review of environmental factors - hornsby shire · 2013. 2. 4. · 1. introduction council proposes...

Review of Environmental Factors

for

Identification Signage to

Hornsby Aquatic Centre

Prepared by Parks and Recreation Team

Hornsby Shire Council

December 2012

Contents

1. Introduction

2. Background

3. Description of the Development

4. Statutory Planning Considerations

5. Environmental Impact Assessment

6. Conclusions

Statutory and Environmental Planning Considerations

7. The existing Environment

8. Environmental Impacts of the proposed activity

9. Proposed Environmental Safeguards

10. Disposal of Waste and Surplus Materials

11. Views opinions and approvals of other authorities

12. Funding

13. Consultation

14. Details of persons who prepared the REF/Part V Assessment

15. Conclusions and Recommendations

16. Details of persons approving/endorsing this REF

17. Planning Review

Attachment 1 – Plans

Attachment 2 – Heritage Impact Assessment

Attachment 3 – Visual Assessment of the proposed sign

1. Introduction

Council proposes the development of signage to assist in identifying the Hornsby Aquatic Centre in Hornsby

Park. This Review of Environmental Factors (REF) has been prepared to explain the scope of the proposal

and put forward the case for why these works are required.

This REF is to be read in conjunction with the submitted plans, the Heritage Impact Assessment and the

Visual Impact Assessment.

2. Background

a. Location

The site is legally described as Lot 7306 within DP 1157797, known as Hornsby Park, which is a

Crown Reserve, with Hornsby Shire Council the Trustee. The allotment is located on the western

side of the Pacific Highway, Hornsby with a frontage extending from opposite the intersection with

Coronation Street north to the Hornsby TAFE site, as shown in Figure 1 below. The total site is

irregular but essentially rectangular in shape with an area of about 16.7 hectares, a frontage of about

168m to the Pacific Highway and a maximum depth of about 1 kilometre.

Figure 1: Hornsby Park location

The works that are the subject of this application apply only to a portion of the site, being the area on

the Pacific Highway frontage north of the intersection with Coronation Street.

b. Zoning

The site is zoned Open Space A under the Hornsby Shire Local Environment Plan.

Hornsby Park

Hornsby

Station

Sign

location

c. Existing Landscape

The site is located within Hornsby Park, a portion of which was originally dedicated as a government

Recreation Reserve in 1896. The majority of the land which comprises the park is largely

undeveloped, other than some access roads through the central portion of the park and the

developed park frontage closest to the Pacific Highway.

The key elements of the developed park include a formalised landscape treatment established in the

1930’s comprising axial pathways, avenues of trees, stone walls and focal points such as pergolas.

Recently development approval was granted for a new Hornsby Aquatic Centre to replace the now

demolished former aquatic centre. The new aquatic centre is being developed some 40 metres back

from the park frontage behind the established landscape of garden beds to the Pacific Highway

frontage; open grasslands dominated by large mature Turpentine trees; and formal pathways.

The park is located at the north-western edge of the Hornsby Town Centre, generally within a Civic

Precinct of key community services that include the post office, police station court house and

Council chambers and Hornsby Tafe. Bushland adjoins the site to the west and residential

development occurs to the south west.

3. Description of the Development

The scope of works which comprise the development application includes:

a. The construction of identification signage for the new Hornsby Aquatic Centre (HAC); and

b. Landscape works associated with the sign setting.

The proposal is to develop a vertical sign that draws strong reference to the architecture of the HAC and the

heritage character of Hornsby Park, by utilising common materials, construction methods and references to

the architecture and the park. The sign design visually links with the HAC architecture, to ensure that it

contributes to the wayfinding experience of people making their way to the aquatic centre.

Sign Design

The proposed sign rises some 8.0 metres above the ground and is 2.5 metres wide at the top and 1.25

metres wide at the base. It is a two sided sign that addresses people and vehicles approaching from both the

north and south. It is located on the park frontage in a position where it is clearly visible in long views from

both directions. The sign is positioned within a planted garden area that extends along most of the frontage

of the park.

The sign has been sized to ensure it responds to the scale of the park and its setting. The 160 metre long

park frontage and setting back of the HAC some 40 metres from the road, mean that there is a need to

create a recognisable marker on the park frontage. The sizing of the structure also relates to the need to be

able to read messages on the sign from some distance.

Relationship with the Developed Park

A series of sandstone walls, ramps and stairs are to be developed under approved plans for the HAC that

include the establishment of a new southern pedestrian entry into the park that leads to the HAC entry

forecourt. The approved southern entry has been designed to complement other existing entry points on the

park frontage and enhances the user experience. It will reinforce the users understanding of key historic

elements of the park, including the north-south, east-west and curved paths, existing sandstone treatments

at the northern and central entry points and the pergolas that are arranged along a key north south oriented

path and park frontage.

