leaders in environmental consulting - jhcpbg€¦ · framework as required by condition e81....

Suite 2.06, Level 2 29-31 Solent Circuit Baulkham Hills NSW 2153 Tel: 61 (02) 9659 5433 e-mail: [email protected] Web: www.hbi.com.au

Leaders in Environmental Consulting

1

HBI Healthy Buildings International Pty Ltd A.C.N. 003 270 693 A.B.N. 39 003 270 693

Mr Stuart Hodgson 9 September 2019 Principal Manager, Program Sustainability Environment & Planning Sydney Metro Transport for NSW PO Box 588 NORTH RYDE BC NSW 1670 Ref: TSE FFMP Rev 7

Dear Stuart

RE: Endorsement of TSE Construction Flora and Fauna Management Plan (FFMP)

Rev 7) - Sydney Metro City & Southwest Thank you for providing the following updated document for Environmental Representative (ER) review and endorsement. An earlier version of the document has been approved under Condition of Approval C3(b) of the Sydney Metro City & Southwest project (SSI – 15_7400 January 9 2017).

TSE Construction Flora and Fauna Management Plan (Revision 7 dated 9 September 2019).

As an approved ER for the Sydney Metro City & Southwest project, I have reviewed amendments made to the revised document. In accordance with Condition A24 (j), I consider that the amendments made to the document are minor in nature and on this basis the revised document is approved. Yours sincerely

Michael Woolley Environmental Representative – Sydney Metro – City and South West

mailto:[email protected]

Construction Flora and Fauna Management Plan

SMCSWTSE-JCG-TPW-EM-PLN-002016 07 Construction Flora and Fauna Management Plan Page 2 of 57

Table of Contents

Compliance Matrix ............................................................................................................... 4

Glossary ................................................................................................................................ 7

Part A - Overview .................................................................................................................. 9

1.0 Plan Overview ............................................................................................................ 9

1.1 Purpose ....................................................................................................................... 9

1.2 Background ................................................................................................................. 9

1.3 Scope Changes ........................................................................................................... 9

1.4 Objectives ................................................................................................................. 10

1.5 Agency consultation .................................................................................................. 10

1.6 Plan structure ............................................................................................................ 11

1.7 Interactions with other management plans ................................................................ 11

2.0 Legal and other requirements ................................................................................ 13

2.1 Legislation ................................................................................................................. 13

2.2 Project compliance requirements ............................................................................... 13

2.3 Guidelines ................................................................................................................. 13

3.0 People and collaboration ........................................................................................ 14

3.1 Our team ................................................................................................................... 14

3.2 Specialist consultants ................................................................................................ 14

3.3 Collaboration with TfNSW and other stakeholders ..................................................... 15

4.0 Existing and surrounding environment ................................................................. 16

4.1 Terrestrial flora .......................................................................................................... 16

4.2 Terrestrial fauna ........................................................................................................ 18

4.3 Aquatic vegetation ..................................................................................................... 20

4.4 Benthic fauna and habitat .......................................................................................... 21

4.5 Aquatic fauna ............................................................................................................ 21

4.6 Threatened fauna ...................................................................................................... 22

4.7 Groundwater dependent ecosystems ........................................................................ 23

4.8 Noxious weeds .......................................................................................................... 23

5.0 Aspects and potential impacts ............................................................................... 25

6.0 Flora and fauna management ................................................................................. 27

6.1 Marine works ............................................................................................................. 27

6.2 Vegetation within and around TSE Worksites and revegetation ................................. 27

6.3 Protection of adjacent water bodies/watercourses ..................................................... 28



6.4 Pre-clearing surveys .................................................................................................. 29

6.5 Survey methodology .................................................................................................. 32

6.6 Vegetation clearing protocol ...................................................................................... 32

6.7 Nest boxes ................................................................................................................ 34

6.8 Weed management ................................................................................................... 34

6.9 Fauna management during construction .................................................................... 35

6.10 Protocol for any unexpected threatened species identified during construction ......... 35

6.11 Design changes ......................................................................................................... 36

Part B – Systems and tools ............................................................................................... 37

Appendix A – Agency comments ...................................................................................... 49



