The Healthy City: Environmental Sustainability · 2017-07-21 · The Healthy City: Environmental Sustainability . Our Living City Settlement Strategy Page ... Harbour LGA have great

Our Living City Settlement Strategy Page 9

WHAT DOES ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY MEAN? ........................ Environmental sustainability means using, conserving and ensuring resources are maintained for the ecological processes on which life depends. Council is particularly interested in ensuring that our beaches, natural habitat, clean water and open spaces are preserved and maintained for enjoyment by existing and future residents. OBJECTIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY...................................... � To protect, maintain and improve our natural

attributes and resources. � To provide for settlement that enhances

environmental values and is compatible with environmental constraints.

� To use resources efficiently and to devise innovative ways to minimise pollution and disposal of waste.

ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY ISSUES ...................................................... Coffs Harbour City Council has identified a number of environmental issues that need addressing in the OLC Settlement Strategy. These are itemised in the diagram (below), and are categorised generally under the following headings: � Conservation; � Resource Management; and � Efficiency. The following section of the document explores each of the environmental sustainability issues identified by Council under these broad categories as being pertinent to the OLC Settlement Strategy. Several of the key environmental considerations for the Coffs Harbour LGA are shown on the map (left).

The Healthy City: Environmental Sustainability


CCOONNSSEERRVVAATTIIOONN HHooww ccaann wwee mmaannaaggee ddeevveellooppmmeenntt ttoo

BIODIVERSITY BACKGROUND ISSUES STRATEGIC ACTIONS

In Coffs Harbour, 95 species of plants and animals are recognised as being either endangered or vulnerable. It is important to realise that these species are essential to the environment and the loss of any of these species could have consequences in the future. Accordingly, Council has prepared and adopted a Biodiversity Action Strategy to address these issues. Settlement patterns in the Coffs Harbour LGA have great potential to impact the biodiversity of the local environment.

� Habitat Protection. Native

vegetation clearance remains the single greatest threat to biodiversity in Coffs Harbour. The main cause of habitat clearance in the Coffs Harbour LGA is from urban expansion.

� Threatened Species. A total of 95 species that exist in the Coffs Harbour area are recognised as threatened. Settlement has potential to impact on these threatened species.

� Alien Species. Weed infestation is second only to land clearing and development as a major threat to biodiversity in Coffs.

� Landscape Health. Settlement patterns have potential to adversely impact on salinity, acid sulfate soils, contaminated land, and erosion.

� Healthy Waters. Settlement close to waterways can affect the health of waterways and the marine environment in the Coffs region. Buffers and erosion controls can assist in ensuring waterway health.

� Regional Coordination. Fragmented approaches to the management of issues such as weeds, water quality, land clearing and habitat protection can result in ineffective and expensive efforts. The Settlement Strategy outlines an holistic and coordinated approach.

� Climate Change. Settlement patterns (e.g. the need to use cars to travel around the Coffs Harbour LGA) influences the emission of greenhouse gases. This is assessed elsewhere in this Strategy.

� Implement and review the

Biodiversity Action Strategy. � Ensure full funding of the itemised

strategy over each five-year period. � Continue with collaborative studies

on species and communities under threat.

� Investigate environmentally safe methods of alien species control, and monitor their movements within the Coffs Harbour LGA.

� Undertake enhanced mapping of all natural resource layers.

� Keep abreast of research and changes to legislation, with collaboration and close liaison with all appropriate agencies.

� Continue education in all aspects/issues.

� Continue consultation with the NSW Marine Parks Authority to minimise settlement impacts on waterway health affecting the Solitary Islands Marine Park.

� Continue to amend zoning boundaries in LEP mapping to correspond with location of vegetation boundaries and buffers.

� Make provisions in DCPs for all new developments to include plans to enhance and protect the biodiversity of the Coffs Harbour LGA, particularly near waterways.


eennssuurree wwee ccoonnsseerrvvee oouurr nnaattuurraall aattttrriibbuutteess?? CCOONNSSEERRVVAATTIIOONN

KOALA MANAGEMENT BACKGROUND ISSUES STRATEGIC ACTIONS

The 1986/87 NSW Koala Survey found that koalas were in serious decline in NSW. Coffs Harbour was identified as a major koala population area in need of urgent attention. The Coffs Harbour Comprehensive Koala Plan of Management (KPoM) came into effect in May 2000. It provides a framework for the conservation and management of koala habitat, and the management of threats to koalas.

� Settlement patterns and

development have potential to impact adversely on koala populations in the Coffs Harbour LGA. Little monitoring has been undertaken to assess the risks to koalas of such settlement issues as road and dog risks.

� A major cause of koala population decline in Coffs Harbour LGA is loss of habitat and barriers to movement.

� Seek funding for the

implementation of all actions arising from the Comprehensive KPoM.

