South West Growth Centre First Release Precincts and ...alternate.sydneywater.com.au/web/groups/publicweb...The NSW Government’s Growth Centres Commission (GCC), now part of the

South West Growth Centre First Release Precincts and adjoining developments

SPS 614 amplification and additional pressure main

Construction Review of Environmental Factors

April 2012

Sydney Water - Commercial in Confidence

Contents

1 Introduction 1

1.1 Purpose and context 1

1.2 Strategic setting 1

1.3 Approval Setting 3

2 Project Details 4

2.1 Background 4

2.2 Project Need 4

2.3 Project Objectives 4

2.4 Options Analysis 5

2.5 Description of the Preferred Option and Delivery Staging 7

2.6 Description of SPS 614 amplification in Sydney Water REF 10

2.7 Scope of Work Activities 10

2.7.1 Preconstruction Activities 10

2.7.2 SPS 614 amplification 10

2.7.3 New pressure main and ancillary structures 11

2.7.4 Construction schedule and work hours 13

2.7.5 Construction equipment and machinery 13

2.7.6 Commissioning 14

2.7.7 Operation and maintenance 14

2.7.8 Traffic Management 14

3 Planning setting and legislative requirements 15

3.1 Approval process and state planning instruments 15

3.2 Licences and Permits 16

4 Environmental Issues 17

4.1 Terrestrial flora and fauna 17

4.1.1 Assessment methodology 17

4.1.2 Existing environment 17

4.1.3 Impacts and mitigation measures 17

4.2 Indigenous heritage 18



4.3 Water quality and hydrology 18


4.3.2 Construction impacts and mitigation measures 18

4.3.3 Operational impacts and mitigation measures 18

4.4 Noise and vibration 19




4.5 Traffic and access 19



4.6 Soil erosion and sedimentation 20



4.7 Air Quality 20




4.8 Energy and greenhouse gases 21



4.9 Aquatic flora and fauna 21



4.10 Bushfire 21



4.11 Non-indigenous heritage 22



4.12 Visual environment 22




4.13 Socio-economic environment 23


4.14 Waste generation and disposal 23


4.15 Cumulative impacts 23

5 Environmental safeguards 25

6 Conclusion 30

7 References 31

Appendix 1 Ecological Advice 32

Appendix 2 Indigenous Heritage Advice 34


Figures

Figure 1 – SPS 614 Amplification Works Overview Plan. 2

Figure 2a - Preferred Option for SPS 614 amplification and additional pressure main 8

Figure 2b - SPS 614 amplification and additional storage works 9

Tables

Table 1 - Summary of SPS 614 amplification options and preferred option 5

Table 2 - Options for locating additional SPS 614 pressure main and preferred option 6

South West Growth Centre First Release Precincts – SPS 614 amplification and additional pressure main


Environmental Impact Assessment Conclusions and Sign-off This report documents the outcomes of further Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) undertaken for the project to amplify Sewage Pumping Station (SPS) 614 and install an additional pressure main as part of serving the South West Growth Centre First Release Precincts and adjoining developments. This Construction Review of Environmental Factors (CREF) confirms that the project does not require development consent and the potential impacts have therefore been assessed under Part 5 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act).

Where relevant this document is to be read in conjunction with the Sydney Water Review of Environmental Factors (REF) for Water related services for the South West Growth Centres First Release Precincts and adjoining developments dated September 2008.

All potential impacts identified are of a minor nature and it is considered that the benefits associated with the project outweigh adverse impacts. The results of this EIA indicate that the project is unlikely to significantly affect the environment provided the safeguards identified in Section 8 of this report are implemented. Accordingly, no Environmental Impact Statement is required.

If the scope of works or work methods described in this report change significantly at any stage during the project, additional EIA must be undertaken.

For the purposes of Part 5 of the EP&A Act, it is recommended that the SPS614 amplification and additional pressure main proceed, as described in the REF, and as subsequently assessed in this CREF. It is further recommended that the SPS614 amplification and additional pressure main be implemented in accordance with the mitigation measures listed in this CREF.

The works have been allocated into stages, the table below identifies the CREF / Decisions Report, the applicable works and their determination date. The remaining works, consisting of drinking water pump stations and reservoirs, would be subject to a further CREF once detailed planning and concept design has occurred.

Sydney Water 2008, Water

related services for the

South West Growth

Centres First Release

Precincts and adjoining

developments, Review of

Environmental Factors,

September 2008

CREF / Decisions Report Project Stage

Assets Determination

Date

Sydney Water 2009, Water related services for the South West Growth Centres First Release Precincts and adjoining developments; Lead-in Works, Decision Report, July 2009

Stage 1

• 3.6 km of pipelines

• Two new wastewater pumping stations

• Upgrade/ amplification of SPS 484

• 16.3 km of wastewater pipelines

27th July 2009

Sydney Water 2010, South West Growth Centre First Release Precincts and adjoining developments; Drinking Water Pipelines Decision Report and Construction Review of Environmental Factors, October 2010

Stage 2

• Construction and operation of 24km of drinking water pipelines

10th November

2010

Sydney Water 2011, South West Growth Centre First Release Precincts and adjoining developments; SPS 614 amplification and additional pressure main. Construction Review of Environmental Factors May 2011

Stage 3

• Amplification of SPS614

• 2 km of wastewater pipelines

26 May 2011

SPS 614 amplification and additional pressure main. Revised Construction Review of Environmental Factors April 2012

• Revision of CREF to incorporate extension to site boundary and relocation of optical cable

As dated on signature page


Sydney Water - Commercial in Confidence Page | 1

1 Introduction

1.1 Purpose and context

This Construction REF (CREF) was prepared to supplement the original Sydney Water Review of Environmental Factors (REF) prepared for water related services for the South West Growth Centres First Release Precincts (SWGCFRP) and adjoining developments (Sydney Water 2008) –referred to as the ‘Sydney Water REF’ in this report. The original CREF (May 2011) has been revised (April 2012) to incorporate extension to the site boundary.

The Sydney Water REF included an assessment of a 15-year plan for all water related services (drinking water, wastewater and recycled water) required for servicing of the SWGCFRP (the overall Proposal). Due to the initial planning stage of these works and extended timeframe for installation of most of the infrastructure, Construction REFs were to be prepared once detailed planning and concept design had developed for each of the infrastructure stages.

The next stage of works required is to amplify SPS 614, install emergency storage and provide an additional pressure main (here after known as the ‘Project’). This CREF provides further environmental assessment of any potential impacts associated with the Project.

The impact assessment in Section 4 of this CREF represents more detailed assessments than those in Chapters 7 and 8 of the Sydney Water REF. The findings of the impact assessments in the Sydney Water REF are still relevant to this project, however the assessments in this REF provide more detailed site-specific impact assessments related to the Project. Additional flora and fauna and indigenous heritage studies were commissioned for works subject to this CREF.

The mitigation measures identified in this CREF (Section 5) are based on those contained in the Sydney Water REF and Decision Report. More detailed mitigation measures have also been included where appropriate.

1.2 Strategic setting

Sydney’s population is expanding. The NSW Government’s Metropolitan Plan for Sydney 2036 (The Metropolitan Plan) estimates that Sydney’s population will reach six million people by 2036.

The South West Growth Centre (SWGC) has been identified by the NSW Government as a key area to accommodate some of this growth. The NSW Government’s Growth Centres Commission (GCC), now part of the Department of Planning and Infrastructure (DoPI), has identified Edmondson Park, Oran Park and Turner Road as the First Release Precincts of the South West Growth Centre to be developed. The DoPI is responsible for these areas which are being developed to help house Sydney’s growing population. In conjunction with these areas, Camden Council has approved the rezoning of the Harrington Park, Mater Dei, Elderslie and Spring Farm sites for development.

This Project will be the third stage of the overall Proposal to enable development and service of the Turner Road Precinct, Central Hill, Mt Annan and Manooka Valley and part of Harrington Grove as shown in Figure 1.



Figure 1 – SPS 614 Amplification Works Overview Plan.



1.3 Approval Setting

The proposed works identified in the Sydney Water REF have been allocated into stages, Table 1.3 identifies the CREF / Decisions Report, the applicable works and their determination date. The remaining works, consisting of drinking water pump stations and reservoirs, would be subject to a further CREF once detailed planning and concept design has occurred.

Table 1.3: Breakdown of proposed Works and Associated Determinations

Sydney Water 2008, Water

related services for the

South West Growth

Centres First Release

Precincts and adjoining

developments, Review of

Environmental Factors,

September 2008

CREF / Decisions Report Project Stage

Assets Determination

Date

Sydney Water 2009, Water related services for the South West Growth Centres First Release Precincts and adjoining developments; Lead-in Works, Decision Report, July 2009

Stage 1

• 3.6 km of pipelines

• Two new wastewater pumping stations

• Upgrade/ amplification of SPS 484

• 16.3 km of wastewater pipelines

27th July 2009

Sydney Water 2010, South West Growth Centre First Release Precincts and adjoining developments; Drinking Water Pipelines Decision Report and Construction Review of Environmental Factors, October 2010

Stage 2

• Construction and operation of 24km of drinking water pipelines

10th November

2010

Sydney Water 2011, South West Growth Centre First Release Precincts and adjoining developments; SPS 614 amplification and additional pressure main. Construction Review of Environmental Factors May 2011

Stage 3

• Amplification of SPS614

• 2 km of wastewater pipelines

26 May 2011

SPS 614 amplification and additional pressure main. Revised Construction Review of Environmental Factors April 2012

• Revision of CREF to incorporate extension to site boundary and relocation of optical cable

As dated on signature page

Sydney Water, South West Growth Centre First Release Precincts and adjoining developments; Drinking Water Reservoirs and Water Pumping Stations.

Stage 4

To be Determined



2 Project Details

2.1 Background

Sewage Pumping Station (SPS) 614 is situated in the Camden area along Camden Valley Way and is part of the West Camden Sewerage System. It currently serves the suburbs of Currans Hill and Mount Annan as well as the industrial area of Smeaton Grange. With the connection of SP1156, which is currently being commissioned, it will also serve the Turner Road precinct, Central Hills and part of the Harrington Grove. It receives flows from the East Narellan Carrier and Camden Road Carrier by gravity. It then pumps the sewage to SPS 484 via the Narellan sub-main.

SPS 614 is a submersible pumping station constructed in 1984. Initially, SPS 614 was fitted with two submersible pumping units capable of pumping 250 litres per second (L/s) (one duty, one standby) discharging through the same pressure main. The two existing pumps were replaced with three new pumps in 2002 as part of the SewerFix SPS upgrade program. This enabled two pumps to be operated in parallel, with 1 standby pump providing a capacity increase to 390l/s. Recently only one pump was on duty due to capacity restrictions at SPS 484 downstream. However, following the completion of SPS 484 amplification works in December 2010, there are now no pumping restrictions on the operation of SPS 614 allowing for its upgrade.

The length of the existing 450mm diameter pressure main from SPS 614 is 1590 metres. It is located on the western side of Camden Valley Way, discharging into the 900mm diameter Narellan Submain close to the intersection of Camden Valley Way and the Northern Road.

2.2 Project Need

There are two main drivers for the Project:

1. Wet weather and Dry Weather Overflows and STS licence requirements

Hydraulic modelling carried out as part of the annual Sewerage Treatment System (STS) licence project in 2010 indicates the West Camden Sewerage System was not complying with the STS licence requirements by exceeding the system wet weather overflow frequency of 18 events in ten years. The actual frequency for this system in 2009/ 2010 was 32 events in ten years. This modelling indicates that there is the potential of 25 wet weather overflow events in ten years at SPS 614, the highest frequency of any individual overflow in the system. This Proposal will reduce wet weather overflow events in order to comply with the STS licence requirements.

There are currently no dry weather overflows at this pumping station. However with the planned development the existing emergency storage of 770m3, equivalent to about 2.25 hours, will be insufficient to minimise overflows. The Proposal to upgrade SPS614 will provide adequate response time during dry weather pumping failures.

2. Projected Demand

The areas that drain to SPS 614 will be substantially developed over the next 20 years. The bulk of the increase in dwellings will come from the Turner Road development area. SPS 1156, which is a new pumping station built in 2010, will be pumping flows from the Turner Road catchment to SPS 614. Based on the Department of Planning and Infrastructure (DP&I) Metropolitan Development Program (2008/09) figures, it is projected that the existing capacity of SPS 614 will be exceeded by 2012. This Proposal, to upgrade SPS614, will provide sufficient capacity to service the planned increase in dwellings.

2.3 Project Objectives

The purpose of the amplification of SPS 614 is to ensure that Sydney Water is able to meet the requirements of the STS licence conditions set by the Office of Environment and Heritage (OEH)



(formerly Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water (DECCW)) for the West Camden Sewerage System and accommodate Government approved growth in the catchment.

The specific Project objectives for SPS 614 are to:

• Amplify SPS 614

• Provide an additional pressure main and emergency storage to service growth in the area;

• Meet the STS licence limit for no more than 18 wet weather overflows in ten years; and

2.4 Options Analysis

SPS 614 amplification

Four amplification options were identified for SPS 614 to accommodate the predicted additional flows and meet the STS licence requirements of less than 18 wet weather overflow events in 10 years. The four options are outlined below in Table 1.

The main constraint in selection of a preferred amplification option at SPS 614 was the land available for construction of an emergency storage tank. There is not sufficient space within the existing SPS 614 property boundary to accommodate an emergency storage tank of any of the volumes required.

Options 1, 2 & 4 require the largest emergency storage tanks, which would require acquisition of land to the east of the pumping station site. However, the adjoining land to the east has new buildings currently being erected. Approval for this development has already been granted and therefore Sydney Water cannot purchase the required land for the construction of a larger emergency storage tank.

