statement of environmental effects accompanying a

1

STATEMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS

ACCOMPANYING A DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION FOR

RELOCATION AND PERMANENT PLACEMENT OF THE DESALINATION PLANT AND ANCILLARY EQUIPMENT AT CASCADE BAY, NORFOLK ISLAND

Prepared by Norfolk Island Regional Council

7 October 2021

Statement of Environmental Effects – Proposed Relocation and Permanent Placement of the

Desalination Plant and Ancillary Equipment at Cascade Bay Norfolk Island

CONTENTS

Contents 1. Introduction .................................................................................................................................... 4

1.1. Purpose of this document ....................................................................................................... 4

1.2. Context .................................................................................................................................... 4

1.3. Background ............................................................................................................................. 4

1.4. Proposed permanent installation and location ...................................................................... 5

1.5. Key objectives of the project .................................................................................................. 9

1.6. The Proponent ........................................................................................................................ 9

1.7. Background and need for a desalination plant ....................................................................... 9

1.8. Location and property description........................................................................................ 10

2. Project Description ............................................................................................................................ 11

2.1. Locality description and character ............................................................................................. 11

2.2. Surrounding land use and development .................................................................................... 13

2.3. Description of proposed development sites .............................................................................. 13

2.4. Existing and previous uses and developments of the proposed development site .................. 14

2.5. Details of proposal ..................................................................................................................... 14

2.5.1. Key components of the Desalination Plant: ........................................................................ 14

2.5.2. Production capacity ............................................................................................................ 14

2.5.3. Key inputs ............................................................................................................................ 14

2.5.4. Key outputs ......................................................................................................................... 15

2.5.5. Construction ........................................................................................................................ 15

2.5.6. Site preparation and establishment ................................................................................... 15

2.5.7. Operation and desalination process ................................................................................... 15

2.5.8. Operation and management ............................................................................................... 16

2.5.9. Quantities and scale of operations ..................................................................................... 16

3. Statutory Planning framework – Norfolk Island Plan 2002............................................................... 16

3.1. Part A – Strategic Plan ................................................................................................................ 16



3.1.1. General Objectives .............................................................................................................. 16

3.1.2. Activity Node Preferred Dominant Land Use Area: ............................................................ 17

3.2. Part B1 - Zoning Scheme. ........................................................................................................... 17

3.2.1. Purpose definitions ............................................................................................................. 17

3.2.2. Zoning .................................................................................................................................. 18

3.3. Part B2: Overlay Provisions. ....................................................................................................... 20

3.4. Part B3: General Provisions ........................................................................................................ 21

3.4.1. Site Suitability ..................................................................................................................... 21

3.4.2. Compliance with Use and Development Principles ............................................................ 22

3.4.3. Compatibility of the proposed development ...................................................................... 23

3.4.4. Potential impact on the physical environment and natural resources .............................. 25

3.4.5. Infrastructure ...................................................................................................................... 26

3.4.6. The requirements of any applicable Development Control Plans ...................................... 27

3.4.7. Public interest, economic, social and environmental benefits of the proposed

development ................................................................................................................................. 27

4. Conclusion ......................................................................................................................................... 28



1. Introduction

1.1. Purpose of this document

This statement of environmental effects (SEE) has been prepared by Norfolk Island Regional Council (NIRC) to accompany a development application for the Relocation and Permanent Placement of a Desalination Plant and Ancillary Equipment at Cascade Bay Norfolk Island. The SEE has been prepared to describe the project and consider the likely environmental effects of the proposed development and to consider any measures or steps required to protect the environment.

The SEE generally addresses the relevant matters specified in the Norfolk Island Plan 2002 (NI Plan 2002) that may apply to the proposed development. It is intended that the SEE will provide information to enable efficient assessment of the DA and make recommendations on the proposed development.

1.2. Context

In recent years two (2) separate temporary desalination plants have been set up at Cascade Bay in periods of extremely dry weather as an emergency prevention measure. A temporary mobile desalination unit was set up temporarily by Emergency Management Norfolk Island (EMNI) and the Australian Defence Force (‘the ADF Plant’) in early 2020 and operated for six (6) weeks to meet Norfolk Island’s potable water needs during the drought of summer 2019- 20 . The ADF’s temporary desalination plant produced 2 million litres of water (DITRDC 2021) for the community (including public assets and essential services). Output was constrained by weather and limited water storage and distribution infrastructure.

Following that action, a more substantial desalination plant supplied by ‘Aqueos Desalination Systems’ was set up temporarily later in 2020 (‘the NIRC Plant’) primarily to supply water for the Norfolk Island Airport Runway Reseal project in the context of an extreme water scarcity in Norfolk Island. The NIRC Plant is still in place and is the subject of this SEE.

1.3. Background

The NIRC Plant is currently temporarily sited on the foreshore at Cascade Bay on the northern side of Cascade Road approximately 70 m to the west of Cascade Jetty. The key components that perform the desalination process are housed in a containerised reverse osmosis desalination unit (the ‘RO unit’). The NIRC Plant includes the ‘RO Unit’, two x 20 KL capacity poly tanks (one feed tank and one storage tank) and ancillary equipment; including an ‘intake line’ that runs along the foreshore and connects with a submersible pump attached to the wall of Cascade Pier and a ‘discharge pipe’ that runs from the ‘RO’ unit across the foreshore into the sea water.

The NIRC Plant and ancillary equipment was installed temporarily on the basis that, following the conclusion of the Airport Runway Reseal Project, it would be used for emergency prevention and response in periods of extreme water shortage. The current site and layout of the Plant is shown in Figure 1 below.



