PREPARATION OF A PROJECT PLAN FOR A COMPREHENSIVE MOUNTAIN BIKE STRATEGY FOR RIDING IN COUNCIL’S CONSERVATION RESERVES CS433/263/18(P1) Key Focus Area:2 A city loved for its green, gold and blue Outcome 2.1: Parks and open green spaces are connected, safe and accessible for all members of the community. Outcome 2.2: Biodiversity is protected. Outcome 2.3: Wildlife corridors are well managed and connected. Key Focus Area:4 A safe city where everyone belongs Outcome 4.1: Our active and healthy community embraces recreation, leisure and social interaction. The proposal will deliver on the following Council corporate strategies: Nature Conservation Strategy 2009-2019 Our Natural Playground – A Parks and Recreation Plan for the Gold Coast. 7 FUNDING AND RESOURCING REQUIREMENTS Budget/Funding Considerations A budget of $80,000 is required to complete the City Wide Nature Based Recreation Strategy. This budget is available within existing budgets of CC417. Costs for Capital Works and Service Proposals Not Applicable People and Culture Not Applicable 8 RISK MANAGEMENT Relevant Community Services Directorate Risks Risk Mitigation Inadequate standard of land or facility for parks, open space or recreational use on handover to Council leading to a decrease in service levels and/or damage to Council's reputation
Revision of land development guidelines including establishment periods, and reduced levels of park embellishments. Revision of Bonding and As Constructed requirements. Review of Service Level Agreement with PE&T.
Insufficient budgets to maintain park assets and/or replace asset at end of asset life leading to a decrease in service levels and/or damage to Council's reputation
Asset Management Plans
Asset failure or failure to meet legislative requirements resulting in an increase in litigation, decrease in service delivery standards, damage to the asset or harm to people.
Further develop Asset Management Plans (core+ or detailed)
Incorrect policy/technical advice on social planning, access, CPTED, etc resulting in poor decision making by Council and failure to adhere to legislation
Senior officers to review advice Peer review Improved focus on training
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 12 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 1 (Continued) UPDATE ON THE PREPARATION OF A PROJECT PLAN FOR A COMPREHENSIVE MOUNTAIN BIKE STRATEGY FOR RIDING IN COUNCIL’S CONSERVATION RESERVES CS433/263/18(P1) Project specific risks Risk Mitigation Law suit by users injured on Council land whilst using unauthorised mountain bike tracks
Development of Nature Based Recreation Strategy will identify possible sites for mountain bike track construction. Where such tracks are built to appropriate standards to minimise risk.
Degradation of Council image as a provider of quality recreational facilities
Develop Nature Based Recreation Strategy to identify demand for nature based recreation opportunities and facilities so that Council can provide these appropriately and sustainably.
9 STATUTORY MATTERS Council has obligations under state and federal legislation to appropriately manage areas of ecological and cultural significance. Key legislation includes:
Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Act 1999 (Cth) Native Title Act 1993 (Cth) Nature Conservation Act 1992 (Qld) Environmental Protection Act 1994 (Qld) Vegetation Management Act 1999 (Qld) Land Act 1994 (Qld) Land Protection (Pest and Stock Route Management) Act 2002 (Qld) Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act 2003 (Qld) Queensland Heritage Act 1992 (Qld) Fire and Rescue Services Act 1990 (Qld). 10 COUNCIL POLICIES A number of local planning initiatives are relevant to this proposal:
Our Living City – Gold Coast Planning Scheme Gold Coast Nature Conservation Strategy 2009-2019 Open Space Preservation Levy Acquisition Program Policy. Management Guidelines for Sites Acquired with the Open Space Preservation Levy 11 DELEGATIONS Not Applicable. 12 COORDINATION & CONSULTATION Name and/or Title of the Stakeholder Consulted
Directorate or Organisation
Is the Stakeholder Satisfied With Content of Report and Recommendations (Yes/No) (comment as appropriate)
Nigel Greenup Community Services yes Phil Watts Community Services yes
13 STAKEHOLDER IMPACTS Officers will continue to liaise with the mountain bike clubs and emphasise that the Nature Based Recreation Strategy will be prepared soon, and that public consultation on mountain biking will be sought for this.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 13 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 1 (Continued) UPDATE ON THE PREPARATION OF A PROJECT PLAN FOR A COMPREHENSIVE MOUNTAIN BIKE STRATEGY FOR RIDING IN COUNCIL’S CONSERVATION RESERVES CS433/263/18(P1) 14 TIMING NAMU will proceed with the preparation of the City Wide Nature Based Recreation Strategy in January 2012, with a proposed completion date of June 2013. 15 CONCLUSION Council officers will determine whether it is feasible to reroute the existing mountain bike track on and adjacent to Wongawallan Road. Modifications to this track are required in order to reduce the level of risk to riders and other park users. Wherever possible, Council will engage with the mountain biking community to determine and deliver the best riding experience. Should this track modification be successful, the track will remain open to mountain bike riders long term. The City Wide Nature Based Recreation Strategy will commence in 2012 and mountain biking will be addressed in this strategy. This strategy will provide a strategic approach to mountain biking across the city and it is anticipated that the strategy will recommend specific locations for the development of tracks to cater for the most popular forms of mountain bike riding in Gold Coast City. 16 RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that Council resolves as follows: 1 That the report be noted.
2 A feasibility study be undertaken to investigate whether the existing downhill mountain bike track on and adjacent to Wongawallan Road can be modified to reduce the risk to mountain bike riders and other park users whilst ensuring that the track has minimal environmental impacts and is financially sustainable.
3 That the study be carried out in consultation with the mountain biking community, and should the track be able to be modified accordingly, it will remain open to mountain bike riders long term.
Author: Authorised by:
Naomi Christian Colette McCool Conservation Management Planner Director Community Services Tim Robson Senior Conservation Management Planner 20 October 2011
TRACKS REF: 32571303
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 14 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 1 (Continued) UPDATE ON THE PREPARATION OF A PROJECT PLAN FOR A COMPREHENSIVE MOUNTAIN BIKE STRATEGY FOR RIDING IN COUNCIL’S CONSERVATION RESERVES CS433/263/18(P1) COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION SC11.1129.001 moved Cr Wayne seconded Cr Pforr 1 That the report be noted.
2 That a feasibility study be undertaken to investigate whether the existing downhill mountain bike track on and adjacent to Wongawallan Road can be modified to reduce the risk to mountain bike riders and other park users whilst ensuring that the track has minimal environmental impacts and is financially sustainable.
3 That the study be carried out in consultation with the mountain biking community, and should the track be able to be modified accordingly, it will remain open to mountain bike riders long term.
CARRIED
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 15 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 2 PLANNING ENVIRONMENT & TRANSPORT URBAN DESIGN ADVISORY BOARD - MINUTES FOR MEETING NO. 29 HELD 9 SEPTEMBER 2011 LG115/926(P4) Refer 29 page attachment 1 BASIS FOR CONFIDENTIALITY Not Applicable. 2 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Not Applicable. 3 PURPOSE OF REPORT The purpose of this report is to present for Council’s information the Minutes for the Urban Design Advisory Board Meeting No. 29 held 9 September 2011. 4 PREVIOUS RESOLUTIONS Not Applicable. 5 DISCUSSION Council’s Urban Design Advisory Board was established to foster exemplary urban design outcomes for citywide projects through an independent professional peer review process. The Board is committed to improving the quality of urban design on the Gold Coast, including the social, economic and environmental well-being of our community. This meeting included presentations and discussions on the following: (a) Gold Coast Rapid Transit Phase 2 Corridor Study (b) Gold Coast City Transport Strategy 2031 6 ALIGNMENT TO BOLD FUTURE VISION, CORPORATE PLAN, OPERATIONAL
PLAN Corporate Plan – Key Focus Area 1 – A city leading by example Outcome 1.1 There are strong foundations for a sustainable city 1.1.4 Encourage and promote innovative design, building practice and land use to support sustainable building practices within the city Outcome 1.3 There is collaborative leadership and strong partnerships in the city 1.3.2 Encourage leaders from all sectors of the city, as well as those who represent the city (State and Federal Governments) to act as advocates nationally and internationally, supporting the city’s continued development and success Corporate Plan – Key Focus Area 6 – A city shaped by clever design Outcome 6.4 High quality urban design creates a world-class city image and accommodates diverse built forms 6.4.1 Ensure good urban design principles and guidelines are applied to new and retro-fit development and infrastructure projects to enhance the amenity and liveability of the city 6.4.4 Implement high quality urban design throughout the city by working in partnership with the community and private sector
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 16 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 2 (Continued) URBAN DESIGN ADVISORY BOARD - MINUTES FOR MEETING NO. 29 HELD 9 SEPTEMBER 2011 LG115/926(P4) 7 FUNDING AND RESOURCING REQUIREMENTS Budget/Funding Considerations Not Applicable. Human Resources Not Applicable. 8 RISK MANAGEMENT Not Applicable. 9 STATUTORY MATTERS The Urban Design Advisory Board was established under the provisions of the Queensland Local Government Act 1993 Sections 452 and 453. 10 COUNCIL POLICIES Not Applicable. 11 DELEGATIONS Not Applicable. 12 COORDINATION & CONSULTATION Name and/or Title of the Stakeholder Consulted
Directorate or Organisation
Is the Stakeholder Satisfied With Content of Report and Recommendations (Yes/No) (comment as appropriate)
Urban Design Advisory Board External members appointed through PET
Yes
13 STAKEHOLDER IMPACTS Not Applicable. 14 TIMING Not Applicable.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 17 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 2 (Continued) URBAN DESIGN ADVISORY BOARD - MINUTES FOR MEETING NO. 29 HELD 9 SEPTEMBER 2011 LG115/926(P4) 15 CONCLUSION The Urban Design Advisory Board provides an important role in the facilitation of good sustainable urban design outcomes for the city, and assists in fostering, educating and reinforcing high standards for Council and the development industry. 16 RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that Council resolves as follows: 1 That Council note the Urban Design Advisory Board’s Minutes for Meeting No. 29 held
9 September 2011. Author: Authorised by:
Lily Chan Warren Rowe Principal Architect Director Planning Environment & Transport 8 November 2011
TRACKS REF: 32642706 COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION SC11.1129.002 moved Cr Wayne seconded Cr Pforr That Council note the Urban Design Advisory Board’s Minutes for Meeting No. 29 held 9 September 2011.
CARRIED
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 18 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report
Attachment 2.1
Urban Design Advisory BoardMinutes
Meeting No. 29
9am Friday 9 September 2011Gold Coast City Council Nerang Admin Office
833 Southport Nerang RoadCommittee Meeting Room
#32568745
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 19 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report
Attachment 2.2
ENQUIRIES SHOULD BE DIRECTED TO: Office of the City Architect and Heritage Gold Coast City Council PO Box 5042 GCMC Queensland 9729 T: 5582 8875 F: 5582 8878 E: [email protected]
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 20 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report
Attachment 2.3
Table of Contents
ATTENDANCE .............................................................................................................20
APOLOGIES ................................................................................................................20
1. GOLD COAST RAPID TRANSIT PHASE 2 CORRIDOR STUDY ...............................21
2. GOLD COAST CITY TRANSPORT STRATEGY 2031...............................................21
3. GENERAL BUSINESS ...........................................................................................22
4. CLOSE .................................................................................................................22
5. ACTION REGISTER ..............................................................................................23
6. ATTACHMENT A ...................................................................................................24
7. ATTACHMENT B ...................................................................................................39
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 21 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report
Attachment 2.4 ATTENDANCE Board Members Mr Brett Saville (Chair) Ms Robyn Harding Mr Gerard McCormick Mr Michael Nash Professor Paul Burton Associate Professor Danny O’Hare Mr John Duncalfe Mr Cameron Byrns Invitees Cr Susie Douglas Mr Ashley Mitchell, GCCC Senior Urban Designer Mr Craig Wallace, GCCC Project Manager Transport Strategy Observers Mr Chris Gee, GCCC City Architect Ms Lily Chan, GCCC Senior Architect Mr Nick Tzannes, GCCC Executive Coordinator Growth Management Unit Mr Jack Bryce, GCCC Urban Design Team Leader APOLOGIES Mayor Ron Clarke Cr Susie Douglas Cr Peter Young Cr Donna Gates Cr Bob La Castra Cr Daphne McDonald Cr John Wayne Cr Dawn Crichlow Cr Grant Pforr Cr Eddy Sarroff Cr Jan Grew Cr Chris Robbins Cr Greg Betts Cr Margaret Grummitt Cr Ted Shepherd Mr Greg Forgan Smith (Deputy Chair) Mr Ian Glew Mr Leslie Curtis, Office of the Queensland Government Architect Mr Finn Jones, GCCC Principal Architect Major Assessment Mr Alton Twine, GCCC Manager Transport
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 22 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report
Attachment 2.5
1. GOLD COAST RAPID TRANSIT PHASE 2 CORRIDOR STUDY
Mr Ashley Mitchell, Senior Urban Designer from the Urban Design unit, provided a presentation of the GCRT Phase 2 Corridor Study final report findings, and provided each member with an A3 copy of the Final Report. A copy of the presentation shown is enclosed in Attachment A. A summary of the discussion included:
(a) As part of the corridor implementation framework, a new working group called the Corridor Management Office (CMO) has been created. The CMO will be charge to resolve issues relating to funding, coordination, implementation for development beyond the realm of the Study.
(b) As a consequence of the GCRT Phase 1 Corridor Study implementation framework,
all new Development Assessment projects located within the Corridor are brought to the attention of the Urban Design unit, in order to correlate and facilitate the desired outcomes outlined in the Corridor Study.
(c) The communication plan is proceeding. The document is scheduled to be presented
to Council on Monday 12 September 2011 for endorsement. Once approved, the full report will be available publicly on the internet, media, and all libraries.
(d) The accessibility requirements under the Building Code of Australia (BCA) have an
impact on affordability and feasibility of construction for low rise development recommended in the building typology section.
The Board, through the Chair, thanked Mr Mitchell for the presentation and said that a formal response would be issued once all the members had reviewed the final report. (Note: copies of the Final Report were delivered by post to members who could not attend the meeting.)
2. GOLD COAST CITY TRANSPORT STRATEGY 2031 Mr Craig Wallace, Project Manager Transport Strategy, provided a presentation on the Gold Coast Transport Strategy 2031. A copy of the presentation is enclosed in Attachment B. A summary of the discussion included:
(a) Currently the project is in community consultation stage. The final draft of the Transport Strategy is scheduled for April 2012, with the intention to issue in August 2012.
(b) For the City Transport Strategy to be successful, the Department of Transport and
Main Roads (DTMR) will be involved in the consultation and recommendations, especially in relation to changes proposed to jointly owned roads. The implementation of the GCRT will hopefully change the Gold Coast Highway character, for example, remove the island fences, lower the speed limit, and provide improved amenity for active transport – cyclists and pedestrians.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 23 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report
Attachment 2.6
(c) The Strategy will contain general recommendations in relation to city parking but will not address specific numbers for development purposes.
(d) The Strategy will not address road design in large detail but will look at the redesign
of road intersections and for new bike lanes to be resurfaced for safety.
(e) It is envisaged that the Strategy implementation will run concurrently with the Planning Scheme Review Program – Car park and traffic code.
3. GENERAL BUSINESS Business arising from previous meeting Review of Action Register Upcoming review of Board’s Terms of Reference, membership, nominations for new
chairperson, format of meetings Gold Coast Urban Design Awards 2011 update
4. CLOSE The meeting closed at 12.30pm.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 24 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report
Attachment 2.7
5. ACTION REGISTER 2011 Action Register
Reference Action Action By Status Outcome
09.1204.005 Current industry review to reclassify Class 2 Buildings to Class 3 Buildings
Mr Greg Forgan-Smith
In progress
Latest discussion called on the need for the State Government intervention for exemptions to the reclassification that are likely to affect reclassification and accessibility
GFS and BS to consider drafting a petition statement to be forwarded to relevant authorities for appropriate action
10.1203.001
Planning Scheme – Board to make a submission outlining or clarifying their expectations for planning scheme review engagement, including identifying the frequency of engagement and key areas of interest
Board In progress
Review of the following Draft Best Practice Codes: Residential Design + ROL Provisions Centres TOD
Review of the Draft Zone Codes: Low Impact Industry High Impact Industry Waterfront & Marine Industry Extractive Industry
2011 Report Submissions to Council Register Reference Recommendation Status Outcome
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 25 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report
Attachment 2.8
6. ATTACHMENT A
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Attachment 2.9
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Attachment 2.10
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Attachment 2.11
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Attachment 2.12
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Attachment 2.13
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Attachment 2.14
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Attachment 2.15
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Attachment 2.16
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Attachment 2.17
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Attachment 2.18
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Attachment 2.19
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Attachment 2.20
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Attachment 2.21
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Attachment 2.22
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Attachment 2.23
7. ATTACHMENT B
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Attachment 2.24
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 42 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report
Attachment 2.25
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Attachment 2.26
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Attachment 2.27
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Attachment 2.28
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 46 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report
Attachment 2.29
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 47 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 3 PLANNING ENVIRONMENT & TRANSPORT PROPOSED TRANSFER OF OSPL FUNDS TO RESERVE CE196/440/36(P1) 1 BASIS FOR CONFIDENTIALITY Not Applicable. 2 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Not Applicable. 3 PURPOSE OF REPORT In accordance with Council’s adopted Budget Review Policy (#22945621, section 3.1), a report to Council is required for any significant variations to operational budgets or capital projects. Additionally, under section 149 (2) of the Local Government (Finance, Plans and Reporting) Regulation 2010, transfers to or from an operating fund reserve must be the subject of a Council resolution. The purpose of this report is to seek approval to return savings of $1,576,724 in Open Space Preservation Levy funds to the Open Space Reserve. Total funds were for delivery of initiatives across two Directorates (Community Services and Planning, Environment & Transport). 4 PREVIOUS RESOLUTIONS Not Applicable. 5 DISCUSSION Under the Open Space Preservation Levy 2011/12 budget, a number of initiatives were earmarked for delivery within this financial year. However, savings have been realised year-to-date and project reviews have highlighted forecast savings through scheduling and interdependencies. In accordance with Council’s adopted Budget Review Policy and the Local Government (Finance, Plans and Reporting) Regulation 2010, approval is sought to return savings in the amount of $1,576,724 to the Open Space Reserve for future allocation. Table 1 details the year-to-date and forecast Open Space Preservation Levy savings. Table 1: Open Space Preservation Levy initiative funding to be returned to Open Space Reserve for future re-allocation. Initiative Description Justification for
Savings Business Unit
Cost Centre
Function Amount $
Springbrook Conservation Area Day Use Facility
Delay in construction work
NAMU 417 4805 800,000
Staff Salaries Delay in appointment to new positions
EP&C 515 3411 191,135
Staff Salaries Savings due to vacancy levels in nominal roles.
EP&C 515 3411 40,477
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 48 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 3 (Continued) PROPOSED TRANSFER OF OSPL FUNDS TO RESERVE CE196/440/36(P1) Initiative Description Justification for
Savings Business Unit
Cost Centre
Function Amount $
Develop dredging policy in estuarine waterways, audit waterways infrastructure/mitigate ecological impacts and develop future design guidelines
Re-prioritised to a future year (action earmarked to be reviewed as part of the 5 yearly review of the Nature Conservation Strategy in late 2012)
EP&C 515 3411 150,000
Environmental Planning Program
Mapping project delayed due to State Government scheduled release of information (i.e. vegetation mapping)
EP&C 515 3411 70,428
OSPL funds re-provided from 2010/11 for transfer to Open Space Reserve
Not applicable. OSPL funds for transfer to Open Space Reserve
EP&C 515 3411 222,684
Ecosystem Services Project
Project implementation not proceeding this year due to re-prioritisation to a future year (dependent on State Government position)
EP&C 515 3411 60,000
Protection of the Natural Area Reserve System Decision framework – Consultancy Fees
Internal Labour used for project delivery instead of Consultant
EP&C 515 3411 30,000
Environmental Weeds Incentive Program
Implementation of initiative postponed until 2012/13 due to delay in appointment of new position.