The emergency storage required for Option 3 is only 1.5 ML, which means that the land required to build the tank would be less than for Options 1, 2 & 4. An area to the west of the pumping station (incorporating an area currently used for parking by the adjoining landowner and a further piece of land closer to Camden Valley Way) is available for purchase to build the storage tank. This option requires a higher pumping rate of 590 l/s to make up for the smaller storage. Due to the surrounding land constraints, Option 3 is the only viable option, as it requires a new storage tank of 1.5 ML only.

Table 1 - Summary of SPS 614 amplification options and preferred option

Option Construction of Additional Pressure Main

Emergency Storage Maximum pumping capacity

1 Yes, 250mm diameter 2.4 ML 490 L/s

2 Yes, 450mm diameter 2.4 ML 490 Ll/s

3 (preferred) Yes, 450mm diameter 1.5 ML 590 L/s

4 No 3.8 ML 390 L/s

Location of additional pressure main

Two options were identified for the location of the additional pressure main from SPS 614 to the Narellan Submain, at the intersection of The Northern Road and Camden Valley Way. The two options for the location of the additional pressure main are outlined below in Table 2.



Table 2 - Options for locating additional SPS 614 pressure main and preferred option

Option Description of pressure main route

Advantages Disadvantages

3a

(preferred)

North of Camden Valley

Way, running parallel to the

existing pressure main route.

Two road crossings required.

•••• Located in the same

service corridor with

existing pressure main

•••• Lower cost than Option

3b

•••• Shorter in length than

Option 3b

•••• Less impact and

potential conflict with

RTA works than Option

3b

•••• Less space available to

lay the pipe due to


and other services

•••• Allows for common scour

and valve pits with the


•••• Allows for cross

connections to the

existing pressure main,

allowing for better

maintenance.

•••• Located closer to residences

than Option 3b, with

potential access issues

•••• Requires creek crossings

•••• May have higher

environmental impact/

removal of native vegetation

•••• Has more known services

that need to be crossed

3b South of Camden Valley

Way.

Three road crossings

required.

•••• Avoids residential areas by

staying south of Camden

Valley Way

•••• Minimises the number of

known services to be

crossed

•••• More space available to

lay the pipe

•••• Possibility that this route

could be going through

‘controlled areas’ as

nominated by RTA

(proposed road link between

Camden Valley Way and

Camden Bypass) – RTA

approvals/ requirements may

be hard to meet

•••• Higher cost than Option 3a

•••• Longer in length than Option

3a

•••• More crossings of RTA

roads

•••• More and longer bores

required than Option 3a

•••• More easements required

(new route).

Option 3a is the preferred option as it runs almost parallel to the existing pressure main and is in the same service corridor. Therefore most of the works will occur in previously disturbed areas and most of the existing vegetation, planned for removal, is from previous restoration works in the area.

Option 3a’s main advantages are that it has a lower construction cost than Option 3b and allows cross connections, common scour and valve pits with the existing pressure main, thereby providing improved operation in emergency situations. Option 3b is slightly longer and more costly than Option 3a, requires more crossings of RTA road works and would require maintenance free pipes in the ground under the proposed link between Camden Valley Way and Camden Bypass.



2.5 Description of the Preferred Option and Delivery Staging

Preferred Option

The SPS 614 amplification would include the following and is shown in Figure 2a and 2b:

•••• Increasing the pumping capacity of the station to 590 l/s;

•••• Construction of a 1.5 ML emergency storage tank;

•••• Construction of a second 1.6km 450 mm diameter pressure main along the same route as the existing pressure main (north of Camden Valley Way) between SPS614 and a Discharge Manhole between the Northern Road, Camden Valley Way and Old Northern Road.

•••• Construction of up to an 18m vent shaft along the pressure main

•••• All ancillary work associated with the above, which include but are not restricted to works that ensure the pumping station meets current standards, safety codes and reliability (i.e. replacement of pump guide rails and lifting chains, provision of bypass pump connections, construction of valve chambers and removal of existing overhead travelling crane and runway beams).



Figure 2a - Preferred Option for SPS 614 amplification and additional pressure main

Emergency Storage

Sharman Close

Connects to existing manhole and

gravitates to SPS484



Figure 2b - SPS 614 amplification and additional storage works

Additional 3m corridor of land to be acquired by Sydney Water



2.6 Description of SPS 614 amplification in Sydney Water REF

The wastewater services, including SPS 614 and pressure main are shown in Figure 3-3 in the Sydney Water REF. The current design of the additional pressure main is consistent with the location in the Sydney Water REF, which was shown on the northern side of Camden Valley Way.

Section 3.4.3 of the Sydney Water REF identified the need to amplify SPS 614 as part of the overall wastewater servicing strategy for the South West Growth Centre First Release Precincts; however, detailed information about the amplification was not provided in the REF at that time.

2.7 Scope of Work Activities

2.7.1 Preconstruction Activities

Pre-construction activities will include geotechnical and contamination surveys, identification of the locations of existing underground services, and other minor surveys and tasks required to finalise the alignment and depths of the new infrastructure and optimise the design. Appropriate environmental management controls will be implemented for these activities.

2.7.2 SPS 614 amplification

The amplification of SPS 614 will involve the installation of four new pumps, three duty and one stand by to increase the ultimate pumping capacity of the station to 590l/s, construction of an emergency storage tank, upgrade of the power supply and electrical equipment to suit the new pumping configuration, removal of the existing pump lifting crane, modifications to the pipework, valve chambers, steelwork and access driveway and various other ancillary works.

Land acquisition will be required to the west of the site (currently a carpark for adjacent industrial premises) for the installation of the emergency storage tank. An additional parcel of land to the west (approximately 3m wide) will be acquired to allow sufficient area for construction and ongoing maintenance. All other works would be within the existing SPS site boundary.

The works will include:

•••• relocation of optical cable approximately 8m from western edge of current carpark boundary

•••• excavation for construction of an in-ground reinforced concrete emergency storage tank

•••• installation of new and replacement pumps in the existing pump station

•••• installation of connecting inflow/outflow pipelines using open trenching techniques

•••• installation of new/replacement access covers and valves

•••• installation of two above ground bypass pumping connections

•••• excavation and construction of new valve chambers

•••• installation of a new/replacement electrical controls

•••• removal and disposal of existing pump lifting crane and supporting steelwork

•••• installation of additional lighting, drainage, signage and security fencing

•••• removal of existing trees along the eastern boundary to improve access around the station

•••• reconstruction and widening of the pumping station access road to provide improved turning for operation and maintenance vehicles

•••• electrical and mechanical fit out

•••• commissioning, and

•••• other minor works as required.



2.7.3 New pressure main and ancillary structures

A second pressure main of 450mm diameter will be installed underground using a combination of open trenching and trenchless techniques, such as micro tunnelling or Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD). Trenching is the preferred method of pipe installation as it allows open access to the pipeline during construction as well as identification of unknown underground obstacles, and will therefore be the primary method for these works. Trenchless techniques (underboring) will be utilised to avoid environmental and community impacts in sensitive areas, such as creeks and road crossings.

There are four areas along the pressure main route where underboring is likely to occur (subject to detailed design) and these are:

• beneath Camden Valley Way

• beneath Narellan Creek

• beneath Fairwater Drive

• beneath Sharman Close and The Northern Road.

To facilitate operation of the pumping station and pressure main, the following ancillary structures would be constructed:

• Cross connection - the new pressure main would be cross-connected with the existing pressure main near the existing gate to SPS614. A 'Diameter Nominal' (DN)450 isolation valve would be provided at the cross connection for isolating the new pressure main from the existing pressure main and this valve would be normally closed.

• Air Release valves - Air release valves would be provided at the highest point on the existing and new pressure main. The new pressure main would be graded to avoid intermediate high points and minimise the potential for air to accumulate wherever possible.

• Vent shaft – An air release valve and associated vent shaft would be provided at the highest point along the new pressure main route, near the southern end of Sharman Close. The exact location of the vent shaft would be determined during detailed design to minimise any potential visual, odour and social impacts for the residents located on the other side of Sharman Close. The height of the vent shaft would be 18m to assist in dispersal of odours.

• Scours and scour valve - Scours would be provided at all low points to accommodate draining of the pressure mains. Pump scours would only be used where gravity scours are not feasible. A gravity scour would be provided at the eastern side of the Camden Valley Way crossing near the entrance to SPS614 and connected to the nearest maintenance hole on the DN525 Camden Road Carrier.

• Maintenance hole - the existing receiving maintenance hole is too small to accommodate the new pressure main. The new pressure main shall be connected to the DN450 Richardson Road Carrier which drains into the DN900 Narellan Road Submain. The maintenance hole on the DN450 Richardson Road Carrier immediately upstream of the DN900 Narellan Road Submain will be demolished and a new maintenance hole constructed in its place.

Construction activities associated with trenching typically include:

In general, the width of impact would not exceed 10m either side of the proposed pressure main,

allowing for equipment and machinery adjacent to the trench construction.



• establishment of temporary site compounds at appropriate locations along the pipeline route (if required)

• establishment of erosion and sediment control measures

• implementation of traffic management measures

• site preparation, including pavement, footpath and/or road surface removal or vegetation removal

• provision of temporary access to properties where trench routes impact driveways

• trench excavation, including stockpiling of spoil material on the upslope side of trenches

• shoring and dewatering of trenches, depending upon trench depth and groundwater levels

• spreading of granular material such as sand or gravel along the bottom of the trench prior to pipe laying

• installation and testing of the pipeline

• construction of maintenance holes

• backfilling of the trench with bedding material and excavated soil

• compacting of trench fill material and restoring areas disturbed by the construction works.

Trenching methods can include both machine trenching and hand trenching. Trenching will

generally be carried out using excavators and a small compactor. Rockbreakers (possibly operated

by air compressor/s) may also be required where bedrock is encountered during excavation.

Along roadways full spoil removal may be required depending on road authority requirements. In

other areas the majority of spoil from the excavation of the trenches will be used to backfill the

pipeline route, as per Water Services Association of Australia (WSAA) Water and Sewer Codes.

Excess spoil will be classified in accordance with the DECCW guidelines Classification of Wastes

before being disposed of at a DECCW approved waste management facility.

Construction activities associated with micro-tunnelling (HDD) typically include:

• excavation of a launch pit (approximately 6 m long, 3 m wide and to pipeline depth) by excavators (and rockbreaker, if rock is encountered) and an exit pit of similar or smaller size. The final depth of the pit is dependent upon the design level of the pipeline.

• Additional space is required at the launch site to accommodate plant and equipment.

• Drilling or bore rig is lowered into the launch pit and a hole is bored by cutting heads being thrust along a straight alignment from the launching shaft to the receiving shaft by means of rods or jacks. Guidance is by laser and survey equipment, which allows for the boring of very flat grades with great accuracy. A single borehole is restricted to a maximum length of approximately 180 to 200 m.

In self-supporting strata, the pipe is generally installed after completion of the bore. In collapsible material, the pipe is typically jacked immediately behind the boring equipment or installed within a casing pipe.

Micro-tunnelling requires the use of drilling fluids to keep the drill head moving through the strata. Water is generally used as the drilling fluid for boring in rock, while bentonite slurry is typically used in soft materials. Drill cuttings are removed from the borehole via either vacuum extraction or a slurry system, which takes the cuttings to the ground surface for treatment.

With HDD, there is no need for a launch shaft to be excavated. Instead, the drilling rig sits on the ground surface and drills into the ground at an angle. The drill head is remote controlled from the surface and can be directed so that both vertical and horizontal curves can be drilled. A potential disadvantage of HDD is that the drill head can become misdirected when there is a change in strata. However, HDD is able to perform much longer bores compared to micro-tunnelling in a similar range of diameters. In a single HDD bore, a length of up to 2 km is achievable.



Activities associated with boring techniques include:

• establishing of temporary site compounds at approved locations

• establishing sites for the launch and exit shafts

• installation of erosion and sediment controls

• installation of measures for management of drilling fluids and cuttings

• installation of measures for management of groundwater

• removal of road/footpath surfaces and clearing of vegetation, as required

• installation of fencing and security measures

• excavation of the launch and exit shafts

• drilling of the borehole, including removal of spoil and cuttings

• insertion of the pipe into the borehole

• disposal at a licensed facility of excess spoil and cuttings that cannot be used in site restoration

• commissioning of the pipeline

• restoration of affected areas, including backfilling the bore shafts.

2.7.4 Construction schedule and work hours

Amplification of SPS 614 is anticipated to commence in September 2011 and will take up to 18

months to be fully commissioned. Construction of the second SPS 614 pressure main is

anticipated to commence mid to late 2012 and take approximately 12 months to complete.

Construction work will be undertaken during the following hours:

• 7 am and 6 pm Monday to Friday;

• 8 am to 1 pm on Saturdays; and

• No work will be undertaken on Sundays and Public Holidays.

Night-work may also be required for the construction of the pipelines such as where they cross

major roads or intersections, to minimise traffic impacts. Any night work would only occur following

approval from the Environment Manager (in accordance with a Noise Management Plan) and

following community notifications.

Some of the pipeline alignment will be adjacent to community facilities such as schools, childcare

centres and golf courses. Work in these areas would be scheduled to avoid peak usage periods

wherever possible.

2.7.5 Construction equipment and machinery

The machinery that is likely to be used during the construction of the pipelines includes:



• Excavator

• Small compactor

• Saw cutters

• Welding equipment

• Delivery and concrete trucks

• Powered hand tools

• Small compressor

• Small generator

• Micro-tunnelling or directional drilling rigs

2.7.6 Commissioning

Before the new infrastructure is used, there would be a commissioning period where the new infrastructure would be thoroughly tested. Commissioning would be in accordance with Sydney Water’s standard operating procedures. No significant impacts are expected during the commissioning period.

2.7.7 Operation and maintenance

During operation, all new infrastructure constructed as part of the Project would be routinely inspected and cleaned as necessary in accordance with Sydney Water’s standard operating procedures.