� A review of the KPoM is currently underway, to identify how settlement has impacted koalas and whether the Plan is meeting its objectives. The findings of that review need to be implemented when it is completed.


CCOONNSSEERRVVAATTIIOONN HHooww ccaann wwee mmaannaaggee ddeevveellooppmmeenntt ttoo

VEGETATION MANAGEMENT BACKGROUND ISSUES STRATEGIC ACTIONS

A Vegetation Study completed for the Coffs Harbour LGA in 1996 found that 94% of the remaining vegetation in the area has regional, local, or ecological conservation significance. Significant communities include rainforests, saw banksia and hard corkwood communities, and headland heath and grasslands. The draft Coffs Harbour Regional Vegetation Management Plan (VMP) 2004 has been written to provide a guiding document for the setting of priorities and targets for vegetation conservation, rehabilitation and clearing controls across the whole Coffs Harbour area. The draft document will be finalised to take into account increased pressure for balanced development within the LGA.

� There are many urban areas that

are not actively managed, and are suffering from weed infestation, or degradation due to uncontrolled recreational activities, and illegal dumping of garden refuse.

� In areas identified for urban or rural residential investigation, landowners often pre-empt environmental investigations by clearing each year.

� Holistic and coordinated management of catchment vegetation is required.

� There are many areas of high value vegetation and significant habitats which are currently zoned for either urban or tourism uses.

� Once completed, implement

actions contained within the final VMP.

� Align planning policies and controls to values identified in the final VMP.

� When finalised, undertake a community engagement process to educate the community and the development industry as to the contents of the final VMP.


eennssuurree wwee ccoonnsseerrvvee oouurr nnaattuurraall aattttrriibbuutteess?? CCOONNSSEERRVVAATTIIOONN

HERITAGE BACKGROUND ISSUES STRATEGIC ACTIONS

Aboriginal Heritage The Coffs Harbour LGA is rich in Aboriginal cultural heritage, with diverse and abundant sites and site types. Heritage significance is determined by the site type and the number of remaining intact sites of that type in the area.

� Pressures from development can

result in lack of sympathetic development in proximity to sites of Aboriginal heritage.

� Develop a protocol to identify and

protect areas of Aboriginal significance, in consultation with Aboriginal elders, the Local Aboriginal Land Council and DECC.

� Prepare a GIS mapping layer for internal use only to identify buffers for significant indigenous cultural sites.

Non-Aboriginal Heritage The Coffs Harbour LGA has a number of buildings dating back to the mid 19th Century. An inventory has established a total of 44 items which now form a Heritage Items Schedule in Council’s LEP. Sawtell and Coramba have both been identified as heritage conservation areas. Both Council’s Library and Museum have key roles in collecting, preserving and providing access to the heritage resources of Coffs Harbour.

� Pressures from development and

the costs of maintenance of the site or feature can result in destruction or damage to important sites, or lack of sympathetic development.

� Conservation of our non-Aboriginal heritage needs to focus on urban design and sympathetic development.

� Securing funding for heritage matters is an ongoing issue.

� Some items have been identified as important but are not listed in the LEP for conservation.

� Consult with the community and

individual landowners to prepare clearer guidelines for heritage provisions.

� Identify exempt and complying provisions for heritage lands.

� Continue to source additional funding to assist with implementing heritage conservation projects.

� Update Council’s LEP to include items that have been identified for conservation.

� Undertake additional research to identify items for inclusion on the conservation listing.

� Continue to promote Coffs Harbour’s public Libraries and Museum as sources of local heritage resources.


RREESSOOUURRCCEESS HHooww ddoo wwee ssaattiissffyy tthhee ddeemmaanndd ffoorr hhoouussiinngg aanndd llaanndd

CATCHMENT MANAGEMENT BACKGROUND ISSUES STRATEGIC ACTIONS

Coffs Harbour LGA has a total of 18 coastal creek catchments. The majority of settlement in the Coffs Harbour LGA is concentrated around these coastal areas. This puts significant pressure on these coastal catchments. Increasingly, demand is placed on Council to release areas for subdivision. With this growth, come issues such as transport options, the increase in runoff problems and a loss of natural vegetation. Residential and rural residential expansion places pressure on land by using space and displacing other land uses (such as native vegetation or valuable agricultural land). Council needs to determine the most appropriate locations for settlement areas in the Coffs Harbour LGA over the next 25 years, to ensure natural catchments are not degraded.

� Settlement needs to be designed

to ensure it fits with the capacity of its catchment.

� With the banana industry now in decline, there is pressure for banana lands to be developed for rural residential purposes.

� The majority of these banana lands are located within coastal catchments, which will put pressure on waterways in these locations.

� As the push for rural residential and residential blocks continues, agricultural land or bushland is subdivided, thus resulting in fragmented farming enterprises and bushland remnants.