EP&C 515 3411 12,000
Total $1,576,724 6 ALIGNMENT TO BOLD FUTURE VISION, CORPORATE PLAN, OPERATIONAL
PLAN Bold Future Vision: Key Focus Area:2 A city loved for its green, gold and blue: Outcome 2.1: Parks and open green spaces are safe, connected and accessible for
all members of the community Outcome 2.2: Biodiversity is protected Outcome 2.3: Wildlife corridors are well managed and connected Outcome 2.4: The city’s coastline, beaches and oceans are protected to sustain their
amenity and biodiversity
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 49 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 3 (Continued) PROPOSED TRANSFER OF OSPL FUNDS TO RESERVE CE196/440/36(P1) Key Focus Area:4 A safe city where everyone belongs: Outcome 4.2: We are a safe and secure community and people live and visit without
fear. Corporate Strategy Nature Conservation Strategy 2009-2019 Bushfire Management Strategy 1988 Operational Plans Strategic and Environmental Planning and Policy Branch Operational Plan Parks and Recreational Services Operational Plan (Natural Areas Management) Other Plans Gold Coast ‘Our Living City’ Planning Scheme 7 FUNDING AND RESOURCING REQUIREMENTS Budget/Funding Considerations Under Council’s adopted Budget Review Policy, any significant variation to an operational or capital budget must be the subject of a report to Council. A Council decision is also required for any movement of funds to or from Reserve. The funding source (for initiatives outlined in Table 1 of this report) is the Open Space Preservation Separate Charge (Levy). Funds raised under this charge that are not expended in the current financial year are required to be transferred to the Open Space Reserve for future reallocation as per the Local Government (Finance, Plans and Reporting) Regulation 2010. This report seeks Council endorsement to transfer the total funds of $1,576,724 to the Open Space Reserve in the November 2011 Budget Review. The allocation of funds from the Open Space Reserve will be the subject of a future report to Council. 8 RISK MANAGEMENT
Risks highlighted are in accordance with Council’s adopted Budget Review Policy:
Risk No. CO000431: Non-compliance with State and Commonwealth legislation leading to potential prosecution of Council, executive officer liability and negative city image.
Risk No. CO000433: Qualified audit leading to Council’s reputation being damaged. Risk No. CO000435: Failure to achieve a sustainable long term financial position leading to
negative impacts on Council’s ability to deliver on its key focus area commitments.
9 STATUTORY MATTERS Local Government (Finance Plans and Reporting) Regulation 2010
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 50 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 3 (Continued) PROPOSED TRANSFER OF OSPL FUNDS TO RESERVE CE196/440/36(P1) 10 COUNCIL POLICIES Budget Review Policy (effective from 17 October 2011) Revenue Policy 2011-2012 (effective from 1 July 2011) 11 DELEGATIONS Not Applicable. 12 COORDINATION & CONSULTATION Name and/or Title of the Stakeholder Consulted
Directorate or Organisation
Is the Stakeholder Satisfied With Content of Report and Recommendations (Yes/No) (comment as appropriate)
Director, Planning, Environment & Transport
Planning, Environment & Transport
Yes
Manager, Strategic & Environmental Planning & Policy
Planning, Environment & Transport
Yes
Manager, Parks & Recreational Services
Community Services Yes
Executive Coordinator, Environment & Climate Change
Planning, Environment & Transport
Yes
Team Leader, Environmental Planning & Conservation
Planning, Environment & Transport
Yes
Coordinator, Natural Areas Management Unit
Community Services Yes
Program Manager, Nature Conservation Strategy
Planning, Environment &Transport
Yes
Executive Coordinator, Directorate Finances
City Governance Yes
13 STAKEHOLDER IMPACTS Springbrook Conservation Area Day Use Facility project has involved consultation with the Springbrook community. This is the subject of previous reports to Council. 14 TIMING It is proposed that the transfer of Open Space Preservation Levy funds to the Open Space Reserve will occur as part of the November 2011 budget review. 15 CONCLUSION Under Council’s adopted Budget Review Policy and the Local Government (Finance, Plans and Reporting) Regulation 2010, a Council resolution is required to allow for the transfer of funds to or from a Reserve and for any significant variations to operating and capital budgets. In accordance with the above, Council endorsement is sought to transfer Open Space Preservation Levy year-to-date savings and forecast savings in the amount of $1,576,724 to the Open Space Reserve in the November 2011 Budget Review.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 51 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report
ITEM 3 (Continued) PROPOSED TRANSFER OF OSPL FUNDS TO RESERVE CE196/440/36(P1) 16 RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that Council resolves as follows: 1 That Council approve the transfer of $1,576,724 in Open Space Preservation Levy
funding into the Open Space Reserve as follows:
a $800,000 from Cost Centre 417 Function 4805
b $776,724 from Cost Centre 515 Function 3411
2 That Council note the above will be incorporated as part of the November Budget review.
Author: Authorised by:
Desiree McLean Warren Rowe Program Manager, Nature Conservation Strategy
Director Planning Environment & Transport
22 November 2011
TRACKS REF: 32680786 COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION SC11.1129.003 moved Cr Wayne seconded Cr Pforr 1 That Council approve the transfer of $1,576,724 in Open Space Preservation Levy
funding into the Open Space Reserve as follows:
a $800,000 from Cost Centre 417 Function 4805
b $776,724 from Cost Centre 515 Function 3411
2 That Council note the above will be incorporated as part of the November Budget review.
CARRIED
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 52 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 4 PLANNING ENVIRONMENT & TRANSPORT NATURE CONSERVATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM POLICY CE196/440/-(P20) Refer 22 page attachment 1 BASIS FOR CONFIDENTIALITY Not Applicable. 2 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Not Applicable. 3 PURPOSE OF REPORT The purpose of this report is to present the Nature Conservation Assistance Program Policy for endorsement. 4 PREVIOUS RESOLUTIONS
Committee Recommendation: CGC.110913.05
The Corporate Governance Committee recommends
That
1. directorates nominate additional stakeholders to the Business Owner by Friday 23 September 2011.
2. the following documents be placed on the CGC forward schedule for November 2011:
(i) draft Nature Conservation Assistance Policy
(ii) implementation/communications plan for implementation of the policy
(iii) peer review summary
3. the policy be considered for adoption by Council via the Sustainable City Future Committee.
4. the milestones identified in the implementation/communications plan be reported in the quarterly Corporate Performance Report compiled by Corporate Planning and Performance.
Committee Recommendation: CGC.111108.07
The Corporate Governance Committee recommends
That
1. the draft Nature Conservation Assistance Program Policy be referred to Council for
adoption via the Sustainable City Future Committee, subject to final review and
endorsement by Legal Services
2. the Communications Plan and Project Management Plan for the Nature Conservation
Assistance Program be endorsed
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 53 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 4 (Continued) NATURE CONSERVATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM POLICY CE196/440/-(P20)
3. the deliverables and measures identified in the Project Management Plan be reported
in the quarterly Corporate Performance Report
5 DISCUSSION
5.1 Introduction
The Draft Nature Conservation Assistance Program Policy is attached for Council’s consideration and further details on the policy and its proposed implementation are provided below.
5.2 Background
Nature Conservation Strategy (NCS) 2009-2019
The strategic objective of Council’s NCS is: To conserve the city’s biodiversity and natural assets through Council’s overarching and strong commitment to protecting, managing and restoring a diverse, connected and viable conservation network across public and private lands.
Council’s NCS strategic targets relate to native vegetation cover in the City. These are:
50 percent of the City’s land area will be covered by native vegetation in 2019 (no net loss)
55 percent of the City’s land area will be covered by native vegetation in 2040 (net gain).
Council’s NCS acknowledges that ‘a committed and supported landholder is a major partner for Council in managing large areas of habitat, particularly in rural areas’. By developing effective partnerships with landholders and providing access to funds, technical advice and resources, Council can influence decisions and strategic directions and encourage biodiversity friendly design on the project level. Action Item 25.1 of the NCS Implementation Action Plan requires the development and implementation of an environmental grants program. Council’s Conservation Partnerships program Council’s Conservation Partnerships Program (CPP) offers a small range of initiatives that assist property owners in protecting and managing native vegetation and wildlife habitat. The CPP currently includes the Land for Wildlife program, the Voluntary Conservation Agreements scheme, and Bushland Health Checks. The CPP recognises that many private landholders are active and willing contributors to the conservation and restoration of native vegetation and wildlife habitat in the City. The program provides technical advice, educational materials, workshops, plants, and limited financial support in the case of residents with Voluntary Conservation Agreements.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 54 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 4 (Continued) NATURE CONSERVATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM POLICY CE196/440/-(P20) 5.3 Nature Conservation Assistance Program The proposed Nature Conservation Assistance Program (NCAP) complements Council’s CPP by providing additional financial assistance to private landholders to undertake bushland restoration projects. The approval of the NCAP Policy is required to support the implementation of the program. The proposed NCAP has been designed with a direct line of sight to the strategic objective and targets of the NCS detailed above. The program will facilitate the restoration of bushland on privately owned land. The NCAP will provide assistance to private landholders to undertake restoration projects that contribute to the enhancement and protection of the City’s natural assets and the long term viability of the citywide conservation network. The NCAP is consistent with similar environmental grants programs undertaken by other large Councils in southeast Queensland. Logan City Council, Brisbane City Council, Scenic Rim Regional Council, and the Sunshine Coast Regional Council all operate similar environmental grants programs which provide funds to individual private landholders for small bushland restoration projects. 5.4 Proposed Policy The Nature Conservation Assistance Program Policy provides a policy framework for the operation of the program. The proposed policy is contained in the attachments. The proposed NCAP Policy has been endorsed by Council’s Corporate Governance Committee. The objectives of the policy are:
to conserve the city’s biodiversity and natural assets by protecting, managing and restoring a diverse, connected and viable conservation network
govern a program for the allocation of funds to enable procurement of ecological
restoration projects on privately owned land that contribute to the enhancement of the City’s natural assets and the long term viability of the citywide conservation network
ensure the administration and assessment of applications through Council’s Nature
Conservation Assistance Program are transparent, equitable, inclusive and compliant with relevant legislation
support private landholders, building their capacity to achieve nature conservation
outcomes beyond the term of the funded project. This scope of the policy provides for the procurement of conservation outcomes through the allocation of funds to projects proposed by a private landowner contributing to the enhancement and protection of the City’s natural assets through restoration works on private land.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 55 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 4 (Continued) NATURE CONSERVATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM POLICY CE196/440/-(P20) 5.5 Policy Development
The Concept Plan for the development of the draft policy was endorsed by Council’s Corporate Governance Committee (CGC) on 13 September 2011. The Project Manager developed a detailed Project Management Plan for the program which was then endorsed by the Manager Strategic and Environmental Planning and Policy, Director of Planning Environment and Transport, the Peer Review Group for the project, and the Nature Conservation Strategy Steering Committee.
The draft policy was developed by the Environmental Planning and Conservation Team of the Strategic and Environmental Planning and Policy Branch, in consultation with a large Peer Review Group. The Peer Review Group included representatives from: Corporate Planning and Performance, Corporate Finance, PET’s Business Support Branch, Legal Services, Natural Areas Management, Catchment Management, and Engineering Assets and Planning. The Peer Review Group was required to guide the project, represent their section’s views and communicate details of the draft policy to their respective teams. Throughout the development of the draft policy, consultation occurred with an extensive range of internal stakeholders including senior Officers from the CEO’s Office, Legal Services and the management representatives on CGC.
The draft Nature Conservation Assistance Program Policy was endorsed by Council’s CGC on 8 November 2011, together with the Peer Review Summary, Communications Plan and Project Management Plan for the program. Consultation was also undertaken with Councillors in divisions that contain areas of the City that are of high strategic value for nature conservation.
Through consultation it was identified that there is a potential need for additional support for wildlife carers in the Gold Coast community. Brisbane City Council currently operates the Native Wildlife Carer Funding Program that provides financial assistance to groups and individuals involved with the rehabilitation and release of orphaned, sick and injured native wildlife. It is recommended that this matter be further investigated and a report brought back to Council.
5.6 Policy Implementation It is proposed that the NCAP will be managed by PET’s Conservation Partnerships Program (CPP). A detailed implementation schedule has been included within the Project Management Plan. Section 7 of Attachment A - Guidelines of the draft policy describes and illustrates the key steps of the application process for the NCAP. An Expression of Interest (EOI) process is the first stage of the process where interested residents will be invited to submit an EOI form to Council. Officers can undertake a site visit and/or undertake a preliminary desktop assessment of potential projects. If the project has potential and aligns with the program objectives, officers will recommend the preparation of an application. Applications will then be assessed by a panel of experts comprising representatives from the Community Services, Engineering Services and PET Directorates. Final approval for the successful projects will be via Council resolution. Applications are assessed against specific criteria included in the draft policy. The assessment process will ensure that only projects which contribute to the City’s biodiversity conservation and align with Council’s NCS objectives and targets will be eligible for funding.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 56 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 4 (Continued) NATURE CONSERVATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM POLICY CE196/440/-(P20)
5.7 Eligible Projects
Projects eligible for funding must be on privately owned land within the Gold Coast City. Projects must be in the public interest of the Gold Coast community. To be eligible, applicants must:
be a private landholder clearly demonstrate the environmental benefits beyond their property boundary (ie.
the project must contribute to the protection, enhancement or management of Gold Coast City’s nature outcomes and citywide conservation network)
clearly demonstrate their capacity to manage the project and to properly administer any funding or other assistance provided by Council
ensure that all permits and other approvals relating to the application are addressed and there is adequate insurance cover for the project
be free of debt to Council have met the required acquittal conditions for any previous funding
To be eligible for funding, an applicant will need to also contribute to the project. This is called a co-contribution. The applicant co-contribution can be in-kind, financial, or a combination of both. The required co-contribution ranges from 20%-40% depending on the size of the project. Funds for individual projects will be restricted to the minimum and maximum amounts outlined in the draft policy. Landholders can apply for assistance to carry out natural resource management activities such as:
environmental weed control and bush regeneration to rehabilitate areas of native vegetation
restoration of areas mapped remnant vegetation restoration of areas known to provide habitat for rare or threatened species planting of local native plants for the purpose of rehabilitating degraded areas or
establishing vegetation corridors and buffer zones planting of local native plants for the purpose of rehabilitating the banks of natural
waterways including seasonal streams and natural wetlands to reduce sediment run-off, provide erosion control and increase waterway health
wildlife-friendly fencing to restrict stock access to significant vegetation, wetlands or riparian areas (must include restoration in conjunction with fencing).
5.8 Policy Communication
A detailed Communication Plan for the policy has been developed, and this is included as an attachment. The plan details the requirements for adequately communicating the policy to the community and complying with the standards of the Corporate Planning and Performance Branch. This Communications plan was endorsed by all Peer Review Group members and the Corporate Governance Committee.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 57 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 4 (Continued) NATURE CONSERVATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM POLICY CE196/440/-(P20) 6 ALIGNMENT TO BOLD FUTURE VISION, CORPORATE PLAN, OPERATIONAL
PLAN Corporate Plan 2009 – 2014
This project is consistent with Council’s Corporate Plan 2009-2014 and in particular, Key Focus Area 2.
Key Focus Area 2: “A city loved for its green, gold and blue” - Protecting and enhancing the natural environment, our open spaces, beaches and waterways
Outcome 2.2 – Biodiversity is protected
Outcome 2.3 – Wildlife corridors are well managed and connected
Outcome 2.5 – Water and waterways across the city are protected and enhanced Nature Conservation Strategy To conserve the city's biodiversity and natural assets through Council's overarching and strong commitment to protecting, managing and restoring a diverse, connected and viable conservation network across public and private lands. Strategic outcome 2 – The Gold Coast community has an appreciation, awareness and involvement with the natural environment.
Performance Measures Percentage increase in native vegetation cover on private land
Number of participants in the conservation partnerships program
Hectares restored on private land
Hectares of land managed through the conservation partnerships program
Planning, Environment and Transport Directorate Business Plan 2009-12 Community Conservation Grants is identified as a Directorate Project to help deliver on Key Focus Area 2 outcomes of the Corporate Plan. The Conservation Partnerships Program is identified as a corporate service in this business plan. Strategic and Environmental Planning and Policy Branch Operational Plan 2011-12 Community Conservation Grants is recognised as a Directorate Project in the Strategic and Environmental Planning and Policy Branch Operational Plan.
7 FUNDING AND RESOURCING REQUIREMENTS
The required budget allocation for implementation is $100,000 per year. The Program is funded through the Open Space Preservation separate charge and is included in the 10 Year Financial Plan for this program. It is proposed that the NCAP will be managed by existing staff within the Conservation Partnerships Program in PET.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 58 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 4 (Continued) NATURE CONSERVATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM POLICY CE196/440/-(P20) 8 RISK MANAGEMENT
Risk No
Risk Name Mitigation No
Mitigation Name
Activity No
Activity Start Date
Activity Description
Activity Owner
CO000421
Strategic and Environmental Planning and Policy
CM000225 Environmental Planning and Conservation
AT000819
12/03/2009
Environmental Planning Policies, Guidelines and Plans - development, review, management and input
Peter Owen
9 STATUTORY MATTERS In order to provide clarity in relation to the Beneficial Enterprise Provisions of the Local Government Act, Legal Services have recommended that the draft policy be based on the procurement of environmental projects. 10 COUNCIL POLICIES Procurement Policy and Guidelines Code of Conduct for Officers Policy External Communication Policy Public Funding Involving Private Property Policy 11 DELEGATIONS Not applicable. 12 COORDINATION & CONSULTATION In addition to the large number of stakeholders and groups consulted during the preparation of the draft policy (see section 5.5 above), the following officers have been consulted in the preparation of this report:
Name and/or Title of the Stakeholder Consulted
Directorate or Organisation
Is the Stakeholder Satisfied With Content of Report and Recommendations
David Corkill - Manager Strategic and Environmental Planning and Policy
PET Yes
Huxley Lawler - Executive Coordinator Environment and Climate Change
PET Yes
Cathy Tobin - Conservation Communications Officer
PET Yes
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 59 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 4 (Continued) NATURE CONSERVATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM POLICY CE196/440/-(P20) Name and/or Title of the Stakeholder Consulted
Directorate or Organisation
Is the Stakeholder Satisfied With Content of Report and Recommendations
Nina Bishop – Senior Environmental Planner
PET Yes
Darryl Larsen – Senior Conservation Officer
PET Yes
Grant Wilson – Legal Executive Coordinator
City Governance Yes
13 STAKEHOLDER IMPACTS External / community stakeholder Impacts This program presents significant benefits to private landholders, particularly in rural and semi-rural areas, who require assistance to restore and protect native bushland. Eligible landholders will be targeted specifically through nominated print media and relevant communications devices (eg Land for Wildlife newsletter and e-blasts to existing Land for Wildlife members). This is a new initiative and there are no identified detrimental impacts on external stakeholders. Stakeholder engagement is addressed in the NCAP Communications Plan.
Internal (Organisational) Stakeholder Impacts It was identified, through internal engagement and feedback, that the NCAP should be clearly differentiated from Council’s existing Community Grants and Donations Policy, which is an annual program providing financial assistance to community organisations that service the needs and priorities of the Gold Coast community. In response, the NCAP guidelines and criteria have been developed to clearly differentiate the NCAP as a specific form of ‘assistance’ for restoration projects on private land. The criteria and guidelines will be clearly communicated to external and internal stakeholders, and the assistance program will be promoted through www.sustainablegc.com.au. This is reflected in the NCAP Communications Plan. 14 TIMING Adoption of the Policy at this time is required to facilitate inception of the NCAP in early 2012. This will enable the program to align with Council’s annual budget cycle. Lead in time is required to enable appropriate communication of the program to residents, facilitation of expressions of interest, assessment of applications and reporting to Council. The first successful projects should be approved to proceed from July 2012. 15 CONCLUSION This report presents the draft Nature Conservation Assistance Program Policy for Council’s endorsement. The proposed NCAP has been designed with a direct line of sight to achievement of the strategic objective and targets of Council’s Nature Conservation Strategy. The program will facilitate the restoration of bushland on privately owned land. The NCAP will contribute to the enhancement and protection of the City’s natural assets and the long term viability of the citywide conservation network.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 60 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report
ITEM 4 (Continued) NATURE CONSERVATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM POLICY CE196/440/-(P20) 16 RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that Council resolves as follows:
1 That Council adopt the Nature Conservation Assistance Program Policy.
2 That a further report be brought back to Council, detailing the results of a further investigation into wildlife carer funding.