During maintenance, all infrastructure as part of the Project would be routinely inspected, cleaned and repaired as necessary in accordance with Sydney Water’s standard maintenance procedures.

2.7.8 Traffic Management

Construction of the pipeline has the potential to cause localised traffic delays and diversions, due to additional vehicle movements associated with the transport of construction workers, equipment and machinery to and from the pipeline sites and short-term closures of sections of road reserve and traffic lanes to allow for installation of pipelines. All directly affected landholders would be notified prior to commencement of construction activities and access to private properties would be maintained, in consultation with individual landholders. All road diversions and traffic management activities would be undertaken by qualified traffic controllers, in accordance with Sydney Water’s standard operating procedures. Additional mitigation measures, designed to minimise traffic delays and disruption, would include:

• consultation with the RTA and local government regarding works that may impact roads or traffic

• consultation with affected property owners to maintain access during construction

• measures to manage construction traffic.



3 Planning setting and legislative requirements

3.1 Approval process and state planning instruments

The planning setting and legislative requirements for this project are the same as identified in Section 5 of the Sydney Water REF, which indicated that significant impacts as a result of the project would be unlikely and as such an environmental impact statement is not required. Accordingly, this project is being assessed under Part 5 of the EP&A Act. The findings of this CREF support this conclusion.

In keeping with the requirements of Part 5 of the EP&A Act, the factors listed under Clause 228 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2000 have been taken into consideration in determining the likely impacts of the project. The Sydney Water REF found that further tests in relation to the significance of flora and fauna impacts might be required during the detailed design phase. The results of these further tests for significance are described in Section 4.1 of this report.

State Environmental Planning Policy (Sydney Regional Growth Centres) 2006

The Project works subject to this CREF are located outside the South West Growth Centre precinct boundary and therefore this SEPP is not applicable.

State Environmental Planning Policy (Infrastructure) 2007

This SEPP prevails over all other environmental planning instruments to the extent of any inconsistency, with the exception of SEPP 14 (Coastal wetlands), SEPP 26 (Littoral rainforests) or Major Projects SEPP.

The Infrastructure SEPP provides that development for the purpose of sewage reticulation systems may be carried out by or on behalf of a public authority without consent on any land’ (cl 106(3)(a). However, this needs to be specifically authorised on land reserved under the National Parks and Wildlife Act (NP&W Act) 1974. Under the infrastructure SEPP, sewage reticulation system means a facility for the collection and transfer of sewage to a sewage treatment plant or water recycling facility for treatment, or transfer or the treated water for use of disposal, including associated:

a) pipelines and tunnels, and

b) pumping stations, and

c) dosing facilities; and

d) odour control work, and

e) sewage overflow structures, and

f) vent stacks.

The Project works are part of a sewage reticulation system as defined in clause 106 and do not pass through any land reserved under the NP&W Act 1974. Therefore under the provisions of the Infrastructure SEPP the works can proceed without obtaining development consent.

Sydney Water identified that the environmental assessment and determination of the project would be undertaken in accordance with Part 5 of the EP&A Act. The SPS614 amplification and new pressure main works remain permissible without development consent under the provisions of the SEPP (Infrastructure). Sydney Water is both the proponent and the determining authority.

This CREF has been prepared to further assess the likely impacts of Project and concludes that these works are not likely to significantly impact the environment and recommends that the works be undertaken in accordance with the mitigation measures outlined in Section 5 of this report.



3.2 Licences and Permits

The principal contractor will be required to ensure that all relevant approvals and licences are obtained to carry out the work. The main approvals or licences required for the Project have not changed since the Sydney Water REF and these are outlined in Section 5.6 of that REF.



4 Environmental Issues

The findings of the impact assessments and mitigation measures in the Sydney Water REF are still relevant to this project. However, the assessments in this REF provide more detailed site-specific impact assessments and mitigation measures related to the SPS 614 amplification and new pressure main.

A number of the specialist studies completed as part of the Sydney Water REF are relevant to this stage of works. Additional flora and fauna and indigenous heritage studies were also commissioned for the works subject to this CREF.

4.1 Terrestrial flora and fauna

A Biodiversity Assessment was undertaken by EcoLogical Australia (EcoLogical 2008) as part of the 2008 REF to determine ecological constraints across the entire project area. This assessment recommended that any pipeline route south of SPS 614 be located on the eastern side of Camden Valley Way to avoid any native vegetation. The assessment also recommended that if the preferred pipeline alignment were on the western side, further ecological assessment and survey would be required.

Following option analysis and concept design, EcoLogical Australia was engaged to undertake further ecological assessment of the pipeline route on the western side of Camden Valley Way as part of this CREF. A copy of their flora and fauna assessment is included in Appendix 1 and a summary is provided below.

4.1.1 Assessment methodology

An impact corridor of 10m either side of the rising main route was traversed and assessed by EcoLogical Australia in March 2011. The assessment consisted of a desktop review of existing information for the area as well as a field survey. The field survey consisted of identifying vegetation communities and individual species, opportunistic fauna observations, habitat assessment and targeted Pimelea spicata searches. A random meander transect was used to survey the pipeline route and additional 10m impact corridor.

4.1.2 Existing environment

A total of 71 flora species were identified across the study area during the site inspection. Of these, only 27 species were native, and 10 of these species were present because of their use in environmental restoration works alongside Narellan Creek. There were 44 introduced species present, of which five are declared noxious weeds. No threatened flora species were found on site.

The entire study area has undergone substantial landscape modification and vegetation clearance in the past as a result of development.

No intact vegetation communities are located within the route or impact corridor of the new pressure main or existing SPS site. A small patch of Alluvial Woodland endangered ecological community (EEC) exists immediately west of the study area along the banks of Narellan Creek and is considered to provide moderate aquatic habitat (EcoLogical 2008).

Three fauna species were observed onsite during the field survey, all of which were considered common or introduced species. The site presents very low habitat potential due to the high prevalence of weeds, repeated disturbance due to development in the area and lack of maturity of any canopy species present.

4.1.3 Impacts and mitigation measures

No threatened flora or fauna species or endangered ecological communities are located within the 20m corridor of the pipeline alignment or in SPS614 site. An assessment of significance for the Alluvial Woodland (EEC) was completed by EcoLogical (Appendix 1) and concluded that the construction of the pressure main would not have a significant impact on this community.



The area of the Proposal to be directly impacted by vegetation removal has already been highly modified and will not contribute to the long term survival of the local EEC.

The works have been assessed against the relevant provisions of the Environmental Planning and Assessment (EP&A) Act, Threatened Species Conservation (TSC) Act and Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act. The project would not have a significant impact on any threatened species, populations or endangered ecological communities provided that adequate environmental safeguards are undertaken during construction and operation of the infrastructure.

No additional mitigation measures to those outlined in the Sydney Water REF are required during construction or operation of SPS 614 and the second rising main.

4.2 Indigenous heritage

Kelleher Nightingale Consulting (KNC) undertook an indigenous heritage assessment of the entire project area as part of the 2008 REF. A short memo was prepared by KNC as part of this CREF, to update the Aboriginal Heritage Information Management System (AHIMS) search and confirm that the current concept design for SPS 614 and new pressure main is consistent with the original 2008 assessment (refer to Appendix 2 ).

Kelleher Nightingale Consulting (KNC) states there are no indigenous heritage constraints for the rising main and SPS upgrade and that no further investigation is required.


An overview of indigenous heritage was presented in the Sydney Water REF. The upgrade to SPS 614 and the new pressure main route will cross Narellan Creek, as well as small stormwater drainage lines and existing disturbed areas (from the current RTA road works). A review along the planned construction areas found no known deposits of indigenous heritage.



4.3 Water quality and hydrology


An overview of local waterways was presented in the Sydney Water REF. SPS 614 is located in the Narellan Creek catchment, and is adjacent to a constructed open stormwater drain. The new pressure main route will cross Narellan Creek, as well as small constructed stormwater drainage lines constructed adjacent to Camden Valley Way.

The geology underlying the project is predominantly Wianamatta Shale Group. Geotechnical investigation along the SPS 614 rising main route would occur during detailed design. No information about depth to groundwater is known at this stage. An early geotechnical report (Sydney Water 1983) for the SPS 614 site indicates that groundwater may be encountered at a depth of 2.6m

4.3.2 Construction impacts and mitigation measures

The SPS 614 amplification and pressure main works could potentially impact on water quality and hydrology through trenching and underboring activities, contamination of surface water and interception of groundwater. Narellan Creek would be crossed by underboring to minimise environmental impacts.

However, these impacts can be minimised through appropriate environmental controls outlined in the Sydney Water REF. No additional mitigation measures are required.

4.3.3 Operational impacts and mitigation measures

The location of the existing SPS 614 emergency overflow will not change following completion of the amplification works. However, one of the objectives of the SPS 614 amplification is to reduce wet weather overflow events to ensure compliance with the Environmental Protection Licence



(EPL) requirements of less than 18 wet weather overflow events in 10 years. The provision of 1.5ML of emergency storage and additional pumping capacity would mean that SPS 614 would meet this EPL requirement, once the amplification works are complete.

SPS 614 has also been designed to meet the EPL of no dry weather overflows. The current arrangement of SPS 614 enables containment of all dry weather flows arriving at the station for approx. 2.25 hours. The amplification of SPS 614 would result in an additional 1.5 ML of additional storage, which would mean the containment time would be increased to more than four hours. In addition, the amplification works would incorporate overflow risk reduction measures, such as four pumps, two pressure mains, a diesel generator connector point and bypass pumping connections. As a result of all these measures, the risk of dry weather overflow at SPS 614 is considered minimal.


4.4 Noise and vibration


SPS 614 is located on the eastern side of Camden Valley Way, surrounded by industrial premises. The closest residents to SPS 614 are located approximately 170m away in Harrington Park, on the eastern side of Camden Valley Way. During construction of the pressure main, potential sensitive residential receivers are located in Sharman Close and along Fairwater Drive. The prevailing background noise for these receivers would be traffic on Camden Valley Way.


Amplification of SPS 614 would generate noise during excavation for the emergency storage tank and other below ground structures, as well as other general construction activities. However, minimal rock-breaking for these structures is expected at the SPS site due to past geotechnical information indicating that the alluvial soil layer is 11m deep (Sydney Water 1983). Excavation for the emergency storage tank would occur to a depth of approximately five meters. Therefore general noise from construction activities is unlikely to impact residents in Harrington Park due to the distance and intervening traffic noise of Camden Valley Way.

Construction of the pressure main would generate noise during trenching and underboring activities, particularly in locations where road pavement removal is required. However, these activities would generally not affect any individual residence for more than three weeks as the pipeline construction progresses.

There would be no noise and vibration impacts further to those described in the Sydney Water REF and no additional mitigation measures are therefore required.

4.5 Traffic and access


SPS 614 is located on the eastern side of Camden Valley Way. Access to the site is via a dedicated driveway off Camden Valley Way. Adequate parking exists within and in front of the pumping station site for construction and operational purposes.

The upgrade would include widening of the main driveway and the access ring road around the SPS 614 site to improve truck movements.

The second pressure main will be constructed adjacent to the existing pressure main on the western side of Camden Valley Way. This location has been selected to minimise impacts on future and existing RTA roads.

Camden Valley Way is a major arterial road and connects Narellan Road and Camden with the M5 and M7. RTA is currently upgrading the section of Camden Valley Way from Cobbitty Road to Narellan Road from a two lane into a four lane divided road. An off-road shared pedestrian/ cyclist path is also being constructed on the western side of the road. These construction works commenced in August 2010 and are expected to be complete in June 2012.




Several road crossings would be required for the construction of the second pressure main:

• Camden Valley Way

• Fairwater Drive

• Sharman Close, and

• The Northern Road.

All of these road crossings would be underbored to minimise traffic impacts. Construction of the pressure main along Sharman Close has the potential to disrupt access for residential properties, however the pressure main would be constructed on the eastern side to minimise access impacts. Access to residential properties would be maintained throughout construction and residents would be notified in advance of upcoming construction works.

The pressure main would be constructed adjacent to the proposed RTA shared cycleway/ pedestrian path on the western side of Camden Valley Way. Impacts to pedestrians and cyclists would be minimised during detailed design and construction of the pressure main through notification, signage and construction safety fencing. Where appropriate the cycleway and pedestrian access will be detoured around the construction site.


4.6 Soil erosion and sedimentation


In general, the soils in the vicinity of the works present a moderate to high erosion potential.

The SPS 614 amplification and additional pressure main would not be undertaken within a designated mine subsidence area. The closest mine subsidence area is located on the east of Camden Valley Way, south of Narellan Road.

There are no mapped areas of potential acid sulphate soils in the area of the works.


Impacts from the SPS 614 amplification and additional pressure main relate to runoff from construction sites and potential dewatering activities during trenching in areas of shallow groundwater and/ or near watercourses. Extension of the site boundary by an additional 3 metres and relocation of an optical cable approximately 8 metres from the existing western boundary of the carpark will result in excavation of a spoil mound associated with construction along Camden Valley Way. No new impacts from the Sydney Water REF have been identified and therefore no additional mitigation measures are required for these works.

4.7 Air Quality


There are no major air pollution sources in the general vicinity of the project. Emissions from surrounding agricultural land and vehicles on adjacent roads are the most likely source of air emissions in the immediate area. Other minor or seasonal sources may include agricultural burning, bushfires, wind-blown dust from other construction activities and wood-fired domestic heaters.


There would be no additional air quality impacts from the construction of the works than those described in the Sydney Water REF. No additional mitigation measures are required.