The proposed sign is located within a planted landscape that extends along the entire Pacific Highway

frontage. It is intended to rise out of this planted setting adjacent to a sandstone wall that links to works

associated with the approved southern park entry.

The planted median and dominant vegetated character of the park frontage set the character of this ‘Civic

Precinct’ of Hornsby Town Centre, providing a visual experience of the park extending into the road reserve.

Existing trees within the park rise to a height well above the proposed sign providing a solid vegetated

backdrop. The distinctive historic Turpentine plantings located within the developed park are typically 12-17

metres high and 11-18 metres wide and there is also a strong vegetated backdrop of exotic and native trees

and bushland. Cumulatively the trees and bush backdrop set a strong character to the park and ensure that

the proposed sign structure is sized to be legible from the Pacific Highway carriageway. A smaller scale sign

would not achieve an appropriate level of legibility.

Development approval of the Hornsby Aquatic Centre

Development Approval (DA/1129/2011) was recently granted for the development of a new three (3) level

aquatic centre including basement carparking; a new driveway access adjacent to the southern boundary of

the park and connecting to the Coronation Street intersection; associated site works, tree removals, drainage

works and landscaping.

This approval includes a requirement to undertake landscape works immediately south of the proposed sign

location that includes the development of pedestrian ramps, stairs and paths on the Pacific Highway frontage

of Hornsby Park. An implication of the approval of these works is the requirement to remove the existing

sandstone bus shelter, Magnolia (T14) and adjacent Angophora tree (T13).

An evaluation of alternative vehicle access options for the Hornsby Aquatic Centre that supported the

application requires the works to be completed in accordance with a plan titled Hornsby Aquatic Centre

Option 1 Vehicular Entry / Egress, Evaluation of Potential Parkland Impact, Drawing No. LA-01. This plan is

attached as Figure 2 and shows the scope of landscape works to be completed within the park area.

A further aspect of the approval of the HAC is the need to provide signage that can advise the public when

the carpark is full. This signage needs to be legible for cars approaching the site from both the north and

south.

Figure 2: Copy of plan that identifies the scope of improvements to the park as approved under the Hornsby

Aquatic Centre DA/1129/2011.

4. Statutory Planning Considerations

a. Overview

The proposal is to develop a sign that assists users in finding the HAC and is compliant with relevant

Environmental Planning Instruments. The below discussion identifies key documents and how the

proposal responds to their requirements.

b. Crown Lands Act 1989

The Act is relevant as Hornsby Park is a Crown Reserve under the ownership of the Department of

Lands. Hornsby Shire Council acts as Trust Manager for the Park.

The objects of this Act are to ensure that Crown Land is managed for the benefit of the people of

NSW. The Act also makes provision for protection of the environment within Crown Reserves.

The proposal to develop building identification signage on the park frontage is ancillary to the already

approved HAC development. The development of this key identification marker for the aquatic centre

is expected to have minimal impact on the natural resources of the park, due to it being sited within a

large area of developed parkland. Measures to address sediment and erosion control, management

of the construction activity and re-landscaping of the area impacted by the works will be in place

before construction commences. The aim of these measures is to ensure the construction does not

create adverse environmental impacts.

c. Hornsby Shire LEP

The site is zoned ‘Open Space A (Public Recreation – Local)’ under the Hornsby Shire Local

Environment Plan 1994 (HSLEP). The proposed development is ancillary to the use of the site as a

park and a community facility. The recent approval of the Hornsby Aquatic Centre (DA/1129/2011)

confirms that the development of a community facility is permissible on this land.

Clause 6 of the Hornsby Shire LEP identifies a number of savings provisions. In particular under

subclause 3 Development may be carried out by or on behalf of Council for the purposes of the

following may be carried out on any land without development consent:

(d) installation or maintenance of park furniture including seats, picnic tables, barbecue

units and shelters, awnings and shade structures, gazebos and pergolas, bollards,

playground equipment, flag poles, bridges, staircases, boardwalks, lighting

(excluding ovals, tennis courts and the like), Council information signs;

The HSLEP identifies in Clause 18 heritage provisions that apply to the subject site, as it is located

within a heritage item listed in schedule D and a heritage conservation area shown in Schedule E of

the HSLEP.

Clause 18 (5) identifies the requirement of the Council to …take into consideration the likely effect of

the proposed development on the heritage significance of a heritage item and its setting, and on the

heritage significance of a heritage conservation area, archaeological site or potential archaeological

site…

The site is identified in Schedule D of the HSLEP as a heritage site of regional significance.

Schedule E of the HSLEP also identifies the site as a part of a Heritage Conservation Area. An

assessment of the Heritage Impacts of the development proposal is included in support of this

development application (See Attachment 2).