Figure 1 - Existing temporary Desalination Plant Cascade Bay

1.4. Proposed permanent installation and location

It is now proposed to permanently locate the NIRC Desalination Plant comprising the RO Unit and the two water tanks adjacent to and next to the old boiler that remains from the Whaling Station complex that operated at the same site, Portion 162, in the 1960’s (Figure 2). As part of the project, it is proposed to install water tank(s) with capacity of 250 KL at an existing levelled platform on the hillside above the weigh bridge on the opposite (southern) side of Cascade Road to store treated, desalinated potable water (Figure 3). It is also planned to install a stand pipe next to the existing weigh bridge to supply treated potable water gravity fed from the proposed storage tanks(s). It is proposed to level and concrete the site for the stand pipe to provide an area for vehicles to pull off the roadway to fill portable tanks by connecting to the stand pipe. The proposal includes installation of new pipes and electricity conduits beneath the surface to connect the Desalination Plant to the submersible pump at Cascade Jetty and the storage tank(s) on the hill and the stand pipe. The proposed works are shown schematically in Figure 4.



Figure 2 –Proposed site for the installation of the Desalination Plant at Portion 162

Figure 3 – Proposed site for installation of water storage tanks at existing cutting and platform previously used for tanks at Portion 170 on the hill adjacent to the south of Cascade Road

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Figure 4 – Schematic Plan of the proposed Desalination Plant arrangements at Cascade



Figure 5 – General site plan for proposed location of the Desalination Plant RO Unit and tanks (Base plan courtesy of Consult Marine 2020)

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1.5. Key objectives of the project

The key objectives of the project are:

1. to supply potable water as an alternative to the use of groundwater and to ensure a supplementary supply of potable water particularly during periods of drought;

2. to supply all Council potable water requirements though the Desalination Plant and cease drawing water from the standpipe at Watermill Dam and Ben Christian Drive;

3. ensure a permanent supply of at least 250 KL of water that does not rely on a power supply to be available for emergencies (i.e., 250 KL would be available by gravity feed to the proposed stand pipe).

1.6. The Proponent

The proponent of the development is Norfolk Island Regional Council (NIRC) as the owner and operator of the NIRC Desalination Plant. The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications (DIRDTC) is partnering with Council to assist in the design for the relocation and establishment of the Plant and ancillary equipment.

1.7. Background and need for a desalination plant

Norfolk Island relies on rainwater as the main source of potable water. There is a high dependence on groundwater reserves as a source of potable water as well. There is no reticulated water supply on the Island and each premises is responsible for its own water supply in water storage tanks predominantly fed by roof collection systems. In dry periods there is a greater reliance on bore water to fill tanks.

Prolonged periods of severe drought in recent years led to a heavy reliance on and demand for bore water. Bore water levels have reduced and there have been cases of bores drying up completely and saline intrusion in other bores particularly during the drought over the 2019-20 summer. In The CSIRO study, Norfolk Island Water Resources Assessment (NIWRA) completed in 2021, analysis of meteorological data in Norfolk Island shows rainfall patterns have changed over the last 20 years and the annual average rainfall on Island has decreased. Studies and models indicate that groundwater recharge has declined as a result of reduced rainfall and that both rainfall and Norfolk Island’s water table will continue to decline into the future.1

During 2019, it was discovered that one of the main bores on Island used to supplement rain water supplies for government buildings, activities and infrastructure projects was contaminated with PFAS and the water in that bore cannot be used. As noted above, in response to an extreme water shortage on Island in February 2020 the ADF Desalination Plant operated for six weeks and produced 2 million litres of water; and later in 2020 the NIRC Plant was installed initially to ensure a suitable potable water supply for the Airport Runway Reseal Project.

1 CSIRO 2021 - The Norfolk Island Water Resources Assessment (NIWRA) https://www.infrastructure.gov.au/territories-regions-cities/territories/norfolk-island/strategy-projects/water-resources-assessment-project and https://www.csiro.au/en/research/natural-environment/water/Water-resource-assessment/Norfolk/Publications

https://www.infrastructure.gov.au/territories-regions-cities/territories/norfolk-island/strategy-projects/water-resources-assessment-project

https://www.infrastructure.gov.au/territories-regions-cities/territories/norfolk-island/strategy-projects/water-resources-assessment-project

https://www.csiro.au/en/research/natural-environment/water/Water-resource-assessment/Norfolk/Publications



Following completion of the Airport Runway Reseal Project, the NIRC Desalination Plant has provided contingency to supplement the community’s water supply requirements and reduce dependence on bore water. The system has performed successfully on an as needs basis. However, the system currently lacks ancillary infrastructure, such as tank(s) with large capacity to store treated potable water, to allow the Plant to be used to full capacity.

It is planned that, with the permanent installation of the NIRC Desalination Plant and associated 250KL storage tank(s) and standpipe at Cascade, general public access to the stand pipes at Watermill Dam and at Ben Christian Drive will be closed; with the aim is to conserve fresh water supplies and protect water quality in the Watermill Valley catchment.

Locating a desalination plant and associated water storage tanks permanently in Cascade is consistent with the CSIRO’s pre-feasibility of permanent desalination as an option to contribute to water security for Norfolk Island (CSIRO NIWRA 2021).

1.8. Location and property description

The key components of the proposed development would be located at Portion 162. The proposed standpipe and sealed access and parking space for vehicles to enable drawing water from the stand pipe would be located at Portion 165a. Water storage tank(s) would be located at Portion 170 and the salt water pump attached to Cascade Jetty and minor components such as pipes and conduits would be located within RD 46 (Cascade Road).

Figure 6 - Extract from Official Survey – General Project Area



Portion 162, Cascade Road

Area: 0.3495 ha.s

Tenure: Crown Land

Zoning: Special Use: Wharf

Current use: Use of Portion 162 for the permanent storage and maintenance of three Passenger Transport Vessels (‘PTVs) and an ancillary workshop / office was approved in April 2021. The PTV’s have been stored at Portion 162 since delivery in 2019.

Portion 165a Cascade Road

Area: 0.1245 ha.s

Tenure: Crown Land

Zoning: Open Space

Current Use: Vacant /undeveloped. The site is directly opposite Portion 162 to the south.

Portion 170, Cascade Road

Area: 0.1618 ha.s

Tenure: Crown Land

Zoning: Open Space

Current Use: Vacant /undeveloped. The site is directly south of and adjacent to Portion 165a.