Venting of the existing SPS 614 is via the high level main connecting to the wet well and Inlet Maintenance Hole (IMH). The IMH is connected to a vent shaft located on the eastern boundary of the site. An odour control unit is not proposed as part of the amplification works as the SPS is located within an industrial area, with no history of odour complaints. All wet well, IMH and storage tank covers would be well sealed to eliminate odour emissions at ground level. An educt vent line would be provided between the emergency storage tank and existing vent shaft at the SPS site. The emergency storage tank would be fitted with three induct vents installed in the furthest corners from the educt line.

An air release valve and associated vent shaft would be provided at the highest point along the new pressure main route, near the southern end of Sharman Close. The air valve would be located, sized and designed to allow air inflow and outflow rate compatible with operational requirements. A gas tight cover would be installed on the air valve chamber to ensure no odour emissions at ground level. The exact location of the vent shaft would be determined during detailed design to minimise any potential visual, odour and social impacts for the residents located on the other side of Sharman Close. The height of the vent shaft would be 18m and would assist in dispersal of odours. No additional mitigation measures are considered necessary.

4.8 Energy and greenhouse gases


Sydney Water developed an Energy Management Plan (Sydney Water 2004/05), which details strategies and activities for improving energy efficiency and reducing non-renewable resource use between 2004/05 and 2009/10. In 2007, Sydney Water committed to becoming carbon neutral by 2020 through a combination of reduced demand, energy efficiency, renewable energy and offsets.


Energy use and resultant greenhouse gas emissions from amplification of SPS614 and construction of a second pressure main would be minor and temporary in nature. There would be no additional impacts on energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions above those already described in the Sydney Water REF. No additional mitigation measures are required.

Operational energy considerations were outlined in the Sydney Water REF and have not changed.

4.9 Aquatic flora and fauna

An aquatic habitat assessment was undertaken as part of the Biodiversity Assessment by EcoLogical as part of the Sydney Water REF (EcoLogical 2008).


The aquatic habitat within the study area is degraded due to land clearance, agricultural activities, loss of riparian vegetation, pollution, erosion and sedimentation. The construction of the additional pressure main would need to cross Narellan Creek. Narellan Creek in the vicinity of the works was considered to have minimal to no aquatic habitat potential (EcoLogical 2008).


Construction of the additional pressure main has the potential to impact aquatic habitat where creek crossings are required. Crossing of Narellan Creek will be undertaken by underboring techniques to minimise aquatic impacts. The launching and receiving bore pits would be located away from any native vegetation associated with Narellan Creek. No additional mitigation measures other than those outlined in the Sydney Water REF are required.

4.10 Bushfire


There is no bushland surrounding the SPS 614 site. Pipelines are located below ground and therefore bushfire assessment is not relevant.




Construction and operational impacts on bushfire as a result of the works are considered insignificant.

4.11 Non-indigenous heritage

Godden Mackay Logan Heritage Consultants (Godden Mackay Logan 2008) prepared a European heritage study as part of the Sydney Water REF. A search of the 2010 Camden Local Environment Plan (LEP) was also undertaken during preparation of this CREF to determine if any new items were listed since the Sydney Water REF.


There are no listed heritage items in the vicinity of the SPS 614 upgrade works, however, there are three locally listed heritage items near the southern end of the new pressure main route (refer to Figure 3):

• Burton Arms Inn, 332 Camden Valley Way

• Boyd Gallery, 2 Sharman Close

• Struggletown Conservation Area, Sharman Close


The potential impacts on the locally listed heritage items in the vicinity of the works have been considered in Table 3 below. Pre-construction dilapidation reports will be conducted for all heritage items (eg. Boyd Gallery, Struggletown Conservation Area) adjacent to the pipeline works

Table 3 – Potential impacts and mitigation measures for locally listed heritage items in vicinity of works

Item Location Description Heritage listing

Potential impact and mitigation measures

Burton Arms

Inn

332 Camden

Valley Way

This building was formerly

the village store

Local

(LEP)

No impact – pressure main

located on the opposite of

Camden Valley Way

Boyd Gallery 2 Sharman

Close

Modest sized building

constructed in 1919

Local

(LEP)

No impact – pipeline is located

close to this property, however,

would be underbored in this

section

Struggletown

Conservation

Area

Sharman Close Group of residences in

Sharman Close

Local

(LEP)

Minimal impact – pipeline would

be constructed on the opposite of

the road to the residences. The

exact location of the vent shaft in

this area would be determined in

consultation with Camden

Council to minimise any heritage

impacts on this conservation

area.

4.12 Visual environment


The existing environment comprises rural residential and industrial land uses. The topography is gently undulating and the area predominantly cleared for rural residential purposes.


Visual impacts associated with construction works at the SPS and for the pressure main are considered minor and temporary in nature. No additional mitigation measures are considered necessary.




There would be no change to the visual impact associated with the upgraded SPS 614 as most of the new work would be below ground. The pressure main would also be largely underground and therefore not result in any visual impacts. There would be a visual impact associated with the new 18m high vent shaft which would be constructed on the southern side of Sharman Close. The exact location of the vent shaft would be determined during detailed design to minimise any potential visual, odour and social impacts for the residents located on the other side of Sharman Close.

4.13 Socio-economic environment


There would be no additional impacts associated with the works compared to the Sydney Water REF and therefore no additional mitigation measures would be required.

4.14 Waste generation and disposal


There would be no additional impacts associated with the works compared to the Sydney Water REF and therefore no additional mitigation measures would be required.

4.15 Cumulative impacts

During construction the cumulative impacts within the area would be mainly associated with traffic, noise, vibration and air quality impacts from other construction projects in the area. These impacts are considered temporary and relatively minor in nature.



Figure 3 Non-indigenous heritage located adjacent to pipeline route

Wastewater pipeline

Local Heritage areas

Burton Arms Inn

Boyd Gallery

Struggletown

Conservation Area The Northern Road



5 Environmental safeguards

As indicated in the Sydney Water REF, a CEMP would be prepared following selection of a preferred contractor to undertake the works. The following safeguards must be incorporated into a project-specific Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP). The CEMP must also be revised immediately if any changes to the scope of works or work methods occur after the initial CEMP endorsement. All changes to a CEMP must be reviewed and endorsed by Sydney Water Project Environmental Representative.

[These safeguards are based on those contained in the Sydney Water REF and Lead-in Works Decision Report, further project-specific mitigation measures have also been included where relevant and these are shown in bold in Table 4 below. In the event of inconsistency between the Sydney Water REF and this Construction REF, the measures in this report prevail].

Table 4 – Environmental Safeguards

Safeguards

Flora, fauna & ecosystems

• No storage or stockpiling of spoil within the drip line of trees

• Erect exclusion fencing to protect existing trees, vegetation and Alluvial Woodland remnant

• Implement control measures in the event that exotic plants are detected

• Put in place standard soil erosion mitigation measures to avoid unnecessary damage to natural soil profiles and to limit transport of weed propagules and sediment off site

• Wherever feasible, use trenchless technologies such as underboring or horizontal directional drilling in areas of high sensitivity (such as waterways), in preference to open trenches

• Locate drilling launch sites and exit locations away from highly sensitive areas and waterways, and minimise clearing of native vegetation

• Implement weed control on site. Where appropriate, ensure machinery washdown is undertaken before and after entering the site to limit weed spread. Sydney Water have advised they are committed to weed control for two years following reinstatement works

• Minimise soil disturbance

Heritage (Indigenous and non-indigenous)

• Consultation with Indigenous Stakeholders should be continued throughout construction (if required)

• Eliminating or limiting the impact on Indigenous sites located in proximity to the Project must be considered during the detailed design (if not, an Aboriginal Heritage Impact Permit, AHIP, from DECCW will be required). Should an AHIP need to be obtained for any new Aboriginal objects discovered during construction, DECCW’s 2010 community consultation requirements must be implemented. The requirement for salvage will depend on the detailed construction design and consultation

• The precise locations of all potentially impacted sites will be established and verified (utilising a uniform projection or coordinate system) during the detailed design stage

• The use of existing road corridors should be maximised to limit the potential impact on Indigenous heritage. Specifically, installation of services in road corridors where sites do not occur, north on Cobbitty Road, the western corridor on Camden Valley Way to Narellan Creek, and the eastern side of Macquarie Grove Road



Refer to Table 7-6 of the original REF which provides details of the relevant actions to be taken should the route impact the sites identified

• all employees and contractors are inducted to ensure they are aware of potential Aboriginal relics in the area and that it is an offence to harm, disturb or destroy Aboriginal relics prior to the commencement of the works

• If Aboriginal skeletal material is discovered on site, excavation or disturbance will cease immediately and the NSW Police and DECCW, must be contacted immediately

In the case that there will be impacts on Aboriginal cultural heritage values, Sydney Water will need to:

• Identify the nature and extent of Aboriginal cultural heritage values across the site through comprehensive surveys

• Undertake an assessment of the Aboriginal sites identified within the project area. This must include consideration of both the archaeological values and Aboriginal cultural heritage values and comply with the principles set out in the Burra Charter

• Undertake archaeological excavations (if required) to verify the presence of Aboriginal sites in areas assessed as being of archaeological and/or cultural sensitivity. Any archaeological excavations must be undertaken to comply with best practice and DECCW guidelines

• Report all new sites to DECCW to comply with s91 of the NPW Act using the DECCW site card, and a copy of the final assessment report

• Describe the measures that will be taken to avoid and/or mitigate impacts of the project on Aboriginal cultural heritage values. This should include an assessment of the effectiveness and reliability of any proposed measures and any predicted impacts (direct or indirect) should these measures be implemented

• Clearly demonstrate that effective community consultations with Aboriginal communities has been undertaken in determined and assessing impacts, developing options and making final recommendations

• The pipelines would also require maintenance during the operation of the Project. Should potential impacts on Aboriginal heritage arise, standard operating procedures would be implemented to ensure the maintenance activities would have no impact

•••• Pre-construction dilapidation reports will be undertaken for all heritage items (e.g. Boyd Gallery, and buildings in the Struggletown Conservation Area) within 30m of pipeline works.

Hydrology and drainage

Mitigation measures for horizontal boring beneath creeks are similar to those provided for Flora and Fauna as detailed above

Controls should be implemented for stormwater run-off from all construction site surfaces to ensure contaminants such as sediment, litter and oils are not conveyed to downstream drainage paths including:

• Construction activities should be scheduled to allow for disturbed land to become stabilised. Confine all land disturbances to a minimum practical working area and to the vicinity of the construction sites, with vegetation clearance kept to a minimum particularly on sloping sites

• Hazardous material spills are to be contained and cleaned up immediately and disposed of appropriately by a licensed contractor

• Any contaminated soil arising from incidents during construction are to be removed for treatment and/or disposal at an appropriate facility

• Any new access tracks required should follow the natural contour of the land as far as possible, so that the amount of cut and fill is minimised, and incorporate appropriate drainage design to control surface water run-off to prevent soil erosion

• The effectiveness of the erosion and sediment controls structures should be regularly checked and re-assessed and any necessary improvements made

• Any groundwater would be appropriately disposed of (following treatment if required)



Water quality

• Hazardous material spills are to be contained and cleaned up immediately and disposed of appropriately by a licensed contractor

• Liquid and solid wastes generated should be collected and transported for treatment at a suitable facility for disposal

• Potentially hazardous materials are to be stored away from the watercourses and spill kits are to be maintained on site

• Any fuels, oils or chemicals stored on site should be within appropriately bunded and covered storage facilities with impervious floors to prevent leaching of these materials into the environment. DECCW’s document Bunding and Spill Management provides guidelines for the development of bunds

Noise & vibration

• As a minimum local residents should be informed of the extent of the operating hours via a letterbox drop two weeks prior to the commencement of construction

• The use of barriers at varying distances should be considered. Table 7-11 provides a summary of the recommended barrier heights and distances

• Pre-construction dilapidation reports and vibration monitoring will be undertaken for all heritage items within 30m of pipeline works.

• No blasting shall occur without gaining the permission of the DECCW

• Micro-tunnelling construction specialist noise mitigation advice is required for the launch and retrieval pit sites where they are in proximity to residents to ensure that unacceptable noise and vibration impacts do not occur. Ground-borne regenerated noise to be considered for sensitive receivers near or above the micro-tunnelling operation

• All construction work must be conducted between 7 am and 6 pm Monday to Friday and between 7am and 1pm Saturdays and at no time on Sundays and public holidays, unless the Environment Manager in accordance with the Noise Management Plan has approved the works and community notifications have occurred

Traffic & access

Impacts of construction work sites should be managed through Traffic Management Plans supplied by the contractors. Traffic Management Plans should be developed in accordance with the RTA Guidelines Traffic Control at Work Sites Version 4.

In addition to the Traffic Control Plan a number of safety principles will be considered including:

• advertising in advance of work

• adjustment of adjacent traffic signals for the duration of work

• providing sufficient safe clearances between workers and through traffic with the installation of safety barriers if required

• using traffic controllers only where approach speeds are reduced to a maximum of 60 kilometres per hour, and installing advance warning signs such as prepare to stop and traffic controller ahead signs

• implementing night work measures

• keeping pedestrians clear of the worksites at all times

• providing temporary cyclist access arrangements where required

• maintaining access to adjoining properties

• considering impacts on intersections

• restricting access to excavations

• notifying the relevant authorities of the planned works

Heavy vehicle movements will be kept to a minimum during school zone hours and morning peak



hours to maximise safety and reduce congestion.

The local community will be notified of any increases in heavy vehicle traffic through public notice publications and advertisements.