As the sign’s purpose is to provide for the identification of the Aquatic Centre and the information

panel is to provide information relating to the operation of the centre, it is considered that the

development of the sign does not require development consent. A Heritage Impact Assessment

prepared by the Heritage Consultants Weir Phillips Architects has been prepared indicating how the

proposal is expected to impact on the heritage significance of the site.

d. Development Control Plan – Heritage

The purpose of this Plan is to manage heritage and outline specific controls for development relating

to heritage items and heritage conservation areas. An assessment of heritage issues prepared by

the Heritage Consultant Weir Phillips Architects is attached to this statement (See Attachment 2).

e. Development Control Plans – Outdoor Advertising and Hornsby Town Centre

Under the DCP for Outdoor Advertising the construction of signage is permitted within Open Space

A zonings with Consent, where the signs are identified as ancillary to the approved use of the

premises. As the proposed sign is directly linked to the approved HAC it is considered the

development of this sign is permissible.

The type of sign as described in this application does not strictly fall within the range of signs

described by the specific controls in the DCP. The closest form of sign described in the DCP is a

pole or pylon sign. The DCP requires that this type of sign shall:

1. Have a maximum area of 4.5 square metres

2. Shall not be more than a maximum of 8 metres above the ground

3. Where illuminated may require a timer to be fitted to extinguish illumination

between specified hours

4. Shall not be less than 2.6 metres above the ground

The DCP – Outdoor Advertising also makes reference to the provisions of the Hornsby Town Centre

DCP and the controls that apply to Precinct 1, which includes Hornsby Park and adjoining lands. The

controls that apply to this area of land require that signs should be limited to one free standing sign

per allotment in the front setback area with a maximum area of 3m2. The controls also require that

where possible signs should be incorporated into the architecture of the building or on purpose made

structures which relate to the style and materials of the building.

The characteristics of the sign as described in this application are that it:

Will rise to approximately 8.0 metres height

Is a purpose made structure set in a landscape setting that has strong references to the

architecture of the HAC and the heritage character of the park.

Has a message content that includes an electronic LED panel capable of displaying a

variable message and ‘Hornsby Aquatic Centre’ lettering that collectively cover an area of

approximately 3m2.

The ‘Hornsby Aquatic Centre’ lettering in the sign will be illuminated and the Digital LED

variable message sign will be connected to a timer that will extinguish illumination when the

HAC is closed to the public.

The design of the proposed sign has carefully considered the landscape setting of the site. The

location, sizing and orientation are all organised to ensure the sign contributes to assist the public in

finding the HAC while also complementing the heritage park setting by use of sympathetic and

similar materials.

An important aspect of the Digital LED variable message sign is its ability to inform HAC visitors of

any temporary interruptions to arrangements including a requirement that the parking management

is linked to a ‘Carpark Full’ display that is visible from the park frontage.

f. State Environmental Planning Policy No 64: Advertising and Signage

SEPP 64 is primarily directed at the control of advertising signage development. It does however

apply to a wider variety of signs including building identification and information signage of the type

identified in this proposal.

The key parts of SEPP 64 that are relevant to this proposal are the Schedule 1 Assessment Criteria

identified in the Environmental Planning Instrument. The following is a discussion of the proposal

and how it responds to these criteria:

1. Character of the area

The proposal is compatible with the existing or desired future character of the area as it has

been designed with strong references to the HAC building architecture and the existing

character of the developed Hornsby Park. The proposal builds on the theme of the approved

architecture within the park and the locality.

2. Special areas

As indicated in the attached Heritage Impact Statement the proposal is not considered to detract

from the amenity or visual quality of the area.

3. Views and vistas

The proposal does not obscure or compromise important views or dominate the skyline and

reduce the quality of vistas. The proposal does not impact on the viewing rights of other

advertisers as it does not contain any advertising and there is no advertising within the

immediate area (although advertising is present within approximately 50m of the sign location).

4. Streetscape, setting or landscape

The signage proposal responds appropriately to the streetscape, setting and landscape in terms

of its scale, proportion and form as indicated in the visual assessment that has been prepared. It

also contributes to increase visual interest in the streetscape and setting.

The proposal is neutral in terms of any potential impact on visual clutter as it does not include

advertising elements and the site area is devoid of advertising. The proposal is located in an

area that is attractive and does not contain unsightly elements. The visual assessment confirms

that the proposal will not protrude above buildings, structures or tree canopies in the area or

locality. The proposal does not require ongoing vegetation management as it is carefully sited in

a position where there is a gap in tree cover.

5. Site and building

The proposal is compatible with the scale, proportion and other characteristics of the site as

demonstrated by the visual assessment and the discussion in this statement. The proposal does

respect important features of the site as indicated in the Heritage Impact Assessment. The

proposal reflects an innovative and imaginative response to the site through the provision of an

attractive form, scale and style that makes appropriate references to the building architecture.