Cascade Road

Tenure /ownership: Norfolk Island Regional Council

Zone: Road

Current Use: Primarily public roadway: The land within the ‘road reserve’ includes hard stand areas used for parking and also includes the current site of the key components of the NIRC Desalination Plant.

2. Project Description

2.1. Locality description and character

Cascade Bay is characterised by its predominant use as a working pier / jetty and low level industrial activity. Cascade Jetty is the primary port for Norfolk Island and used for general commercial shipping (cargo / freight deliveries and cruise ship visits), launching of recreational and commercial fishing, diving and tourist vessels and general pier recreational activities.

In the current settlement period the area has been used for shipping since 1856 and during the 1960’s a full scale whaling station operated at the Bay including manufacture of products. Extensive infrastructure was installed as shown in figure 7. More recent industrial activity in the locality includes the benching of Cascade Cliff in the 1990’s to produce rock products for general construction and to stabilise the safety of the Cliff. As the cruise ship industry and opportunities increased in Norfolk Island, Cascade Pier was upgraded and extended in 2017 to improve general cargo shipping and options for landing passengers from cruise ships. In 2019 three PTVs were delivered to Norfolk Island to facilitate the transport of cruise ship passengers between cruise ships and shore. The PTVs are stored at Cascade at Portion 162 and the general intent has been to reinforce Cascade Bay as the main port for Norfolk Island. Approval was granted in April 2021 to permanently store the PTVs at Portion 162 at Cascade Bay including construction of an engineered platform and an ancillary workshop and office for the maintenance and management of the PTVs. A development application (DA) has recently been submitted to seek approval for the extraction of 13.5 tonnes of rock from a proposed



quarry at a section of Youngs Road, approximately 280 m to the south east of the proposed site for the Desalination Plant (Portion 162).

Cascade Bay and in particular the jetty is also a significant recreation area popular with residents and tourists for access to the water, picnics, fishing, diving, boating and generally observing the marine environment.

Figure 7 – Cascade Bay, 1960’s

Figure 8 – Cascade Bay 2021



2.2. Surrounding land use and development

The land immediately adjacent to and surrounding Cascade Bay is a public reserve, ‘Cascade Reserve’. The land in the Reserves is predominantly cleared and used for grazing. The nearest residential development in proximity to Cascade Bay is a residence at Portion 5a1 located approximately 240 m from and elevated above the subject site to the south; and residence/tourist accommodation at Portion 1d2 located approximately 480 m from and elevated above the subject site to the east.

2.3. Description of proposed development sites

The former whaling station as shown in Figure 7 – Cascade Bay, 1960’s was predominantly located at land that is now within Portion 162 which is the site for the key components of the proposed development. The site is highly modified and dominated by remnants from the whaling station, particularly the old boiler and concrete hard stand platforms as shown in Figure 2 –Proposed site for the installation of the Desalination Plant.

Tank(s) (presumably for water supply) associated with the operation of the whaling station were located at land that is now Portion 170, as shown in Figure 9 - Presumed water tanks at Portion 170, 1960’s below. It is understood that a track was created to access an area above the whaling station where a level platform was created to locate tank(s). The platform is still generally in place although over grown and requires minor works to restore the track and platform to again use the site for storage tanks associated with the Desalination Plant. The land generally along the foreshore is a modified environment; levelled to form Cascade Road and access to the jetty and hard stand areas for parking and general vehicular access and manoeuvrability associated with port operations.

Figure 9 - Presumed water tanks at Portion 170, 1960’s



2.4. Existing and previous uses and developments of the proposed development site

As noted above, the sites to be used for the main components of the Desalination Plant - the RO Unit, feeder tank and permeate tank; and the proposed 250 KL storage tank(s), were formerly predominantly used for the development and operation of the whaling station.

In recent years Portion 162 has been used for recreation (sight-seeing, picnics and viewing area) and more recently as a temporary construction compound for the upgrade and extension of Cascade Jetty (2017). As noted the site is currently used for the storage of PTVs. The old boiler from the whaling station is sited at the subject land and within a small fenced enclosure. A small public toilet block is located at the south western corner of the subject land. The proposed site for the water storage tanks at Portion 170 and the proposed site for the stand pipe at Portion 165a are both vacant.

2.5. Details of proposal

2.5.1. Key components of the Desalination Plant:

It is proposed to relocate the key components of the Desalination Plant to Portion 162 to be sited adjacent to the area used for the storage of PTVs. It is proposed that the subject land would continue to be used for the storage and maintenance of the PTVs as well as the permanent location for the Desalination Plant. The proposed general layout of all the components of the Desalination Plant and other use and development in proximity to the proposed site for the Desalination Plant are shown in Figure 2 – Schematic Plan of the proposed Desalination Plant arrangements at Cascade and Figure 5 – General site plan for proposed location of the Desalination Plant RO Unit and tanks

The key components of the Desalination Plant are: - 1 x 20 KL feed water tank (polyethylene) - 1 x 20 KL permeate tank to hold treated water (polyethylene) - 1 container, 2.44 m. x 2.44 m. x 2.44 m to house the RO unit. This is a standard mini cube

container as shown in Figure 1 - Existing temporary Desalination Plant Cascade Bay - The whole reverse osmosis system is enclosed within the container.

- 1 x salt water pump to be located adjacent to the crane at Cascade Pier with a 50mm suction line attached to Cascade Pier

- Tank(s) with 250 KL capacity to store treated potable water to be sited at Portion 170 - Pipes from the salt water pump to the feed tank; and the waste line / waste discharge pipe

from the RO Unit - The electrical supply cables and water distribution pipes will be located in below surface

conduits between the Desalination Plant and storage tanks located at Portion 170 and the stand pipe as shown in Figure 2 - Schematic Plan of the proposed Desalination Plant arrangements at Cascade.

2.5.2. Production capacity

The Desalination Plant has a production capacity of 20 KL of potable water over a 24 hour period.