Topography, geology & soils

• Erosion and sedimentation controls would be installed and maintained in accordance with Managing Urban Stormwater Guidelines (Landcom 2004)

• Geotechnical investigations will be undertaken in any areas of mine subsidence impact by the Project, as part of the detailed design

• Disposal of trench water must be managed to prevent pollution of waters

Air quality & energy

• Appropriate dust management measures would be implemented throughout the duration of construction activities, including watering of exposed soils when necessary, water sprays for dust generating excavation and demolition activities, covering of trucks removing waste materials, progressive restoration of disturbed areas, maintenance of stockpiles at a height of less than 1.5 metres and avoiding works that may generate dust during unfavourable meteorological conditions. These standard measures would ensure that the impacts from dust generation are minimised

• Potentially affected communities will be advised of the potential for these occurrences in advance of the work

Energy and greenhouse gas emissions

• The combustion of fuels by construction equipment and vehicular movements would also contribute to emissions within the local environment. However, provided equipment and vehicles are maintained, emissions should not cause a significant impact and would be temporary in nature

Aquatic flora and fauna

• Reference should be made to the mitigation measures outlined in Section 7.2 of the Sydney Water REF

• Implement an adequate Erosion and Sediment Control Plan to prevent any impacts on water quality within the catchment during construction

• Work within riparian corridors should be in accordance with Water Management Act 2000 Guidelines

• Use trench-less technologies such as underboring or horizontal directional drilling in areas of high sensitivity (such as underboring at a creek crossing) in preference to open trenches

• Locate drilling launch sites and exit locations away from highly sensitive areas and waterways, and minimize native vegetation clearing

• Implement measures to avoid habitat damage from horizontal boring under creeks

• Should any waterway crossing be implemented above ground, the design of the structure must comply with NSW DPI’s Policy and guidelines for Fish Friendly Waterways and Fish Passage Requirements for Waterway Crossings

Visual environment

• Complete work within the shortest timeframe possible

• Progressively restore the work sites as work are completed, so that restoration occurs as quickly as possible

• Erect temporary fencing and display signs informing the general public of the details and purpose of the work throughout the construction and restoration period

• Minimise vehicle movements on unsealed surfaces



• Prevent stockpiling under tree canopies

• Ensure that the sites are kept tidy, providing receptacles for litter on site and removing waste from the site as soon as possible

• Limit the number of vehicles to the minimum number necessary to carry out the work.

Waste generation

• Waste would be managed in accordance with the Waste Avoidance and Resource Recovery Act 2001. Waste generation would be avoided and opportunities for resource recovery taken. Any waste generated would be appropriately disposed

• In the event that acid sulphate soils or contaminated material is found on site it would be classified and disposed of at a facility licensed to handle that type of waste

• Topsoil that is removed for the construction of the Project will be assessed for its suitability for reuse in on-site landscaping

• Excavated fill will be stockpiled and used for backfilling

• Any excess spoil will be reused where possible or disposed of in accordance with legislative requirements

• Housekeeping within the construction site will be addressed on a daily basis following the completion of the day’s activities

• Hazardous materials will be stored within appropriately bunded areas

• Machinery maintenance is to be conducted off site in a suitable location / area

• Any waste material, whether it be imported to or generated on the site must be managed in accordance with the DECCW guidelines: Waste Classification Guidelines Part 1: Classifying Waste (April 2008)

Land use & services

• During soil stripping for bulk earthwork onsite top soils and sub soils will be stockpiled separately onsite. The finished landform after the earthworks are completed should consist of sub soils buried with at least 300 mm of topsoil cover to minimise the exposure of sodic sub soils



6 Conclusion

It is considered that the benefits associated with the project outweigh the potential environmental impacts that could occur from the works.

The project has taken into account environmental impacts identified within the Sydney Water REF and provides recommendations and safeguards for incorporation into the CEMP.

The Project forms an integral part of the servicing of the First Release Precincts of the SWGC and other adjoining development. Appropriate management and safeguards implemented at the construction stage will ensure that the works are conducted in a manner than minimises impacts on the environment.

This assessment concludes that the development of the Project is unlikely to result in significant environmental impact. Accordingly, an EIS is not required for the Project.

The Project would be implemented in accordance with the mitigation measures listed in the REF and this CREF.

The remaining water related services required for the first release precincts and covered in the Sydney Water REF will be addressed by subsequent Decision Report/ Construction REF(s) at the time of detailed design and planning.



7 References

• EcoLogical Australia 2008, Biodiversity Assessment Infrastructure Servicing Options Oran Park and Turner Road Precinct, March 2008

• Godden Mackay Logan 2008, GCC Oran Park and Turner Road Precincts, Sydney Water Heritage Assessment Final Report, March 2008

• Kelleher Nightingale Consulting 2008, Oran Park And Turner Road Precincts Aboriginal Heritage Investigation for Proposed Infrastructure Service Routes and Site Options, Kelleher Nightingale Consulting Pty Ltd Archaeological and Heritage Management, March 2008.

• Sydney Water 1983, Camden Sewerage SPS 614 Hume Highway, Narellan geotechnical information, January 1983

• Sydney Water 2008, Water related services for the South West Growth Centres First Release Precincts and adjoining developments, Review of Environmental Factors, September 2008

• Sydney Water 2009, Water related services for the South West Growth Centres First Release Precincts and adjoining developments – Lead-in Works, Decision Report, July 2009

• Sydney Water 2010, South West Growth Centre First Release Precincts and adjoining developments Drinking Water Pipelines Decision Report and Construction Review of Environmental Factors, October 2010

• Department of Planning and Infrastructure (DoPI) Metropolitan Development Program (2008/09).



Appendix 1 Ecological Advice

Flora & Fauna Assessment

Camden Valley Way SP 614 Upgrade & Rising Main

Prepared for

Sydney Water

18 April 2011

C a md e n V a l l e y Wa y S P 6 1 4 U p g ra d e & R is in g M a in

F lo ra & F a u n a As s e s s me n t

© E C O L O G I C AL AU S T R AL I A P T Y LT D i

DOCUMENT TRACKING

ITEM DETAIL

Project Name Flora & Fauna Assessment

Project Number 11WOLECO 0006

File location G:\Synergy\Projects\11WOLECO\11WOLECO-0006 Camden Valley Way - SPS 614 upgrade & rising main Eco Advice\Report\Draft Reports

Prepared by Sally Perry

Approved by Steve House

Status Final

Version Number 3

Last saved on 18 April 2011

This report should be cited as ‘Eco Logical Australia April, 2011. Flora & Fauna Assessment – Camden

Valley Way SP 614 Upgrade and Rising Main. Prepared for Sydney Water.’

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

This document has been prepared by Eco Logical Australia Pty Ltd with support from Sydney Water.

Disclaimer

This document may only be used for the purpose for which it was commissioned and in accordance with the contract between

Eco Logical Australia Pty Ltd and Sydney Water. The scope of services was defined in consultation with Sydney Water, by time

and budgetary constraints imposed by the client, and the availability of reports and other data on the subject area. Changes to

available information, legislation and schedules are made on an ongoing basis and readers should obtain up to date information.

Eco Logical Australia Pty Ltd accepts no liability or responsibility whatsoever for or in respect of any use of or reliance upon this

report and its supporting material by any third party. Information provided is not intended to be a substitute for site specific

assessment or legal advice in relation to any matter. Unauthorised use of this report in any form is prohibited.



© E C O L O G I C AL AU S T R AL I A P T Y LT D ii

Contents

1 Introduction ................................................................................................................................. 1

1.1 Description of project .................................................................................................................... 1

1.2 Study Area .................................................................................................................................... 1

2 Legislative Requirements .......................................................................................................... 3

2.1 Environmental planning and assessment act 1979 ...................................................................... 3

2.2 Threatened Species Conservation Aact 1995 .............................................................................. 3

2.3 Fisheries Management Act 1994 .................................................................................................. 3

2.4 Water Management Act 2000 ....................................................................................................... 3

2.5 Noxious Weed Act 1993 ............................................................................................................... 3

2.6 EPBC Act ...................................................................................................................................... 3

3 Methodology ............................................................................................................................... 4

3.1 Data Audit ..................................................................................................................................... 4

3.2 Field Survey .................................................................................................................................. 5

3.3 Impact Assessment ...................................................................................................................... 5

4 Results ......................................................................................................................................... 6

4.1 Flora and Vegetation Communities .............................................................................................. 6

4.1.1 Flora .............................................................................................................................................. 6

4.1.2 Vegetation Communities .............................................................................................................. 6

4.1.3 Fauna ............................................................................................................................................ 8

4.2 Fish and Aquatic Species ............................................................................................................. 8

5 Impact Assessment .................................................................................................................... 9

5.1 Vegetation Communities ............................................................................................................ 10

5.2 Threatened Flora and Fauna Species ........................................................................................ 10

5.3 EPBC Act Matters ....................................................................................................................... 10

5.4 Aquatic and Riparian Habitat ...................................................................................................... 11

6 Impact Mitigation Recommendations ..................................................................................... 12

6.1 Prior to construction .................................................................................................................... 12

6.2 During construction ..................................................................................................................... 12

6.3 Post construction ........................................................................................................................ 12

7 Conclusion ................................................................................................................................ 13

References ............................................................................................................................................. 14



© E C O L O G I C AL AU S T R AL I A P T Y LT D iii

Appendix A: Flora Species List ........................................................................................................... 15

Appendix B: Threatened Species Likelihood of Occurrence ........................................................... 18

Appendix C: Assessment of Significance .......................................................................................... 26



© E C O L O G I C AL AU S T R AL I A P T Y LT D iv

List of Figures

Figure 1: Location of Study Area ................................................................................................................ 2

Figure 2: Location of Alluvial Woodland in relation to sewer rising main and pumping station upgrade

works - with GPS reference points ............................................................................................................. 7

List of Tables

Table 1: Weather observations were taken from Camden (www.bom.gov.au) ......................................... 5

Table 2: Flora Recorded within the Study Area. ...................................................................................... 15

Table 3: Threatened flora species within 5km radius of the site. ............................................................. 18

Table 4: Threatened fauna species recorded within a 5km radius of the study area. ............................. 20

Abbreviations

ABBREVIATION DESCRIPTION

CVW Camden Valley Way

E P & A Act NSW Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979

EEC Endangered Ecological Community

ELA Eco Logical Australia

REF Review of Environmental Factors

SWGC South West Growth Centre



© E C O L O G I C AL AU S T R AL I A P T Y LT D 1

1 Introduction

1.1 DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT

Sydney Water has previously prepared a Review of Environmental Factors (REF) for the upgrade of the

Sewer Pumping Station SP 614 and rising main amplification, however the route of this work has now

changed to the western side of Camden Valley Way, Smeaton Grange. Consequently further work was

required to assess the impact of this work in the new location, and specifically on the flora and fauna on

the subject site. Eco Logical Australia (ELA) was engaged to undertake a flora and fauna assessment

which involved:

• Literature review of Sydney Water REF, Biodiversity Assessment Infrastructure Servicing

Options Oran Park and Turner Road Precincts and relevant wildlife database searches,

• Undertaking flora and fauna survey and preparing an assessment of the terrestrial and

aquatic ecology,

• Provision of recommendations to avoid and / or mitigate impacts from construction and

maintenance works.

1.2 STUDY AREA

The existing Sewer Pumping Station SP 614 is located on the eastern side of Camden Valley Way

(CVW), essentially midway between the Anderson Road and Smeaton Grange Road intersections with

Camden Valley Way. The eastern side of CVW is at present highly disturbed due to the extensive road

widening and upgrade works currently underway by the NSW Roads and Traffic Authority.

The immediate western side of CVW is also a highly disturbed environment. A powerline transmission

easement runs along the western side of CVW (out to approximately 40m from the road shoulder) and a

second easement crosses CVW at Narellan Creek. All vegetation within these easements is periodically

maintained through manual slashing and removal with maintenance works having been completed

recently prior to this field assessment. Existing water and sewer mains have also been installed within

this area, on the east (road) side of the powerline easement. North of The Northern Road the new rising

main is to be located between the road and the existing water and sewer mains, while south of The

Northern Road the new rising main will traverse the same course as the existing sewer main.

Recent efforts have been made to improve the ecological integrity of the western roadside area through

the use of some native landscaping at the entrance way to the Harrington Park estate, creek line

revegetation works adjacent to Narellan Creek and landscaping works at the major intersection of CVW

and Narellan Road.

Narellan Creek is classified as a Category 1 Watercourse according to (the former) NSW Department of

Natural Resources stream classification guidelines. The Ecological Constraints analysis undertaken for

the Sydney Water REF for Water Related Services for the South West Growth Centre (SWGC)

identified the vegetation adjacent to Narellan Creek (on the western side of CVW) as presenting a high

level of constraint as it is Alluvial Woodland, an Endangered Ecological Community (EEC). However

due to the periodic vegetation maintenance undertaken within the powerline easements and previous

disturbances for infrastructure provision in this area, the EEC does not extend eastwards into the study

area and hence the level of Ecological Constraint within the actual study site is low.




Sharman Close provides a permanent (sealed) road for access during construction and maintenance

activities between Narellan Road and (essentially) Fairwater Drive, while a dirt access road continues

north from Fairwater Drive for approximately 400m.

An impact corridor of approximately 10m either side of the proposed rising main route was traversed

and assessed for this report. For the vast majority of the pipeline route between the CVW and Narellan

Road / Northern Road intersection, the new pipeline will lie between the existing water and sewer mains

and CVW, and thus with an area that has already been substantially cleared for previous infrastructure

provision. South of that intersection, the pipeline route follows exactly the route of the existing sewer

rising main.

Figure 1: Location of Study Area

C a md e n V a l le y Wa y S P 6 1 4 U p g ra d e & R is i n g Ma in

F l o ra & F a u n a As s e s s me n t


2 Legislative Requirements

2.1 ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING AND ASSESSMENT ACT 1979

The NSW Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP & A Act) is the principal planning

legislation for the State, providing a framework for the overall environmental planning and assessment

of development and activity proposals. This activity will be assessed via a Construction Review of

Environmental Factors under Part 5 of the EP & A Act, with Sydney Water the consent authority.