Author: Authorised by:
Peter Owen Warren Rowe Team Leader Environmental Planning and Conservation
Director Planning Environment & Transport
17 November 2011
TRACKS REF: 32676229 COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION SC11.1129.004 moved Cr Wayne seconded Cr Pforr 1 That Council adopt the Nature Conservation Assistance Program Policy.
2 That a further report be brought back to Council, detailing the results of a further investigation into wildlife carer funding.
CARRIED
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 61 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report
Attachment 4.1
Nature Conservation Assistance Program Policy
Effective from: (City Gov will insert after adoption) Contact officer: Private Land Conservation Officer, Strategic & Environmental Planning
& Policy Next review date: November 2016 File reference: CE196/696/04(P1) Tracks 32380769
OBJECTIVES
The objectives of this policy are: to conserve the city’s biodiversity and natural assets by protecting, managing and
restoring a diverse, connected and viable conservation network govern a program for the allocation of funds to enable procurement of ecological
restoration projects on privately owned land that contribute to the enhancement of the City’s natural assets and the long term viability of the citywide conservation network
ensure the administration and assessment of applications through Council’s Nature
Conservation Assistance Program are transparent, equitable, inclusive and compliant with relevant legislation
support private landholders, building their capacity to achieve nature conservation
outcomes beyond the term of the funded project
Key Focus Area A city loved for its green, gold and blue
Key Focus Area - Outcome
Biodiversity is protected Wildlife corridors are well managed and connected
Water and waterways across the city are protected and enhanced
Performance Measures
Area of private land (hectares) restored to a minimum of maintenance using funds allocated through the Nature Conservation Assistance Program
Corporate Risk Environment
POLICY STATEMENT
Council is committed to ensuring the ‘city’s terrestrial, aquatic and marine biodiversity ecosystems and their ecological processes are conserved within a connected network of natural areas’ (Nature Conservation Strategy 2009 – 2019). By developing effective relationships with landholders and providing access to funds, technical advice and resources, Council can influence decisions and strategic directions and encourage biodiversity friendly design on the project level.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 62 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report
Attachment 4.2 The Nature Conservation Assistance Program (NCAP) provides assistance to private landholders to enable procurement of restoration projects on land owned by residents. Projects must contribute to the enhancement and protection of the City’s natural assets and the long term viability of the citywide conservation network. Projects eligible for funding must be on privately owned land within the Gold Coast City. Successful applicants will be required to enter into a contract with Council, including its usual or standard conditions which it may nominate from to time. All applications are assessed by an Assessment Panel against assessment criteria outlined in Attachment A.
SCOPE
This policy provides for the procurement of conservation outcomes through the allocation of funds to projects proposed by any landowner contributing to the enhancement and protection of the City’s natural assets through restoration works on private land. This policy does not apply to community organisations or public companies. This policy does not apply to Crown Land, land owned by Council or land administered by Council as trustee for the State. All projects must be conducted within the Gold Coast City. Projects must be in the public interest of the Gold Coast community.
DEFINITIONS
Applicant is the landholder who submits the proposal
Council refers to Gold Coast City Council.
Funds is any financial or other assistance conditional upon agreed terms and
conditions. All funds must be acquitted. In-kind support includes the provision of any service, facility or activity that would
normally attract a fee. Private land is land owned by private individuals or corporations. It does not refer to
Crown Land, land owned by Council or land administered by Council as trustee for the State.
Project refers to the ecological restoration activity for which the applicants is
seeking funds. Purchase of Service refers to a negotiated contractual arrangement to engage the
services of an organisation or individual for reward.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 63 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report
Attachment 4.3
RELATED POLICIES / LEGISLATION
Code of Conduct for Officers Policy Local Government Act 2009 Local Government (Finance, Plans and Reporting) Regulation 2010 Nature Conservation Strategy 2009 - 2019 Public Funding Involving Private Property Policy Procurement Policy and Guidelines Code of Conduct for Officers Policy External Communication Policy
REPORTING REQUIREMENTS
Activity under the NCAP will be reported through Council’s corporate reporting process. Local Government Compliance Report Local Government (Finance, Plans and Reporting) Regulation 2010
RELATED DOCUMENTS
Policy Guidelines for Nature Conservation Assistance Program (Attachment A) RESPONSIBILITIES Compliance with the provisions of this policy, and any attached guidelines/templates, is mandatory. Successful applicants will be responsible for the planning, accounting, reporting and monitoring of their project.
Sponsor Director Planning Environment & Transport Business Owner Manager Strategic & Environmental Planning & Policy Policy Implementation Environmental Planning & Conservation Team
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 64 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report
Attachment 4.4 Attachment A – Guidelines
1. Background and Purpose
Significant conservation outcomes can be achieved by making resources available to landowners to procure conservation projects on private land. Private land conservation schemes complement the management of public lands by providing for more consistent and effective natural area management across land of different tenures. Historically, the responsibility and cost of protecting and managing significant native vegetation on private land rests with the landowner despite the whole community sharing the benefits. Along with the Conservation Partnerships Program the Nature Conservation Assistance Program (NCAP) recognises that many private landholders are active and willing contributors to the conservation and restoration of native vegetation and wildlife habitat in the City. The NCAP supports them by providing assistance to landholders to procure restoration projects on private land that contribute to the enhancement and protection of the City’s natural assets. The NCAP complements the existing Conservation Partnerships Program which offers a range of schemes and incentives to assist property owners in protecting and managing native vegetation and wildlife habitat. The NCAP contributes to the protection of the City’s biodiversity by:
promoting a sense of community responsibility for nature conservation recognising and rewarding good conservation management by private
landowners and encouraging landholders to integrate nature conservation with overall property management
building the capacity of private landholders to undertake ongoing ecological restoration beyond the initial term of the funded project
assisting with the integration of natural area management across public and private land within the hinterland core habitat system and substantial remnants
contributing to the consolidation or restoration of critical corridors, core habitats and substantial remnants throughout the City
restoring or protecting threatened species and ecosystems
2. Funding Details
One funding round will be offered per financial year. Funds are limited and it is anticipated many worthwhile applications will be submitted. Therefore applications offering value for money and applicants who can demonstrate their capacity to fulfil the project’s objectives will be the most likely to be successful. Two types of funding will be offered through the NCAP:
one-off funding recurrent funding*
* Recurrent funding may be allocated to a limited number of applicants with projects that will occur in a number of stages. The maximum period for which recurrent funding will be allocated is three years. A maximum of 30 percent of the annual NCAP budgeted funds will be allocated to recurrent funding. A maximum of three landholders will receive recurrent funding each financial year.
Each financial year, funds will be restricted to the minimum and maximum amounts outlined in the below table. In the case of recurrent funding, the maximum amount of funding allocated to the project (up to three years) will be capped at $20,000. Appropriate funding amounts should be discussed with a Conservation Partnerships Officer during the site visit prior to submitting an application. Projects may be part-funded.
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Attachment 4.5 Type of funding Minimum Maximum Total maximum funds over
project period (max 3 years) One-off $5000 $8000 $8000 Recurrent $3000 $9000 $20,000
Example of recurrent funding request: A landholder applying for recurrent funding estimates they will require $8000 for primary work in the first year, $5000 to carry out follow-up works in the second year and $3000 for maintenance purposes in the third year. Therefore, their total funds requested ($16,000) is within the $20,000 maximum.
3. Applicant Contribution
To be eligible for funding, an applicant will need to contribute to the project (this is considered a co-contribution). The applicant contribution can be in-kind, financial, or a combination of both. An in-kind contribution is where the applicant contributes their own physical labour, the use of their own machinery, or project materials (e.g. fence posts, herbicide, mulch etc). In-kind labour is valued/calculated at $30/hour/person. In-kind contributions for use of materials and/or machinery should be based on reasonable market prices for materials and reasonable market hire rates for machinery. Financial contributions are where the applicant pays for materials and/or labour with their own money. The amount of co-funding required of applicants is dependant on the amount of funds sought through the program and is outlined in the below table. Total application amount (including recurrent funding)
Contribution requirement (percentage of total funds sought)
$5000-10,000 20 $10,000 - $20,000 40
Example of applicant’s proposed contribution: In the case of the previous example, the landholder will need to contribute in-kind support or financial input to the value of $6400 (40% of total project value). In their application they would outline the co-funding contribution as below: Contribution type Activity Cost Total Value In-kind Weed control and follow-
up maintenance 200 hours @ $30/hr $6,000
Cash Purchase of equipment e.g. spraypack
Spraypack - $200 Loppers - $120
$320
Cash Purchase of herbicide and surfactant
x litres of Glyphosate 360g/L herbicide @ $x/L
$180
4. Eligibility
The Nature Conservation Assistance Program has been developed to ensure an equitable, open and transparent process for private landholders to seek financial assistance through Council for the purposes of natural area restoration. The program involves a competitive process in which applications are assessed against a set of criteria.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 66 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report
Attachment 4.6 Who can apply? To be eligible, applicants must:
be a private landholder clearly demonstrate the environmental benefits beyond their property boundary (ie.
the project must contribute to the protection, enhancement or management of Gold Coast City’s nature outcomes and citywide conservation network)
clearly demonstrate their capacity to manage the project and to properly administer any funding or other assistance provided by Council
ensure that all permits and other approvals relating to the application are addressed and there is adequate insurance cover for the project
be free of debt to Council have met the required acquittal conditions for any previous funding
All projects must be conducted within the Gold Coast City. Projects must be in the public interest of the Gold Coast community. Who can’t apply?
a government agency or department (local, state or federal). community organisations or public companies applicants who have received funding for the same project for the same purposes
through another source i.e. have doubled up request of funding. Applicants who are value-adding to existing funding can still apply.
applicants who have failed to meet the conditions of a previous grant awarded to them by Council e.g. failed to acquit funds. Applicants who were not able to meet the conditions due to unforseen or unavoidable circumstances may still be considered in the future.
Projects and costs eligible for funding
Projects eligible for funding must be on privately owned land within the Gold Coast City. Landholders can apply for assistance to carry out natural resource management activities such as:
environmental weed control and bush regeneration to rehabilitate areas of native vegetation
restoration of areas mapped (current or pre-clearing mapping) as an ‘endangered’ or ‘of concern’ ecosystem
restoration of areas known to provide habitat for rare or threatened species planting of local native tubestock for the purpose of rehabilitating degraded areas or
establishing vegetation corridors and buffer zones planting of local native tubestock for the purpose of rehabilitating the banks of natural
waterways including seasonal streams and natural wetlands to reduce sediment run-off, provide erosion control and increase waterway health
Wildlife-friendly fencing to restrict stock access to significant vegetation, wetlands or riparian areas (must include restoration in conjunction with fencing)
The following costs are eligible for funding:
hire of specialised equipment, essential for the completion of the project purchase of herbicides (with relevant off-label permits under the Agricultural and
Veterinary Chemicals (Queensland) Act 1994), surfactants and/or registered dyes purchase of tubestock for revegetation, stakes, mulch, fertiliser fees for engagement of a suitably qualified and experienced contractor/s wildlife friendly fencing i.e. fencing that does not restrict the movement of or injure
native wildlife.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 67 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report
Attachment 4.7
Projects and costs ineligible for funding
Ineligible projects include those that: are not on private land are a condition of a Development Approval, Rehabilitation Order or an offset
requirement under a relevant government offset policy are the normal or legal responsibility of the landholder (e.g. control of Class 2 pests,
boundary fencing) occurring in isolation from restoration works contravene any local, state or commonwealth legislation or policy are weed management activities in production or domestic areas (e.g. orchards,
pastures, crops, gardens or around dwellings)
The following costs are ineligible for NCAP funding: your own or a relative’s labour (including if they are a contractor) the purchase, servicing and/or associated costs (e.g. fuel, oil etc.) of equipment
(however cost of equipment can be used to satisfy the applicant contribution component)
works or purchases that have already been completed prior to submitting an application
contractor fees for the purposes of planting tubestock granted from another Council incentive program (e.g. Land for Wildlife)
payment of running costs including insurance payment of permanent employees (contract labour or consultants may be engaged,
but the details of such work must be clearly outlined in the Expression of Interest). reimbursement of projects already started or completed purchase of land loan repayments rent
5. Project Planning
To be successful the applicant will need a well-planned project. When planning the project the applicant should: consult with a Conservation Partnerships Officer at an early stage ensure project outcomes are clear and well-defined. They should align with the
objectives of the Program and Council’s NCS. Council staff can provide advice regarding the alignment of the project with Council objectives.
ensure the project can be easily completed within a reasonable timeframe (usually 12 months)
divide larger projects into smaller easily-achieved stages discuss the project with other landholders who have undertaken similar projects where
possible discuss the project with their neighbours. The applicant must ensure that the project
activities do not cause a nuisance to neighbouring properties. Project activity must not interfere with bushfire protection or management plans. It is highly recommended that applicants consult with neighbours regarding their project.
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Attachment 4.8 Project maps A property map with the proposed project clearly defined must be included with the application showing the location and extent of the project. If the grant application is for a stage in a long-term project, all stages should be marked on the map with the planning focus on the current stage. Contractors Council strongly recommends that any contractors engaged for the control of environmental weeds, bush regeneration, revegetation and fencing activities have demonstrated experience in the relevant field. Details of the contractor/s should be provided in the application (company, contact person, phone number etc.) so that Council may contact them with any questions regarding the project. Fencing to restrict stock access to significant vegetation, wetlands or riparian areas The type of fencing to be used and an estimate of its length should be outlined in the application and the proposed fence line clearly identified on the project map. Fencing must be of ‘wildlife-friendly’ design i.e. fencing that does not restrict the movement of or injure native wildlife. Management of environmental weeds and bush regeneration Control techniques should be appropriate for the area being rehabilitated. A Conservation Partnerships Officer can assist with determining appropriate strategies and techniques for the control of environmental weeds. Herbicides must be registered for the specific weed or be used under an off-label permit. Herbicides must be used in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions. Applications should list the main types of weeds to be controlled, give an indication of the area where weed control will be undertaken and list the control techniques intended to control those weeds. Weed management activities need to be directed at protecting remnant vegetation or rehabilitating degraded areas. Revegetation to restore degraded areas and establish vegetation corridors and buffer zones Plants used for revegetation must be locally native, appropriate for the area being revegetated and no larger than tubestock. A Conservation Partnerships Officer can assist in developing an appropriate species list for the revegetation project. In order to be successful, a revegetation project needs to be well-planned as each stage often depends on good timing to coincide with favourable weather conditions or other factors. It is essential to consider elements such as frost, flooding, seasonal rainfall, availability of contractors and availability of suitable tubestock for your planting. Applications should include details of the intended methodology and techniques used throughout the process. For example, for a revegetation project – x number of tube stock will be planted x metres apart with follow-up weeding at x intervals for x period of time. Considering the methodology and process will assist with time and budget planning. An estimate of the size of the area to be revegetated must be included in the application.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 69 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report
Attachment 4.9 Budget
A detailed and realistic budget including a breakdown of all items must be provided at the time of application and will assist with project planning. Applications seeking funding for the purchase of services or items with an individual value equal to or greater than $2000 should include a minimum of two quotes (preferably three) for that service or item.
6. Preparing an application
Applications must be submitted using the required application form and received by Council before the due date. Submitted documents will not be returned. Applicant must identify any permits (e.g. tree removal permit), approvals and licences required as responsibility for obtaining these rests with the applicant.
7. Application Process
The Nature Conservation Assistance Program application is a three stage process.
1. Expression of Interest (EOI) All applicants must submit an Expression of Interest. Expressions of Interest forms and information is available from a Conservation Partnerships Officer or at www.goldcoast.qld.gov.au
2. Site Visit
Upon receipt of an EOI a Conservation Partnerships Officer may contact the applicant to arrange an on-site visit and to discuss the project. This provides applicants with the opportunity to receive advice on project planning and budgeting and ensures their goals align with those of Council.
3. Submission of Application
Following the site visit, applicants can complete and submit an application. Application forms and information is available from a Conservation Partnerships Officer or at www.goldcoast.qld.gov.au
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Attachment 4.10 The following flowchart illustrates the key steps of the Nature Conservation Assistance Program from the submission of expressions of interest to reporting.
Expression of Interest submitted
Conservation Partnerships Officer contacts applicant to discuss project and if appropriate arrange an onsite visit.
Onsite visit recommends project doesn’t proceed at this stage
Onsite visit recommends applicant proceed and submit an application
Unsuccessful applicants notified
Applications assessed by assessment panel
Successful applicants notified. Contract signed. Funds allocated.
If not already a member, applicant invited to join Land for Wildlife (if eligible)
Successful applicants complete mid-project report at six month mark and acquittal report within one month of project completion.
Applications must be received by 4.30 p.m. on the nominated closing date. Late, unsigned or incomplete applications will not be accepted.
a) Postal applications must be post marked by Australia Post by the closing date and sent to:
Conservation Partnerships Officer Environmental Planning and Conservation
Planning Environment and Transport Directorate Gold Coast City Council PO Box 5042 GCMC QLD 9729
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Attachment 4.11 b) Hand delivered applications may be submitted to either of the below administration
centres by the closing date:
Surfers Paradise Administration Centre 135 Bundall Road Surfers Paradise
Nerang Administration Centre 833 Southport Nerang Road Nerang
All applicants will receive a letter acknowledging receipt of the application.
8. Assessment
Applications are assessed by an Assessment Panel comprising Council staff experienced in ecological restoration. Applications will be scored and rated against a set of assessment criteria as part of a competitive process. The assessment criteria are outlined in the following table.
STRATEGIC VALUES
Does the restoration site consolidate and/or connect with land managed for conservation purposes? E.g. Council Reserve, national park, Land for Wildlife property etc.
Does the property lie in one of the City's mapped critical corridors?
Does the property lie in a mapped Core Habitat System and/or Substantial Remnant?
ECOLOGICAL AND SITE VALUE
Is the restoration site's vegetation type listed as ‘endangered’ or ‘of concern’ under the Vegetation Management Act 1999?
How well is the site connected to other patches of vegetation and how large are those patches of vegetation?
Is the site habitat for rare or threatened species?
Where does the property lie in the catchment?
Does the site contain a wetland or is a wetland adjacent to it?
PLANNING, PROTECTION AND MANAGEMENT
Is the site protected or managed under an agreement? E.g. Voluntary Conservation Agreement or Land for Wildlife.
What is the property’s zone or domain under the Gold Coast City Planning Scheme? As well as the applicant’s eligibility and rating against the above assessment criteria, the assessment panel may also take into consideration the following matters:
the applicant’s capacity to manage allocated funds including acquittal the applicant’s capacity to manage the restoration project and future maintenance,
taking into account previous restoration experience and their understanding of restoration approaches
the risks involved with each project and factors that may contribute to success compliance with statutory requirements (e.g. tree removal permits)
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Attachment 4.12 any alternative income or assistance that is available for the project other Council assistance received by applicant in the same financial year project budget (complete, realistic and value for money)
Only information that is contained in the application is assessed. Submitting an application is not a guarantee that your application will be funded. The Nature Conservation Assistance Program is a competitive process and should not be relied on as a source of continual funding. Applications will be determined depending on available funds and compliance with the assessment criteria. A report outlining all eligible applications will be presented to Council for consideration and final approval.
9. Appeal
Decisions about the extent and type of assistance are final. There is no appeal mechanism.