6. Associated devices and logos

The sign does not require any special safety devices or platforms. The lighting of the sign and

incorporation of the Hornsby Shire Council logo has been designed as an integral and subtle

part of the signage structure.

7. Illumination

Illumination has been incorporated into the sign as it needs to be legible in the evenings when

the aquatic is open. The illumination is subtle and limited to the backlighting of the ‘Hornsby

Aquatic Centre lettering and the LED message panel, both of which will not contribute glare. The

sign has been carefully located to ensure it contributes to assist the public in finding their way to

the aquatic centre. It is therefore not expected to affect safety for pedestrians, vehicles or

aircraft. The sign is not expected to be visible from any residence and will therefore not detract

from their amenity. The intensity of the illumination of the LED panel is expected to be adjusted

to be less bright at night. It is expected that the illumination will be turned off when the centre

closes at approximately 10pm.

8. Safety

The proposal is not expected to reduce the safety for any public road, pedestrian or cyclist as it

is sited well back from the carriageway in an area where the streetscape opens up to a wider

view. It will not reduce sightlines into the park as it has been carefully designed as a vertical

element to ensure sightlines into and out of the park remain clear and open.

5. Environmental Impact Assessment

The following is an assessment of the key planning matters for consideration as required under the

Environmental Planning and Assessment Act:

1. Context and setting

The sign location has been carefully determined following an evaluation of view lines for visitors

approaching the park from both the north and south. This evaluation considers both pedestrian and

vehicle views.

A series of photographs are presented in Attachment 3 that explain the sign size and how prominent

it will be in views. The photographs also demonstrate why it is important that the sign structure is

placed in the selected location.

The large scale of the setting means that for the sign to be visible when approaching, particularly in a

car, it needs to have appropriate sized lettering and be of a scale that is legible.

2. Public domain

The proposal will result in a positive public domain outcome as a consequence of:

Improvements to the visual prominence of the HAC by clearly identifying that the centre

is located nearby.

The design of the sign ensures clear views into the park from the Pacific Highway are

retained.

The sign design has been carefully developed to have strong references to the Aquatic

Centre building architecture and heritage character of the park while also focusing on

ensuring the sign is placed in such a way as to be visible for vehicle traffic approaching

the park.

3. Heritage

An assessment of the heritage implications of the proposal has been prepared by the consultant

Weir Phillips Pty Ltd and is attached to this statement (See Attachment 2).

4. Soils, flora and fauna

The sign is located within developed parkland and is not expected to have any sort of adverse

impact on flora and fauna of the locality due to it being remote to the bushland that occurs within

Hornsby Park. For this reason it is not considered necessary or appropriate to complete any specific

flora and fauna assessments.

5. Trees

A Tree Assessment and Audit was prepared by Growing My Way Tree Services in support of the

HAC redevelopment. It identified a number of trees that are required to be removed as a

consequence of the works and a copy of this assessment is attached to this application (See

Attachment 4).

In addition to the trees identified for removal in this document, the approved landscape works for the

HAC require the removal of an additional mature Angophora costata (number T13) as this tree is

adversely impacted by the development of pedestrian ramps in this area.

6. Safety, security and crime prevention

The proposed sign will contribute to improve safety, security and crime prevention by improving the

public understanding of where the HAC can be found within the park. It will also improve access

arrangements for visitors to the HAC by allowing improved communication advising when the

carpark is full. The sign is designed to be tall and slender to ensure it is easy to see past and it does

not limit views across and into the open parkland.

The sign design complements other approved works for the park associated with the HAC, which

have been carefully arranged to ensure there are clear views across and through the park and

towards the park entry. The previously approved works under the HAC Development Approval

(DA/1129/2011) include approval to remove the existing Magnolia Tree (T14) and Angophora

Costata (T13) and the removal of the existing sandstone bus shelter in this area.

7. Social and economic impacts

The proposed sign will contribute an improved understanding of the location of the new HAC which

will in turn assist its commercial viability.

8. Site design

Careful consideration has been given to the site design of the proposal which has included

consideration of:

The scale of the setting including the wide Pacific Highway streetscape, the long park

frontage that contrasts with the built form of the adjoining town centre, the dominance of

large trees and landscape plantings within the park area ;

View lines from the north and south along the Pacific Highway towards the park;

The proposed access arrangements to the new aquatic centre for both pedestrians and

vehicles, focused on new southern entries to be developed under approved plans for the

HAC;

The approved design of a new southern pedestrian entry that shall include sandstone walls,

stairs and ramps immediately south of the proposed sign;

The position of the sign within a planted garden area;

Sizing the lettering of the sign to ensure it is clearly readable from a distance of at least 50

metres; and

The sign having a colour scheme and design that draws strong reference to the architectural

design of the HAC.