2.2 THREATENED SPECIES CONSERVATION AACT 1995

The NSW Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 (TSC Act) aims to protect and encourage the

recovery of threatened species, populations and ecological community listed under the Act. The TSC

Act is integrated with the EP & A Act and requires consideration of whether a development or activity is

likely to have a significant impact on listed threatened species, populations, ecological communities or

their habitat.

2.3 FISHERIES MANAGEMENT ACT 1994

The NSW Fisheries Management Act 1994 (FM Act) aims to conserve, develop and share the fishery

resources of NSW for the benefit of present and future generations. Under this Act, ‘fish’ is defined as

any marine, estuarine or freshwaster fish or other aquatic animal at any stage of their lifecycle.

2.4 WATER MANAGEMENT ACT 2000

The Water Management Act (WM Act) aims to provide for the sustainable and integrated management

of the water sources of NSW for the benefit of both present and future generations. Specifically the WM

Act requires that ‘controlled activities’ which will impact on waterfront land will require a Controlled

Activity Approval. Additionally, the WM Act specifies the widths of core riparian zones required to be

established adjacent to category 1, 2 and 3 watercourses, as classified under the Strahler System of

ordering watercourses. As a public authority, Sydney Water is not required to submit applications for a

Controlled Activity Approval.

2.5 NOXIOUS WEED ACT 1993

The objectives of the NSW Noxious Weeds Act 1993 are to identify which noxious weeds require

control measures, identify appropriate control measures and specify the responsibilities of all

landholders and land managers in regards to noxious weeds control.

2.6 EPBC ACT

The Commonwealth Environment Protection & Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act)

establishes a process for assessing the environmental impact of activities and developments where

“matters of national environmental significance” may be affected. Under the Act, any action that “has,

will have or is likely to have a significant impact on a matter of national environmental significance” is

defined as a controlled action and requires approval from the Commonwealth Department of

Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities (SEWPAC). This report highlights any

relevant EPBC matters and advises if a referral to the Commonwealth Department is required.




3 Methodology

3.1 DATA AUDIT

The following information and databases were reviewed prior to the field surveys:

• South West Growth Centres Ecological Assessment and Draft EPBC referral; Oran Park

Precinct Sewer Gravity Mains, Sewer Pumping Station 1161 and Northern Road

Watermain - Flora and Fauna Assessment; Review of Environmental Factors for the Water

Related Services for the SWGC; Biodiversity Assessment Infrastructure Servicing Options

Oran Park and Turner Road Precincts.

• Atlas of NSW Wildlife;

• EPBC Protected Matters Search;

• NSW Fisheries Records Viewer;

• Western Sydney Vegetation Mapping (2002).

Vegetation communities likely to be present on site were reviewed along with aerial photography of the

site prior to survey. Species from both database searches were combined to produce a list of

threatened species and communities previously recorded in the area that may possibly occur within the

study area.

Table 3 and Table 4 list the Threatened Species and Endangered Ecological Communities identified by

the database searches, together with an assessment of the likelihood of occurrence within the proposed

worksite. The likely occurrence of each species was determined by reviewing records in the area,

habitat availability and knowledge of the species’ habitat requirements.

Five terms for the likelihood of occurrence of species are used in this report and are defined as follows:

• “yes” = the species was or has been observed on site

• “likely” = a medium to high potential that a species uses the site

• “potential” = suitable habitat for a species occurs on the site but there is insufficient

information to categorise the species as likely or unlikely to occur

• “unlikely” = a very low to low probability that a species uses the site

• “no” = habitat on site and in the vicinity




3.2 FIELD SURVEY

The study area was surveyed on Wednesday March 23, 2011 by ELA’s Restoration Ecologist, Bush

Regeneration and Consulting staff. The weather conditions during the field survey are outlined in Table

1.

Table 1: Weather observations were taken from Camden (www.bom.gov.au)

Survey Date Min Temp (°C) Max Temp (°C) Rainfall (mm)

23 March 2011 16.4 29.9 0.8 mm

The survey consisted of identifying vegetation communities and individual species, opportunistic fauna

observations, habitat assessment and targeted threatened flora searches (for Pimelea spicata,

Marsdenia viridiflora subsp viridiflora, Cynanchum elegans). A random meander transect was used to

survey the proposed pipeline route and additional 10m impact corridor.

3.3 IMPACT ASSESSMENT

Assessments of significance provide a means for assessing whether the proposed activity is likely to

have a significant (negative) impact on a threatened species or its habitat, an endangered population or

an endangered ecological community.

The Assessment of Significance (7- Part test) required under Section 5A of the EP & A Act has been

applied to the threatened species, endangered populations and endangered ecological communities

known or likely to occur, or potentially occur within the study area. An assessment of significance for

any matters of National Environmental Significance (NES) as listed under the EPBC Act was not

completed as this was not required.




4 Results

4.1 FLORA AND VEGETATION COMMUNITIES

4.1.1 Flora

A total of 71 flora species were identified across the study area during the site inspection. Of these, only

27 species were native, and 10 of these species were present because of their use in environmental

restoration works alongside Narellan Creek. There were 44 introduced species present, of which 5 are

declared noxious weeds (refer to Appendix A). No threatened flora species were found on site. The full

list of flora species encountered on site is presented in Appendix A, Table 2.

All of the study site has undergone substantial landscape modification and vegetation clearance in the

past as a result of both major road construction, powerline and water and sewer infrastructure provision

and general urban development.

4.1.2 Vegetation Communities

No in-tact vegetation communities are located within the route or the impact corridor of the new rising

main or existing sewer pumping station. A small patch of Alluvial Woodland endangered ecological

community exists immediately west of the study area along the banks of Narellan Creek and is

considered to provide moderate aquatic habitat (Eco Logical 2008). This EEC is found mainly on the

river flats of the coastal floodplains and is a sub-community of the River-Flat Eucalypt Forest on Coastal

Floodplains of the NSW North Coast, Sydney basin and South-East Corner Basin Bio-Regions.

The DECCW Threatened Species Profile Website provides the following information on this community.

The composition of the tree stratum varies considerably, however the most widespread and abundant

dominant trees include Eucalyptus tereticornis (forest red gum), E. amplifolia (cabbage gum),

Angophora floribunda (rough-barked apple) and A. subvelutina (broad-leaved apple). Scattered shrubs

include Bursaria spinosa , Solanum prinophyllum, Rubus parvifolius, Breynia oblongifolia, Ozothamnus

diosmifolius, Hymenanthera dentata, Acacia floribunda and Phyllanthus gunnii.The groundcover is

composed of abundant forbs, scramblers and grasses including Microlaena stipoides, Dichondra

repens, Glycine clandestina, Oplismenus aemulus, Desmodium gunnii, Pratia purpurascens, Entolasia

marginata, Oxalis perennans and Veronica plebeia . The composition and structure of the understorey

is influenced by grazing and fire history, changes to hydrology and soil salinity and other disturbance,

and may have a substantial component of exotic shrubs, grasses, vines and forbs. Associated with silts,

clay-loams and sandy loams, on periodically inundated alluvial flats, drainage lines and river terraces

associated with coastal floodplains. River-Flat Eucalypt Forest on Coastal Floodplains provides habitat

for a broad range of animals, including many that are dependent on trees for food, nesting or roosting.

Appendix B Table 3 presents the Threatened Flora Species and Endangered Ecological communities

potentially present within the study area as a result of TSC and EPBC Act database searches. The

complete list of flora species present and encountered on site is included as Appendix 1. Figure 2

illustrates the location of the Alluvial Woodland on site.




Figure 2: Location of Alluvial Woodland in relation to sewer rising main and pumping station upgrade works - with GPS reference points




4.1.3 Fauna

Three fauna species were observed onsite:

• Manorina corneovirens, Noisy Miner

• Eulamprus quoyii, Eastern Water Skink

• Acridotheres tristis, Common Myna (introduced).

The impact site presents very low habitat potential due to the high prevalence of weeds, repeated

disturbance for infrastructure placement and maintenance, relative lack of maturity of any canopy

species present and generally quite hostile environmental conditions. No hollow bearing trees were

identified within the impact corridor for these works.

Appendix B Table 4 presents the Threatened Fauna Species potentially present within the study area

as a result of TSC and EPBC Act database searches.

4.2 FISH AND AQUATIC SPECIES

This semi-ephemeral site was found to be considerably disturbed with an upstream culvert under

Camden Valley Way entering a modified channel and the downstream section heavily modified through

the Harrington Park Development. A significant obstruction to fish passage, in the form of the Harrington

Park lake would limit the ability for migratory species to move throughout this system.

A search of the NSW Fisheries ‘Records Viewer’ indicated that there are no records of threatened fish

species within the Camden Local Government Area. Due to the altered environment, obstructions to fish

passage and location high in the catchment, threatened fish species such as Macquarie Perch

(Macquaria australasica) and the Australian grayling (Prototroctes maraena) that are known to occur in

Western Sydney are unlikely to occur on this site, or be impacted by the proposed activity.




5 Impact Assessment

The following assessment of potential impact on the study area’s ecological values is based on the

proposed works to construct and operate a new waste water rising main (on the other side of the road

to the original proposal) and upgrade the existing sewer pumping station SP 614.

The impacts of all proposed works will be addressed in the Construction REF completed by Sydney

Water prior to assessment of the activity under Part 5 of the EP & A Act. The potential construction and

operation impacts on the terrestrial and aquatic habitat on the site and the immediate environs have

been considered here.

Potential construction impacts of the works are as follows:

Wastewater rising main

• Clear a corridor up to 20m wide along the pipeline for access, operation of equipment,

stockpiling and storage

• Clear, strip topsoil, excavation, pipelaying and backfilling to a width of approximately 1m

along the route

• Under boring of CVW at approximately CH150, under boring of Narellan Creek at

approximately CH600, under boring of the CVW / Narellan Road / The Northern Road

intersection between approximately CH1250 and CH 1350.

Sewer Pumping Station Upgrade

• Tree removal within the pumping station site

Potential operational impacts of the work are as follows:

Wastewater rising main

• Maintenance of the cleared easement over the pipeline location

Sewer Pumping Station

• General maintenance of compound

• Infrequent discharge of sewer to the environment during wet weather events

The alignment of the new wastewater main will be between 1 – 3 m north / west of the existing waste

water main between the pumping station and Fairwater Drive and within the existing infrastructure

easement. From Fairwater Drive south to the CVW / Narellan Road / The Northern Road intersection

the new pipeline will be east / south of the existing waste water main in the road reserve between CVW

and Sharman Close. South of the CVW / Narellan Road / The Northern Road intersection, the new

pipeline will be north of the existing lines and within the existing infrastructure easement.




5.1 VEGETATION COMMUNITIES

The proposed works to construct and operate a new wastewater rising main and upgrade an existing

sewer pumping station do not require the direct removal of any threatened flora species or endangered

ecological communities. Based on an appraisal of the threatened flora species in Table 3 and their

habitat requirements, no threatened plants are considered to have the potential to exist within the study

area.

A small area of Alluvial Woodland EEC does exist immediately west, and downstream, of the study area

along the banks of Narellan Creek. This vegetation will not be directly affected by any direct vegetation

clearance activities, however the community could be impacted by other aspects of the overall

development if adequate environmental management safeguards are not put in place. (Section 6

provides details on impact mitigation recommendations.)

An assessment of significance for the Alluvial Woodland EEC was completed and concluded that the

proposed wastewater rising main installation and sewer pumping station upgrade and their ongoing

maintenance will not have a significant impact on this community.

The full assessment of significance (7 Part Test) is attached as Appendix C.

5.2 THREATENED FLORA AND FAUNA SPECIES

Targeted searches did not locate any Pimelea spicata, Marsdenia viridiflora subsp viridiflora,

Cynanchum elegans or other threatened flora species within the study area. No threatened flora

species are expected to occur within the study area given the amount, and frequency of, disturbance to

the area during previous construction and maintenance activities and the lack of recordings of

threatened species in the study area on the wildlife atlases and previous ecological studies. No

threatened flora species are expected to be directly impacted by the proposed works to construct and

operate the pipeline and upgraded sewer pumping station.

No threatened fauna species were recorded within the study area. Based on an appraisal of habitat

requirements of the threatened fauna species listed in Appendix B, Table C, the on-site conditions of

the study area and the lack of recordings of threatened fauna species in both the wildlife databases and

previous ecological studies, no threatened fauna species are likely to occur within the study area.

The Alluvial Woodland EEC immediately to the west of the study area may provide some level of

foraging or shelter resource for several species, however this area will not be impacted by the proposed

activity provided that adequate mitigation actions are completed.

5.3 EPBC ACT MATTERS

Under the EPBC Act any action which “has, will have or is likely to have a significant impact on a matter

of national environmental significance” is defined as a “controlled action” and requires the approval from

the Commonwealth Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities

which is responsible for administering the EPBC Act.

No matters of national environmental significance were recorded on site. As a result, a referral under

the EPBC Act is not considered necessary for the proposed works.




5.4 AQUATIC AND RIP ARIAN HABITAT

The proposed works will cross a number of small watercourses, including Narellan Creek. Narellan

Creek is a Category 1 watercourse, there is moderate aquatic habitat and the Alluvial Woodland is

considered to provide a high ecological constraint to development (Sydney Water 2010, ELA 2008). The

crossings of Narellan Creek will occur at locations that are already highly disturbed from previous

infrastructure installation and maintenance. The plans provided show that underboring is proposed at

these locations which will limit any adverse impacts on the watercourses and surrounding vegetation.

Compliance with the additional mitigation actions recommended in Section 6 will further reduce the

potential for negative impacts on the aquatic environment.




6 Impact Mitigation Recommendations

6.1 PRIOR TO CONSTRUCTION

Mitigation measures should include;

• Minimising the period of time whereby creeklines are exposed to open trenching activities.