10. Funding conditions
The Council will be procuring desirable environmental outcomes from owners of relevant lands and landowners will be required to enter into a contract to provide such to Council on its usual or standard conditions which it may nominate from to time. Successful applicants will be required to sign a contract or agreement. Funding will then be provided to the applicant via a cheque. If the recipient is unable to apply the funds to the agreed purpose or is unable to comply with the agreed conditions, Council must be notified immediately through contact with a Conservation Partnerships Officer and in writing to Council’s Chief Executive Officer. In such circumstances, Council will require funds to be repaid. Any unexpended funds must be returned to Council. Funding provided must be fully spent in the financial year in which it is awarded. Reporting and monitoring Successful applicants will be required to submit a mid-year report six months after funds have been allocated and an acquittal report within one month of project completion. The reports will include ‘Daily Record Sheets’ (for days worked) and ‘Herbicide Sheets’ (for legal purposes). Templates of reports and record sheets will be provided to successful applicants and are also available on request during the application period. Successful applicants will be required to perform before and after photo monitoring. Successful applicants must provide photos, or allow Council access to the restoration site to obtain photos, for three years after project completion. Council may also need to access the restoration site in order to monitor success for up to there years post completion. Acquittal Recipients must provide an acquittal report within one month of project completion. The report will include receipts, invoices and evidence of project expenditure, as well as a description of activities that were conducted. It is required that copies of all receipts for the expenditure of funds are kept as evidence of expenditure.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 73 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report
Attachment 4.13 Insurance and Workplace Healthy and Safety, and other legal Requirements It is the applicant’s responsibility to obtain and maintain any required insurances (including public liability) in relation to activities carried out by the applicant for the project event or activity. The applicant is responsible for ensuring a safe work environment in accordance with Workplace Health & Safety Act and Regulations or other legislation in force at the time of the project. The applicant must ensure that the project activities are in compliance with all relevant legislation and local laws, and ensure the project does not cause a nuisance to neighbouring properties. Project activity must not interfere with bushfire protection or management plans. Notification Applicants will receive written notification about the outcome of their grant application and any associated conditions. If the applicant wants to propose a change or vary the project for which funds have already been approved, they must contact a Conservation Partnerships Officer for advice. Any variation to the project may result in the need to vary the contract. GST Funding requests should include GST and be accounted for in the budget provided at time of application.
Acknowledgement of Assistance
Gold Coast City Council should be advised of any publicity, documents (such as newsletters) or events relating to the funded project. At its discretion, Council may require acknowledgement as a project sponsor.
Taxation Advice
Applicants are advised to seek their own independent financial or taxation advice in regards to the financial implications of any funding provided for the proposed project.
11. Contact
Conservation Partnerships Officer Environmental Planning and Conservation Phone: 5582 8809 Post: PO Box 5042 GCMC QLD 9729
12. Privacy
Gold Coast City Council will collect your personal information in accordance with the Local Government Act 2009 for the purpose of processing your application and for remaining in contact with you. The information will only be used by authorised officers within Council including the Assessment Panel. Your information will not be given to any other person or agency unless you have given us permission or we are required by law.
13. Policy Review
The NCAP Policy will be reviewed on an ongoing basis as needed but at least every 5 years.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 74 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report
Attachment 4.14
© Gold Coast City Council
Nature Conservation Assistance Program
Communications PlanPlanning, Environment & Transport Directorate
October 2011
#32477507
© Gold Coast City Council This publication is copyright and contains information that is the property of the Gold Coast City Council. It may be reproduced for the purposes of use while engaged on Council related projects, but is not to be communicated in whole or in part to any third party without prior consent.
Disclaimer This document has been prepared for the Gold Coast City Council and is to be used for internal purposes. No warranty is given as to its suitability for any other purpose.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 75 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report
Attachment 4.15
Communication Plan
Author: Cathy Tobin, Conservation Communications Officer Lexie Webster, Private Land Conservation Officer Project sponsor: Warren Rowe, Director PET Business owner: David Corkill, Manager SEPP
Project details
Project Name Nature Conservation Assistance Program Policy
Project Number B522
Cost Centre 515
Project Manager Lexie Webster, Private Land Conservation Officer
Version history
Version Comments/Change Changed by & date
Reviewed by & date
Reviewed by & date
V.RR=0.00
<Version naming convention is V.RR where V is version and RR is release. For draft versions use V.RR=0.00, 0.01 etc. At approval use V.RR=1.00. Subsequently, for minor releases index RR by +1. For major releases index V by +1 and reset RR to 00>
Associated documents
Document # Name
#32380769
Nature Conservation Assistance Program Policy
#31112769 NCS Action Brief PMP– Nature Conservation Assistance Program
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 76 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report
Attachment 4.16
Endorsement
Name Title Signature Date
David Corkill Manager SEPP
Desiree McLean Nature Conservation Program Manager
Huxley Lawler Executive Coordinator ECCU
Peter Owen Team Leader EP&C
Distribution list
Name Title
Warren Rowe Director Planning Environment & Transport
David Corkill Branch Manager Strategic & Environmental Planning & Policy
Huxley Lawler Executive Coordinator Environment and Climate Change Unit
Peter Owen Team Leader Environmental Planning and Conservation
Desiree McLean Nature Conservation Program Manager
Cathy Tobin Conservation Communications Officer, Environmental Planning and Conservation
Jen Ford Senior Natural Areas Restoration Officer, Natural Area Management Unit
Kris Boody Catchment Liaison Officer, Catchment Management Unit
Kate McKenzie Federation Walk Ranger, Engineering Assets & Planning Branch
David Mitchell Senior Business Planning and Improvement Officer, Business Support Branch
Stephanie Inch Acting Directorate Accountant, Business Support Branch
Amber Graham Quality Management Compliance Officer, Business Support Branch
Lisa Stewart Corporate Policy Officer
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 77 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report
Attachment 4.17
Table of contents 1 Introduction .......................................................................................................77
1.1 Purpose of this document......................................................................................77
1.2 Project background ................................................................................................77
2 Communication plan objectives.......................................................................78
3 Stakeholder groups...........................................................................................78
4 Key messages ...................................................................................................78
5 Related programs..............................................................................................79
6 Action Plan.........................................................................................................80
7 Measures of success ........................................................................................81
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 78 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report
Attachment 4.18
1 Introduction
1.1 Purpose of this document
The purpose of this communications plan is to clearly identify communication requirements associated with delivery of the inaugural Nature Conservation Assistance Program(NCAP) in 2011.
The Communication Plan will identify target markets, key messages and proposed mechanisms to attract quality applications for funding for bushland restoration. The plan proposes actions that contribute to Council’s broader nature conservation.
1.2 Project background
Council is committed to ensuring the ‘city’s terrestrial, aquatic and marine biodiversity ecosystems and their ecological processes are conserved within a connected network of natural areas’ (Nature Conservation Strategy 2009 – 2019). Approximately 34 percent of the city’s native vegetation is in private ownership within the Rural Domain, limiting Council’s ability to achieve nature conservation outcomes in isolation. It is therefore essential that the community and private landholders support nature conservation. The Nature Conservation Strategy 2009 – 2019 (NCS) acknowledges that “a committed and supported landholder is a major partner for Council in managing large areas of habitat, particularly in rural areas”. By developing effective partnerships with landholders and providing access to funds and resources, Council can influence decisions and strategic directions and encourage biodiversity friendly design on the project level. The NCAP provides financial assistance to private landholders to undertake restoration projects on private land that contribute to the enhancement and protection of the City’s natural assets. Applications are assessed by an Assessment Panel against assessment criteria outlined in Attachment A of the NCAP Policy. The assessment process will ensure that only projects which contribute to the City’s biodiversity conservation and align with Council’s NCS objectives are eligible for assistance. Private land conservation schemes complement the management of public lands by providing for more consistent and effective natural area management across land of different tenures. The objective of the NCAP is to:
Provide a framework around the allocation of funds to restoration projects on private land that contribute to the enhancement and conservation of the City’s natural.
Support the overarching targets and strategic outcomes of the Council’s Nature Conservation Strategy 2009-2019.
Ensure the administration and assessment of funding requests through Council’s Nature Conservation Assistance Program are transparent, equitable, inclusive and compliant with relevant legislation.
Support private landholders, building their capacity to achieve nature conservation outcomes beyond the initial term of the funded project.
Promote Gold Coast City into the future as proactively responding to conservation issues.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 79 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report
Attachment 4.19
2 Communication plan objectives The objectives of this plan are to:
Promote the NCAP to key stakeholders/target markets Promote the NCAP as a mechanism for increasing awareness and membership of
Land for Wildlife Promote the NCAP as a new initiative supporting Council’s broader nature
conservation objectives Attract a minimum of 15 funding applications from a mix of private landholders across
a geographical spread Attract funding applications ranging in value from $5,000 to $8,000 per annum, as
well as applications for recurrent funding capped at $20,000 over three years Leverage existing Council communications mechanisms and resources to deliver key
messages to relevant markets Ensure internal and external stakeholders understand and support the outcomes of
the NCAP Establish regular and formal communication with internal stakeholders Ensure the responsibilities and obligations of stakeholders to provide input to the
program are clearly understood.
3 Stakeholder groups External
Landholders in rural and semi-rural areas (preferably but not exclusively with minimum one hectare of land)
Landholders with Voluntary Conservation Agreements (VCA) and/or covenants SEQ Land for Wildlife media Gold Coast City community
Internal
Planning, Environment and Transport Natural Areas Management Unit Catchment Management Unit Engineering Services Office of the CEO Corporate Communications Information and Communication Technology Councillors
4 Key messages
The NCAP provides funding to assist private landholders to restore private bushland and help protect the city’s natural assets
The NCAP supports projects that make a significant contribution to conserving the City’s biodiversity.
The NCAP complements Council’s Conservation Partnerships Program which offers a range of schemes and incentives to help property owners protect and manage native vegetation and wildlife habitat.
The NCAP encourages landholders to make nature conservation a key component of property management.
The NCAP builds the capacity of private landholders to undertake ecological restoration.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 80 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report
Attachment 4.20
The NCAP helps to link conservation activities across private and public land and create critical corridors throughout the City.
The NCAP is a key initiative of Council’s Nature Conservation Strategy which aims to preserve the City’s natural assets for future generations.
All private landholders, including primary producers, seeking financial assistance to undertake environmental restoration on their property can apply under Council’s NCAP.
Funding is available to support ‘grass roots’ bushland restoration activities (eg weed control, planting of native tubestock, fencing to restrict cattle access to water supplies, sediment and erosion control).
One funding round will be offered per financial year. One-off and recurrent funding will be offered through the NCAP (the maximum period
for which recurrent funding will be allocated is three years; a maximum of 30 percent of the annual NCAP budgeted funds will be allocated to recurrent funding; a maximum of three landholders will receive recurrent funding each financial year.)
Assistance is provided on a one-off annual (financial year) basis and should not be relied on as a continual source of income.
5 Related programs
The Conservation Partnerships Program assists landholders to protect wildlife habitat on private property, and restore bushland that has been cleared or disturbed. The program offers support to landowners who own property with one or more hectares of native vegetation. It incorporates three voluntary schemes, with different levels of support: Bushland Health Checks, Land for Wildlife and Voluntary Conservation Agreements.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 81 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report
6
Attachment 4.21
Action Plan
Activity Target market Recommendation Responsibility Cost estimate Due
Internal promotion
Councillors, Councillor Pas and Council officers
NCAP Fact Sheets for distribution to & by Councillors and staff
Cathy Tobin, EP&C Nil February 2012
Editorial and advertisement
SEQ Land for Wildlife Quarterly Newsletter
Develop content in-house and outsource graphic design
Cathy Tobin, EP&C Half Nine Graphic Design Studio
$500 Early February 2012
Internet Landholders Update Sustainable GC website
Cathy Tobin $1000 30 January 2012
Print Advertising
Rural and semi-rural landowners with minimum of one hectare of land
Requires media planning and buying
Cathy Tobin, EP&C Corporate Communications
$2500 30 January to 17 February 2012
Fliers and Posters
Bushland restoration volunteer groups, NAMU, broader community (via council chambers, libraries)
Outsource design and printing
Cathy Tobin, EP&C Corporate Communications Half Nine Graphic Design Studio
$2000 From 30 January 2012
Public relations All internal and external stakeholders, extending to broader community
Promote recipients of inaugural round of funding to coincide with World Environment Day 2012
Cathy Tobin, EP&C Corporate Communications
Nil From 1 June 2012
On-hold message, Local Newsletter and GC Life enewsletter
Internal stakeholders and broader community
Develop content and provide images
Cathy Tobin, EP&C James A’Court, Corporate Communications
Funded from any remaining marketing collateral funds, if required.
Back up if insufficient EOI by mid February
Note: Marketing Collateral Estimate identified within the Program Project Management Plan (31112769) is $10,000. This contains contingency to allow for back up communications if there is insufficient EOI.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 82 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report
7
Attachment 4.22
Measures of success
Communications Objective Measures of success Due
Attract Expressions of Interest which generate site visits and eligible applications for funding
Attract minimum 20 Expressions of Interest per year Receive minimum 15 applications for funding per year
March 30 2012 June 30 2012
Promote the NCAP as a new initiative supporting Council’s broader nature conservation objectives
Positive media and genuine inquiries to the program
May 2012
Promote the NCAP as a mechanism for increasing awareness and membership of Land for Wildlife
Attract 10 new members to Land for Wildlife or Voluntary Conservation Agreement Scheme through the NCAP
June 2012
Deliver targeted and relevant communications campaign (online, internal, print, promotional)
80 % positive Customer response February-June 2012
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 83 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 5 PLANNING ENVIRONMENT & TRANSPORT MARKETING AND COMMUNICATION PLAN – GOLD COAST RAPID TRANSIT CORRIDOR STUDY PD113/1166/01/02/05(P3) Refer 10 page attachment 1 BASIS FOR CONFIDENTIALITY Not Applicable. 2 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Not Applicable. 3 PURPOSE OF REPORT To seek Council’s endorsement of the Marketing and Communication Plan for the Gold Coast Rapid Transit Corridor Study. 4 PREVIOUS RESOLUTIONS Ex Minute No. SC10.0608.005 refers: 1 That Council endorse Phase 1 of the Gold Coast Rapid Transit Corridor Study
(Strategic Planning Study including the vision).
2 That a further report be provided to Council, in July 2010, for consideration of an Implementation Strategy dealing with the interim measures recommended in the Gold Coast Rapid Transit Corridor Study Phase 1.
3 That the funds currently included in the 2009/10 Budget to fund Phase 2 of the Project, including the $200,000 of funding to be provided to Council by the State Government, (Department of Infrastructure and Planning), be re-provided in the 2010/2011 budget.
Ex Minute No. SC10.0907.002 refers: 1 That Council endorse the Implementation Strategy for the Gold Coast Rapid Transit
Corridor Study as a non–statutory guideline to inform the future development assessment in the GCRT Corridor Study Area and assist with communication about the Phase 1 outcomes.
Ex Minute No. SC11.0906.001 refers: 1 That Council endorse the intent and recommendations of the Gold Coast Rapid Transit
Corridor Study – Phase 2 Precinct Planning and Urban Design Frameworks and Guidelines for Sections Two and Three (the GCRT Corridor Study) as a planning study that will inform Council's activities and planning for the area of the light rail corridor and surrounds.
2 That Council note that the GCRT Corridor Study will be presented to the community as background and planning study information, (both as specific elements and as a whole), during public consultation on; the Planning Scheme Review and other planning scheme amendments, the development or review of subsequent relevant local area plans and other relevant statutory instruments.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 84 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 5 (Continued) MARKETING AND COMMUNICATION PLAN – GOLD COAST RAPID TRANSIT CORRIDOR STUDY PD113/1166/01/02/05(P3) 3 That a Communication Plan for the GCRT Corridor Study be developed and that a
report be provided to Council, in October 2011, for consideration.
4 That the GCRT Corridor Study be made available to the community on Council's website and in hard copy at each Council library.
5 That Council note that a further report will be presented for Council consideration in relation to the governance arrangements necessary to ensure Council and other key stakeholder's activities in the GCRT Corridor are effectively coordinated and managed to maximise their city building potential.
5 DISCUSSION The Gold Coast Rapid Transit (GCRT) project is more than a new mode of transport infrastructure, it is a significant piece of city-building infrastructure. Therefore, the GCRT Corridor Study (the Study) focuses beyond the delivery of transport infrastructure, to identify benefits to the city, community, business and industry to deliver mechanisms to achieve better streets, better buildings and better places for the Gold Coast. The purpose of the Marketing and Communication Plan (See Attachment 1) is to outline the proposed process to be undertaken to communicate the intent of the Study along with its recommendations for implementation. This strategy will provide an integrated and coordinated approach to communicating and engaging internally and externally, with the following communication objectives
ensure early identification of key stakeholders build city wide awareness, interest and excitement about the Study engage partners to drive the campaign with Gold Coast City Council maintain positive perceptions encourage the development of a governance model to drive the Study internally educate stakeholders of the Study’s impact to business and industry operations empower key spokespeople to champion the Study internally and externally
through key messages encourage closer working relationships between Council directorates highlight the Study as a Council corporate priority provide direction to internal and external stakeholders for planning and
budgeting generate support of the Study and its ideas encourage a sense of ownership of the Study and how the city will be shaped in
the future provide a degree of certainty of city planning
The plan recommends targeted communication to major stakeholders rather than a general mass advertising approach. The plan encourages the use of internal champions to communicate the Study’s key messages and benefits.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 85 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 5 (Continued) MARKETING AND COMMUNICATION PLAN – GOLD COAST RAPID TRANSIT CORRIDOR STUDY PD113/1166/01/02/05(P3) Integration with overall corridor governance model Council recognises that to deliver broader economic and social benefits within the corridor and achieve the principles of the Corridor Study on the ground, a new business model will be required. This model will need to look at new ways of doing business to ensure the vision for the corridor can be delivered and achieved. The new business model being considered will focus on:
Delivering the corridor vision and overseeing redevelopment along the corridor Actively engaging with key stakeholders including industry, landowners and
investors to identify catalyst project and redevelopment opportunities Actively engaging with State and Federal governments to pursue and access
development and infrastructure funding. Establishing appropriate planning and development frameworks to incentivise
redevelopment Encouraging development and redevelopment that delivers a diversity of
housing choice as well as commercial and retail opportunities Creating places along the corridor that are exemplar active spaces for
relaxation and entertainment that emphasis the coast lifestyle and its natural assets
Marketing and promoting these opportunities to seek wider investment interest It is anticipated that this Marketing and Communication Plan will assist in the preparation and delivery of an overall marketing and communication approach for the new business model/governance structure. 6 ALIGNMENT TO BOLD FUTURE VISION, CORPORATE PLAN, OPERATIONAL
PLAN The importance of the GCRT and its implications for the growth of the city have resulted in the GCRT Corridor Study being identified as one of Council’s Bold Future signature projects. The outcomes of the study will contribute to the delivery of Council’s vision by connecting the city’s distinct communities, and developing social, environmental and economic sustainability. The initiatives of the study will encourage exemplary design and planning of the urban environment that will contribute to the development of transit oriented communities and enhance the safety, accessibility and liveability along the corridor. In delivering the key objectives of Bold Future, the GCRT Corridor Study will be consistent with Council’s 2040 vision for the city identified in the GCCC 2009 – 2014 Corporate Plan. The GCRT Corridor Study is categorised under the Key Focus Area 3, which aligns with the Bold Future vision and our Corporate Plan 2009-2014:
KEY FOCUS AREA 3 – A CITY CONNECTING PEOPLE AND PLACES ‘Expanding transport, communication and social networks that link people, homes, workplaces, schools, communities and significant places locally and globally’
The project will promote the growth and development of sustainable communities around the future GCRT corridor. These communities will be supported by a high quality public realm that will strengthen the city as a sustainable and liveable urban environment.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 86 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 5 (Continued) MARKETING AND COMMUNICATION PLAN – GOLD COAST RAPID TRANSIT CORRIDOR STUDY PD113/1166/01/02/05(P3) 7 FUNDING AND RESOURCING REQUIREMENTS A key approach of this Marketing and Communication plan is to utilise existing communication forums (such as Divisional newsletters, media opportunities, social media, GCCC intranet, PET shop magazine etc), or activities developed in house to meet the desired outcomes. As such, it is not anticipated that the activities detailed within the Marketing and Communication Plan will require additional funding mechanisms. 8 RISK MANAGEMENT Not Applicable. 9 STATUTORY MATTERS Not Applicable. 10 COUNCIL POLICIES Not Applicable. 11 DELEGATIONS Not Applicable. 12 COORDINATION & CONSULTATION In the table below, identify how internal and external stakeholders have been involved / participated in the proposal to date and the outcome of that participation. Name and/or Title of the Stakeholder Consulted
Directorate or Organisation
Is the Stakeholder Satisfied With Content of Report and Recommendations (Yes/No) (comment as appropriate)
Director Planning, Environment & Transport
Noted
Manager Strategic & Environmental Planning & Policy
Noted
Manager City Transport Noted Manager Implementation &
Assessment Noted
Executive Coordinator Growth Management Unit
Yes
Senior Program Manager Gold Coast Rapid Transit Implementation Team
Yes
Team Leader Urban Design Team Yes Marketing Strategist City Governance Yes (co-authored the Plan) Marketing Officer Planning, Environment
& Transport Yes (co-authored the Plan)
Internal Communication Coordinator
Office of CEO Yes
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 87 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report
ITEM 5 (Continued) MARKETING AND COMMUNICATION PLAN – GOLD COAST RAPID TRANSIT CORRIDOR STUDY PD113/1166/01/02/05(P3) 13 STAKEHOLDER IMPACTS All details are contained within the Draft Plan, however it should be noted that the study will be presented to the community as a ‘planning study’ during public consultation on the Planning Scheme Review and other planning scheme amendments, development or review of subsequent relevant local area plans and other relevant statutory instruments. 14 TIMING A number of internal communications activities have already occurred including presentations to other Council Directorates and Branches, along with some external activities (media releases) coordinated through Corporate Communication. The study is currently available in libraries and on Councils website as resolved in Ex Minute No. SC11.0906.001 15 CONCLUSION The GCRT Corridor Study identifies a preferred future for better streets, better buildings and better places for the Gold Coast that leverages off the significant infrastructure investment of the light rail project. This Marketing and Communication Plan identifies ways in which Study will be communicated widely (internally and externally) to ‘continue the conversation’ about how the corridor will develop into the future. 16 RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that Council resolves as follows: 1 That Council endorses the Marketing and Communications Plan for the Gold Coast
Rapid Transit Corridor Study and authorises Council officers to undertake the activities contained within it.