Compliance Matrix

Clause Detail Document Reference

Construction Environmental Management Framework

3.4a Subject to Section 3.3(b) and Section 3.2(b) the Principal Contractor will prepare issue-specific environmental sub plans to the CEMP and SMP which address each of the relevant environmental impacts at a particular site or stage of the project. Issue specific sub plans will include:

vi. Flora and fauna management

This Plan

11.2a Principal Contractors will develop and implement a Flora and Fauna Management Plan which will include as a minimum:

This Plan

i. The ecological mitigation measures as detailed in the environmental approval documentation;

Section 6.0

ii. The responsibilities of key project personnel with respect to the implementation of the plan;

Section 3.1

iii. Procedures for the clearing of vegetation and the relocation of flora and fauna;

Tree Clearing and Grubbing Management Procedure (SMCSWTSE-JCG-TSE-EN-MPR-003006)

Fauna Handling Management Procedure (SMCSWTSE-JCG-TSE-EM-MPR-003007)

iv. Details on the locations, monitoring program and use of nest boxes by fauna;

Section 6.7

v. Procedures for the demarcation and protection of retained vegetation, including all vegetation outside and adjacent to the construction footprint;

Section 6.2

vi. Plans for impacted and adjoining areas showing vegetation communities; important flora and fauna habitat areas; locations where threatened species, populations or ecological communities have been recorded;

Section 6.2

viii. Identification of measures to reduce disturbance to sensitive fauna;

Section 6.5.2 and 6.9

ix. Rehabilitation details, including identification of flora species and sources, and measures for the management and

Section 6.2




maintenance of rehabilitated areas (including duration of the implementation of such measures);

x. Weed management measures focusing on early identification of invasive weeds and effective management controls;

Section 6.8

xi. A procedure for dealing with unexpected EEC threatened species identified during construction, including cessation of work and notification of the Department, determination of appropriate mitigation measures in consultation with the OEH (including relevant relocation measures) and updating of ecological monitoring or off-set requirements;

Section 6.4

xii. Details on the methodology for vegetation mapping and survey;

Section 6.4

xiii. Ecological monitoring requirements; and Element 2 – Monitoring and reporting

xiv. Compliance record generation and management. Element 3 – Auditing, review and improvement

Project Planning Approval dated 9 January 2017 (Application no. SSI 15_7400)

C3 The following CEMP sub-plans must be prepared in consultation with the relevant government agencies identified for each CEMP sub-plan and be consistent with the CEMF and CEMP referred to In Condition C1. The Construction Traffic Management Plan must also be prepared in accordance with the Construction Traffic Management Framework as required by Condition E81.

Required CEMP sub-plan

Relevant government agencies to be consulted for each CEMP sub-plan

(b) Biodiversity OEH and Relevant Council(s)

This Plan

C4 The CEMP sub-plans must state how:

the environmental performance outcomes identified in the EIS as amended by the documents listed in A1 will be achieved;

the mitigation measures identified in the EIS as amended by the PIR as modified by documents listed in A1 will be implemented;

Part B – Systems and tools




the relevant terms of this approval will be complied with; and

issues requiring management during construction, as identified through ongoing environmental risk analysis, will be managed.

Sections 5.0 and 6.0, and Appendix C, and section 4.4 of the Construction Environmental Management Plan (SMCSWTSE-JCG-TPW-EM-PLN-002010)

C5 The CEMP sub-plans must be developed in consultation with relevant government agencies. Where an agency(ies) request(s) is not included, the Proponent must provide the Secretary justification as to why. Details of all information requested by an agency to be included in a CEMP sub-plan as a result of consultation and copies of all correspondence from those agencies, must be provided with the relevant CEMP sub-plan.

Section 1.5 and Appendix A

C6 Any of the CEMP sub-plans may be submitted to the Secretary along with, or subsequent to, the submission of the CEMP but in any event, no later than one (1) month before commencement of construction.

Section 2.2

C8 Construction must not commence until the CEMP and all CEMP sub-plans have been approved by the Secretary. The CEMP and CEMP sub-plans, as approved by the Secretary, including any minor amendments approved by the ER, must be implemented for the duration of construction. Where the CSSI is being staged, construction of that stage is not to commence until the relevant CEMP and sub-plans have been approved by the Secretary.