� The health of our catchments is affected by the number of septic tanks in that catchment. Council needs to consider whether it should limit settlement to that which can be serviced by a reticulated system (this is discussed further below).

� Establish a regional committee

under the auspice of the Catchment Management Authority to assist coordination of catchment management initiatives.

� Continue the development and implementation of estuary management plans in consultation with relevant government agencies.

� Undertake continuing community education program on sustainable land management practices.

� Ensure settlement is contained to within the preferred locations for settlement to 2031.

� Introduce a comprehensive Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD) requirement.

� Undertake a comprehensive assessment of changed needs over time in collaboration with adjacent LGAs.

� Ensure strict enforcement of sediment erosion measures at subdivision / allotment levels.

� Develop a strategy for sustainable agriculture in conjunction with a future Sustainable Industry Strategy.

� Create strategic buffers between settlement areas and agricultural/ farming activities to manage potential land use conflicts.

� Ensure developments in proximity to waterways be generally lower density to minimise pollution issues and pressure from increased use of the Solitary Islands Marine Park.

� Determine appropriate width of buffers to Intermittent Closing and Opening Lakes and Lagoons (ICOLLs) for inclusion in DCPs for development areas in proximity to ICOLLs.


ddeevveellooppmmeenntt wwiitthhoouutt ccrreeaattiinngg llaanndd uussee ccoonnfflliiccttss?? RREESSOOUURRCCEESS

WATER QUALITY BACKGROUND ISSUES STRATEGIC ACTIONS

Land use, whether from urban or rural development, can exert significant pressure on water quality in our rivers and streams. This includes potential pollution from sediment, nutrients and chemical runoff, erosion, gross pollutants, sewage and road works. Much of the coastal plain is heavily developed, and pressure continues for development in coastal locations. Council has implemented major programs for improved stormwater management. These include education strategies, installation of gross pollutant traps, controls in development control plans and industry auditing. On-site sewage disposal systems have been identified as a major source of pollution throughout NSW. Council has implemented its On-Site Sewage Management Strategy, which requires licensing and remediation work to meet minimum standards.

� High levels of urban development

mean stormwater flows are increased due to an increase in hard surface area. Council is in the process of introducing controls for WSUD to assist in reducing stormwater flows.

� The number of complaints regarding failed septic systems on the Northern Beaches, has dropped as a result of implementation of Council’s Strategy, including provision of reticulation to Arrawarra to Mullaway.

� Chemicals and oils continue to be major causes of pollution in local creeks.

� Many creeks in the Coffs Harbour LGA (for example, Chinamans, Jordans, Fiddamans and Coffs Creeks, and Red Rock River) are consistently prone to poor water quality, with fluctuating bacterial levels.

� Keep abreast of new innovations. � Implement findings of the WSUD

Strategy. � Continue to undertake regulatory

and educational responses to pollution incidences.

� Continue the audit process for businesses in conjunction with education review.

� Expand monitoring of water quality to all waterways within the Coffs Harbour LGA (for example, use of school campaigns).

� Undertake intensive investigations of waterways in the Coffs Harbour LGA which continually experience water quality problems.

� Ensure an On-Site Sewerage Strategy is prepared for each allotment, and approved at development application stage (not construction certificate stage).

� Ensure the On-Site Sewerage Strategy determines the building envelope and sewage management area at subdivision stage.

� Ensure strict enforcement of sediment erosion measures on development sites during and after construction.

� Conduct a risk assessment of pollution of rainwater tanks at houses in proximity to major transport routes, as a result of motor vehicle emissions.



LAND DEGRADATION AND CLEARING BACKGROUND ISSUES STRATEGIC ACTIONS

Land clearing for urban development alters natural drainage patterns, removes native vegetation, changes soil moisture patterns and can also expose large areas of soil, making the area vulnerable to erosion. Land management practices themselves also affect the integrity of the land in both urban and rural contexts. Agricultural practices and development, particularly on steeper slopes, contribute to soil loss through runoff and erosion. Land clearing also affects the visual amenity of the area. Coffs Harbour LGA has a green backdrop, with the mountain range nearly meeting the ocean in several locations. With increasing pressure to subdivide banana farms for rural residential development, comes the potential for urban settlement on the ridgeline which could impact significantly on the visual amenity of the City. With the 2003/04 property boom, the impact on ridgelines is already in evidence, particularly at the northern entrance to Coffs Harbour. It is important to arrest this impact on the green backdrop before it is completely lost. The existing road network and access points also have significant impact on clearing and land degradation.

� Costs associated with maintaining

unused and unviable banana lands are prohibitive. This creates problems with regard to regular fire and weed control. Effective measures need to be developed to ensure rehabilitation of these degraded lands and revegetation of visually significant areas occurs.

� There are no controls to prevent land clearing of banana farms at present, resulting in visual impacts of cleared ridge and mid slope areas.