2.5.3. Key inputs

The key inputs required to operate the Desalination Plant and produce potable water are: - Seawater



- Electricity: The system would make use of an existing power supply at Cascade. - Antiscalent to reduce crystallisation of salts in the waste output (brine).

2.5.4. Key outputs

- 20 KL of potable water over 24 hours - The system operates on approximately 42% potable output for the water processed. - Over a 24 hour period, 48 KL of sea water is processed to deliver 20 KL of potable water; 28

KL of waste water is returned to the sea with salt content elevated by 72%.

2.5.5. Construction

It is estimated that the relocation and establishment and construction of the Desalination Plant and ancillary structures would take 14 days.

2.5.6. Site preparation and establishment

Desalination Plant

- The proposed site for the Desalination Plant is a working industrial site extensively covered in concrete. Site preparation works required would be minimal and would primarily involve works to create trenches approximately 600 mm beneath the surface to accommodate electrical conduits and water pipes as shown in Figure 2 – Plan of the proposed Desalination Plant arrangements at Cascade. The saltwater supply line to convey saltwater from the salt water pump attached to Cascade Jetty to the Desalination Plant at Portion 162 would be trenched and covered. The trenching works are minor and it is estimated would be completed in one week. Cascade Road would remain operational while the works are undertaken.

Storage Tanks

- As noted it is proposed that the 250 KL water storage tank(s) to be located at Portion 170 would be sited at an existing level platform. The works would involve installation of pipes to convey treated water from the Desalination Plant up the slope to storage tanks; and clearing and stripping grass to re-establish a suitable pad approximately 20.0 m x 15.0 m for the tank(s) and to reinstate a vehicular access track to the platform. Earthworks required to re-establish the pad would be minimal and would not involve cutting into the hillside.

Concrete Pad and Standpipe

- It is proposed that a concrete pad would be constructed at the site of the standpipe to create a hard stand to accommodate vehicles parking to collect water. It is estimated the pad would be 12.0 m x 4.0 m and approximately 100 mm thick. The pad would be designed to drain into the existing culvert. The stand pipe would be a standard stand pipe structure.

General

- No floodlighting or to other exterior lighting associated with the Desalination Plant is proposed.

- No landscaping or planting is proposed in the development as the site and general area is predominantly hard surfaces and industrial in character.

2.5.7. Operation and desalination process

- Details on the general operation of the desalination process are at Attachment A ‘Summary of description of operation of desalination system from manufacturer ‘Aqueous’ and Attachment B ‘Desalination by reverse osmosis’.



2.5.8. Operation and management

In summary, the processes and operations are described as follows:

- The system uses Reverse Osmosis to treat the sea water.

- Seawater is pumped to the feed tank via the intake pipes; then fed into the ‘Reverse Osmosis’

(RO) unit.

- Desalination occurs by reverse osmosis as described in Attachment B.

- Treated water is fed to the permeate tank.

- Potable treated water is pumped as required to the 250 KL storage tank(s) proposed to be

located upslope at Portion 170.

- Waste water (‘brine’) is discharged back to sea from the RO Unit via the waste discharge line.

- Hours of operation: The Desalination Plant would operate as needed to ensure the 250 KL

storage tank(s) are full at all times.

- The Desalination Plant will continue to be managed by Norfolk Island Regional Council.

- Access to the treated potable water supply via the standpipe will be managed by Council.

2.5.9. Quantities and scale of operations

The Desalination Plant currently operates as required and it is planed that the proposed upgraded system would operate on the same basis.

It is proposed that, with the permanent placement and installation of the Desalination Plant, the production of desalinated water would increase and consequently greater storage capacity will be required. It is planned that sufficient potable water would be produced to retain a permanent supply of 250 KL of potable water in the new, additional storage tank(s) to be located at Portion 170. Given the increased storage capacity and intention to make greater use of desalinated water as an alternative to groundwater, the Desalination Plant will operate more frequently than at present.

3. Statutory Planning framework – Norfolk Island Plan 2002

3.1. Part A – Strategic Plan

3.1.1. General Objectives

The proposed installation of a permanent Desalination Plant and associated increased water storage development is consistent with the relevant general objectives the Strategic Plan:

‘Cl. 3.2.3 - provide for the effective and efficient use of facilities, infrastructure and services;

The objective will be achieved by:

(b) locating industry and other forms of development which draw heavily on infrastructure in locations such as the Airport or near existing waterside facilities where existing infrastructure is in place or can be cost effectively put in place;



Cl. 3.2.4 - encourage orderly and efficient use and management of resources;


(f) ensuring that water supplies are not adversely impacted upon by land use or development decisions and ensuring that ground-water use is minimised.

Cl. 3.2.5 - promote and safeguard the community’s safety and welfare, and its social and cultural wellbeing;


(b) promoting practices that maintain and enhance public health and safety standards.

3.1.2. Activity Node Preferred Dominant Land Use Area:

In the Strategic Plan, the land proposed to be developed for various components of the Desalination Plant is within the Activity Node Preferred Dominant Land Use Area. The proposed development is an appropriate activity in the Activity Node as it would be consistent with the following relevant intent and objectives for the Activity Node:

Intent

‘Cl. 4.5.1 – What is the Activity Node Preferred Dominant Land Use?

(2) The areas identified as having a preferred dominant land use of Activity Node are intended to provide the necessary and essential industrial and infrastructure functions on Norfolk Island in the long term. The uses and development types to be encouraged in the Activity Node Preferred Dominant Land Use area are limited to air and sea transport, infrastructure and industrial uses.

Objectives

‘Cl. 4.5.2 - What are the objectives of the Activity Node Preferred Dominant Land Use?

The objectives of the Activity Node Preferred Dominant Land Use are to:

(b) minimise the impacts on the environment caused by industrial use or development by maximising use of existing and future infrastructure;

(c) minimise the impacts on the environment caused by industrial use or development by maximising use of existing and future infrastructure;

(e) protect existing sea transport facilities and related future use or development opportunities while co-locating appropriate industrial use or development

Conclusion:

The proposed installation of the Desalination Plant and associated ancillary structures at Cascade Bay would be consistent with the Strategic Plan.