9. Construction works

The construction of the sign will be coordinated to coincide with approved landscape hard and soft

works that are to occur on the park frontage. The approved landscape works include concrete

pavements and sandstone wall elements that will be extended to include the base of the sign.

Council has a stockpile of retained sandstone from the recent demolition of the CWA building that is

intended to be used in the park walls.

The sign itself will be fabricated off-site before being installed into a prepared concrete foundation.

It is expected that the landscape works will proceed in 2013 over approximately 3 to 6 months. The

works to construct the sign are expected to provide minimal disruption as they will occur over a

relatively short period within this time frame.

6. Conclusions

The proposal to develop an Identification sign for the Hornsby Aquatic Centre extends from the need to

ensure people can find the centre. The location of the approved Aquatic Centre development well back from

the street frontage means that there is a need to provide a marker in the park frontage to assist in finding the

centre.

This REF provides a comprehensive assessment of the proposal against all applicable Environmental

Planning Instruments. The development has been found to be compliant in relation to the planning controls

and it is appropriate for approval to be dealt with by the exhibition of a Review of Environmental Factors.

Potential for environmental impacts relate to the following matters:

Visual impact on the character of the park.

Conflicts with the heritage objectives of the park

The plans and details contained in this application demonstrate that the proposed sign responds

appropriately to the above and all other relevant matters for consideration.

7. THE EXISTING ENVIRONMENT

Describe the existing environment prior to the proposed activity occurring

7.1) Site description /Current Landuse

See notes above in Sections 2 and 3.

7.2) National/State/Regional/Local Conservation significance YES NO

Does the site have conservation significance or impact on an

Area of conservation significance?

7.3) The Natural Environment YES NO

7.3.3) Geology, geomorphology and geological sites

Is the site geology a significant factor?

7.3.4) Soil type(s)

What is the soil type/is it a significant factor in the activity?

7.3.5) Plants (including presence of ROTAPs, threatened species/ populations

communities/ habitats. See also sections 6.5 to 6.8)

What is the vegetation present and will the proposal disturb vegetation?

The proposal impacts on an area of developed parkland.

Are there any threatened species/populations/communities/critical habitats/ ROTAN species or

species/vegetation of conservation significance?

7.3.6) Animals (including presence of threatened species/ populations/

communities/ habitats)

What are the fauna species present and will the proposal disturb fauna habitat?

The proposal will not impact on any native fauna species.

Are there any threatened fauna species/populations/communities/critical habitats or fauna species of

conservation significance?

7.3.7) Water Catchments/Water quality

Is there any water quality or catchment issues to consider on the site?

7.3.8) Exotic Species - presence and extent

Are there any weeds or feral animals on the site? If so what?

7.3.9) Fire - history, hazards

Is there any fire history or hazards applicable for the site?

The park includes bushfire prone lands however a large Asset Protection Zone is established between the

edge of the bushland and the proposed sign development.

7.3.10) Areas sensitive because of physical / biological factors

Are there any sensitive features of the site which requires consideration?

7.3.11) Land contamination

Is the site affected by land contamination?

7.3.12) Other (specify any other environmental factor)

Are there any other features or considerations present on the site?

7.4) The Cultural Environment

YES NO

7.4.1) Known and potential Aboriginal Sites / Places of cultural significance

to Aboriginal community

Are there any Aboriginal heritage considerations?

(The Heritage Planner can be consulted with regard to known Aboriginal sites and the procedures for

archaeological surveys and consulting the Metropolitan Land Council).

7.4.2) Known and potential historic places or relics

Are there any European heritage considerations?

(Heritage items and Heritage Conservation Areas are listed in the HSLEP and also notified on the relevant

COL applications. Consultation should occur with the Heritage Planner if the proposal may affect a heritage

item or is within a heritage conservation area).

Hornsby Park is listed as a Heritage Item. A Heritage Impact Statement is attached.

7.4.3) Collective values of landscape

Are there any cultural or historic features of the landscape?

Hornsby Park is listed as a Heritage Item. A Heritage Impact Statement is attached.

7.4.4) Description of built environment

What is the built environment /are there any considerations necessary?

See Sections 2, 3, 4 and 5 of this statement for details of considerations and responses.

7.4.5) Other (specify any other cultural factor)

7.5) The Social Environment - current usage and impacts

7.5.1) Recreation

Are there currently recreational aspects to consider?

The site is used as a developed town park and an aquatic centre is currently under construction. The

proposed development complements and enhances these uses.

7.5.2) Scenic / Visual

Are there currently recreational aspects to consider?

A visual assessment has been prepared.

7.5.3) Education

Are there any current educational uses to consider?

7.5.4) Scientific Sites

Are there currently scientific uses on the site to consider?