� Clearing controls in urban zones are limited with only a few areas protected by tree preservation orders. While the Comprehensive KPoM requires Council to consider the impact of a proposed development on koala habitat, pre-emptive clearing of habitat may occur without the need for consent. The Threatened Species Conservation Act affords some protection, but it does not establish a clear process for requiring consent.

� The condition of vegetation remnants in urban areas varies greatly from location to location. Council is actively pursuing bush regeneration works in many locations. However, there are many areas that are not actively managed, and are suffering from weed infestation, or degradation due to uncontrolled "recreational" activities.

� In identified investigation areas for urban and rural residential development, some landowners pre-empt environmental investigations by maximising allowable clearing each year, in the hope of removing restrictions to future subdivision development.

� Continue close liaison with relevant

government authorities to find alternative agricultural crops for banana lands.

� Investigate temporary cover crops for exposed lands or parallel crops.

� Ensure the Sustainable Agriculture Strategy (when written) addresses land management practices.

� Provide incentives for consolidation of land parcels.

� Recognise the tourism value of the green backdrop/vista to the City.

� Investigate alternative measures for weed control.

� Develop strict controls across the entire Coffs Harbour LGA to limit the possibility of pre-emptive clearing.

� Make property owners more aware of development constraints on their land.

� Provide incentives to maintain tracts of bushland.

� Develop a strategy for weed control and regeneration of priority natural areas throughout the City.

� Continue support of Bushland Friendly nursery schemes and multi-agency weed taskforces.

� Continue to support programs of community involvement, such as Landcare, in the maintenance of natural areas.

� Develop a strategy for community engagement in relation to control of priority coastal weed species and for limiting the use of potentially invasive garden species.

� Ensure planning for natural areas will develop sites that are in accordance with the significance and sensitivity of the site.

� Develop education and interpretation programs aimed at reducing impacts on natural areas by neighbours and visitors.

� Develop a strategic for repairing degraded landscape habitats.



POTENTIAL ACID SULFATE SOILS AND CONTAMINATED LANDS BACKGROUND ISSUES STRATEGIC ACTIONS

In the Coffs Harbour LGA, approximately 7% of lands have been classified as being affected by potential acid sulfate soils. These areas are located along the coastal plain. Developments that occur in these areas have the potential to allow sulfuric acid to form through oxidation and cause environmental problems. Coffs Harbour has traditionally been a significant banana cultivation area, with banana plantations still accounting for a proportion of land use. Studies have shown that land within the Coffs Harbour LGA previously used for cultivation of bananas is liable to be contaminated from the use of various hazardous chemicals and pesticides. Other forms of soil contamination, including current or former service stations, mechanical workshops and industrial premises, potentially affect many other development sites in the Coffs Harbour LGA.

� The main areas of the Coffs

Harbour LGA subject to development pressures are coastal areas. This is also where potential acid sulfate soils are located. Controls are in place to ensure development is regulated in such areas. It is necessary to ensure runoff and sediment from such sites continues to be controlled.

� With the banana industry in decline, there is pressure on Council to allow the development of banana lands for rural residential land uses. This involves dealing with issues associated with contaminated lands.

� Develop strategies to ensure

rehabilitation of degraded banana lands, and revegetation of visually significant areas.

� Provide a schedule to minimise impacts from Acid Sulfate Soils in development areas.

� Ensure any future Sustainable Industry Strategy deals with contaminated land by using minimum tillage, permaculture, biodynamics and contouring.

� Undertake continuing education regarding all hazards and alternatives to chemical use.

� Prepare detailed mapping and investigation into potential acid sulfate soils and potentially contaminated sites in the Coffs Harbour LGA.



HAZARDS BACKGROUND ISSUES STRATEGIC ACTIONS

Coastal Processes The Coffs coastline experiences a number of hazards as a result of coastal processes. These include beach erosion, shoreline recession, coastal entrance instability, slope and cliff instability, vegetation degradation and sand drift, stormwater erosion, coastal inundation and climate change effects. With development pressures most likely to occur along the coastal strip, the issue of coastal processes is something to be considered in the settlement strategy.

� Beach erosion and recovery is a

natural phenomenon. As our population grows there is potential for increased pressure on our beaches and coastal dunes.

� Coastal hazards, including climate change and rising sea levels, have the potential to cause major damage to infrastructure and development areas. These impacts have to be considered in future development and mitigation measures.

� Extend the Tree Preservation

Order to all coastal lands. � Improve structured beach

accesses, and fence all remaining informal accesses.

� Update and expand on existing Coastal Hazard Assessment for the Coffs Harbour LGA including ‘best practice’ mapping of coastal hazard lines.

� Review existing Coastline Management Studies and Plans.

� Develop Coastline Management Studies and Plans for the overall Coffs Harbour LGA and detailed plans for problem and future development areas.