3.2. Part B1 - Zoning Scheme.

3.2.1. Purpose definitions

In the NI Plan 2002 Cl. 117 - The Purpose Definitions, the permanent installation of the main components of the Desalination Plant is defined as ‘Public Works –Major’

‘PUBLIC WORKS – MAJOR means the Use or Development of Land for the purposes of the supply or provision by the Administration or other statutory bodies of an installation that is a generating works, electrical sub-station or transformer of more than 300Kva, alternative energy installations, sewerage or refuse treatment or disposal works (including sanitary land fill), waste disposal facilities,



pumping station, cemetery or crematorium, and transmitting and/or receiving installation for telephone, radio broadcasting, television, cable or satellite television. The term includes any office necessary for the administration of the public work located on that Land. The term also includes any works depot used exclusively by the Administration, and/ or by individual or combined emergency

service providers.

Although ‘desalination plant’ to process and treat water to supply potable water for community purposes is not specifically identified in the definition, the proposed development is covered by the intent and spirit of the definition. The activity would be undertaken by a public authority to provide public services and infrastructure for community and public benefit.

Minor works associated with the Desalination Plant such as the trenching for pipes and electrical conduits can be separately defined as ‘Public Works – Minor’

PUBLIC WORKS – MINOR means the Use or Development of Land for the purposes of the supply or provision by the Administration or other statutory bodies as may be required to provide water, electricity, gas, sewerage or drainage services, or communications infrastructure where that infrastructure is not a Public Work (Major).

Public Works – Minor is ‘as of right’ use or development in each of the zones that apply to the parcels of land to be used for the Desalination Plant installations and operations.

3.2.2. Zoning

Permissibility As noted in Section 1.8 - Location and property description, the installation of the Desalination Plant

and ancillary plant and equipment extends over four parcels of land each with various zonings in the

NI Plan 2002. Consideration of the permissibility of the proposed land use and development in each

zone is as follows.

Figure 10: Extract: Zoning Map, Norfolk Island Plan 2002

Portion 162 Zoned: Special Use

Cascade Road RD 46 Zoned:

Road

Portion 165a Zoned: Open Space

Portion 170 Zoned: Open Space



Consideration of the permissibility of the proposed land use and development in each zone is as

follows.

Portion 162: Zoned Special Use

The predominant components of the system, the Desalination Plant, would be located at Portion 162 adjacent to the old boiler and PTV storage area. Public Works – Major is ‘permissible with consent’ in the Special Use Zone. Public Works – Minor is ‘as of right’ use or development in the Special Use Zone.

Portion 165a and Portion 170: Zoned Open Space.

The concrete slab vehicle parking space and standpipe would be located at Portion 165a in close proximity to the existing weighbridge. The water storage tank(s) with 250 KL capacity would be installed at Portion 170. Public Works – Major is permissible with consent in the Open Space Zone. Public Works – Minor is ‘as of right’ use or development in the Open Space Zone.

RD 46 (Cascade Road) Zoning: Road

The component of the activity that would be located in the road reservation, RD 46, is limited to trenching for pipes and electrical conduits which would be defined as Public Works – Minor. Public Works – Minor is ‘as of right’ use or development in the Road Zone. None of the major components of the proposed development would be located in the Road Zone.

Compliance with Zone Objectives

The proposed development complies with the relevant Zone Intents and Objectives as follows:

Open Space Zone

Cl. 44. Intent

(a) provide a limited range of low intensity and low impact use or development opportunities within areas that have natural, cultural and heritage values that should be maintained;

Cl. 45: Objectives and guidelines

(a) provide opportunities for a limited range of low impact use or development types including Outdoor Sport and Recreation Facility facilities;

Special Use Zone Cl. 54. Intent

(1) The Special Use Zone is intended to protect and preserve land for existing and future public, government, and Administration use or development.

Cl. 55 Objectives and guidelines

(a) provide opportunities for a range of existing and future public, government, and Administration use or development;

Road Zone

Cl. 64: Intent

(a) provide a very limited range of use or development opportunities within areas that are set aside for transport and public access purposes;



Cl. 65. Objectives and guidelines

(a) provide opportunities for a very limited range of use or development types;

(b) provide opportunities for a variety of exempt developments including but not limited to, certain signs, street furniture, fire hydrants and traffic control devices, works carried out for the maintenance and repair of infrastructure including but not limited to roads, tracks, footpaths, drains, sewers, powerlines and telecommunications facilities within road reservations; and

Development standards

Development standards for height and setbacks would apply to the key components and structures associated with the development; i.e. the Desalination Plant (RO Unit container, feed tank and permeate tank) and main 250KL tank(s) to store treated potable water.

In each of the three applicable zones, there are no maximum height or minimum setback requirements for development, except to maintain a reasonable level of amenity for neighbouring land and development in the Special Use Zone and those necessary to meet the zone intent in the Open Space Zone. The size and scale of the proposed installations and structures are relatively small and would not affect the amenity for neighbouring land use or development given the character of surrounding development. The Desalination Plant is small scale in comparison to the neighbouring land use of PTV storage. The land adjacent to and surrounding the main treated potable water storage tank at Portion 170 is vacant, predominantly cleared and used for grazing. Given the character of the structures – container and water tanks - standards for the external appearance of roofs and walls are not considered relevant for this proposal. The placement and installation of structures would comply with the relevant development standards.

Conclusion:

The proposed installation of the Desalination Plant and associated ancillary structures is a permissible use and development and would comply with the relevant zone intent, objectives and development standards.

3.3. Part B2: Overlay Provisions.

Part B2 provides additional matters for consideration for use and development at land covered by any of the Overlays; i.e.

- Coastal and Environment Overlay and Buffer Area

- Heritage Overlay and

- Obstacle Limitations Overlay

None of the Overlays apply to the subject land or the proposed development.