2 That the Marketing and Communications Plan for the Gold Coast Rapid Transit Corridor Study be forwarded to Council officers undertaking the establishment of a Governance Model for the Corridor to assist them in their marketing and communication activities.
Author: Authorised by:
Ashley Mitchell Warren Rowe Senior Urban Designer Director Planning Environment & Transport 22 November 2011
TRACKS REF: 32177320
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 88 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 5 (Continued) MARKETING AND COMMUNICATION PLAN – GOLD COAST RAPID TRANSIT CORRIDOR STUDY PD113/1166/01/02/05(P3)
Committee Recommendation Changed at Council 5 December 2011 COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION SC11.1129.005 moved Cr Wayne seconded Cr Pforr 1 That Council endorses the Marketing and Communications Plan for the Gold
Coast Rapid Transit Corridor Study and authorises Council officers to undertake the activities contained within it.
2 That the Marketing and Communications Plan for the Gold Coast Rapid Transit Corridor Study be forwarded to Council officers undertaking the establishment of a Governance Model for the Corridor to assist them in their marketing and communication activities.
CARRIED CHANGED AT COUNCIL 5 DECEMBER 2011 RESOLUTION G11.1205.008 moved Cr Young seconded Cr Grummitt That Committee Recommendation SC11.1129.005 be adopted with an additional Part 3 such that it reads in entirety as follows: 1 That Council endorses the Marketing and Communications Plan for the Gold
Coast Rapid Transit Corridor Study and authorises Council officers to undertake the activities contained within it.
2 That the Marketing and Communications Plan for the Gold Coast Rapid Transit Corridor Study be forwarded to Council officers undertaking the establishment of a Governance Model for the Corridor to assist them in their marketing and communication activities.
3 That a workshop be held with the attendance of Councillors, Urban Design Advisory Committee, Business Gold Coast representatives and GoldLinQ representatives to discuss design issues in relation to Rapid Transit Stations.
CARRIED
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 89 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report
Attachment 5.1
DRAFT
Draft Marketing and Communication Plan
Gold Coast Rapid Transit Corridor Study
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 90 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report
Attachment 5.2
1.0 Background
The Gold Coast Rapid Transit (GCRT) project is more than a new mode of transport infrastructure, it is a significant piece of city-building infrastructure. Therefore, the GCRT Corridor Study (the Study) focuses beyond the delivery of transport infrastructure, to identify benefits to the city, community, business and industry from the GCRT project. The Study identifies a preferred future built environment for the corridor which extends from the Gold Coast Health and Knowledge Precinct to Broadbeach. It delivers mechanisms to achieve better streets, better buildings and better places for the Gold Coast.
2.0 Key objectives of the marketing and communication plan
This plan is driven by the following marketing and communication objectives: ensure early identification of key stakeholders build city wide awareness, interest and excitement about the Study engage partners to drive the campaign with Gold Coast City Council maintain positive perceptions encourage the development of a governance model to drive the Study internally educate stakeholders of the Study’s impact to business and industry operations empower key spokespeople to champion the Study internally and externally through
key messages encourage closer working relationships between Council directorates highlight the Study as a Council corporate priority provide direction to internal and external stakeholders for planning and budgeting generate support of the Study and its ideas encourage a sense of ownership of the Study and how the city will be shaped in the
future provide a degree of certainty of city planning
3.0 Strategic priorities
The marketing and communication outcomes associated with the Study, impact on all of Council’s 17 Strategic Priorities: City Image External Communication Land Use and Development Control Leadership and Governance A Safe Community Advocacy Community Capacity Building Customer Service Cultural Development Community Health and Individual Well-being City Transport Improvement City Assets
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 91 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report
Attachment 5.3
Diversify and Strengthen the Economy Preserve and Enhance the Natural Environment People Management Information and Knowledge Management Internal Services
4.0 Key messages
Key messages are those that will be delivered to all stakeholders and the broader community during marketing, communication and engagement activities for the Study and related projects.
The corridor vision and strategy will assist in making the Gold Coast a world class city. The Study is a signature Bold Future / Council project. Council has responded to the GCRT challenges and opportunities by commissioning
the Study. Over the next 20 years, the Gold Coast is expected to accommodate an additional
246,000 persons which accounts for about 20% of population growth. The Study is a framework for guiding and managing growth within the urbanised
coastal strip. The Study recognises that the GCRT corridor will define the image of the city into the
future. The Study aims to capitalise on the strategic public investment in GCRT. The Study outlines how the city can accommodate significant population growth while
preserving the natural setting and amenity that defines the Gold Coast. The Study will provide the development industry with a transparent and proactive
statement about where the city through the Planning Scheme will focus growth and development activity.
The Study encourages more diverse, compact and efficient building forms to accommodate growth without increasing heights.
The Study encourages enhanced housing diversity and affordability that will act to bring families back to the coastal strip.
The Study supports transport options other than the private car to enable access to the city’s discrete employment and activity centres.
The Study encourages key civic infrastructure to match the city’s population base. The Study encourages a greener and more subtropical urban landscape with street
trees, shade and shelter to make walking and cycling attractive. The Study supports quality design and good execution of urban development to
support vibrant, memorable and distinctive places. The Study promotes development that enhances safety, equitable access,
inclusiveness and community well-being.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 92 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report
Attachment 5.4 5.0 Stakeholder analysis and proposed marketing and communication activities
Stakeholders Their current perception/position
What perception/position do we need them to have?
Marketing method How will they be delivered?
Internal
Directly affected Divisional Councillors (Divisions 6, 7 and 10). Chairs and Deputy Chairs of the Sustainable City Future Committee and City Planning Committee. Mayor Chief Executive Officer Director, Planning, Environment & Transport
General awareness of the Study Recognise the Study as a corporate priority
Detailed understanding of the Study Able to communicate the Study information to the community and stakeholders Champion the Study to encourage forward planning and budgeting Have a good understanding and passion / enthusiasm for the study
Education/awareness
Councillor and Director, Planning, Environment & Transport briefings Committee meeting regular/quarterly item Study update CEO update Mayoral briefings Project Manager/Owner delivers one-on-one briefings as required Council report providing an update of the Study and communication activities planned
Indirectly affected Directors, Managers and Councillors
General awareness of the Study
Aware of impacts Recognise the Study as a corporate priority (Bold Future signature project) Understand that the Study provides direction for their individual business plans Consider forward planning and budgeting of the Study activities
Education/awareness
ELT meeting update Councillor update Key messages/Study summary Presentation pack (images, summary, power point slides, overview) Project Manager/Owner delivers one-on-one briefings as required prior to broader communication commencing
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 93 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report
Attachment 5.5 Stakeholders Their current
perception/position What perception/position do we need them to have?
Marketing method How will they be delivered?
Internal
Have a good understanding and passion / enthusiasm for the Study
Council report providing an update of the Study and communication activities planned Deliver key messages and promote the Study through appropriate opportunities such as conferences, awards, interviews, media opportunities, staff updates.
GCCC staff (including the directly affected areas of Planning Scheme, Parks, EDMP, City Transport, Implementation and Assessment, Engineering Services and Community Services)
Ranges from ‘Doesn’t apply to me’ to a general awareness of the Study
Aware of the intent of the Study
Aware of key messages
Aware of the impact/benefits the Study has on their own business
Recognise as a corporate priority (Bold Future signature project)
Embrace change and champion the vision of the Study across Council
Develop close working relationships with other areas of Council affected by the Study
Understand that the Study provides direction for their individual business plans Consider forward planning and budgeting of the Study activities
Education
Promotion
CEO endorsement - Dale’s Desk
Fast facts sheet
PET lunchtime seminar
Presentations as required
Screensaver promotion
Intranet highlights
Word of mouth - Council champions (working committee members, project manager , project owner, committee chair etc)
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 94 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report
Attachment 5.6 Stakeholders Their current
perception/position What perception/position do we need them to have?
Marketing method How will they be delivered?
Internal
Customer Contact and Councillor PAs
Minimal awareness of the Study
General awareness of the Study
Recognise as a corporate priority (Bold Future signature project)
Education Fast Facts sheet
Presentation pack
Local Newsletter articles for Councillor Column
Stakeholders Their current
perception/position
What perception/position do we need them to have?
Marketing method How will they be delivered?
External
General Community
Unaware Generally aware of the Study Understand the differences and correlation between GCRT light rail project and the Study Confident in Council’s ability to plan for the future Aware of the benefits to the city Understand the role of the Study in regulating and directing new development
Education Promotion Collaboration (if required) Education
Website, displays, media release/opportunity, Council magazine (Your City), Mayor’s newsletter Facebook, community events, City News radio, Internet highlights Feedback requested - online websites, Corporate website, Facebook, Twitter.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 95 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report
Attachment 5.7 Stakeholders Their current
perception/position
What perception/position do we need them to have?
Marketing method How will they be delivered?
External
Government State and Federal government departments Adjoining councils State and Federal Members of Parliament State government officers Commonwealth games team GCRT Project team
General awareness
Supportive Offer endorsement and partnerships Aware of the impact/benefits the Study has on their own business
Education Promotion
Fast Facts sheet Presentation pack Roadshow Council of Mayors briefing Word of mouth - Council champions (working committee members, project manager , project owner, committee chair, etc)
Business and development industry Chambers of Commerce Developers Major land owners Industry associations Industry lobby groups Advisory Boards SPA, BA, GCT etc.
General awareness Waiting on more information Involved in the Study
Understand the intent of the Study Supportive of the Study Feel a sense of ownership of the Study Aware of the impact/benefits the Study has on their own business Have a sense of certainty in Council about future city planning. Clear direction
Education
Promotion
Collaboration
Fast Facts sheet Presentation pack Roadshow / industry briefings Industry articles/publications Word of mouth - industry experts Participation in industry expo’s and events. Award nominations Develop partnerships Providing feedback
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 96 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report
Attachment 5.8 Stakeholders Their current
perception/position
What perception/position do we need them to have?
Marketing method How will they be delivered?
External
Technical experts and built environment professionals Architects and landscape architects Urban designers Town planners/planning consultants Transport planners / engineers
General awareness
Understand the intent of the Study Supportive of the Study Aware of the impact/benefits the Study has on their own business Have a sense of certainty in Council about future city planning. Clear direction Motivated
Education Promotion Collaboration
Fast Facts sheet Roadshow/presentations/briefings Business articles/publications Database emails Word of mouth - business leaders Participation in business expo’s and events. Award nominations. Develop partnerships Providing feedback
Universities Bond Griffith Southern Cross
General awareness Endorse and support the Study Use the Study as a teaching tool and/or reference document
Supportive Aware of the Study Excited about the city’s future Motivated
Education Promotion Collaboration
Lectures Participation in university expo’s, information days and events. Award nominations/sponsorship Develop partnerships
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 97 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report
Attachment 5.9 Stakeholders Their current
perception/position
What perception/position do we need them to have?
Marketing method How will they be delivered?
External
Media
Minimal awareness
Supportive of the Study Aware of the benefits to the city Support Council’s direction for the city’s future Generate interest and discussion The corridor vision and strategy will make the Gold Coast a world class city Understand the intent of the Study
Education Promotion/collaboration
Media opportunities Media briefings Media information packs Partnership/sponsorship opportunities
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 98 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report
Attachment 5.10
6.0 Measures of success
The success of marketing and communication efforts for the Study will be measured by a variety of ways including but not limited to: Number of hits to web page References to Study in development applications Quality of feedback received Tone of media coverage Presentation packs requested Number of briefings and presentations conducted Partnership arrangement Customer Contact feedback received
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 99 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 6 PLANNING ENVIRONMENT & TRANSPORT PLANNING SCHEME POLICY FOR EXTRACTIVE INDUSTRY USES PD98/1132/04/27(P4) 1 BASIS FOR CONFIDENTIALITY Not Applicable. 2 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Not Applicable. 3 PURPOSE OF REPORT This report outlines Council’s current and developing planning policy on extractive industry (quarry) uses in the city, with a focus on amenity and buffer zones between quarry operations and sensitive land uses. This report also outlines the role of State legislation in the designation and approval of such uses. 4 PREVIOUS RESOLUTIONS EX COUNCIL MINUTE: GA11.1012.010 Moved Cr McDonald Seconded Cr Sarroff:
That a report be brought forward by 30 November 2011 to establish a policy addressing the issues of adequate buffer zones between extractive industry location near existing and future residential areas.
5 DISCUSSION Council has a legislative obligation to identify and protect State designated ‘key resource areas’ (KRA’s) in its planning scheme, under the Sustainable Planning Act 2009 (SPA) and State Planning Policy 2/07 - Protection of Extractive Resources. The Gold Coast contains 10 State recognised KRA’s, of which approximately 40% are being actively worked. Some of these are included in the Extractive Industry Domain indicating Council’s support for quarry activity whilst others are not. Notwithstanding, applications for quarry activity can be received over any KRA in the city and would be assessed against the (high order) strategic policy statements of the planning scheme. In addition however, the protection and management of air and acoustic environments to maintain the health and wellbeing of the community and natural environment is also a relevant matter of State interest (SEQ Regional Plan s2.3 ‘Air and noise’) that is supported by our Bold Future Vision. New quarry activities have the highest level of assessment in the planning scheme, being impact assessment. Impact assessment applications are assessed against the whole planning scheme. The issue of buffer/ separation areas between quarry and sensitive land uses (such as residential uses) is addressed by the current planning scheme and the developing draft planning scheme in the following manner.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 100 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 6 (Continued) PLANNING SCHEME POLICY FOR EXTRACTIVE INDUSTRY USES PD98/1132/04/27(P4) Gold Coast Planning Scheme 2003 (current planning scheme) The current planning scheme contains Council’s policy on quarry uses, the maintenance of amenity and buffer areas in the following parts: Desired Environmental Outcomes; Planning Strategy; Local Area Plans; and Domains.
Desired Environmental Outcomes The Desired Environmental Outcomes (DEOs) are the highest order policy statements of the current planning scheme. They provide the fundamental context for all other parts of the planning scheme, and subsequently, for the development assessment codes. Of direct relevance to the issue of amenity and buffer areas is DEO Soc 5:
“The maintenance of residential amenity, through the minimisation of any environmental harm or adverse social impacts occurring from the construction and operation of commercial, community, tourism, industrial and extractive industry activities.”
A key planning objective of DEO Soc 5 is:
“to ensure that land uses that have the potential to conflict with residential amenity are adequately separated and/or buffered from residential areas.”
Planning Strategy The Planning Strategy draws upon the DEOs to provide a specific outline of how the 3 strands of ecological sustainability (ie. ecological, social and economic) have been brought together within the local context. Specifically, the Planning Strategy identifies specific valuable features of the Gold Coast, and sets out a policy context for their use, conservation, enhancement and protection. The Planning Strategy refines the basic elements of the natural environment, the economy and the community into 15 key strategies and 8 land use themes. Applicable in this instance is the Natural Resource key strategy:
“The sustainable management of these resources requires that the use of renewable resources is carefully managed, having regard to the natural environment and biodiversity and ensuring that the harvesting of non-renewable resources occurs only where environmental and social impacts can be maintained at acceptable levels.”
The planning objective to support the key strategy is:
“to provide for appropriate acoustic, environmental and visual buffers for extractive operations.”
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 101 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 6 (Continued) PLANNING SCHEME POLICY FOR EXTRACTIVE INDUSTRY USES PD98/1132/04/27(P4) Supporting the above, the extractive industry land use theme reinforces the need to maintain buffer areas between conflicting land uses:
“As extractive industry activities are not compatible with residential use, buffer areas are to be maintained between conflicting uses.”
Local Area Plans The city’s Local Area Plans (LAPs) include planning measures to achieve the current planning scheme's DEOs. The Oxenford LAP, for example, contains reference to buffers areas for quarry uses. Performance Criteria 27 states:
“Impacts from the extractive industry activities, including noise, odour, dust or similar, must not adversely affect community public health, safety and amenity. The extractive resource must be protected from inappropriate adjoining development.”
The following Acceptable Solutions support this Performance Criteria:
“Impacts from extractive industry activities including noise, odour, dust or similar do not adversely affect community public health, safety and amenity. A buffering distance of not less than 500 metres from a lot containing an extractive industry operation or resource (hard rock quarrying) or 200 metres from a lot containing an extractive industry operation or resource (sand and gravel operations) is provided to create a visual and acoustic barrier between the extractive industry and the sensitive receptor. The buffer contains:
a. existing native vegetation; b. screen planting; and c. a screen fence that separates the sensitive receptor to the extractive industry
use.” Note: Acceptable Solutions in the planning scheme represent only one possible means of satisfying the Performance Criteria and higher order policy statements of the planning scheme. Once an applicant has proposed an alternative to the planning scheme Acceptable Solution, the Acceptable Solution ceases to have further weight in the assessment of the development application. Extractive Industry domain Domains provide for the distribution, mixing and segregation of different types of development. Each domain is intended to provide for compatible development within identified parts of the city and to segregate incompatible development. Importantly, each domain is intended to include planning measures to achieve the planning scheme's DEOs. In this sense, the domains have evolved from the planning measures developed to implement the intent of current planning scheme through the DEOs and the Planning Strategies. The controls included in each domain provide guidance for the assessment of a development proposal. The Extractive Industry domain currently does not include Performance Criteria for buffer areas, leaving the resolution of this matter to the (high order) strategic policy statements contained within the DEOs and Planning Strategy.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 102 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 6 (Continued) PLANNING SCHEME POLICY FOR EXTRACTIVE INDUSTRY USES PD98/1132/04/27(P4) Draft Extractive Resources and Haulage Routes code Amendment Package 7 seeks to align the current planning scheme with SPP 2/07 by reflecting additional KRA’s in the city and also includes a draft extractive industry and haulage route code. This code includes additional provisions for the assessment of extractive industry uses. Specifically, the purpose of the draft code seeks:
“to ensure public safety and amenity by preventing incompatible development within buffer zones adjacent to areas containing extractive resources.”
To achieve this purpose, the code seeks to ensure appropriate separation distances are established and maintained between quarry activities and sensitive land uses. The draft code and mapping defines a “Precautionary Zone”. The precautionary zone is a buffer area surrounding the KRA and on site processing area and indicates a ‘desirable’ separation area between of quarry activities and incompatible land uses. The precautionary zone varies in width from a minimum of 200m up to 1000m dependent on the nature of the quarry operation. Ultimately, this distance would be decided after detailed site and local area based investigations undertaken as part of the development assessment process. Developing Bold Future Planning Scheme (draft planning scheme) The draft planning scheme transfers the planning policy contained within the current planning scheme into its appropriate parts, in a Queensland Planning Provisions (QPP) planning scheme format. The strategic framework component of the draft planning scheme contains numerous statements recognising the importance of extractive industry as an economic driver for the city, and the need to ensure that it develops in a sympathetic manner, taking due consideration of environmental, social and economic issues. Relevant strategic outcome and specific outcome policy statements relating to the issue of amenity and buffer areas include:
3.3.1 (10) The health and amenity of the city is protected and enhanced by applying high quality environmental health standards and solutions.