� Seek funding to undertake and implement studies and plans.

� Consult with the NSW Marine Parks Authority regarding the management of coastal hazards within the Solitary Islands Marine Park.



HAZARDS BACKGROUND ISSUES STRATEGIC ACTIONS

Flooding Rainfall on the coastal strip is almost tropical in its intensity. Cyclones have come as far south as Coffs Harbour, resulting in major flooding.

� Coffs Harbour’s coastal

catchment areas are relatively small and steep. Critical storms in this area are short, with inundation only generally lasting for a few hours. There have been a number of significant floods on Coffs Creek, the most recent significant one in November 1996.

� Inland waterways also experience flooding, which can affect access and agriculture for several days.

� Incorporate results of the 2005

Coffs Creek Floodplain Management Study into strategic planning documents.

� Complete floodplain management studies for other development areas as they become available.

Bushfire Bushfire Prone Land Mapping Guidelines produced by the Rural Fire Services (RFS) in 2002 have required Councils to map the location of lands subject to bushfire risk and refer any development applications on these land to the RFS for comment. Council has completed this mapping and has a register of these lands, which is checked at the DA stage.

� As land is cleared, buffer locations

need to be continually modified by Council.

� Complete regular reviews and

updates of the bushfire hazard maps.



STREAM AND RIPARIAN AREA MANAGEMENT BACKGROUND ISSUES STRATEGIC ACTIONS

Riparian vegetation (along the banks of streams) is important for stabilising banks, providing a filter for pollution, and as a flora and fauna habitat area. Settlement patterns, such as dense development in specific localities, can put pressure on riparian areas if buffers to development are not implemented. Additionally, visitors who spend time in the natural environment can cause pressures related to rubbish, access and vehicle movements, and damage to vegetation. Walking through sensitive areas can also cause erosion.

� Weed infestation is a continuing

problem for riparian vegetation, both in urban and rural areas.

� Much of the riparian vegetation in both coastal and inland areas is introduced species rather than native species.

� Disturbance by human activities has had a significant impact on ecosystem health in Coffs Creek.

� There is limited scientific research which has been undertaken on local systems.

� In rural residential areas in particular, riparian areas are in a poor state of health due to human activity.

� Undertake an Environmental

Repair Program for all creeks and rivers in the Coffs Harbour LGA.

� Continue to undertake priority restoration works in conjunction with community Landcare and Rivercare groups.

� Provide incentives for riparian reestablishment for private holdings.

� Ensure stream and riparian area management is addressed in the Sustainable Agriculture Strategy.

� Undertake a scientific review to establish the appropriate width of buffers for riparian areas within the Coffs Harbour LGA.

� Consult with relevant government agencies regarding the establishment of appropriate widths for riparian buffers.



RIVER/AQUATIC HEALTH BACKGROUND ISSUES STRATEGIC ACTIONS

Diverse aquatic habitats exist within the Coffs Harbour LGA. These habitats are essential for the survival of a diverse range of fish and invertebrates. Low dissolved oxygen levels are frequently recorded in our local creeks, which can affect the health of our aquatic systems. The most likely causes of low oxygen levels are low-flow conditions, high turbidity and high concentrations of organic matter in our creeks. Patterns of settlement have an impact on the health of our creek and aquatic systems. Inadequate erosion controls, use of fertilisers and the dumping of garden refuse affect habitats in these locations. Contaminated lands are not necessarily limited to agricultural zones and may be concentrated in deposition ponds. Historically, riparian vegetation has been heavily cleared and rivers have been “cleaned out”. This has degraded habitats by decreasing the viability and diversity of the species inhabiting these environments and exacerbating flooding.

� Coffs Harbour has many clay soils.

These clays stay suspended in the water for an extended period, particularly when the sediments are very fine.

� Levels of turbidity in most creeks around the Coffs Harbour LGA are elevated due to agricultural techniques and development disturbance history. This has led to the loss of coastal grasslands, decreased marine ecosystem health and so on.

� Healthy aquatic habitats contribute highly to the liveability and economy of the Coffs Harbour LGA. Measures to improve this habitat are a critical part of this Strategy.

� The decrease in water quality, limited pollution absorbency, increasing flooding levels and erosion rates have all caused negative impacts on associated marine ecosystems.

� Maintain membership with relevant

organisations, with a view to the implementation of best practise controls for river and aquatic health.

� Implement recommendations of the VMP.

� Encourage alternative weed control measures.

� Provide education relating to the use of fertilizers and their effects.

� Undertake a monitoring program for phosphates and nitrogen.

� Ensure strict enforcement of the Sediment and Erosion Control Code requirements.

� Provide general education in terms of impacts on aquatic health.

� Undertake works to remediate road crossings that block fish passage.

� Provide appropriate adequate natural buffers between greenfield developments and waterways (particularly coastal lagoons).