7.5.6) Other (specify)

Are there any other social uses on the site to consider?

8. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS OF THE PROPOSED ACTIVITY

Answer Yes or No indicating if the proposed activity will have an impact on the environment. If the answer is

yes, qualify the level of impact and add information on the type and extent of the impact. Indicate if the

impact will be beneficial or harmful to the environment

Include whether the impact will be temporary, long term, or cumulative in nature.

Physical or pollution impacts

YES NO

8.1) Air Impacts

8.1.1) air quality

If Yes, Will that impact be High Medium Low

8.1.2) greenhouse or ozone considerations


8.1.3) any other air impacts


8.2) Water impacts

8.2.1) impacts from changes in surface or groundwater quality


8.2.2) impacts from use of water


YES NO

8.2.3) impacts from changes to natural water bodies, wetlands or runoff patterns


8.2.4) impacts from changes to flooding or tidal regimes


8.2.5) impacts from changes in water quality with economic, health, ecosystem

or amenity considerations e.g. salinity, colour, odour, turbidity, temperature,

dissolved oxygen, nutrients, pH factors or pollutants (intentional or

unintentional releases of oil, fuels, toxins - including heavy metals and

anti-foulants, spoil, sediment, sewage or other waste)


8.2.6) Other impacts from waste water generation and sewage services


8.2.7) Are there any other possible impacts to water as a result

of the activity?


8.3) Soil and stability impacts

8.3.1) degradation of soil quality including contamination (intentional

or unintentional)


8.3.2) salinisation, acidification


8.3.3) loss of soil from wind or water erosion


8.3.4) loss of structural integrity of the soil


8.3.5) increased land instability with high risks from landslides or subsidence


8.3.6) impacts from on-site waste water disposal


8.3.7) other

YES NO

8.4) Noise and vibration impacts

8.4.1) results in increased noise or vibrations to unacceptable levels for

the surrounding communities


8.4.2) affects sensitive properties (educational, hospitals, residential, heritage)


8.4.3) other

Biological Impacts

8.5) Fauna Impacts

8.5.1) any impacts upon or displacement of fauna species (including animals,

birds, frogs, reptiles, insects, fish or crustaceans)


8.5.2) any reduction of critical habitat of any unique, threatened or endangered

fauna (within the meaning of the NP&W Act 1974)


8.5.3) impacts which create significant barriers to fauna movement


8.5.4) any other impacts

8.6) Flora Impacts

8.6.1) any impact on flora species (including trees, shrubs, grasses, herbs or

aquatic plants.)


8.6.2) impacts from the clearing or modifying of extensive areas of

relatively undisturbed native vegetation or wetlands



8.7) Ecological Impacts

8.7.1) any threat to the biological diversity or ecological integrity of species

or communities


8.7.2) any barrier to the normal replenishment or revegetation of existing

species following disturbance


YES NO

8.7.3) impacts from the introduction of noxious weeds, vermin, feral

species or diseases or releases genetically modified organisms.


8.7.4) impacts from the uses of pesticides, herbicides, fertilisers or other

chemicals which may build up residues in the environment


8.7.5) Bushfire risk impacts



8.8 Threatened Species Considerations

- is the activity likely to affect any threatened species, populations or ecological communities, or their

habitats the following Assessment of Significance under section 5A of the EP&A Act is required.

Section 5A subsection 1 states that each of the factors in subsection 2 must be taken into account in

deciding whether there is likely to be a significant effect on threatened species, populations or ecological

communities, or their habitats, and any assessment guidelines.

If YES and threatened species are likely to occur on the site: Consult the Bushland and Biodiversity

Team for advice and a list of appropriate flora and fauna consultants.

(Note: A Species Impact Statement (SIS) is required if an activity is on land that is, or is part of critical

habitat; or there is likely to be a significant effect as determined under s.5A of the EP&A Act, the seven part

assessment of significance).

Critical habitat: the whole or any part or parts of the area or areas of land comprising the habitat of an

endangered species, population or ecological community that is critical to the survival of the species,

population or ecological community.

Significant impact: if the Assessment of Significance determines that a there will be a significant effect on

threatened species, populations or ecological communities, or their habitats a SIS will be required.

Assessment guidelines means assessment guidelines issued and in force under section 94A of the

Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 or, subject to section 5C, section 220ZZA of the Fisheries

Management Act 1994.

Key threatening process means a threatening process specified in Schedule 3 of the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 or, subject to section 5C, Part 7A of the Fisheries Management Act 1994.