3.3.7.1 (1) Activities that have the potential to conflict with the health and amenity
of residential and other sensitive uses, including uses which generate excessive noise, traffic, air pollution, electromagnetic emissions, dust, light, glare, reflectivity, vibration and/or odour impacts, are adequately separated , designed, managed and/or buffered to protect health and amenity values. Such activities include industry and extractive industry uses.
3.3.7.1 (5) Residential and other sensitive uses do not unreasonably constrain or
adversely impact on the safe and optimal operation of existing and planned community infrastructure or productive sites, facilities and corridors that are important to the efficient functioning of the city or region by locating in areas where reasonable expectations for health and amenity cannot be met.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 103 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 6 (Continued) PLANNING SCHEME POLICY FOR EXTRACTIVE INDUSTRY USES PD98/1132/04/27(P4)
Key protected sites, facilities and corridors include: (b) industry areas, including existing or future extractive resource
sites and their haulage routes 3.6.4.1 (12) Buffer areas separate extractive industry areas from residential and
other sensitive uses. 3.6.8.1 (1) The prudent use of renewable and non renewable natural resources
supports long-term community needs and only occurs where any immediate or long term environmental and social impacts can be ameliorated to an acceptable level.
3.7.4.1 (1) Industry and business areas support the single use or concentration of
related activities that are generally not compatible, due to their scale and nature, within other non–Industry and Business area types.
They are restricted to a small number of areas in the city due to their
potential to cause impacts on residential and other sensitive uses. The location of development activity and appropriate environmental controls, such as vegetated buffers and designated road networks, is intended to avoid or reduce this impact and ensure the provision of viable enterprise, industry and business land.
The draft planning scheme also specifically addresses the issue of amenity and buffer areas in a draft extractive resources overlay code. This code is essentially a transfer of the abovementioned draft extractive resources and haulage routes code, with some refinements and clarity. The draft planning scheme also maintains Council’s current policy position to require all new quarry activities to lodge an impact assessable development application, under the SPA, the highest level of assessment in the planning scheme. 6 ALIGNMENT TO BOLD FUTURE VISION, CORPORATE PLAN, OPERATIONAL
PLAN Outcome 1.1 - There are strong foundations for a sustainable city.
Action 1.1.1 Encourage consideration of the environmental, social and economic impact that our decisions will have on the city now and in the future.
Outcome 2.2 - Biodiversity is protected.
Action 2.2.5 Ensure nature conservation impacts are considered as part of city decision-making.
Outcome 3.3 - The transport network is well maintained and meets relevant safety standards.
Action Implement a road program which caters for the city’s growth and directs traffic flows in the appropriate traffic corridors.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 104 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 6 (Continued) PLANNING SCHEME POLICY FOR EXTRACTIVE INDUSTRY USES PD98/1132/04/27(P4) Outcome 5.1 - The economy is built on a diversified knowledge and strong export-base
Action 5.1.2 Support local business development and attract new business and investment to the city
Outcome 6.1 - Integrated land use planning takes account of environmental, social and economic needs to provide the basis for a sustainable community. Action 6.1.1
Develop and implement a new Planning Scheme by 2012 that integrates the city’s vision into Council decision-making; encourages sustainable development and takes account of the impact on our unique Gold Coast landscape, coastline and beaches.
7 FUNDING AND RESOURCING REQUIREMENTS Not Applicable. 8 RISK MANAGEMENT Council regularly amends its planning scheme to ensure that its planning and policy settings are up-to-date and remain contemporary for the city as it develops. 9 STATUTORY MATTERS There is a legislative hierarchy which dictates the identification of resource extraction sites, their development and ongoing operation. State Planning Policies State legislation sits atop the hierarchy. Specifically SPP 2/07 Protection of Extractive Resources. SPP 2/07 identifies Key Resource Areas (KRA’s) throughout the state. If there is a discrepancy or inconsistency between SPP 2/07 and the planning scheme then the SPP is taken to override the planning scheme. Local government planning schemes Sitting underneath the State legislation is local government planning schemes. The planning scheme contains (high order) strategic policy statements and detailed development assessment codes against which development is assessed. Of particular significance to this issue is the inclusion in the draft planning scheme of an extractive resources overlay code. This code, as discussed above, deals specifically with the issue of amenity and buffer areas. Assessment and decision-making process Assessment of new quarry activities can occur in the following ways. Firstly, if the application is made via the State’s significant project process for which an environmental impact statement is required, the State’s Coordinator-General will assess and decide the proposal.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 105 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report
ITEM 6 (Continued) PLANNING SCHEME POLICY FOR EXTRACTIVE INDUSTRY USES PD98/1132/04/27(P4) Secondly, if the application is made with a local government, Council has decision-making authority and must access the proposal against the planning scheme in force at the time. Applicants have a right of appeal against Council’s decision to the Planning and Environment Court. In addition, as noted above, new quarry activities in the city are impact assessable, thereby also providing opportunity for public submissions and third party submitter appeal rights to the Planning and Environment Court. 10 COUNCIL POLICIES Not Applicable. 11 DELEGATIONS Not Applicable. 12 COORDINATION & CONSULTATION Not Applicable. 13 STAKEHOLDER IMPACTS No internal (Organisational) stakeholder impacts were identified. 14 TIMING Not Applicable. 15 CONCLUSION This report has outlined Council’s current and developing planning policy on quarry uses in the city, with a focus on amenity and buffer zones between quarry operations and sensitive land uses. This report has also outlined the role of State legislation in the designation and approval of such uses. 16 RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that Council resolves as follows: 1 That Council note its current policy in relation to extractive industry requires
separation/buffer areas between extractive industry and sensitive land uses and that this policy setting is being transferred into the developing Bold Future planning scheme.
2 That Council further note that a draft extractive resources code is under development to complement its planning and policy setting.
Author: Authorised by:
David Hood Warren Rowe Executive Coordinator City Plan Director Planning Environment & Transport Program Director, Planning Scheme Review 21 November 2022
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 106 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 6 (Continued) PLANNING SCHEME POLICY FOR EXTRACTIVE INDUSTRY USES PD98/1132/04/27(P4) Changed Recommendation COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION SC11.1129.006 moved Cr McDonald seconded Cr Robbins 1 That Council note its current policy in relation to extractive industry requires
separation/buffer areas between extractive industry and sensitive land uses and that this policy setting is being transferred into the developing Bold Future planning scheme.
2 That Council further note that a draft extractive resources code is under development to complement its planning and policy setting.
3 That the draft Extractive Resources and Haulage Code “Precautionary Zone” be amended to a minimum of 250m separation distance and that this standard apply to any new quarrying activity seeking to be established in the city.
CARRIED
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 107 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 7 PLANNING ENVIRONMENT & TRANSPORT DEVELOPING OUR BOLD FUTURE PLANNING SCHEME – SUBMISSION OF DRAFT PLANNING SCHEME FOR CONSIDERATION OF STATE INTERESTS PD98/1132/01/09(P1) Refer 6 page attachment 1 BASIS FOR CONFIDENTIALITY Not Applicable. 2 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Not Applicable. 3 PURPOSE OF REPORT Council has recently resolved to submit a draft Queensland Planning Provisions (QPP), Part 3 - Strategic Framework of our Bold Future Planning Scheme (draft planning scheme) for consideration of State interests. This report seeks Council approval to submit the remaining mandatory sections of the draft planning scheme for consideration of State interests, and forms part of the first step in the State review process. Specifically, this report seeks to:
obtain a Council resolution to ‘propose a planning scheme’ in accordance with Schedule 1, section (9)(1)(a) of the repealed Integrated Planning Act 1997 (IPA), in support of the sections of the draft planning scheme to which this report relates;
commence the State review process by obtaining Council approval to submit the following QPP sections of the draft planning scheme for consideration of State interests:
Part 1 About the planning scheme;
Part 2 State planning provisions;
Part 4 Priority Infrastructure Plan;
Part 5 Tables of assessment;
Part 6 Zones;
Part 8 Overlays;
Part 9 Development codes;
Part 10 Planning partnerships;
Schedule 1 Definitions;
Schedule 2 Mapping;
Schedule 3 Priority infrastructure plan mapping and plans;
Schedule 4 Notations required under the Sustainable Planning Act 2009;
Schedule 5 Land designated for community infrastructure;
Appendix 1 Index and glossary of abbreviations and acronyms; and
Appendix 2 Table of amendments
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 108 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 7 (Continued) DEVELOPING OUR BOLD FUTURE PLANNING SCHEME – SUBMISSION OF DRAFT PLANNING SCHEME FOR CONSIDERATION OF STATE INTERESTS PD98/1132/01/09(P1) clarify that the draft planning scheme is not final, and is a draft for identification of State
interest matters and is fit for this purpose. The document will continue to be refined and developed before being released for public consultation during 2012;
recognise the Councillor, community and industry involvement to date, in the preparation of the draft planning scheme; and
highlight critical timing issues with progressing the draft planning scheme to the State at this time to ensure a contemporary new planning scheme is in place for the next development cycle, consistent with development industry stakeholder concerns.
A CD containing an electronic copy of the draft planning scheme is circulated to Councillors with this report. 4 PREVIOUS RESOLUTIONS Resolutions supporting the development of the draft planning scheme Council resolution of 22 January 2009 (G09.0122.005 & G09.0122.006):
That Council notes the road map provided by the Bold Future Advisory Committee with the key foundations for implementation of the vision as outlined in items a to e below (subject to a further report from the Chief Executive Officer). d Council will ensure that the Bold Future Vision informs and directs the review
and alignment of the new Corporate Plan, Planning Scheme, Corporate Governance Framework, strategies, programs, plans, functions and responsibilities to be detailed through a high level change management plan.
That Council adopts in principle the signature actions proposed by the Bold Future Advisory Committee as a key component of setting the vision in train, comprising the following list of actions – i for initial implementation
i Develop a world class Bold Future Planning Scheme for the city by
2012 that delivers on the vision by directing growth and creating a sustainable city into the future
Sustainable City Future Committee resolution of 24 February 2009 (SC09.0224.001):
1) That the Planning Scheme Review Program Management Plan and related attachments be endorsed.
2) …
3) That Council agrees to the changes to the Gold Coast Planning Scheme 2003 amendment schedule as proposed in this report and acknowledges the financial and human resource contribution this will make to reducing the lifecycle cost of the Planning Scheme Review Program.
4) …
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 109 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 7 (Continued) DEVELOPING OUR BOLD FUTURE PLANNING SCHEME – SUBMISSION OF DRAFT PLANNING SCHEME FOR CONSIDERATION OF STATE INTERESTS PD98/1132/01/09(P1)
5) That Council’s objective be to implement the new Planning Scheme before September 2012.
6) That Council’s endorsement of the Planning Scheme Review Program acknowledges the commitment to funding over the four and a half year period to deliver the work program and the implementation of the scheme.
Sustainable City Future Committee resolution of 17 November 2009 (SC09.1117.008):
1) …
2) That in accordance with Section 2.2.2 of the Integrated Planning Act 1997 Council resolves to propose to prepare a new planning scheme.
3) …
4) That the delivery of the new planning scheme will be staged, beginning with a comprehensive rebuild of the strategic framework and selected, high risk/ benefit codes and policies during 2010
5) …
6) …
Sustainable City Future Committee resolution of 7 September 2010 (SC10.0907.001):
1) That the “Developing our Gold Coast Bold Future Planning Scheme Statement of Proposal” be endorsed for use in stakeholder and community engagement in accordance with the Community and Stakeholder Engagement Plan.
2) That Council note the consultation period for the Statement of Proposal as being 19 October 2010 to 13 December 2010.
3) …
Sustainable City Future Committee resolution of 22 February 2011 (SC11.0222.002):
1) ...
2) Council has considered the submissions received regarding the Bold Future Planning Scheme Statement of Proposal.
3) This report summarises Council’s consideration of the issues identified in the submissions received in response to the Bold Future Planning Scheme Statement of Proposal.
4) Council notes that a full copy of all submissions was available for reference and consideration at and before both the Sustainable City Future Committee and Council and that a summary of submissions was attached to the report as attachment 1.
Sustainable City Future Committee resolution of 3 May 2011 (SC11.0503.001):
1) That the revised schedule for the Planning Scheme Review Program be endorsed.
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2) That the revised schedule for the Planning Scheme Review Program is:
a Council submits the draft Strategic Framework for endorsement from the Department of Local Government and Planning in June 2011; and
b Council submits the new Planning Scheme (Version 1.0) for first State interest check in December 2011, or an earlier date if possible.
3) That the endorsed Program Management Plan be updated accordingly.
4) …
Council resolution of 21 November 2011 (unconfirmed minute):
1 That in accordance with Schedule 1, section (9)(1)(a) of the repealed Integrated
Planning Act 1997 Council resolves to propose a planning scheme and give the Minister for Local Government a copy of the proposed planning scheme.
2 That the Queensland Planning Provisions, Part 3 – (draft) Strategic Framework of the proposed planning scheme be endorsed to be forwarded to the Minister for Local Government for consideration of State interests subject to the following changes:
a Inclusion of Planning Strategy Maps 8-15.
b Section 3.3.7.1 Element – Environmental health and amenity be amended to read:
“1. Activities that have the potential to conflict with the health and amenity of residential and other sensitive uses, including uses which generate noise, traffic, air pollution, electromagnetic emissions, dust, light, glare, reflectivity, vibration and/or odour impacts above accepted standards are adequately separated, designed, managed and/or buffered to protect health and amenity values. Such activities include industry and extractive industry uses.”
c Planning Strategy Map 8 - Light Rail Renewal Area be amended as follows:
i land south of Peerless Avenue and Surfers Parade, Mermaid Beach, and south of Pacific Fair Shopping Centre (including the island centred around Orvieto Avenue), Mermaid Waters, be removed from their proposed designations and included as “Investigation areas”;
ii land west of Eady Avenue, Broadbeach Waters be excluded from the light rail renewal area precinct boundary; and
iii the text box be deleted from the face of the map and the “area intents” adequately included in the strategic framework text.
3 That the Director of Planning Environment & Transport be authorised to make minor amendments to the draft strategic framework prior to delivery to the Minister for Local Government.
4 That Council notes the submission strategy for other parts of the draft planning scheme.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 111 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 7 (Continued) DEVELOPING OUR BOLD FUTURE PLANNING SCHEME – SUBMISSION OF DRAFT PLANNING SCHEME FOR CONSIDERATION OF STATE INTERESTS PD98/1132/01/09(P1) Other resolutions related to the development of the draft planning scheme Sustainable City Future Committee resolution of 27 July 2010 (SC10.0727.006):
1 That the Director Planning Environment & Transport provide a report to Council on the potential to develop mechanisms to permit ‘not for profit’ car boot sales to lawfully operate.
2 ...
Sustainable City Future Committee resolution of 27 July 2010 (SC10.0727.004):
1 That a report be brought forward to the Sustainable City Future Committee outlining the best way forward in dealing with second dwellings in the Park Residential Domain.
Council resolution of 11 October 2010 (G10.1011.029):
1 That the Director PE&T report to Council at the earliest opportunity to provide advice on the introduction of a planning policy position that will allow the creation of a land use definition for “interim use” under the planning scheme.
2 This use, by definition, would allow a short term activity within industrial precincts
that should operate for a short time period (4-5 years) without long term use approval being assigned to the land, nor the payment of infrastructure charges for this short term use.
3 The report should address the ability of this type of activity to be assessed as a
code application and possibly to be administered through the Risksmart process. Such short term activities could include bulk garden sites, industry (storage facilities), outdoor storage facilities and construction vehicle storage yard.
Sustainable City Future Committee resolution of 8 November 2010 (SC10.1102.005):
1 That pursuant to the requirements of the repealed Integrated Planning Act 1997 draft Gold Coast Planning Scheme 2003 Amendment Package No. 7 be publicly notified from 17 January 2011 to 2 March 2011
2 …
3 …
4 …
Council resolution of 18 July 2011 (G11.0718.034):
1 Further to Council Resolution G11.0718.012, the Report proposed under Item 3 Recommendation 8 a, give specific consideration to a reduction of the level of assessment required from Impact Assessment to Code Assessment or even Self Assessment for dance or music schools within Industrial or Business Domains; and
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 112 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 7 (Continued) DEVELOPING OUR BOLD FUTURE PLANNING SCHEME – SUBMISSION OF DRAFT PLANNING SCHEME FOR CONSIDERATION OF STATE INTERESTS PD98/1132/01/09(P1)
2 The report should also investigate whether a special assessment and lodgement process can be put into place for these particular uses that may allow for the level of detail provided to be of a standard that potentially avoids the need for the applicant to hire a town planning consultant for the preparation of the application. The report should also look at the feasibility of adopting dance and music school applications under the risksmart application.
5 DISCUSSION
Background
The following background is relevant to the continuing development of the draft planning scheme: August 2009, review of the current state of the 2003 Planning Scheme (current
planning scheme). The Current-state Analysis made 137 recommendations to improve the current planning scheme. The project received input from Councillors, council staff, the community and the development industry. The report recommended a review of the current planning scheme’s strategic elements and regulatory mechanisms. The guiding principles to inform the review were premised on simplification of the existing framework and improvement of the threads in, and between, the various mechanisms of the planning scheme to ensure robust development assessment and desirable land use and development. Specifically, this work recommended that the new planning scheme should be slimmer and provide more clarity in that which it promotes, and that which it seeks to avoid.
November 2009, Council resolution to propose to prepare a new planning scheme.
in accordance with Section 2.2.2 of the Integrated Planning Act 1997. Over the past eighteen months the Program has been engaged in drafting the strategic framework, tables of development, code provisions and related maps. The scope of the drafting activity has included development of new codes in response to changed policy, enhancement of existing codes and production of new and updated maps. One of the key objectives in the drafting of the new planning scheme has been Council’s commitment to delivering a more useable planning scheme that reflects our theme of “simpler, better, faster”.
December 2009, Sustainable Planning Act (SPA). The introduction of SPA and with it
the QPP, a State-wide standard template for all new planning schemes. QPP is still a work in progress, with version 3 currently out for public comment.
September 2010, Statement of Proposal released for public consultation. 105
submissions and over 300 points were received from residents, industry and interest groups. 32 different interest groups were represented in the submissions. All submissions were responded to and the Consideration of Submissions Report was endorsed by Council in February, 2011.
November 2011 Council approved submission of draft QPP Part 3 - Strategic
Framework for consideration of State interests, as part of the first step in the State review process of developing the draft planning scheme.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 113 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 7 (Continued) DEVELOPING OUR BOLD FUTURE PLANNING SCHEME – SUBMISSION OF DRAFT PLANNING SCHEME FOR CONSIDERATION OF STATE INTERESTS PD98/1132/01/09(P1) Planning Schemes under SPA (and QPP) The major influence on drafting of the new planning scheme has been compliance with the SPA and QPP. The QPP seeks to establish a standardised format and common definitions for all planning schemes in Queensland. The tables of assessment set the level of assessment (exempt, self, compliance, code or impact) for land uses and other development within zones and overlay areas. The tables of assessment will “trigger” the need for assessment within the scheme, and by any particular development code within the scheme. When there is a conflict amongst provisions the following decision rules apply: The strategic framework is the
part of a QPP plan that guides all else within it.
An impact assessable application is primary assessed against the strategic framework.