� Incorporate erosion mitigation programs and review Council’s sediment and erosion controls.

� Implement catchment management principles to control hard surface coverage in individual catchments.



COASTAL ZONE USE BACKGROUND ISSUES STRATEGIC ACTIONS

The Coffs Harbour Marina experiences high levels of pollution, in the form of oils, boat wastes, and gross pollutants. These have impacts on water quality in the coastal zone. Pressures from recreational access to coastal headlands and beaches over many decades has caused significant degradation, erosion and weed infestation in some areas of regionally significant vegetation. The Solitary Island Marine Park is located adjacent to the Coffs Harbour LGA.

� The coastal zone is located up to

1km inland of the coast and follows coastal rivers and creeks inland. This means the coastal zone is affected by developments within this area.

� A Pollution Management Strategy needs to be formulated for the Coffs Harbour Marina to reduce levels of marine pollution in the harbour.

� As our population grows, and our reputation as a tourist destination increases, there will be corresponding pressure placed on our beaches and coastal dunes.

� Southern Cross University and the University of New England have a joint research facility located in the Coffs Harbour LGA, which could be used to provide Council with research information.

� Continue to provide designated

walking tracks, with stairs and boardwalks, etc, as necessary to direct foot traffic to specific locations in the coastal zone.

� Continue to undertake priority restoration works in conjunction with community Landcare and Dunecare groups.

� Obtain research provided by the National Marine Science Centre as it comes available and implement findings and recommendations of this research for coastal zone uses.

� Develop Open Space Management Plans for each locality to assess population changes relative to coastal resources and monitor changes over time.

� Align all these Open Space Management Plans with the Settlement Strategy.

� Ensure that all strategies for beach and foreshore improvements (to increase amenities and recreation opportunities) consider the environmental capacity for each area.

� Develop contributions plans for beach protection works.

� Monitor the impacts of climate change and the rate of change annually.



GROUNDWATER SUPPLY/QUALITY BACKGROUND ISSUES STRATEGIC ACTIONS

Most of the groundwater pumping in the Coffs Harbour LGA is from shallow aquifer zones less than 30 metres below the surface. In the last couple of years, the number of bore licences in the area has increased by around 15% annually. The greater the number of licences issued, the greater the total volume of water allocated. A recent groundwater study in the Coffs Harbour LGA found that 50% of water in our creeks and rivers is fed by groundwater supplies. The interactions between groundwater and overland water flows is not well known. The bore allocation needs to be conservative until more information is available to determine sustainable levels of extraction.

� As the number of licensed bores

increases, the greater the pressure on groundwater aquifers, and the slower the replenishment of ground water resources.

� Council has no control over licensing of bores.

� The Department of Water and Energy (DWE) has requested that Council investigate the suitability of the groundwater resource as a potential water supply, and any likely impacts from residential development, as part of the Settlement Strategy process.

� Work collaboratively with DWE to

develop and implement a Groundwater Strategy for the Coffs Harbour LGA.

� Provide groundwater monitoring to high-density industrial areas.

� Consider the impact of likely groundwater contamination when assessing new development applications, particularly in proximity to the Solitary Islands Marine Park.

� Bore licences are issued by DNR. Council should collaborate with DNR to address the potential over-allocation of ground water reserves. Council should therefore assess the influence of water bores on natural resources and check DNR bore licencing regularly.


EEFFFFIICCIIEENNCCYY HHooww ddoo wwee mmiinniimmiissee ppoolllluuttiioonn aanndd wwaassttee,, aanndd eennssuurree

AIR QUALITY MANAGEMENT BACKGROUND ISSUES STRATEGIC ACTIONS

Air quality from industries in the Coffs Harbour LGA is regulated by other government authorities and is not the responsibility of Council. The major pressures on air quality in the Coffs Harbour LGA, which are affected by Council policy, continue to be from sources such as burning off, dust, car emissions and occasional bushfires. Motor vehicles are responsible for over 90% of lead emissions in urban areas, and older passenger cars contribute far more pollution than newer cars. Given that current settlement patterns in the Coffs Harbour LGA revolve around the use of the motorcar, future settlement patterns are a major consideration in the settlement strategy. Other sources of poor local air quality include backyard burning (which can cause not only smoke haze but also foul odours and ash), and plumes from wood fires and burning activities.

� The greatest number of air related

complaints to Council and DECC in recent years concern smoke. This includes backyard burning, solid fuel heaters and burning off.

� The most common pollutant associated with industries in the Coffs Harbour LGA is fine particulate matter.

� Burning of vegetation from land clearing operations continues to be a common practise.

� Unsealed roads are a major source of complaints regarding dust nuisance in the Coffs Harbour LGA.

� Visual amenity of air on still winter mornings may become an issue over time if the use of wood heaters continues.