Even so, regarding the Heritage Overlay, Cl. 75 of the NI Plan 2002 provides for consideration of development in the vicinity of land identified in the Heritage Overlay:



‘When determining an application for approval to carry out development on land in the vicinity of land identified on the Heritage Overlay Map, the executive member shall take into consideration the likely effect of the proposed development on the heritage significance of the land identified in the Heritage Overlay’.

Cascade Reserve is immediately adjacent to Portions 162, 165a and 170 and is listed in the Norfolk Island Heritage Register. The area surrounding the land planned to be used for installation of the RO Unit & associated tanks at Portion 162; and the main storage tank for treated potable water at Portion 170; and the concrete parking area and stand pipe at Portion 165a is significantly modified. The proposed installation of components of the Desalination Plant at the subject lands would not affect the heritage significance of Cascade Reserve.

It is acknowledged that the old boiler that remains in situ from the whaling station operations has historical and social and cultural significance for the Norfolk Island community. There is a fence around the old boiler for public safety and to help prevent access and activities that could contribute to further deterioration of the boiler. The proposed Desalination Plant would be installed immediately adjacent to the fenced area and old boiler; however the installation and operation of the proposed Desalination Plant would not disturb or affect the old boiler.

3.4. Part B3: General Provisions

Part B3 of the Plan specifies various matters to be taken into consideration when assessing a proposed use or development, especially potential impacts and benefits of a proposal. The following presents a consideration of matters specified in Part B3 of the Plan that are relevant to and apply to the proposed relocation of the Desalination Plant and ancillary structures and installations.

3.4.1. Site Suitability

ponding or flooding The proposed site at Portion 162 for location of the Desalination Plant is sealed and level and has previously been used for industrial activities including in recent years, a construction compound. The concrete pad for vehicle parking and standpipe would be designed to provide fall into the existing culvert. The pad for the main storage tank(s) for treated potable water would be re-established to ensure suitable drainage and avoid ponding at the base of the tank.

fire hazard The physical attributes of the site do not present any fire hazard. The adjacent land use of PTV storage and maintenance presents a fire hazard which may affect the Desalination Plant. The NI Fire Service has suggested a fire extinguisher should be located inside the RO Unit. Other fire safety measures will be considered in installation to protect the proposed Desalination Plant from fire hazard to protect the facility as an essential public and community asset.

pollution or contamination The sites for the proposed development are not subject to any pollution or contamination. The risk of any pollution or



contamination of the site and surrounding land is considered very low as the waste water (brine) would be carried directly from the RO Container to the inshore waters in a sealed discharge pipe.

other hazards to safety or health.

There are no known hazards to safety or health associated with the proposed development.

Conclusion The proposed sites for the permanent installation of the Desalination Plant and ancillary structures are considered suitable for the proposed use and development.

3.4.2. Compliance with Use and Development Principles

The proposed development complies with applicable regulatory clauses; including the following relevant use and development principles:

Use

a. use or development shall not unreasonably impact on any existing or intended future use or development of neighbouring land;

Character

a. use or development shall adequately respect the character of, and future intentions for, the area in which it is to be located;

c. use or development (including public facilities, utilities and services) shall adequately respect the surrounding streetscape and neighbouring use or development, particularly in relation to scale, setbacks, form (including roof shape and pitch), landscaping, materials, colours and

fencing;

Environment

a. use or development shall minimise the potential detrimental effect on the environment. All areas, and sensitive ecological and/or visual areas in particular, shall be developed in a manner and to an extent that is consistent with the protection of the values of the area;

Heritage

c. any use or development carried out on or in the vicinity of an item, area, feature, customary activity, or site with conservation value, shall adequately respect natural and cultural heritage values and those items, areas, features, customary activities, and sites shall be protected from use or development that threatens those values. The protection and conservation of items, sites, areas, features, and customary activities of historic and cultural importance applies to those previously identified and included in this Plan, and those which subsequently become known to the executive member;

Infrastructure and Services

f. infrastructure systems shall use adequate and appropriate design methods and materials to ensure an acceptable life span and allow for adequate maintenance requirements; and

Social Interest

a. use or development shall demonstrate how it suits the community interest;

c. where possible, use or development proposals shall demonstrate a net benefit to Norfolk Island’s social capital; and



d. use or development proposals shall only be approved where the cost to the public of providing and maintaining services does not exceed the

economic benefit of the use or development to the community.

Conclusion The proposed development complies with and is consistent with the relevant use and development principles.

3.4.3. Compatibility of the proposed development

existing site features As noted in Section 2.3. Description of proposed development sites the proposed site for the Desalination Plant at the site of the former whaling station is highly modified and dominated by remnants from the whaling station, particularly the old boiler and concrete hard stand platforms. The proposed main 250KL water tanks would be located at land previously used for that purpose and already modified and levelled and accessed via a track created in the 1960’s to access an area above the whaling station where water tank(s) were previously locate as shown in Figure 9 - Presumed water tanks at Portion 170, 1960’s. The land generally along the foreshore is a modified environment; levelled to form Cascade Road and access to the jetty and hard stand areas for parking and general vehicular access and manoeuvrability associated with port operations.

adjoining land: whether the proposed use or development would adversely affect the existing use or development of adjacent land

As noted in Section 2.1. Locality description and character Cascade Bay is characterised by its predominant use as a working pier /jetty and low level industrial activity. Cascade Jetty is used for general commercial shipping, launching of recreational and commercial fishing, diving and tourist vessels and general pier recreational activities.

As noted in Section 2.2 – Surrounding land use and development The land immediately adjacent to and surrounding Cascade Bay is a public reserve, ‘Cascade Reserve’. The land in the Reserve is predominantly cleared and used for grazing. The nearest residential development in proximity to Cascade Bay is a residence at Portion 5a1 located approximately 240 m from and elevated above the subject site to the south; and residence/tourist accommodation at Portion 1d2 located approximately 480 m from and elevated above the subject site to the east.