Section 5A EP&A Act – Assessment of Significance

Subsection 2

a) in the case of a threatened species, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse effect on the life cycle of the species such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction,

No

b) in the case of an endangered population, whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse effect on the life cycle of the species that constitutes the endangered population such that a viable local population of the species is likely to be placed at risk of extinction,

No

c) in the case of an endangered ecological community or critically endangered ecological community, whether the action proposed: i) is likely to have an adverse effect on the extent of the ecological community such that its local

occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction, or ii) is likely to substantially and adversely modify the composition of the ecological community such that

its local occurrence is likely to be placed at risk of extinction? No

d) in relation to the habitat of a threatened species, population or ecological community: i) the extent to which habitat is likely to be removed or modified as a result of the action proposed, and ii) whether an area of habitat is likely to be come fragmented or isolated from other areas of habitat as

a result of the proposed action, and iii) the importance of the habitat to be removed, modified, fragmented or isolated to the long-term

survival of the species, population or ecological community in the locality? No e) whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse effect on critical habitat (either directly or

indirectly)? No

f) whether the action proposed is consistent with the objectives or actions of a recovery plan or threat abatement plan?

No

g) whether the action proposed constitutes or is part of a key threatening process or is likely to result in the operation of, or increase the impact of, a key threatening process?

No

Resource Use Impacts

8.9) Community resources

8.9.1) any significant increase in the demand for services and infrastructure

resources including roads, power, water supply and drainage, waste

(including sewage) management, education, medical and social services

If Yes, Will that demand be High Medium Low

8.9.2) any significant resource recycling or reuse schemes to reduce resource

usage

If Yes, Will that be High Medium Low

8.9.3) any diversion of resources to the detriment of other communities or

natural systems

If Yes, Will the impact be High Medium Low

YES NO

8.9.4) any degradation of infrastructure such as roads, bridges


8.9.5) any other impacts on community resources

8.10) Natural resources

8.10.1) any disruption or destruction of natural resources (e.g. fish habitat or

fish species) with impacts on industries based on these resources

If Yes, Will the impact be High Medium Low

8.10.2) any disruption of existing activities (or reduction of options for future

options) because of the natural resource demands of the proposal.

If Yes, Will those disruptions be High Medium Low

8.10.3) any use which results in the wasteful use of large amounts of natural

resources

If Yes, Will that wastage be High Medium Low

8.10.4) any use which results in the substantial depletion of natural resources

If Yes, Will the depletion be High Medium Low

8.10.5) any use which results in the degradation of any area reserved for

conservation purposes

If Yes, Will the degradation be High Medium Low

8.10.6) any other impacts on natural resources

Community Impacts

8.11) Social factors

8.11.1) any impacts which result in a change in the community’s demographic

structure

If Yes, Will that change be High Medium Low

8.11.2) any environmental impacts that may cause substantial change or

disruption to the community (loss of neighbour cohesion, access to

facilities, links to other communities, community identity or cultural

character)


8.11.3) any impacts which result in some individuals or communities being

significantly disadvantaged


YES NO

8.11.4) any impacts on the health, safety, security, privacy, or welfare of

individuals or communities because of factors such as:-

- air pollution or odour

- noise, vibration, blasting, electromagnetic fields or radiation

- release of disease or genetically modified organisms

- lighting, overshadowing or visual impacts


8.11.5) any impacts that result in a change in the level of demand for community

resources (e.g. facilities, services and labour force)


8.11.6) any other social impacts

8.12) Economic factors

8.12.1) any impacts which result in a decrease to net economic welfare


8.12.2) any impacts that result in a direct cost to the community or individuals


8.12.3) any impacts that result in a decrease in the community’s economic

stability


8.12.4) any impacts which result in a change to the public sector revenue or

expenditure base


8.12.5) any other economic impacts

8.13) Heritage, aesthetic, cultural impacts

8.13.1) any impacts on a locality, place, building or natural landmark having

aesthetic, anthropological, archaeological, architectural, cultural,

historical, scientific, recreational, scenic or social significance or

other special value for present or future generations


See attached Heritage Impact Statement.

8.13.2) any impacts from new lighting, glare or shadows


8.13.3) any other heritage, aesthetic or cultural impacts

8.14) Land use impacts

YES NO

8.14.1) any major changes in land use


8.14.2) any curtailment of other beneficial issues


8.14.3) any property value impacts with land use implications


8.14.4) any other land use impacts

8.15) Transportation impacts (during construction and operation)

8.15.1) substantial impacts on existing transportation systems (rail, water,

road, air or pedestrian - both public and private), altering

present patterns of circulation, modal split or movement of people

and/or goods

If Yes, Will those impacts be High Medium Low

8.15.2) directly or indirectly encourages additional traffic

a) during construction


b) during operation


8.15.3) increases demand for parking (off and on street including residential

areas)

If Yes, Will those demands be High Medium Low

8.15.4) any other impacts on transport or traffic

9. PROPOSED ENVIRONMENTAL SAFEGUARDS

Describe measures to ameliorate impacts (e.g. Erosion and Sediment Control Plan (ESCP) or Soils and Waste Management Plan (SWMP), and measures to protect flora and fauna.