� Since we are estimated to spend 75% of our time indoors the health risks associated with bad indoor air may be greater than outdoor air.

� There is significant concern in the local community on the impacts of a major upgrade of the Pacific Highway on air quality.

� Promote the use of public

transport, bicycle use and walkways to reduced reliance on private vehicles.

� Continue to enforce measures to ensure greater regulation of burning off, including prohibitions on burning off in urban areas.

� Develop mechanisms to raise funds to provide for continued sealing of rural roads as finances permit.

� Continue implementing all elements of the Greenhouse Action Strategy.

� Provide continued good design related to minimum vehicle use and promote the notion of neighbourhood shopping and community.

� Ensure light industries comply with guidelines of DECC.

� Conduct a risk assessment of air quality in proximity to the RTA preferred bypass route, as a result of motor vehicle and diesel exhaust emissions.

� Form a protective vegetation buffer to be used as a pollution filter to control air and noise issues near major transport routes.


eeffffiicciieenntt uussee ooff rreessoouurrcceess,, aass oouurr ppooppuullaattiioonn ggrroowwss?? EEFFFFIICCIIEENNCCYY

NOISE POLLUTION BACKGROUND ISSUES STRATEGIC ACTIONS

Noise problems occur increasingly with a growing population. Settlement patterns mean that various land uses associated with noise generation such as roads or industrial uses are located in proximity to residential areas. It also means that domestic noise sources can create problems due to the low separation distances between residences. Problems associated with animals, domestic noise sources (eg air conditioners and pool pumps), and home handymen in the garage workshop continue to increase as the City grows. Issues associated with transport noise are addressed elsewhere in this document.

� Barking dogs are one of the most

common causes of noise complaints in the Coffs Harbour LGA, with the level of these complaints increasing.

� As more infill development occurs, noise pollution is likely to grow.

� Trail bike riding in rural residential areas is a growing issue.

� Undertake a review of the

Companion Animals Management Plan.

� Separate conflicting uses in planning strategies.

� Ensure development consents promote sound absorption technology.

� Continue to provide appropriate buffers to noise generating uses.

� Develop a policy on noise pollution in rural residential areas.


EEFFFFIICCIIEENNCCYY HHooww ddoo wwee mmiinniimmiissee ppoolllluuttiioonn aanndd wwaassttee,, aanndd eennssuurree

GREENHOUSE GAS ABATEMENT AND CLIMATE CHANGE BACKGROUND ISSUES STRATEGIC ACTIONS

The earth naturally produces a greenhouse effect whereby water vapour, naturally occurring carbon dioxide and other gases trap reflected radiation from the earth’s surface causing a warming effect, maintaining the temperature of the planet at a suitable level. Scientific opinion shows that climate change is occurring and sea temperatures are increasing. Human activity contributes significantly to both greenhouse emissions and general air pollution. The use of motor vehicles and air conditioners, for example, are some activities which influence greenhouse effects. Council needs to consider actions in the settlement strategy to reduce the longer-term impacts of greenhouse effects, and to promote energy conservation.

� The CSIRO has predicted the

North Coast will experience the following greenhouse effects: � A 0.3 to 1.0OC increase in air

temperature by 2031; � An increase in sea level, due to

thermal expansion of the ocean and melting sea ice, by 80cm by 2100;

� An increase in the severity and frequency of storms, rainfall and winds;

� An increase in wave height and storm surge; and

� Increased coastal erosion flood levels.

� Solar access will become increasingly important so that buildings may employ passive solar design, solar water heating, and utilise photovoltaics as the latter becomes more affordable.

� There is likely to be a trend towards more efficient motor vehicles, including hybrids and electric vehicles and greater need for efficient public transport systems.

� Increased flood levels will impact upon existing and proposed infrastructure with significant cost implications.

� Coastal recession, storm surge and increased flood levels will impact upon existing development.

� The LEP, DCPs and policies will need to take into account the potential impacts of climate change.

� The local economy will be impacted by rising costs associated with emissions abatement. Industry and activities, which use more electricity and fuel, will be most affected. New industry opportunities will emerge in the carbon economy in particular carbon sequestration and renewable energy.

� Continue to promote energy

efficient urban designs, including street layout and building design.

� Continue to implement all actions nominated in the Greenhouse Action Strategy (GAS).

� Continue actions in the Cities for Climate Protection program.

� Continue to pursue energy/cost reduction measures.

� Continue to research and recognise the real prospects in regard to climate change.

� Develop an understanding of, and manage the effects of, climate change on the coastal strip.

� Develop and encourage alternative energy supplies through joint ventures.

� Seek information and guidelines from government agencies regarding projected climate change impacts and planning and design parameters.

� Upgrade GIS to reflect projected sea level, flood lands, storm surge and coastal recession scenarios.