Section 2.2 and – Systems and tools

Note: Revised Environmental Mitigation Measures (REMMs), requirements from the Design and Construction Deed, Scope of Works and Technical Criteria (SWTC), and relevant elements of TfNSW’s Construction Environmental Management Framework are addressed in – Systems and tools.



Glossary

Term/ acronym Definition

ANZECC Australian and New Zealand Environment Conservation Council

CEEC Critically Endangered Ecological Community

CEMF Construction Environmental Management Framework (Appendix B of the Submissions and Preferred Infrastructure Report)

CEMP Construction Environmental Management Plan

CoA Condition of Approval

DP&E NSW Department of Planning and Environment

EIS Environmental Impact Statement for Sydney Metro Chatswood to Sydenham

EMS Environmental Management System

EPA NSW Environment Protection Authority

EPL Environment Protection Licence

EP&A Act Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (NSW)

EP&A Regulation Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2000 (NSW)

EPBC Act Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Cth)

ESCP Erosion and Sedimentation Control Plan

JHCPBG John Holland CPB Ghella

NPW Act National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 (NSW)

NPWS National Parks and Wildlife Service

OEH Office of Environment and Heritage

POEO Act Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997 (NSW)

Project Sydney Metro City & Southwest

Project Planning Approval

Critical State Significant Infrastructure Sydney Metro & Southwest Chatswood to Sydenham Infrastructure Approval dated 9 January 2017 (Application no. SSI 15_7400)

Relevant Councils Any or all as relevant, Willoughby, North Sydney, City of Sydney or Inner West

REMM Revised Environmental Mitigation Measures (Chapter 11 of the Submissions and Preferred Infrastructure Report).



Term/ acronym Definition

SEP Site Environment Plan

SEPP State Environmental Planning Policy

SPIR Sydney Metro & Southwest Chatswood to Sydenham Submissions and Preferred Infrastructure Report, October 2016

SWMS Safe Work Method Statement

SWTC Scope of Work and Technical Criteria

TBM Tunnel Boring Machine

TfNSW Transport for New South Wales

TSC Act Threatened Species and Conservation Act 1995, and amendments

TSE Works Tunnels and Station Civil Works for the Sydney Metro City & Southwest Project


PART A - OVERVIEW


Part A - Overview

1.0 Plan Overview

1.1 Purpose

The purpose of this Construction Flora and Fauna Management Plan (this Plan) is to

describe how John Holland CPB Ghella (JHCPBG) will minimise and manage impacts on

flora and fauna during the Design and Construction (D&C) of the Sydney Metro City &

Southwest Tunnel and Stations Excavation Works Project (TSE Works) of the Sydney Metro

City & Southwest (the Project). Transport for NSW (TfNSW) is delivering the Project on

behalf of the NSW Government.

This Construction Flora and Fauna Management Plan is the Biodiversity sub-plan to the

CEMP required by Condition C3(b) of the Project Planning Approval. This Plan has been

prepared to address the requirements of relevant Minister for Planning’s Conditions of

Approval (CoA), the Revised Environmental Mitigation Measures (REMMs), applicable

legislation, the Sydney Metro City & Southwest Chatswood to Sydenham Environmental

Impact Statement May 2016 (EIS) and contractual requirements including the TSE Works

Project Deed and Scope of Work and Technical Criteria (SWTC).

This Plan was submitted to the Secretary of the Department of Environment and Planning

(DP&E) and approved on the 21/12/2017 prior to construction commencing. Minor

amendments to the plan will be approved by the ER.

1.2 Background

This Plan is based on the comprehensive assessment and analysis undertaken for the EIS.

The EIS provides an assessment of the terrestrial and aquatic ecology directly and indirectly

impacted by the TSE Works. The TSE works will involve above-ground works at distinct sites

known as Chatswood, Crows Nest, Artarmon, Victoria Cross, Blues Point, Barangaroo,

Martin Place, Pitt Street, Waterloo and Marrickville and underground works (i.e. the

construction of a tunnel) between them. This Plan describes the flora and fauna

management procedures that will be implemented in relation to the above-ground works.