Include maps, diagrams, photographs, plans and supporting information.

A plan of the land to which the application relates must accompany the REF indicating the following,

on or adjacent to the land:

- the location and design of the proposal

- a vegetation map (if applicable)

- any areas of conservation significance

- the location of any easements

- the location and use of any existing buildings and infrastructure; and

- any other relevant information

See Attachment 1 plans.

10. DISPOSAL OF WASTE AND SURPLUS MATERIALS

10.1) Description of material and quantities

The sign will be manufactured off-site. Minor excavation will be required to build footings and the excavated

material will remain on-site and reused.

10.2) Destination approved for all waste and surplus materials

11. VIEWS/OPINIONS/APPROVALS OF OTHER AUTHORITIES

As the works are wholly contained with a public reserve and do not impact on any other authorities, no

approvals of other authorities has been sought.

12. FUNDING

Please identify the source (Special Rates, Grants, Revenue, Donations, In-kind, Developer, Contributions)

The funding source is Special Rate Variation funds.

13. CONSULTATION

Does the project require consultation with any of the following authorities or internal teams?

Authority Consultation required Consultation

occurred

NSW Agriculture yes no yes no

Hawkesbury Nepean Catchment Management

Authority

yes no yes no

Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Natural

Resources (formerly DLWC, Dept of Urban Affairs and

Planning

yes no yes no

NSW Fisheries yes no yes no

Department of Environment and Conservation yes no yes no

Roads and Traffic Authority

Local Development Advisory Committee

Regional Development Advisory Committee

yes no yes no

NSW Health yes no yes no

NSW Fire Brigades yes no yes no

WorkCover Authority yes no yes no

Electricity Supply Authority (Trans Grid, Energy

Australia, Integral Energy)

yes no yes no

State Rail Authority / City Rail yes no yes no

NSW Waterways (MSB) yes no yes no

NSW Forestry Commission yes no yes no

Police Department yes no yes no

Department of Commerce (formerly Dept of Public

Works)

yes no yes no

Department of Mineral Resources yes no yes no

Department of Environment and Conservation yes no yes no

Sydney Water yes no yes no

Community Organisations / Committees yes no yes no

Members of Parliament yes no yes no

Other . . . .. . . .. .. . . . . .. . . . .. . yes no yes no

INTERNAL REFERRALS

Works Division yes no yes no

Traffic & Road Safety Branch yes no yes no

Health & Building Surveyor yes no yes no

Development Engineer yes no yes no

Planning Branch - Strategic

- Heritage

yes no

yes no

yes no

Parks and Landscapes Team yes no yes no

Environmental Health and Protection Team yes no yes no

Waste Management Team yes no yes no

Water Catchments Team yes no yes no

Bushland and Biodiversity Management Team yes no yes no

Fire Control yes no yes no

Other yes no yes no

14. This REF/Part V Assessment was prepared by:

Kurt Henkel, Landscape Coordinator, Parks and Recreation 8/12/2012

(Name and Title/project officer) Date

15. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

(tick)

the proposal will not have any significant impact on the environment and should proceed;

the proposal will include mitigation measures and methods to avoid a significant impact on the

environment and should proceed;

the proposal will have a significant impact on the environment and an environment impact

statement is required;

the proposal is on land that is, or is part of critical habitat or is likely to have a significant impact

on threatened species, populations or ecological communities, or their habitats, and a species impact

statement is required; or

the proposal will have a significant impact on the environment and should not

proceed.

16. This REF/Part V Assessment is Endorsed and Approved by:

________________________________________ _________________

(Branch Manager) Date

17. PLANNING REVIEW

This section is to be referred to the Assessment Planning Team Co-ordinator for review as part of the

Planning Assessment.

1. TITLE OF PROPOSAL

Identification Signage to Hornsby Aquatic Centre

2. PLANNING

2.1) Location of proposal, Name of Reserve (if appropriate, including Lot and DP Nos)

Hornsby Park, Pacific Highway, Hornsby, Lot 7306 within DP 1157797.

2.2) Description of proposal

Construction of Identification Signage for Hornsby Aquatic Centre

2.3) Zoning of land under the HSLEP 1994

Open Space A

2.4) Permissibility

The development can be described as:

Installation of Council Information Signs

which does not require development consent by virtue of clause 6(3)(d) of the HSLEP (minor Council works)

and therefore an assessment under Part 5 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act, 1979 is

required.

The proposed Activity is permissible under Part 5 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment

Act 1979, subject to an environmental assessment or review of environmental factors.

[NAME]

[Position] Date:

review of environmental factors - hornsby shire · 2013. 2. 4. · 1. introduction council proposes...

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