It is considered highly unlikely that the proposed development would have any adverse impacts on surrounding use and development.

the possible impacts of the proposed development on neighbouring land uses and developments and streetscape

Given the existing site features and development and the character of the use and development at surrounding land; and distance to the nearest residential use, it is considered highly unlikely that the proposed development would have any adverse impacts on surrounding use and development.



potential visual impact As shown in the photo at Figure 1 – Existing temporary Desalination Plant Cascade Bay, the Plant is relatively low scale in bulk and height. The Plant would be sited in the northern western section of Portion 162 as shown in Figure 5 - General site plan for proposed location of the Desalination Plant RO Unit and tanks and generally obscured from public view by the PTVs and the old boiler. The proposed main 250KL water storage tank(s) at Portion 170 would be visible on the slope above Cascade Road and Portion 165a; however it is planned to retain shrubs and bushes on the slope that partially obscure the proposed site for the tank(s). As the locality is generally characterised as a working port and industrial type activities, the potential visual impact of the proposed installations is not considered significant.

potential overshadowing The proposed installation of the various components associated with the Desalination Plant and tanks for storage of treated potable water and facilities to draw treated water would not create any overshadowing.

landscape and landscape setting

As noted in Section 2.1. Locality description and character Cascade Bay is characterised by its predominant use as a working pier /jetty and low level industrial activity. The proposed installation of the Desalination Plant and various facets of the Plant would be compatible with the existing landscape setting of Cascade Bay.

items of heritage, architectural or scientific interest and/or value

As noted in Section 3.3 Part B2: Overlay Provisions Cascade Reserve is immediately adjacent to Portions 162, 165a and 170 and is listed in the Norfolk Island Heritage Register. The area within the Reserve surrounding the land planned to be used for components of the Desalination Plant is significantly modified. The proposed installation of components of the Desalination Plant at the subject lands would not affect the heritage significance of Cascade Reserve.

It is acknowledged that the old boiler that remains in situ from the whaling station operations has historical and social and cultural significance for the Norfolk Island community. The proposed Desalination Plant would be installed immediately adjacent to the fenced area and old boiler; however the installation and operation of the proposed Desalination Plant would not disturb or affect the old boiler.

noise generation The operation of the Desalination Plant does not generate significant noise. The main source of noise is generated by the pump which operates intermittently on occasion as required and not on a regular basis. No complaints have been made about the operation of the Plant to date.

air emissions The Desalination Plant is powered by electricity and the operation does not generate air emissions.



need for buffer zones or attenuation area; need for isolation and/or separation from other land uses or developments

There is no need or requirement for a buffer zone or attenuation areas to separate the Desalination Plant from adjacent use and development. As noted the Plant does not generate significant noise or any emissions and is compatible with adjacent use and development.

Conclusion The proposed relocation of the Desalination Plant to the proposed site at Portion 162 and the installation of ancillary structures at Portions 165a and 170 would be compatible with surrounding use and development.

3.4.4. Potential impact on the physical environment and natural resources

Whether the proposed development would have any impact on the natural environment talking into account matters such as

water supply and catchment The proposed development is intended to have a positive impact on the natural environment. As noted in Section 1.5 – Key objectives of the project, the project aims are:

- to supply potable water as an alternative to the use of groundwater and to ensure a supplementary supply of potable water particularly during periods of drought;

- to supply all Council potable water requirements though the Desalination Plant and cease drawing water from the standpipe at Watermill Dam and Ben Christian Drive;

- to ensure a permanent supply of at least 250 KL of water that does not rely on power supply for emergencies.

the escape of pollutants into water courses or the atmosphere.

The operation of the Desalination Plant would not generate pollutants that would escape into the atmosphere.

The waste water generated from the desalination process would be discharged to the inshore waters of Cascade Bay via a discharge pipe as occurs at present in the current operation of the Desalination Plant. Disposal of the waste water into the waters of Cascade Bay is managed and regulated through conditions in a permit from Marine Parks with responsibility for environmental protection of the Norfolk Island Marine Park.

stormwater management The Desalination Plant including all pipes and water storage tanks is a fully enclosed system. The concrete pad to be constructed to accommodate vehicles parking at the proposed standpipe to collect treated potable water would be designed with fall into the existing culvert at the road side.

erosion and sediment control measures

The proposal primarily involves installation of structures at existing sites. Construction activities and earthworks would be



minimal and undertaken to avoid runoff containing sediment escaping to drains / culverts and Cascade Bay.

the impacts of the proposed use or development on the habitat of endangered or threatened flora and fauna

The proposed relocation and installation of the Desalination Plant and ancillary structures and installations; and operation of the Plant, would not have an impact on threatened flora or fauna. As noted the sites for each component of the Plant and ancillary structures are highly modified and have previously been used and developed for similar public works and industrial purposes and activities.

open space, parks and reserves As noted in Section 3.3 - Part B2: Overlay Provisions, Cascade Reserve is immediately adjacent to Portions 162, 165a and 170 and is listed in the Norfolk Island Heritage Register. The area surrounding the land planned to be used for the main storage tank(s) for treated potable water at Portion 170 and the concrete parking area and stand pipe at Portion 165a is significantly modified. The proposed installation of components of the Desalination Plant at the subject lands would not affect the existing open space values or heritage significance of Cascade Reserve.

Conclusion The proposed relocation of the Desalination Plant to the proposed site at Portion 162 and the installation of ancillary structures at Portions 165a and 170 would not have an impact on the land side natural environment. It is considered that the proposal has the potential to generate positive outcomes for the natural environment by reducing reliance on and use of groundwater reserves.

3.4.5. Infrastructure

Whether the proposed use or development will be supplied with an adequate level of infrastructure and services and the infrastructure requirements necessary to enable the proposed use or development.

In terms of access to public infrastructure, the operation of the Desalination Plant requires electricity only. Norfolk Island Electricity has confirmed that sufficient power can be made available to operate the Desalination Plant and ancillary equipment.