Overlay codes override all other
codes within the scheme. Local plans override zone codes
and development codes. Zone codes override development
codes. Developing our Bold Future Planning Scheme The draft planning scheme is being developed in a staged process and will have multiple releases. The first release is represented by the draft planning scheme and includes a comprehensive rebuild of the strategic framework and selected, high risk/ benefit codes and translation of the current planning scheme into the draft QPP template and format. Future releases will be amendments to the draft planning scheme and will include further refinement and inclusion of emerging local policy. Council is now in a position to submit the draft planning scheme for consideration of State interests. Whilst this document is not final, it is suitably progressed for identification of State interest matters and is fit for this purpose. This report clarifies that the document will continue to be refined and developed before it is placed on public display and open for submissions during 2012. Council has resolved to submit draft Part 3 - Strategic Framework of the draft planning scheme for the State review process. This report addresses the remaining mandatory components of the draft planning scheme proposed to be submitted for consideration of State interest at this time.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 114 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 7 (Continued) DEVELOPING OUR BOLD FUTURE PLANNING SCHEME – SUBMISSION OF DRAFT PLANNING SCHEME FOR CONSIDERATION OF STATE INTERESTS PD98/1132/01/09(P1) Planning Scheme Components The following highlights the role and function of each section of a draft QPP Planning Scheme: Part 1 About the planning scheme A mandatory component required by the draft QPP describing how a QPP planning scheme works. This includes the mandatory text for local government planning area, levels of assessment and rules for determining levels of assessment, rules for determine assessment criteria within the scheme, what building work is regulated under the scheme and other administrative matters. Part 2 State planning provisions A mandatory component with mandatory text, required by the draft QPP that identifies State interests that are reflected in the planning scheme. This includes the South East Queensland Regional Plan, State Planning Policies, referral agency delegations and Standard Planning Scheme provisions. Part 3 Strategic framework A mandatory component of a planning scheme under QPP. The strategic framework has been resolved under a separate resolution and will be submitted for consideration of State interests with the balance of the draft planning scheme, the subject of this report. Part 4 Priority infrastructure plan A mandatory component of a planning scheme under QPP. The current Priority Infrastructure Plan is included. Council is not currently reviewing its Priority Infrastructure Plan. Part 5 Tables of assessment A mandatory component of a planning scheme under QPP. The tables of assessment identify the level of assessment and assessment criteria for development within a planning scheme area. Part 6 Zones A mandatory component of a planning scheme under QPP. The QPP introduces “zones” in place of “domains”. The table in Attachment 1 lists the zones within the draft planning scheme, and identifies their equivalent within the current planning scheme.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 115 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 7 (Continued) DEVELOPING OUR BOLD FUTURE PLANNING SCHEME – SUBMISSION OF DRAFT PLANNING SCHEME FOR CONSIDERATION OF STATE INTERESTS PD98/1132/01/09(P1) Part 7 Local Plans. The QPP introduces “local plans” in place of “local area plans”. It is not mandatory that local governments prepare local plans for their planning scheme area. Council has resolved that the ‘transfer’ of existing local area plan policy into QPP compliant local plans will be finalised during the first half of 2012, and brought together with the draft planning scheme for public consultation in 2012. Part 8 Overlays The QPP introduces “overlays” in place of “constraint codes”. A mandatory heading component of a planning scheme under QPP but not mandatory that local government incorporate overlays in their planning scheme. The table in Attachment 2 lists the overlays within the draft planning scheme and identifies their equivalent within the current planning scheme. Part 9 Development codes A mandatory component of a planning scheme under QPP. The QPP introduces “development codes” in place of “specific development codes”. In drafting the new scheme, many separate specific development codes have been consolidated into one draft planning scheme development code. This has significantly reduced duplication and the potential for conflict between the codes. The table in Attachment 3 lists the development codes within the draft planning scheme and identifies their equivalent within the current planning scheme. Part 10 Planning partnerships A mandatory component of a planning scheme under QPP. This section applies to the Coomera Structure Plan, which, at this time, is included unchanged. Council is seeking direction from the Department of Local Government and Planning on the process to amend this document. Refer Part 9 of this report for more details. Schedule 1 Definitions Mandatory component of the QPP with mandatory text. This section contains the ‘use’ definitions (e.g. dwelling house, shop, retirement facility etc.) and ‘administrative’ definitions (e.g. setback, site cover, building height) prescribed by the QPP. Definitions cannot be added to or changed by a local authority with exception to industry thresholds that provide for additional clarity in the definition for a local government area.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 116 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 7 (Continued) DEVELOPING OUR BOLD FUTURE PLANNING SCHEME – SUBMISSION OF DRAFT PLANNING SCHEME FOR CONSIDERATION OF STATE INTERESTS PD98/1132/01/09(P1) Schedule 2 Mapping A mandatory component of a planning scheme under QPP. This schedule contains all strategic maps, zoning maps and overlay maps applicable to the planning scheme area. The planning scheme maps presently utilise the January 2011 cadastre. The use of a cadastre snapshot has assisted to inform the update of land-use designations in response to development activity over the last decade. The cadastre for planning scheme maps will be updated during the first State interest review period together with further refinement of zones to reflect recently completed subdivisions and land use approvals. Schedule 3 Priority infrastructure plan mapping and plans A mandatory component of a planning scheme under QPP. This schedule contains Priority Infrastructure Plan maps, as distinct from schedule 2. Council’s current PIP mapping has been included. Council is not currently reviewing its Priority Infrastructure Plan mapping. Schedule 4 Notations required under the Sustainable Planning Act 2009 A mandatory component of a planning scheme under QPP. This schedule includes development application approvals under Section 391 SPA including: approvals that conflict with the planning scheme; development approvals that vary the effect of the scheme; decisions agreeing to a superseded planning scheme request.
Schedule 5 Land designated for community infrastructure Mandatory component of the QPP listing the details of land designated for community infrastructure (i.e. description and address, type and date designated). Schedule 6 Planning scheme policies Not included at this time. Planning scheme policies will be brought forward for Council consideration prior to public consultation in 2012. Appendix 1 Index and glossary of abbreviations and acronyms Mandatory component of the QPP listing abbreviations and acronyms. Appendix 2 Table of Amendments There are no amendments at this time.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 117 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 7 (Continued) DEVELOPING OUR BOLD FUTURE PLANNING SCHEME – SUBMISSION OF DRAFT PLANNING SCHEME FOR CONSIDERATION OF STATE INTERESTS PD98/1132/01/09(P1) Staged Review Process As discussed earlier in this report, the new planning scheme is being developed in a staged process. Future phases of the planning scheme review program will amend the draft (new) planning scheme to introduce further refinement and emerging policy. The first release is represented by the draft planning scheme. Major changes are discussed below. Areas of ‘big’ policy change;
Areas of the city with well-serviced public transport within walking distance and accessible active transport networks.
Reduce levels of assessment in Activity Centres where not involving
building work Removal of impact assessment trigger for density in Centre and Apartment
Residential zones In residential zones, better enable the development of neighbourhood focal
points containing non-residential uses, integrated with public transport, services, parks and other community facilities.
Improve the Centre zone shifting focus from regulation of activities to building form
outcomes. Improved design standards Active frontages to streets and public spaces Adaptable reuse of the ground floor Adjustments to building heights to support more mixed use outcomes and
in-centre housing Require comprehensive planning for expansion or redevelopment of
centres with no LAP. Housing affordability and affordable housing.
Include requirements in the Residential Design code for multiple dwelling
development of more than 15 dwellings to provide a mixture of housing sizes and affordability
Promote higher densities in and around well serviced public transport, in identified areas
Lowered levels of assessment for dual occupancy dwellings Supported secondary dwellings in residential zones
Urban design that activates the public realm and creates opportunities for social
interaction. Improvements throughout the zone codes, and Residential Design code,
Commercial Design code, and Citywide code to incorporate Crime Prevention Though Environmental Design principles.
Improve the interface between buildings and the public realm (i.e. setbacks and landscaping, fenestration) in Centre, Neighbourhood Centre and Residential Zones).
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 118 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 7 (Continued) DEVELOPING OUR BOLD FUTURE PLANNING SCHEME – SUBMISSION OF DRAFT PLANNING SCHEME FOR CONSIDERATION OF STATE INTERESTS PD98/1132/01/09(P1) Home Based Business code makes it easier to work from home.
Changes to planning scheme definitions due to the QPP, and the code now
regulates farm stay and bed and breakfast as well as home based business. Provide for self-assessable home-based business where it is compatible
with the amenity of the neighbourhood. Reduce car parking requirement
New Residential Design code incorporates the provisions of six codes from the
current planning scheme into one, to improve usability and reduce duplication. Improved design standards for dual occupancies, including regulation of the
dominance of garages, street surveillance, landscaping and slope-sensitive design provisions
Improved communal open space outcomes that are commensurate with the scale of land use
Improved slope-sensitive design provisions Incorporation of CPTED principles throughout design criteria in the code Consideration of housing need and choice.
Amend car parking rates within the transport code.
Reduced in areas close to proposed light rail stops Reduced in heavy rail stations in Coomera, Helensvale, Nerang and
Robina, Varsity Village Reduced in hub areas such as Surfers, Broadbeach and Southport.
The Flood, Bushfire and Landslide codes
Update mapping Improve codes to reflect best-practice Ensure that development in natural hazard management areas is
compatible with the nature of the natural hazard Minimise the impacts from natural hazards on existing developed areas Prevent development from materially increasing the extent or the severity of
natural hazards Achieve development outcomes of State Planning Policy 1/03 Mitigating the
Adverse Impacts of Flood, Bushfire and Landslide. Updated flood mapping including incorporation of climate change (sea level
rise) parameters.
The new Small Lot House code applies to assessing Material Change of Use for a dwelling house on a lot that has an area less than 400m²; or a frontage less than 15m.
Reduces setbacks and includes provisions for built-to-boundary walls to make it
easier for small lot development to occur as self-assessable development Reinforce design outcomes for residential areas including adequate private
open space, privacy, slope-sensitive design and the reduction in the dominance of garages
Promote casual surveillance of the street.
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Improve the Nature Conservation code and update mapping to give effect to those planning scheme matters contained within the Nature Conservation Strategy and various State planning policies.
New Environmental Management zone has been applied to private land that is
currently in either the current Rural or Park Living domain and is within one of the mapped critical ecological corridors or contains substantial remnant vegetation and is located within the urban footprint.
New Limited Development (Constrained Land) zone. The purpose of the code is to
identify locations with development constraints (such as coastal hazards, flooding, bushfire and landslip) that pose severe restrictions on the ability of the land to be developed for urban purposes so that development can be carefully managed to mitigate the risk to life and property.
Areas of ‘minor’ policy change;
Refine the Reconfiguring a Lot code to improve workability and development outcomes.
Lot size and configuration standards have been removed from the
Reconfiguring of a Lot code and are now within the zone codes New performance outcome to require a variety in lot sizes to accommodate a
range of housing types New performance outcome to ensure that major subdivisions ensures public
transport, open space, community facilities, convenience shopping and local employment opportunities are available as land is developed.
Improvements to residential zones (Apartment, Residential Choice, Residential
Living) to simplify the zone codes and improve workability by focusing on built form outcomes and workability of the code.
Reduce the level of assessment for dual occupancy and multiple dwelling in
Residential Living zone, but regulate the circumstances where these can occur
Support the provision of a limited range of small scale, non-residential uses that service the local community
Reduce the potential for crime and encourage social interaction by varying the front setback to encourage good urban design (passive surveillance/ improved public private interface)
Remove redundant provisions and consolidated regulations into a new “Citywide Code”
Remove regulation addressing building materials and colour of dwellings, outside of areas with high scenic amenity values
Remove provisions that are addressed by overlay or development codes Refine wording of Performance Outcomes and Acceptable Outcomes.
New Industry Investigation zone. The zone has been applied to the future industry
area of the Yatala LAP (Precinct 4). The zone requires that a comprehensive planning process is undertaken as part of a development application for urban development.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 120 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 7 (Continued) DEVELOPING OUR BOLD FUTURE PLANNING SCHEME – SUBMISSION OF DRAFT PLANNING SCHEME FOR CONSIDERATION OF STATE INTERESTS PD98/1132/01/09(P1)
New Rural Landscape precinct within the Rural zone to protect rural areas with environmental or scenic amenity values.
Update the Conservation zone (formerly Conservation domain). Includes all State
land held for environmental purposes, including National Parks and Conservation Parks, Council owned land that has been purchased with the Open Space Preservation Levy, and private land that is subject to a Higher Voluntary Conservation Agreement or Nature Refuge.
Amendments to the Emerging Communities zone code as a result of the introduction
of the QPP. The zone reinforces that a comprehensive planning process be undertaken as part of a development application for urban development.
Cultural Heritage overlay amends the current Cultural Heritage (Historic) constraint
code to meet the requirements of the Queensland Heritage Regulations. The new Citywide code incorporates provisions that are applied to assessable
development on a citywide base. Changes to current policy within the code are:
Reduce the height of retaining walls for residential properties Improve the regulation of shadow New provisions for lighting and casual surveillance.
Markets have been made easier to establish by allowing them to occur as self
assessable development in the following zones, if no more than 50 temporary and/or other structures used for the sale of goods:
Sport and Recreation zone, otherwise code Open Space zone, otherwise code Neighbourhood Centre zone, otherwise impact Centre zone, if less than, otherwise impact; and; Community Facilities zone, otherwise code.
In the Mixed Use zone Markets have been reduced from impact to code assessable development.
Changes to Ground Level and Creation of New Waterways code amends the current
planning scheme Sediment and Erosion Control constraint code to align with State Planning Policy 4/10 for Healthy Waters.
Healthy Waters code amends the current planning scheme Sediment and Erosion
Control Constraint code to align with by State Planning Policy 4/10 for Healthy Waters.
The Telecommunications and Broadcasting code introduces a new separation
distance of 150 metres to sensitive uses (e.g. dwelling house, childcare). Incorporation of requirement for end-of-trip facilities (e.g. showers, cycle lock-ups) in
larger developments within the transport code.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 121 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 7 (Continued) DEVELOPING OUR BOLD FUTURE PLANNING SCHEME – SUBMISSION OF DRAFT PLANNING SCHEME FOR CONSIDERATION OF STATE INTERESTS PD98/1132/01/09(P1) Areas of ‘no’ policy change:
The Future Water Innovations and Good Quality Agricultural Land overlays are new overlays. They consolidate existing policy and regulation that is contained in various current specific development codes.
New Social, Health and Impact Assessment code is due to new legislative
requirement as a result of the introduction of the SPA. Some parts of the Planning Scheme Policy have had to be included in the draft new planning scheme as a development code. There has been no change in policy.
Industry design provisions.
All codes have been converted to the QPP format, including incorporating new
definitions for many activities. All codes have been reviewed to simplify where possible, to reduce duplication and
remove ambiguity. NO CHANGE: site cover and density.
Scope of Future Phase of the Planning Scheme Review Program Future phases of the planning scheme review will amend the draft planning scheme to introduce further refinement and emerging policy. This will include:
Subject Description
Natural Wetland and waterway overlay map (waterway classification definition)
Mapping of waterways and canals and associated amendments to codes.
Revision of affected codes to support QLD Coastal Plan.
Planning Scheme Incentives Planning Scheme incentives and bonuses: review of Planning Scheme Policy 18.
Industrial design provisions New code recommended as per best practice paper.
Landscape works Comprehensive review of landscape Strategy and Planning Scheme policies.
Ecological offset policy Pending State direction.
New Innovation Zone EDMP currently undertaking investigations into new QPP zone.
Ecosystem services Pending State direction on State interests.
Cultural Heritage Strategy Subject to Council endorsement.
Total Watercycle Management Strategy
Subject to Council endorsement.
Community Wellbeing Strategy Subject to Council endorsement.
Transport Strategy Subject to Council endorsement.
Light Rail Corridor Review of investigation areas and determination of appropriate land use policy.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 122 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 7 (Continued) DEVELOPING OUR BOLD FUTURE PLANNING SCHEME – SUBMISSION OF DRAFT PLANNING SCHEME FOR CONSIDERATION OF STATE INTERESTS PD98/1132/01/09(P1) Specific Matters Section 4 of this report notes specific resolutions of Council regarding:
Amendment package 7 Markets - Car-boot sales Secondary dwellings on rural residential lots Interim uses. Dance or music schools in industrial and business areas
Amendment package 7 Council is currently mid-way through progressing Amendment Package 7 to the current planning scheme. Given that the draft (new) planning scheme is intended to be notified within 12 months time, there may be some advantage in halting the amendment process for the current planning scheme, and carrying forward items that remain relevant from Amendment Package 7 with the new planning scheme process. It is recommended that Council seek advice from the Minister as to the State’s preferred process in this regard. Car-boot sales The QPP includes car boot sales in the definition of ‘market’. As noted above, the level of assessment for market has been reduced in specific zones. Secondary Dwellings The QPP definition of ‘dwelling house’ has been amended to include a secondary dwelling that is subordinate to a primary dwelling on the same lot. This avoids the requirement for a material change of use for a secondary dwelling. Interim uses The QPP does not support the introduction of new definitions to the suite contained within Schedule 1, therefore it is not currently possible to introduce a definition for “Interim Use”. The QPP does include a definition for ‘temporary use’ however, any use approved for a substantial period such as 4 to 5 years would not be classified as a temporary use under the QPP. Notwithstanding, Council currently has the authority to approve a use for a defined period by applying a condition limiting the uses “currency period” under SPA 2009. In regard to infrastructure changes for uses approved with a restricted currency period, Council has recently elected to make an Adopted Infrastructure Charges Resolution (AICR) that sets infrastructure charges for residential and non-residential development. Council may amend the AICR at any time, simply through the Committee/ Council process, without referring the item to the State Government. Therefore, if there are any categories of land use that Council wishes to be exempted from infrastructure charges, this can be achieved simply by amending the AICR.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 123 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 7 (Continued) DEVELOPING OUR BOLD FUTURE PLANNING SCHEME – SUBMISSION OF DRAFT PLANNING SCHEME FOR CONSIDERATION OF STATE INTERESTS PD98/1132/01/09(P1) Dance or music schools in industrial and business areas Dance or music schools fall within the QPP definition of Educational Establishment: They are also defined as sensitive land uses. Within the Centres Zone Educational Establishments have been reduced from impact assessable to: exempt if locating in an existing building; self assessable if locating in an existing building and involving minor building work;
and otherwise code assessable.
In the Neighbourhood Centre and Mixed Use zone (formerly the Fringe Business domain), Educational Establishments have been reduced from impact to code assessment. Within the city’s Industry zones, Educational Establishments have been reduced from unlisted to impact assessment. Development in industry areas is required to ensure that land is protected and remains available for legitimate industrial development and is not eroded by incompatible non-industrial developments. As a defined sensitive land use, an Educational Establishment could impact on the operation of nearby industrial uses and could undermine the integrity of an industrial zone. Buffers (distance breaks eg 250m or 500m) may also be required between some industry activities and sensitive land uses. Under State policy and environmental licence regulations, it is possible that the lawful operation of a sensitive land use within an industrial area could have a ‘passed-on’ cost impact to nearby legitimate industry uses or future industry uses because they would be required to protect the sensitive land use through additional design measures to mitigate emissions and noise impacts etc. Such operations would be mainly classified as medium and high impact industries. Lodgement of a development application may necessitate the applicant engaging an planning consultant, depending on the complexity of the issue. 6 ALIGNMENT TO BOLD FUTURE VISION, CORPORATE PLAN, OPERATIONAL
PLAN Key Focus Area 6: A city shaped by clever design
6.1 Integrated land use planning takes account of environmental, social and economic needs to provide the basis for a sustainable community
6.1.1 Develop and implement a new planning scheme by 2012 that integrates the city’s vision into Council decision-making; encourages sustainable development and takes account of the impact on our unique Gold Coast landscape, coastline and beaches
6.1.2 Work collaboratively with the State Government to influence changes to legislation and plans to achieve sustainable outcomes for the city and the region
, including improved electronic lodgement of development applications.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 124 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 7 (Continued) DEVELOPING OUR BOLD FUTURE PLANNING SCHEME – SUBMISSION OF DRAFT PLANNING SCHEME FOR CONSIDERATION OF STATE INTERESTS PD98/1132/01/09(P1)
6.1.3 Ensure the planning scheme and development assessment regime support efficient decision-making and processing
6.2 The new planning scheme improves the provision of affordable and accessible housing, whilst also ensuring high quality social outcomes
6.2.1 Work to increase affordable housing in the city through collaboration with other levels of government, the development sector and the community
6.2.2 Incorporate provisions in the new planning scheme to encourage housing diversity through a greater mix (density, dwelling type, and size) in line with the needs of the community
6.4 High quality urban design creates a world-class city image and accommodates diverse built forms
6.4.1 Ensure good urban design principles and guidelines are applied to new and retro-fit development and infrastructure projects to enhance the amenity and liveability of the city
6.4.4 Implement high quality urban design throughout the city by working in partnership with the community and private sector.