� Undertake modelling to ascertain projected impacts on existing infrastructure and development and assess.

� Ensure the LEP, planning policies, development control plans and infrastructure design factor in climate change.


eeffffiicciieenntt uussee ooff rreessoouurrcceess,, aass oouurr ppooppuullaattiioonn ggrroowwss?? EEFFFFIICCIIEENNCCYY

WATER CONSUMPTION AND EFFICIENCY BACKGROUND ISSUES STRATEGIC ACTIONS

Water consumption continues to be a major pressure placed on the environment. Consumption pressures on the Orara River are considerable due to the number of riparian users and extractions for town supplies such as Coffs Harbour and Nana Glen. Environmental flows in the Orara River should improve as a result of the Regional Water Supply Project. Council has adopted permanent water efficiency measures on water usage. Council also offers incentive schemes for use of dual flush toilets and low-flow showerheads.

� Yearly water consumption

decreased substantially when a user pays system and restrictions were applied in the late 1980s. In 1996, the figure for domestic consumption was estimated at 174 litres per person per day.

� Taking into account population increases that continue to occur in Coffs Harbour, it is clear that, in combination with water efficiency measures, total water consumption appears to be gradually decreasing. There appears to be an ongoing community awareness of water conservation.

� Most industrial sites and businesses use town water. There is significant potential for use of recycling water in industrial estates.

� Maintain membership with relevant

organisations, with a view to implementation of best practice controls for water consumption and efficiency.

� Amend Council’s policies over time to reflect current best practise.

� Undertake a continued education campaign through the entire Coffs Harbour LGA, promoting water efficiency.

� Establish a comprehensive WSUD program.

� Provide continued incentives to reduce water consumption and increase efficiency.

� Promote the installation of rainwater tanks and/or grey water reuse in all areas of the Coffs Harbour LGA.

� Develop a policy for mandatory fitting of water conservation showerheads in all holiday accommodations throughout the Coffs Harbour LGA.

� Explore the opportunity for industrial estates to use recycled water.


EEFFFFIICCIIEENNCCYY

WASTE MANAGEMENT BACKGROUND ISSUES STRATEGIC ACTIONS

Council has recently completed the Waste Resource Action Strategy which outlines Council's innovative approach to waste management with a focus on the reduction of waste generation, alternative technologies for processing and producing marketable products from the waste stream. The amount of waste that the Council collects from various sources is indicative of the amount of material generated in the local government area and the degree to which the community as a whole is creating demand on natural resources to satisfy their wants and needs. Much of the waste that is produced can be initially avoided, or if not, can be reused or recycled to create new products. Waste that is reused or recycled can be measured as waste prevented from being disposed of in landfill. Council has worked with neighbouring councils to develop the Coffs Coast Resource Recovery Park (CCRRP). This management approach aims initially to avoid and reduce waste production, and then to reuse and recycle wastes. The community’s garbage collection system has been, and continues to be, developed with this in mind. Industries have the potential to pollute our stormwater system. Industrial areas throughout the Coffs Harbour LGA undertake activities such as spray painting, galvanising and various other works that involve heavy metals or chemicals. Council has undertaken an ongoing campaign of education and regulation to reduce such wastes.

� The total amount of waste

generated per capita has steadily increased since 95/96. This increase has been attributed to a general trend towards increased packaging and a more ‘disposable’ society - consumers are simply generating more waste than ever before.

� Waste generation continues to put pressure on the environment, with problems associated with litter and illegal dumping.

� Waste disposed to landfill has remained stable in recent years.

� The amount of waste recycled has steadily increased since 1995/96, reaching a high in 2002/03.

� Green waste has also shown some increase since collection began in 1995.

� Not all industrial premises in the Coffs Harbour LGA are adequately buffered from adjoining drainage channels.

� There are numerous examples of minor pollution in industrial areas, such as washing and degreasing of motor vehicles on external driveways and discharge of pollutants into the stormwater system.

� Industrial waste can be a significant problem due to the chemicals and other materials that are difficult to dispose of adequately.

� Subdivisions and road design need to make provision for access by waste collection vehicles and turning areas.

� New developments need provision for storage and access for waste, with emphasis on source separation to maximise resource recovery.

� Implement actions contained within

the Waste Resource Action Strategy.

� Provide strict enforcement of dumping legislation.

� Provide continuing waste education.

� Audit Council operations for waste reductions, recycling.

� Prepare and implement a Sustainable Procurement Plan.

� Provide packaging reduction education.

� Continue an enforcement program under Protection of the Environment Operations Act.

� Conduct appropriate discharge to regulated points.

� Continue the existing education/auditing program.

� Implement Council’s Waste DCP.


Documents

The Healthy City: Environmental Sustainability · 2017-07-21 · The Healthy City: Environmental Sustainability . Our Living City Settlement Strategy Page ... Harbour LGA have great