• Identifying sufficient space for machinery access, soil and other material stockpiling within

the 20m wide ‘corridor of disturbance’

• Installation of temporary para-webbing style fencing (or similar) adjacent to the Alluvial

Woodland remnant to prevent unwanted access into this area.

6.2 DURING CONSTRUCTION

Mitigation measures to be implemented

• Preventing storage, stockpiling or excavation within the drip line of any trees which are to

be retained.

• Piling of soil that may contain seeds of exotic species at least 50m away from the creeks,

drainage lines and alluvial woodland to prevent weed spread

• Ensuring that all work within riparian corridors is conducted in accordance with the Water

Management Act 2000 and the (former) DWE guidelines for laying pipes in watercourses.

• Implementing an adequate Erosion and Sediment Control Plan to prevent any impacts on

water quality within the watercourses and broader catchment

• Maximising the use of underboring or horizontal directional drilling

• Locating drill launch sites and exit locations outside of areas of high sensitivity and native

vegetation

6.3 POST CONSTRUCTION

The primary mitigation measures to be adopted following completion of all construction works (i.e.

during the operational phase of the infrastructure) are:

• Stabilisation of all bare ground surfaces created during the construction activities with

either sterile exotic cover crops or native grass and other ground covers.




7 Conclusion

The revised proposal for the new wastewater rising main and upgrade to the existing sewer pumping

station SP 614 involves the clearance of vegetation from a potentially 20m wide corridor of land

adjacent to the northern/western side of Camden Valley Way at Smeaton Grange. This area has been

extensively cleared in the past for previous infrastructure provision and maintenance, however some

creek bank and vegetation restoration works have been undertaken more recently along the banks of

Narellan Creek.

The proposed works have been assessed against the relevant provisions of the EP & A Act, TSC Act

and EPBC Act. The works, as currently proposed, will not have a significant impact on any threatened

species, populations or endangered ecological communities provided that adequate environmental

safeguards are undertaken during construction and future maintenance works.




References

DECCW 2011. Threatened Species Profile Website.

http://www.threatenedspecies.environment.nsw.gov.au/tsprofile/home_tec.aspx

Eco Logical Australia 2008. Biodiversity Assessment Infrastructure Options Oran Park and Turbner

Road Precincts.

Sydney Water 2010. Water Related Services for the SWGC first release precincts and adjoining

developments – Review of Environmental Factors.




Appendix A: Flora Species List

Table 2: Flora Recorded within the Study Area.

Bold = threatened species, ® = Revegetation planting, * = introduced species

SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME ANY RELEVANT LISTING

Poa Labilladerii ® Poa Grass

Lomandra longifolia ® Spiney Headed Mat-Rush

Imperata cylindrica ® Blady Grass

Eleaochris sphacelate Spikerush

Glycine tabacina ® Variable Glycine

Themeda australis ® Kangaroo Grass

Hardenbergia violacea ® Purple Coral Pea

Acacia parramatensis ® Parramatta Green wattle

Dianella revolutum ® Mauve Flax Lily

Leptospermum polygafolium Yellow Tea Tree

Dichondra repens Kidney weed

Eucalyptus tereticornis ® Forest Red Gum

Dodonea viscose Hop Bush

Sporobolus spp Sporobulus,

Phragmites australis Common Reed

Angophora subvelutina Rough Barked Apple

Bursaria spinosa ® Native Blackthorn

Microlaena stipoides Meadow Rice Grass

Juncus usitatus Common Rush

Indigofera australis Native Indigo

Casuarina glauca Swamp She Oak

Acacia floribunda Sally Wattle

Eucalyptus spp (non endemic)

Epilobium billardierium Smooth Willow Herb




Casuarina cunninghamia River She Oak

Cynodon dactylon Native Couch

Phalaris Canary Grass

Medicago sp * Medic

Oxalis perenans* Onion weed Noxious Class 5

Bidens pilosa* Bidens, Cobblers Peg

Araujia sericifera* Moth vine

Cirsium vulgare* Thistle

Verbeana bonariensis* Purple Top

Setaria palmifolia* Palm Grass

Hypochaeris radicata* Dandelion

Cunzya spp Fleabane

Latuca serriola Prickly Lettuce

Echinochloa esculenta Japanese Millet

Ulmus parviflora Chinese Elm

Plantago lanceolata* Lambs ears

Paspalum dilutatum* Paspalum

Tagetes minuta* Marigold

Brasicacea spp* Brassica

Foeniculum vulgare* Aniseed

Cyclospermum leptophyllum Slender Celery

Senecio madagascarensis* Fireweed

Rumex �rownie* Dock

Cyperus eragrostis* Sedge

Trifolium repens* Clover

Modiola caroliana* Mallow

Solanum nigrum* Nightshade

Chenopodium alben* Fat Hen

Polygonum aviculare* Knotweed, Rustweed




NB* Noxious Weed Class 4 Declaration = the growth and spread of the plant must be controlled according to the measures

specific in a management plan published by the local control authority.

Noxious Weed Class 5 Declaration = the requirements of the Noxious Weeds Act 1993 for a notifiable weed must be complied

with.

Bromus cartharticus* Prairie Grass

Gleditsia spp* Honey Locust

Ligustrum lucidum* Large Leaved Privet Noxious Class 4

Sida rhombifolia* Common Sida

Olea europaea* Oleander

Stachys arvensis* Woundwort

Pennisetum clandestinum* Kikiuyu

Phalaris spp* Canary Grass

Ligustrum sinese* Small Leaved Privet Noxious Class 4

Lycium ferrocissimum* African Boxthorn Noxious Class 4

Briza subaristata* Quaking Grass

Poplus nigra* Black Poplar

Asparagus officianalis* Asparagus

Rosa rubignosa* Sweet Briar Noxious Class 4

Centaurea solistalis* Yellow star thistle

Poplus nigra Lombardy Poplar

Brassica sp* Brassica

Panicum sp* Panic Grass

Prunus sp* Prunus

Chloris gayana Rhodes Grass



© E C O LO G I C AL AU S T R A L I A P T Y L T D 18

Appendix B: Threatened Species Likelihood of Occurrence

Table 3: Threatened flora species within 5km radius of the site.

Scientific Name Common

Name

Habitat TSC

Status

EPBC

Status

Likelihood of

Occurrence

Flora

Cynanchum elegans White-

flowered Wax

Plant

Occurs mainly at the ecotone between dry subtropical rainforest and sclerophyll

forest/woodland communities. Is a clonal species and suckers in response to

disturbance (DECC 2009b).

E1 E No

Eucalyptus benthamii Camden

White Gum

Occurs in wet open forest on well drained sandy alluvial soils along stream

channels, small terraces and alluvial flats on valley floors (DECC 2009b).

V V Unlikely

Grevillea parviflora

subsp. Parviflora

Small-flower

Grevillea

Grows in sandy or light clay soils usually over thin shales. Occurs in a range of

vegetation types from heath and shrubby woodland to open forest. Found over a

range of altitudes from flat, low-lying areas to upper slopes and ridge crests often in

open, slightly disturbed sites such as along tracks (DECC 2009b).

V V Unlikely

Marsdenia viridiflora

subsp viridiflora *

Native pear Known from north of the Razorback Range between Picton and Camden towns and

grows in vine thickets and open shale woodland. Occurs as very scattered plants in

areas of remnant vegetation.

E1 - Unlikely

Pimelea spicata Spiked Rice

Flower

Found on well structured clay soils, on undulating topography derived from

Wianamatta Shales. Often associated with Cumberland Plain Woodland vegetation

DECC 2009b).

E E Unlikely

Persoonis bargoensis Bargo Associated with woodland to dry sclerophyll forest, on sandstone and clay on

heavier, well-drained, loamy, soils of the Hawkesbury Sandstone and Wianamatta

- V Unlikely





Name

Habitat TSC

Status

EPBC

Status

Likelihood of

Occurrence

Geebung Shale in the Cataract, Cordeaux and Bargo Rivers catchments (DECC 2009b).

Pomaderris brunnea Brown

Pomaderris

Brown Pomaderris is found in a very limited area around the Colo, Nepean and

Hawkesbury Rivers, including the Bargo area. Brown Pomaderris grows in moist

woodland or forest on clay and alluvial soils of flood plains and creek lines

(DECC2009b).

V V Unlikely

Pterostylis saxicola Sydney Plains

Greenhood

Restricted to western Sydney between Freeman’s Reach and Picton. Most

commonly found growing in small pockets of shallow soil in depressions on

sandstone rock shelves amongst sclerophyll forest or woodland on shale /

sandstone transition soils or shale soils (DECC 2009b).

E E No

Thelymitra sp.

Kangaloon

Kangaloon

Sun-orchid

A terrestrial orchid endemic to New South Wales known from three locations near

Robertson (DEWHA 2009b).

- CE No

Vegetation Communities

Cumberland Plain Woodlands

Occurs on soils derived from Wianamatta Shale, and throughout the driest part of

the Sydney Basin (DECC 2009b). The CPW sites are characteristically of woodland

structure, but may include both more open and more dense areas. Canopy is

dominated by species including one or more of the following: Eucalyptus moluccana,

E. tereticornis, E. crebra, E. eugenioides and E. maculata. Understorey is generally

grassy to herbaceous with patches of shrubs, or if disturbed, contains components

of indigenous native species.

E4 CEEC No

Shale Gravel Transition Forest

Shale Gravel Transition Forest (SGTF) occurs primarily in areas where shallow

deposits of Tertiary alluvium overlie shale soils but may also occur in association

with localised concentrations of iron-indurated gravel. SGTF grades into CPW as

alluvial and ironstone influences decline. SGTF is predominantly of open-forest

structure, usually with trees of Eucalyptus fibrosa sometimes with E. moluccana and

E4 CEEC No





Name

Habitat TSC

Status

EPBC

Status

Likelihood of

Occurrence

E. tereticornis.

River-flat Eucalypt Forest (Alluvial

Woodland)

Associated with silts, clay-loams and sandy loams on periodically inundated alluvial

flats, drainage lines and river terraces associated with coastal floodplains. Generally

occurs below 50 m elevation, but may occur on localised river flats up to 250 m asl.

Community structure may vary from tall open forests to woodlands, although partial

clearing may have reduced the canopy to scattered trees.

E4 - Yes

TSC Act Status: E1 – Endangered;E2 – Endangered Population; E4 – Endangered Ecological Community V – Vulnerable

EPBC Act Status: CE – Critically Endangered; E – Endangered; V – Vulnerable

* Species was not identified from TSC Database, however was included in targeted threatened flora searches on site.

Table 4: Threatened fauna species recorded within a 5km radius of the study area.

Scientific Name Common Name Habitat TSC

Status

EPBC

Status

Likelihood of

Occurrence

Amphibians

Litoria aurea Green and Golden

Bell Frog

This species has been observed utilising a variety of natural and man-made

waterbodies such as coastal swamps, marshes, dune swales, lagoons, lakes,

other estuary wetlands, riverine floodplain wetlands and billabongs, stormwater

detention basins, farm dams, bunded areas, drains, ditches (DECC 2009b).

E1 V No

Heleioporus

australiacus

Giant Burrowing

Frog

Found in heath, woodland and open forest with sandy soils and will travel

several hundred metres to creeks to breed (DECC 2009b). V V Unlikely

Litoria raniformis Southern Bell

Frog

Relatively still or slow-flowing sites such as billabongs, ponds, lakes or farm

dams, especially where bulrushes (Typha sp., Eleocharis sp. and Phragmites

sp.) are present (DECC 2009b). This species occurs in vegetation types such

E1 V No





Status

EPBC

Status

Likelihood of

Occurrence

as open grassland, open forest and ephemeral and permanent non-saline

marshes and swamps (DECC 2009b).

Birds

Anthochaera phrygia Regent

Honeyeater

Densely timbered woodlands and forests, particularly ironbark, yellow box,

yellow gum. This species makes migratory movements from inland locations to

the coast and makes use of winter flowering eucalypt species during this time

(DECC 2009b).

E1 E, M Unlikely

Daphoenositta

chrysoptera

Varied Sitella The Varied Sittella is a small (10 cm) songbird with a sharp, slightly upturned

bill, short tail, barred undertail, and yellow eyes and feet. In flight the orange

wing-bar and white rump are prominent. In NSW most individuals have a grey

head and are streaked with dark brown. The Varied Sittella is sedentary and

inhabits most of mainland Australia except the treeless deserts and open

grasslands. Distribution in NSW is nearly continuous from the coast to the far

west. The Varied Sittella's population size in NSW is uncertain but is believed

to have undergone a moderate reduction over the past several decades.

V - Unlikely

Hieraaetus

morphnoides

Little Eagle The Little Eagle is a medium-sized bird of prey. Occupies open eucalypt forest,

woodland or open woodland nesting in tall trees. Sheoak or acacia woodlands

and riparian woodlands of interior NSW are also used. Preys on birds, reptiles

and mammals, occasionally adding large insects and carrion.

V - Unlikely

Pyrrolaemus saggitatus Speckled Warbler Lives in a wide range of eucalypt dominated communities that have a grassy

understorey, often on rocky ridges or in gullies. Typical habitat would include

scattered native tussock grasses, a sparse shrub layer, some eucalypt

regrowth and an open canopy.

V - Unlikely

Melanodryas cucullata Hooded Robin Occurs in open woodland often near clearings or open areas from Brisbane to

Adelaide throughout much of inland NSW. Requires structurally diverse

V - Unlikely





Status

EPBC

Status

Likelihood of

Occurrence

habitats of eucalypt canopy, some shrub layer and areas of tall grass.

Lathamus discolor Swift Parrot Breeds in Tasmania, but winters on mainland in diverse timbered habitats,

including forests, woodlands, plantations, banksias, street trees and gardens

and particularly makes use of winter flowering eucalypt species (DECC

2009b).