7 FUNDING AND RESOURCING REQUIREMENTS Not applicable at this time 8 RISK MANAGEMENT Not applicable 9 STATUTORY MATTERS Council has previously resolved to ‘propose to prepare a new scheme’ under Section 2.2.2(1)(a) of the repealed Integrated Planning Act 1997 (IPA). Council has also previously resolved to publicly notify and provide public access to its Statement of Proposal, and by further resolution, considered properly made submissions about the Statement of Proposal in accordance with Schedule 1 of the repealed IPA. Council has also recently resolved to consider the draft planning scheme in two parts at this time, and resolved to ‘propose a planning scheme’, in accordance with Schedule 1, section (9)(1)(a) of repealed IPA. This resolution related to a QPP, Part 3 – Strategic Framework. Having undertaken the above, Council is now to consider the remaining mandatory parts of the draft planning scheme at this time.
In light of Council’s decision to consider the draft planning scheme in parts, it is recommended that Council re-resolve to ‘propose a planning scheme’, in accordance with Schedule 1, section (9)(1)(a) of repealed IPA, in support of the sections of the draft planning scheme to which this report relates. Following this resolution, Council will be required to give the Minister for Local Government a copy of the proposed planning scheme.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 125 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 7 (Continued) DEVELOPING OUR BOLD FUTURE PLANNING SCHEME – SUBMISSION OF DRAFT PLANNING SCHEME FOR CONSIDERATION OF STATE INTERESTS PD98/1132/01/09(P1) Council has four distinct steps in developing the new planning scheme: 1. Delivering the draft new planning scheme to the State Government for consideration of
adverse effects on State interests (first State interest check) (scheduled for December 2011).
2. Release of the draft new planning scheme for a 60 business day public consultation period (estimated to commence around September 2012).
3. Review of public submissions and delivering the draft new planning scheme to the State Government for reconsideration of adverse effects on State interests (second State interest check) (estimated to occur by December 2012).
4. Approval, adoption and commencement of the new planning scheme (estimated to occur early 2013).
The Coomera Town Centre Structure Plan (structure plan) commenced as an amendment to the current planning scheme in October 2010, after a comprehensive consultation and approval process, supported by significant planning work. Given the current nature of the document, the structure plan does not require review at this time. Notwithstanding, the QPP includes new definitions that are inconsistent with the structure plan as it is based on the current planning scheme. The statutory process to update the structure plan is somewhat unclear and differs from the common process to amend a planning scheme. It is recommended that Council seek the advice of the State on this issue as part of the State interest review process. 10 COUNCIL POLICIES Not Applicable 11 DELEGATIONS Not Applicable 12 COORDINATION & CONSULTATION The development of the draft planning scheme has been the subject of numerous workshops and reviews by a wide range of stakeholders. The following lists the major review activities that have lead to this version of the document: Consultation feedback from the current planning scheme Current State Analysis; Consultation feedback from the Developing our Bold Future Statement of Proposal; Fortnightly Councillor workshops over the past 12 months (and more recently weekly)
and a Councillor drop in day held during October this year; Internal stakeholder review with representatives from across Council; External stakeholder review from a number of locally independent consultants; Planning Scheme Review Working Group workshops (built environment, constraints and
mapping); and Planning Scheme Review Steering Committee review and approval. The Planning Scheme Review Steering Committee support the submission of the draft planning scheme for its first State interest check at this time.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 126 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 7 (Continued) DEVELOPING OUR BOLD FUTURE PLANNING SCHEME – SUBMISSION OF DRAFT PLANNING SCHEME FOR CONSIDERATION OF STATE INTERESTS PD98/1132/01/09(P1) 13 STAKEHOLDER IMPACTS Development of the draft planning scheme has been the subject of considerable stakeholder consultation as described in Part 12 above. Considerable stakeholder input has already been received to this point and changes have been made to the document in response to the comments received. The document tabled today represents the culmination of our stakeholder engagement to date. One of the key objectives in the drafting of the new planning scheme has been Council’s commitment to delivering a more useable document that reflects the theme of “simpler, better, faster”. The development industry is seeking a contemporary new planning scheme that helps stimulate economic activity by removing unnecessary barriers to development and is ready for the city’s next development cycle. A delay in advancing the planning scheme to the first State interest check at this time is likely to adversely affect development industry interests and result in the city not having a new planning scheme in place for the next development cycle, where the city will be looking to capitalise on development opportunities associated with the light rail and other related initiatives. To assist stakeholders to access the draft planning scheme, it is recommended that electronic copies of the document be made available for viewing though the city’s libraries and available free of cost to residents upon request to the City Plan Unit, by calling (07) 5582 8683 or by email to [email protected]. 14 TIMING To maintain Council’s endorsed program schedule, it is critical that Council deliver a draft planning scheme to the State to commence first State interest review by the end of December 2011. This will initiate what officers anticipate will be a broad-ranging review by state agencies over a period of some 3 months. The review will provide Council with a detailed commentary of the draft planning scheme’s capability to respond to matters of State Interest as well as provide key contributions from the Department of Local Government and Planning on the draft planning scheme’s structure, response to the QPP and other formative matters which will be vitally important to resolving some areas of uncertainty or ambiguity that have naturally followed the introduction of the new approach to planning schemes in the state. Estimated timeframes moving forward are addressed in Part 9 above. 15 CONCLUSION This report has identified that Council is now in a position to submit a draft QPP compliant draft planning scheme for first State interest review. The draft planning scheme is suitably progressed for identification of State interest matters and is fit for this purpose. This report has clarified that the document will continue to be refined and developed before it is made available for public consultation during 2012.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 127 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 7 (Continued) DEVELOPING OUR BOLD FUTURE PLANNING SCHEME – SUBMISSION OF DRAFT PLANNING SCHEME FOR CONSIDERATION OF STATE INTERESTS PD98/1132/01/09(P1) This report has also recognised the Councillor, community and industry involvement to date in the preparation of the draft planning scheme and highlighted critical timing issues with progressing the draft planning scheme at this time. Support to the above is recommended. 16 RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that Council resolves as follows: 1 That in accordance with Schedule 1, section (9)(1)(a) of the repealed Integrated
Planning Act 1997 Council resolves to propose a planning scheme and give the Minister for Local Government a copy of the proposed planning scheme.
2 That the Queensland Planning Provisions:
a Content;
b Part 1 About the planning scheme;
c Part 2 State planning provisions;
d Part 3 Strategic framework (endorsed under separate Council resolution);
e Part 4 Priority Infrastructure Plan;
f Part 5 Tables of assessment;
g Part 6 Zones;
h Part 8 Overlays;
i Part 9 Development codes;
j Part 10 Planning partnerships;
k Schedule 1 Definitions;
l Schedule 2 Mapping;
m Schedule 3 Priority infrastructure plan mapping and plans;
n Schedule 4 Notations required under the Sustainable Planning Act 2009;
o Schedule 5 Land designated for community infrastructure;
p Appendix 1 Index and glossary of abbreviations and acronyms; and
q Appendix 2 Table of amendments,
of the proposed planning scheme be endorsed to be forwarded to the Minister for Local Government for consideration of State interests.
3 That the Director of Planning Environment & Transport be authorised to make minor amendments to the draft planning scheme prior to delivery to the Minister for Local Government.
4 That the Planning Scheme Review Councillor workshops be continued on a regular basis to continue to advance the development of the draft Planning Scheme.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 128 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report
ITEM 7 (Continued) DEVELOPING OUR BOLD FUTURE PLANNING SCHEME – SUBMISSION OF DRAFT PLANNING SCHEME FOR CONSIDERATION OF STATE INTERESTS PD98/1132/01/09(P1) 5 That as part of the consideration of State interests process, Council seek advice from
the Minister for Local Government on the appropriate process to transfer the existing content of the Coomera Town Centre Structure Plan into a compliant Queensland Planning Provisions planning scheme.
That this request emphasise the significant planning work that has recently been undertaken in the preparation of the document, and Council’s strong desire to avoid any repetition of process that would delay the master planning of the Coomera Town Centre where there is an urgent need for development of the area.
6 That Council write to the Minister for Local Government seeking advice on the progression of Amendment Package 7 to the Gold Coast Planning Scheme 2003, in light of Council’s resolution to propose a planning scheme and give the Minister a copy for consideration of State interests.
7 That electronic copies of the draft planning scheme be made available for viewing though the city’s libraries and available free of cost to residents upon request to the City Plan Unit, telephone (07) 5582 8683 or by email to [email protected].
Author: Authorised by:
David Hood Warren Rowe Executive Coordinator, City Plan Unit Director Planning Environment & Transport Program Director, Planning Scheme Review Fraser Henderson Program Manager, Lead Town Planner, Planning Scheme Review
18 November 2011
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 129 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 7 (Continued) DEVELOPING OUR BOLD FUTURE PLANNING SCHEME – SUBMISSION OF DRAFT PLANNING SCHEME FOR CONSIDERATION OF STATE INTERESTS PD98/1132/01/09(P1)
Committee Recommendation Changed at Council 5 December 2011 Changed Recommendation COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION SC11.1129.007 moved Cr Young seconded Cr Robbins 1 That in accordance with Schedule 1, section (9)(1)(a) of the repealed Integrated
Planning Act 1997 Council resolves to propose a planning scheme and give the Minister for Local Government a copy of the proposed planning scheme.
2 That the Queensland Planning Provisions:
a Content;
b Part 1 About the planning scheme;
c Part 2 State planning provisions;
d Part 3 Strategic framework (endorsed under separate Council resolution);
e Part 4 Priority Infrastructure Plan;
f Part 5 Tables of assessment;
g Part 6 Zones;
h Part 8 Overlays;
i Part 9 Development codes;
j Part 10 Planning partnerships;
k Schedule 1 Definitions;
l Schedule 2 Mapping;
m Schedule 3 Priority infrastructure plan mapping and plans;
n Schedule 4 Notations required under the Sustainable Planning Act 2009;
o Schedule 5 Land designated for community infrastructure;
p Appendix 1 Index and glossary of abbreviations and acronyms; and
q Appendix 2 Table of amendments,
of the proposed planning scheme be endorsed to be forwarded to the Minister for Local Government for consideration of State interests subject to the following changes:
Table A Part 5 Tables of assessment
a ‘Emergency services’ be amended from Self assessment to Code assessment in the following zones:
i Rural residential;
ii Residential living;
iii Residential choice;
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 130 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 7 (Continued) DEVELOPING OUR BOLD FUTURE PLANNING SCHEME – SUBMISSION OF DRAFT PLANNING SCHEME FOR CONSIDERATION OF STATE INTERESTS PD98/1132/01/09(P1)
iv Apartment residential;
v Neighbourhood centre;
vi Environmental management;
vii Limited development; and
viii Township.
b ‘Shop’ be amended within the Rural zone as follows:
i Shop – Code assessment – if neighbourhood store or tourist shop and the GFA of the use does not exceed 150m²
c ‘Transport depot’ be included within the Rural zone as follows:
i Transport depot – Code assessment – if not more than 4 motor vehicles;
ii Transport depot – Impact assessment – if not elsewhere identified.
d ‘Transport depot’ be included within the Rural residential zone as follows:
i Transport depot – Code assessment – if not more than 2 motor vehicles;
ii Transport depot – Impact assessment – if not elsewhere identified.
e ‘Child care centre’ be amended within the Rural residential zone as follows:
i Child care centre – Code assessment – if not involving more than 35 children;
ii Child care centre – Impact assessment – if not elsewhere identified.
f ‘Office’ be amended within the Centre zone as follows:
i Office – Exempt – if in an existing building and not involving building work; and not involving a real estate agent.
g ‘Table 5.8.2 – Building work – Residential density’ within the Residential living and Township zones be amended as follows:
i Impact assessment – material change of use,
involving building work that exceeds one dwelling per 400m² of site area (excluding a secondary dwelling); or
exceeds the density for the site identified on Residential Density Overlay Map (excluding a secondary dwelling).
h ‘Educational establishment’ within the Centre zone be amended as follows:
i Educational establishment – Exempt – if,
in an existing building and not involving building work; and within a Principal activity centre or Surfers Paradise or Broadbeach Specialist activity centres.
ii Educational establishment – Self assessment – if,
in an existing building and involving minor building work; and within a Principal activity centre or Surfers Paradise or Broadbeach Specialist activity centres; or
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 131 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report ITEM 7 (Continued) DEVELOPING OUR BOLD FUTURE PLANNING SCHEME – SUBMISSION OF DRAFT PLANNING SCHEME FOR CONSIDERATION OF STATE INTERESTS PD98/1132/01/09(P1)
in an existing building and not involving building work, or involving minor building work; and within any other activity centre not elsewhere identified.
iii Educational establishment – Code assessment – if not elsewhere identified.
Part 8 Overlays
Extractive Resources Overlay Code “Precautionary Zone” be amended to a minimum of 250m separation distance.
Schedule 2 Mapping
a Properties in the Residential choice zone within the suburb of Pacific Pines be included in the Residential living zone, excluding lots where development has occurred, or has been approved, for 3 or more dwellings.
b The following allotments be removed from the Rural zone (Rural Landscape Precinct) and be included in the Environmental management zone:
5 RP847589; 9 SP106777; 8 SP106777; 169 RP210214; 125 RP94716; 1 RP195509; 2 RP195509; 128 RP94716; 129 RP94716; 130 RP94716; 131 RP94716; 132 RP94716; 1 RP148919; 3 RP148919; 135 RP94716; 694 SP174765; 690 RP850133; 100 RP850132; 2 RP847588; and 2 SP107097.
3 That the Director of Planning Environment & Transport be authorised to make minor amendments to the draft planning scheme prior to delivery to the Minister for Local Government.
4 That the Planning Scheme Review Councillor workshops be continued on a regular basis to continue to advance the development of the draft Planning Scheme.
5 That as part of the consideration of State interests process, Council seek advice from the Minister for Local Government on the appropriate process to transfer the existing content of the Coomera Town Centre Structure Plan into a compliant Queensland Planning Provisions planning scheme.
That this request emphasise the significant planning work that has recently been undertaken in the preparation of the document, and Council’s strong desire to avoid any repetition of process that would delay the master planning of the Coomera Town Centre where there is an urgent need for development of the area.
6 That Council write to the Minister for Local Government seeking advice on the progression of Amendment Package 7 to the Gold Coast Planning Scheme 2003, in light of Council’s resolution to propose a planning scheme and give the Minister a copy for consideration of State interests.
7 That electronic and hard copies of the draft planning scheme be made available for viewing through the city’s libraries and Customer Service Centres and electronic copies be available free of cost to residents upon request to the City Plan Unit, telephone (07) 5582 8683 or by email to [email protected].
CARRIED Councillor Pforr asked that his vote in the negative be recorded.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 132 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report
ITEM 7 (Continued) DEVELOPING OUR BOLD FUTURE PLANNING SCHEME – SUBMISSION OF DRAFT PLANNING SCHEME FOR CONSIDERATION OF STATE INTERESTS PD98/1132/01/09(P1) CHANGED AT COUNCIL 5 DECEMBER 2011 PROCEDURAL MOTION Moved Cr Pforr Seconded Cr Shepherd That debate on the amendment and the motion be adjourned until the first Council Meeting in 2012.
CARRIED
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 133 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report
Attachment 7.1
Attachment 1: Conversion of domains to zones.
Current Planning Scheme Draft Planning Scheme
Residential zones category
Detached Dwelling domain Residential Living zone
Residential Choice domain Residential Choice zone
Tourist and Residential domain Apartment Residential zone
Centre zones category
Integrated Business domain Centre zone
Local Business domain Neighbourhood Centre zone
Recreation zones category
Private Open Space domain Sport and Recreation zone Code
Public Open Space domain Open Space zone
Industry zones category
Industry 1 (high impact) domain Medium Impact Industry zone
Industry 2 (low impact) domain Low Impact Industry zone
Extractive Industry domain Extractive Industry zone
Marine Industry domain Waterfront and Marine Industry zone
Yatala LAP (Precinct 4 - Future Industry) Industry Investigation zone
Environmental zones category
Conservation domain Conservation zone
New zone Environmental Management zone
Other zones category
Rural domain Rural zone
Rural domain Rural zone (rural landscape precinct)
Park Living domain Rural Residential zone
Community Purposes domain Community Facilities zone
Emerging Communities domain Emerging Communities zone
New zone Limited Development (constrained land) zone
Fringe Business domain Mixed Use zone
Village (Mixed Use) domain Township zone Code
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 134 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report
Attachment 7.2
Attachment 2: Conversion of constraint codes to overlay codes
Current Planning Scheme Draft Planning Scheme
Development constraints category
Gold Coast Airport and Aviation Facilities Constraint Code
Airport Environs overlay
Bushfire Management Areas Constraint Code Bushfire Hazard overlay
Flood Affected Areas Constraint Code Flood Hazard overlay
Steep Slopes or Unstable Soils Constraint Code Landslide Hazard overlay
Character category
Cultural Heritage (Historic) Constraint Code Heritage (historic) overlay
Infrastructure category
Rail Corridor Environs Constraint Code Rail Corridor Environs overlay
Road Traffic Noise Management Constraint Code Road Traffic Noise Management overlay
Environment category
Nature Conservation Constraint Code;
Natural Wetland Areas and Natural Waterways Constraint Code
Dam Catchment Areas Constraint Code
Nature Conservation overlay
Natural resources category
Canals and Waterways Constraint Code Canals and Waterways overlay
Ocean Front Land Constraint Code Ocean Front Land overlay
Draft Extractive Resources Constraint Code (Amendment Package 7)
Extractive Resources overlay
No current equivalent – provisions are found in various Specific Development Codes
Future Water Innovations overlay
No current equivalent – provisions are found in various Specific Development Codes
Good Quality Agricultural Land overlay
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 135 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report
Attachment 7.3
Attachment 3: Conversion of specific development codes to development codes.
Current Planning Scheme Draft Planning Scheme
Advertising Devices Specific Development Code Advertising devices code
Brothels Specific Development Code Brothel code
Changes to Ground Level and Creation of New Waterbodies Specific Development Code
Change to ground level and creation of new waterways code
Child Care Centres Code Child care centre code
No current equivalent Citywide code
Office Specific Development Code;
Retail and Related Establishments Specific Development Code
Commercial design code
Sediment and Erosion Control Constraint Code Healthy waters code
Working From Home Specific Development Code;
Bed & Breakfast Tourist Accommodation Specific Development Code
Farm Stay Specific Development Code
Home based business code
Landscape Work Specific Development Code Landscape work code
Unsewered Land Constraint Code On-site sewerage facilities code
Current Draft Plot Ratio Amendment Package incorporating Plot Ratio Constraint Code
Plot ratio code
Reconfiguring a Lot Specific Development Code Reconfiguring a lot code
Caretaker’s Residences Specific Development Code
Aged Persons Accommodation Specific Development Code
Attached Dwellings and Medium Density Detached Dwellings Specific Development Code
Family Accommodation Specific Development Code;
High Rise Residential and Tourist Accommodation Specific Development Code
Low Rise Apartment Building Specific Development Code
Relocatable Homes Specific Development Code.
Residential design code
Animal Husbandry Specific Development Code
Aquaculture Specific Development Code
Kennels Specific Development Code
Rural Industry Specific Development Code
Rural activity code
Display Homes and Estate Sales Offices Specific Development Code
Sales office code
Service Stations Specific Development Code Service station code
No current equivalent Small lot house code
No current equivalent Social and health impact assessment code
Surf Life Saving Clubs Specific Development Code
Surf life saving club code
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 136 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report
Attachment 7.4
Current Planning Scheme Draft Planning Scheme
Telecommunications Facilities Specific Development Code
Telecommunications and broadcasting facilities code
Temporary Use Specific Development Code Temporary use code
Tourist Cabins Specific Development Code; and Caravan Parks Specific Development Code
Tourist park code
Car Parking, Access and Transport Integration Constraint Code
Transport Code
Currently Vegetation Management Specific Development Code
Vegetation management code
Works for Infrastructure Specific Development Code
Works for infrastructure code
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 137 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report
Attachment 7.5
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 138 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report
Attachment 7.6
There being no further business the meeting closed at 3.30pm.
625th Council Meeting 5 December 2011 139 Sustainable City Future Committee Meeting 29 November 2011 Adopted Report
These Pages
Numbered 1 to 139
Constitute The Adopted Report Of The Meeting
Of The Sustainable City Future Committee
Held Tuesday, 29 November 2011