Any necessity to improve deficient access/egress, roads or road junctions, water, sewerage, electricity, or transport services and the like, to accommodate the proposed development, without detriment to existing users

The proposed relocation and operation of the Desalination Plant would not require any improvements to or augmentation of existing services. As noted, as part of the proposed development, a new concrete pad would be constructed at the edge of Cascade Road near the weighbridge to accommodate vehicles parked to collect treated water from the proposed stand pipe at that site. The site is off the road so the parking of vehicles to fill tanks would not affect or impact on the flow of traffic and general use of Cascade Road.

the design and siting of the proposal to enable reduction in energy consumption through

It is proposed that the main 250KL storage tank(s) to hold treated potable water would be sited up the slope on the hillside above Cascade Road and Portion 165a where it is proposed to locate the standpipe. This design would enable filling of portable



use of alternative energy sources

tanks by gravity feed and generally reduce the use of power to run pumps associated with stand pipes at Watermill Dam and Ben Christian Drive.

Conclusion The existing infrastructure is adequate to support the installation and operation of the Desalination Plant and ancillary structures as proposed.

3.4.6. The requirements of any applicable Development Control Plans

The only Development Control Plan (DCP) that is relevant and applies to the proposed development is DCP No. 2 - Water Resources .

The purpose of DCP 2 stated in Clause 4 of the Plan is:

(1) to ensure that the use and management of water resources will

sustain the physical, economic and social wellbeing of the people of Norfolk Island while protecting the ecosystems that depend on those resources;

(2) to protect waterways and aquifers from damage and, where practicable, to reverse damage that occurs or has already occurred; and

(3) to ensure that water resources are able to meet the reasonably foreseeable needs of future generations

The key objective of the permanent installation of the Desalination Plant is

- to supply potable water as an alternative to the use of groundwater and to ensure a supplementary supply of potable water particularly during periods of drought.

The proposed development is consistent with DCP 2.

Conclusion The proposed permanent installation of the Desalination Plant supports the overall intent and objectives of DCP 2.

3.4.7. Public interest, economic, social and environmental benefits of the proposed development

the health, safety and wellbeing of the general public; and

consideration of the net social benefit of the proposed use or development including establishment of need.

The proposed permanent installation of the Desalination Plant would contribute towards ‘drought proofing’ Norfolk Island by providing a reliable source of potable water in dry periods as an alternative to the reliance and use of groundwater reserves. It is anticipated that reducing use and demand for groundwater may assist in enabling replenishment of groundwater reserves and aquifer recharge and generally improve groundwater quality and natural processes.

As noted in Section 1.7 –Background and need for a desalination plant, prolonged periods of severe drought in recent years led to a heavy reliance on and demand for bore water. Bore levels have reduced and there have been cases of bores drying up completely and saline intrusion in other bores particularly over

http://www.norfolkisland.gov.nf/sites/default/files/docs/planandbuild/NIPlan/Development%20Control%20Plan%20No.%202%20-%20Water%20Resources.pdf







the 2019-20 summer. In the CSIRO study, ‘Norfolk Island Water Resource Assessment (NIWRA)’ 2 completed in 2021, analysis of meteorological data in Norfolk Island shows rainfall patterns have changed over the last 20 years and the annual average rainfall on Island has decreased.

It is planned that, with the permanent installation of the Desalination Plant and associated storage tank(s)and standpipe at Cascade, general public access to the stand pipes at Watermill Dam and at Ben Christian Drive will be closed; with the aim to conserve natural fresh water supplies and to reduce the Island’s reliance on groundwater.

Conclusion The need for alternative sources of potable water during drought periods has been evident in recent years as bores and wells have dried up. The performance of the Desalination Plant since temporary installation at Cascade Bay has demonstrated that the Plant can supply an alternative and reliable source of potable water in an economical manner and generates economic, environmental and social benefits for the community.

4. Conclusion The proposed relocation and permanent placement of the Desalination Plant a described in this SEE has the potential to generate significant community and environmental benefits with minimal impacts on the environment. The benefits of this proposal are considerable and are consistent with the Norfolk Island Community Strategic Plan, Norfolk Island Regional Council’s Environment Strategy and recommendations from the ‘Norfolk Island Water Resources Assessment’ (CSIRO 2021). The assessment of the proposal against the relevant requirements of the NI Plan 2002 concludes that

- The proposal complies with the statutory requirements of the Strategic Plan and the Zoning Scheme and is a permissible use at the proposed sites.

- The proposal is consistent with the relevant General Provisions in Part B3 of the NI Plan 2002. - The proposed sites for the permanent installation of the Desalination Plant and ancillary

structures are considered suitable for the proposed use and development. - The proposed development complies with and is consistent with the relevant use and

development principles. - The proposed relocation of the Desalination Plant to the proposed site at Portion 162 and the

installation of ancillary structures at Portions 165a and 170 would be compatible with surrounding use and development.

- The proposed relocation of the Desalination Plant to the proposed site at Portion 162 and the installation of ancillary structures at Portions 165a and 170 would not have an impact on the land side natural environment. It is considered that the proposal has the potential to generate positive outcomes for the natural environment by reducing reliance on and use of groundwater reserves.

2 ibid



- The existing services infrastructure is adequate to support the installation and operation of the Desalination Plant and ancillary structures as proposed.

- The proposed permanent installation of the Desalination Plant supports the overall intent and objectives of DCP 2 - Water Resources.

- The need for alternative sources of potable water during drought periods has been evident in recent years as bores and wells have dried up. The performance of the Desalination Plant since temporary installation at Cascade Bay has demonstrated that the Plant can supply an alternative and reliable source of potable water in an economical manner and generates economic, environmental and social benefits for the community.

On this basis the proposal as presented has the potential to deliver the key objectives of the project:

- to supply potable water as an alternative to the use of groundwater and to ensure a supplementary supply of potable water particularly during periods of drought;

- to supply all Council potable water requirements though the Desalination Plant and cease drawing water from the standpipe at Watermill Dam and Ben Christian Drive;

- ensure a permanent supply of at least 250 KL of water that does not rely on a power supply to be available for emergencies (i.e., 250 KL would be available by gravity feed to the proposed stand pipe).

Norfolk Island Regional Council

7 October 2021

statement of environmental effects accompanying a

Documents