E1 E Unlikely

Rostratula

benghalensis australis

Australian Painted

Snipe

Prefers fringes of swamps, dams and nearby marshy areas where there is a

cover of grasses, lignum, low scrub or open timber (DECC 2009b). Nests on

the ground amongst tall vegetation, such as grasses, tussocks or reeds.

Breeding is often in response to local conditions; generally occurs from

September to December (DECC 2009b). Roosts during the day in dense

vegetation.

E1 V Unlikely

Ninox strenua Powerful Owl Powerful Owl endemic to eastern and south-eastern Australia, mainly on the

coastal side of the Great Dividing Range. In NSW, it is widely distributed

throughout the eastern forests from the coast inland to tablelands. Now

uncommon throughout its range it inhabits a range of vegetation types, from

woodland and open sclerophyll forest to tall open wet forest and rainforest.

The Powerful Owl requires large tracts of forest or woodland habitat but can

occur in fragmented landscapes as well.

V - Unlikely

Oxyura australis Blue Billed Duck Endemic to south-eastern and south-western Australia, it is widespread in

NSW, but most common in the southern Murray-Darling Basin. Birds disperse

during the breeding season to deep swamps up to 300 km away. Generally

only during summer or in drier years that they are seen in coastal areas. Blue-

billed Duck prefers deep water in large permanent wetlands and swamps with

dense aquatic vegetation. The species is completely aquatic, swimming low in

the water along the edge of dense cover.

V - Unlikely





Status

EPBC

Status

Likelihood of

Occurrence

Petroica boodang Scarlet Robin In NSW it occurs from the coast to inland slopes in dry eucalypt forests and

woodlands with usually an open, grassy understorey few with scattered

shrubs. Live sin both mature and regrowth vegetation. Habitat requires

abundant fallen logs and timber.

V - Unlikely

Petroica phoenicea Flame Robin Breeds in upland tall moist eucalypt forests and woodlands often on ridges and

slopes. Prefers clearings with open understoreys. Often occurs in recently

burnt patches which become unsuitable as vegetation regenerates.

V - Unlikely

Stictonetta naevosa Freckled Duck Prefer permanent freshwater swamps and creeks with heavy growth of native

riparian and emergent vegetation.

V - Unlikely

Gastropod

Meridolum

corneovirens

Cumberland Plain

Land Snail

Associated with open eucalypt forests, particularly Cumberland Plain

Woodland. Found under fallen logs, debris and in bark and leaf litter around

the trunk of gum trees or burrowing in loose soil around clumps of grass

(DECC 2009b). Urban waste may also form suitable habitat (DECC 2009b).

E1 - Unlikely

Mammal

Dasyurus maculatus

maculatus (SE

mainland population)

Spotted-tailed

Quoll

Occurs in wide variety of habitats in large remnants. Dens in tree hollows,

hollow log or rock crevice (DECC 2009b).

V E No

Mormopterus

norfolkensis

Eastern Freetail-

bat

Most records of this species are from dry eucalypt forest and woodland east of

the Great Dividing Range (Churchill 1998). Individuals have, however, been

recorded flying low over a rocky river in rainforest and wet sclerophyll forest

and foraging in clearings at forest edges (DECC 2009e). Primarily roosts in

hollows or behind loose bark in mature eucalypts, but have been observed

V - Unlikely





Status

EPBC

Status

Likelihood of

Occurrence

roosting in the roof of a hut (DECC 2009e).

Pteropus poliocephalus Grey-headed

Flying-fox

Associated with dry coastal heath and dry and wet sclerophyll forests with

dense cover for shelter and adjacent more open areas for foraging (DECC

2009b).

V V Unlikely

Miniopterus schreibersii

oceanensis

Eastern Bentwing-

bat

Associated with a range of habitats such as rainforest, wet and dry sclerophyll

forest, monsoon forest, open woodland, paperbark forests and open

grassland. It forages above and below the tree canopy on small insects (DECC

2009f).

V - Unlikely

Myotis macropus Southern Myotis Rarely found more than 100km inland, except along major rivers. Generally

roost close to water in caves, mine shafts, hollow bearing trees, stormwater

channels, buildings, under bridges and in dense foliage.

V - Unlikely

Chalinolobus dwyeri Large-eared Pied

Bat

The Large-eared Pied Bat has been recorded in a variety of habitats, including

dry sclerophyll forests, woodland, sub-alpine woodland, edges of rainforests

and wet sclerophyll forests. This species roosts in caves, rock overhangs and

disused mine shafts and as such is usually associated with rock outcrops and

cliff faces (DECC 2009g).

V V Unlikely

Scoteanax rueppellii Greater Broad-

nosed Bat

Moist gullies in mature coastal forests or rainforests. Roosts in hollow tree

trunks and branches (DECC 2009c).

V No

Falsistrellus

tasmaniensis

Eastern False

Pipistrelle

The Eastern False Pipistrelle is found on the south-east coast and ranges of

Australia and prefers moist habitats, with trees taller than 20 m. They generally

roost in eucalypt hollows, but also under loose bark on trees or in buildings.

(DECC 2009b).

V - No

Petrogale penicillata Brush-tailed Rock- Rocky areas in a variety of habitats, typically north facing sites with numerous E1 V No





Status

EPBC

Status

Likelihood of

Occurrence

wallaby ledges, caves and crevices (Strahan 1995).

Potorous tridactylus

tridactylus

Long-nosed

Potoroo (SE

mainland)

Subtropical to dry rainforest, dry sclerophyll forest, heathland and grassland up

to 400m elevation. Habitat selection is dependant on surface cover (Strahan

1998).

V V No

Reptiles

Hoplocephalus

bungaroides

Broad-headed

Snake

Occur under large exfoliating slabs of sandstone and rock crevices in areas of

undisturbed bushland, usually on tops of cliffs (DECC 2009b).

E1 V No

Ray-Finned Fishes

Macquaria australasica Macquarie Perch

Found in river and lake habitats primarily within the Murray - Darling Basin but

also recorded within the Hawkesbury and Shoalhaven River catchments.

Occur in the upper reaches of rivers and their tributaries where they feed on

aquatic insects, crustaceans and molluscs.

V E Unlikely

Prototroctes maraena Australian

Grayling

Freshwater streams and rivers draining to the sea. Clear gravelly streams and

from estuarine reaches substantial distances inland. V V

Unlikely

TSC Act Status: E1 – Endangered; V – Vulnerable

EPBC Act Status: CE – Critically Endangered; E – Endangered; V – Vulnerable; M - Migratory




Appendix C: Assessment of Significance

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,

This is not a threatened species.

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,

This is not an endangered population.

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,

The proposal does not result in the clearance or direct loss of any Alluvial Woodland vegetation. The

Alluvial Woodland vegetation exists immediately to the west of the subject work site and would only be

impacted by construction or maintenance activities within the work zone if appropriate mitigation actions

are not carried out by the proponent. Lack of appropriate mitigation activities would not reduce the

extent of this EEC, but could impact on its health and resilience. Additionally, there are numerous other

locations within the Cumberland Plain that support this EEC.

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

No habitat of EEC will be removed as a result of this activity and further no modifications to the

community should occur provided that adequate environmental safeguards are followed.

ii. whether an area of habitat is likely to become fragmented or isolated from other

areas of habitat as a result of the proposed action, and

The area to be directly impacted by vegetation removal for the pipeline construction activities is already

highly modified due to its location adjacent to a major road, currently subject to upgrade works, the

existing service infrastructure within that corridor and the need for semi-regular maintenance activities,

particularly for the clearance of power transmission lines. The vegetation to be cleared for this proposal

does not form an important vegetative connection for the EEC to other areas of similar vegetation. At

best it may act as a buffer for the EEC against edge effects such as weed invasion and desiccation.




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,

The vegetation that will be removed for the pipeline construction activities and pumping station upgrade

is not contributing to the long term survival of this EEC.

e. whether the action proposed is likely to have an adverse effect on critical habitat (either

directly or indirectly),

No critical habitat has been declared for this community.

f. whether the action proposed is consistent with the objectives or actions of a recovery

plan or threat abatement plan,

The Cumberland Plain Recovery Plan was adopted by the NSW DECCW in 2010. This plan has been

designed to provide for the long term survival and protection of all threatened biodiversity on the

Cumberland Plain, constituting the recovery plan for 20 threatened species, populations and ecological

communities. The ecological management principles in this recovery plan are that:

• The protection and management of large, intact remnants is more effective and efficient than

for smaller fragmented remnants,

• Recovery efforts need to aim to ensure that a representative sample of biodiversity is

conserved,

• Active management to best practice standards is need to prevent the degradation of

bushland in a fragmented landscape,

• Where impacts on biodiversity cannot be avoided, they should be offset using appropriate

means.

This proposal avoids the need to directly impact the adjacent Alluvial Woodland by co-locating this new

infrastructure in an already heavily disturbed infrastructure ‘corridor’ and hence does not cause

fragmentation or reduction in size of the existing remnant.

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.

The clearance of native vegetation is a listed key threatening process. Some native species of

vegetation will be removed as a result of this activity, however the overwhelming majority of vegetation

to be removed or disturbed is non native and includes some listed noxious weeds. The majority of

native species recorded in the study area are the result of a previous environmental restoration project.

It is unlikely that the limited native vegetation within the study area is providing any degree of habitat or

forage resources. No clearing of the EEC is proposed under this activity.

Conclusion

On the basis that implementing the proposed mitigation measures will largely avoid impacts to this

community, the activity is unlikely to have a significant impact, therefore a species impact statement is

not required.



© E C O L O G IC A L AU S T R AL I A P T Y LT D 28

HEAD OFFICE

Suite 4, Level 1

2-4 Merton Street

Sutherland NSW 2232

T 02 8536 8600

F 02 9542 5622

SYDNEY

Level 6

299 Sussex Street

Sydney NSW 2000

T 02 9993 0566

F 02 9993 0573

ST GEORGES BASIN

8/128 Island Point Road

St Georges Basin NSW 2540

T 02 4443 5555

F 02 4443 6655

CANBERRA

Level 2

11 London Circuit

Canberra ACT 2601

T 02 6103 0145

F 02 6103 0148

HUNTER

Suite 17, Level 4

19 Bolton Street

Newcastle NSW 2300

T 02 4910 0125

F 02 4910 0126

NAROOMA

5/20 Canty Street

Narooma NSW 2546

T 02 4476 1151

F 02 4476 1161

COFFS HARBOUR

35 Orlando Street

Coffs Harbour Jetty NSW 2450

T 02 6651 5484

F 02 6651 6890

ARMIDALE

92 Taylor Street

Armidale NSW 2350

T 02 8081 2681

F 02 6772 1279

BRISBANE

93 Boundary St

West End QLD 4101

T 1300 646 131

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

3/29 Ord Street

West Perth WA 6005

T 08 9227 1070

F 08 9324 3538

WOLLONGONG

Level 2

25 Atchison Street

Wollongong NSW 2500

T 02 8536 8615

F 02 4254 6699

GOSFORD

Suite 5, Baker One

1-5 Baker Street

Gosford NSW 2250

T 02 4302 1220

F 02 4322 2897



Appendix 2 Indigenous Heritage Advice

1

Suite 911-912

155 King Street

Sydney NSW 2000

p 02 9232 5373

f 02 9232 5316

23 March 2010 Sally Spedding Senior Environmental Scientist Environmental Planning and Management Sydney Water Floor 10, 1 Smith Street Parramatta NSW 2150 Dear Sally, RE. ADDENDUM TO REPORT

Oran Park and Turner Road Precincts Aboriginal Heritage Investigation for Proposed Infrastructure Service Routes and Site Options Aboriginal heritage assessment of the upgrade of Sewage Pumping Station (SPS) 614 and amplification of the rising main along Camden Valley Way

This letter outlines an addendum to the report Oran Park and Turner Road Precincts Aboriginal Heritage Investigation for Proposed Infrastructure Service Routes and Site Options (Kelleher Nightingale Consulting 2008). Since the completion of this report, Sydney Water has progressed to the concept design stage for the upgrade of Sewage Pumping Station (SPS) 614 and amplification of the rising main along Camden Valley Way. The preferred route for the new rising main is on the northern (or western) side of Camden Valley Way adjacent to the existing rising main along this route. The SPS upgrade is largely confined to the existing SPS site with an emergency storage tank to be constructed on land to the west of the SPS site. A map is attached showing the route and SPS location. Review

Kelleher Nightingale has reviewed the proposed route of the rising main and upgraded SPS for potential impacts to Aboriginal archaeological heritage and consistency of assessment with the existing 2008 report. No Aboriginal archaeological heritage will be impacted by the proposed rising main or SPS upgrade. A review of the proposed rising main amplification and SPS upgrade found that the location of these works were consistent with the findings contained in the 2008 report, such that the survey and assessment within the 2008 report directly covered the locations in question. Furthermore an updated search of the Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water Aboriginal Heritage Information Management System was undertaken for the rising main and SPS (search date 18/3/11). The search area is shown in Figure 1 and allows for 25m either side of the proposed works. No Aboriginal sites are registered along the route of the rising main or near the SPS. Constraints

No Aboriginal archaeological heritage constraints exist for the proposed rising main and SPS upgrade. Recommendation

No further investigation is required. This letter should be added as an addendum to the existing heritage report Oran Park and Turner Road Precincts Aboriginal Heritage Investigation for Proposed Infrastructure Service Routes and Site Options (Kelleher Nightingale Consulting 2008). If you have any questions or would like to discuss this further, please do not hesitate to me on: Yours sincerely Dr Matthew Kelleher Director/Archaeologist Kelleher Nightingale Consulting Pty Ltd

2

Figure 1. Location of proposed rising main augmentation and sewage pumping station (614) upgrade

AHIMS Search Area

Documents

South West Growth Centre First Release Precincts and ...alternate.sydneywater.com.au/web/groups/publicweb...The NSW Government’s Growth Centres Commission (GCC), now part of the