The existing environment varies across the study area. Much of the TSE Works are located

in a highly urbanised environment, which is characterised by residential and commercial

buildings and infrastructure. Native and exotic vegetation typically occurs as fragmented

vegetation stands within this environment, with the largest stands occurring within the

existing rail corridor adjacent to the Chatswood worksite.

Both the Blues Point and Barangaroo worksites are located adjacent to Sydney Harbour. The

EIS identified that when works are undertaken within the harbour that personnel undertaking

the work undergo marine mammal awareness training in the event that whales or other

marine life are encountered.

1.3 Scope Changes

TfNSW have made some scope changes since the Project Planning Approval was granted

for the TSE Works.


PART A - OVERVIEW


As summarised in Table 1 the following modifications have been approved. Impacts on

biodiversity are assessed in the modification applications and given the urban context of

these worksites is limited to vegetation removal. This Plan addresses these additional

scopes of work. The modification to Martin Place and Blues Point does not change the extent

of flora and fauna mitigation required and this Plan addresses both the EIS and new sites at

Artarmon and Victoria Cross North.

Table 1: Modification applications

Modification

1 Relocation of the Artarmon substation to 97 Reserve Road and Relocation of the Victoria Cross North shaft to 50 McLaren Street

3 Modifications to Martin Place to incorporate the unsolicited proposal submitted by Macquarie Capital.

4 Earthworks and culvert installation for the Sydney Metro Trains Stabling Facility (South) once the precast facility at Marrickville has been decommissioned.

5 Blues Point Acoustic Shed

1.4 Objectives

The objectives for flora and fauna management are to:

• Minimise vegetation clearance

• Minimise impacts on threatened species

• Minimise impacts on retained significant trees

• Offset the loss of habitat trees through installation of nest boxes in adjacent woodland,

where practicable

• Protect retained and adjacent native vegetation where possible

• Control the spread of weeds and plant pathogens

• Minimise disturbance to fauna.

JHCPBG will target a 100% reuse of all vegetative waste material (excluding weeds). Where

it cannot be used on site as mulch, it will be transferred to a recycling facility.

1.5 Agency consultation

Submissions on the EIS received from NSW Office of Environment and Heritage (OEH) and

Willoughby, Lane Cove, North Sydney, City of Sydney and Inner West Councils were

considered in the preparation of this Plan. JHCPBG continued to actively engage with these

agencies in the development and finalisation of this Plan in accordance with Condition C3 of

the Project Planning Approval.

An agency workshop was held on 12 July 2017, where the relevant agencies were provided

a copy of this Plan. All comments received from agencies and JHCPBG’s response to these

comments are provided in Appendix A.

OEH and Lane Cove Council confirmed in writing that they do not have any comments on

this Plan. Comments were received from:


PART A - OVERVIEW


• Willoughby Council – comments received related to Willoughby Council’s support of

specialist ecology input from AMBS in preparation of this Plan, and of JHCPBG’s

proposed vegetation management strategy.

• North Sydney Council – comments related to tree removal, which is being managed by

TfNSW under Project Planning Approval Condition E6.

• City of Sydney Council – comments related to tree and habitat management, community

notification regarding tree removal, and fauna relocation.

• Inner West Council – comments received relate to fauna handling and relocation, weed

management, and pre-clearing surveys.

This Plan has been updated to address these comments and a copy of the updated Plan

provided back to all agencies for information.

1.6 Plan structure

1.7 Interactions with other management plans

The associated and supporting documents to this plan are listed below:

• Pre-clearing surveys will be undertaken in accordance with Section 6.4

• Vegetation Management Plans (where required) for retained vegetation within TSE

construction worksites are contained in Site Environment Plans as detailed in the

PART A – OVERVIEW

Section 1.0: An introduction to the Plan, the TSC Works, objectives, and interrelationships to other plans and management documents

Section 2.0: Legal and other requirements

Section 3.0: Roles and responsibilities with regards to flora and fauna management

Section 4.0: Description of the existing environment of the TSE Worksites

Section 5.0: Identification of potential flora and fauna-related aspects and impacts

Section 6.0: Details the TSE Works flora and fauna management strategy

PART B – IMPLEMENTATION PLAN

Element 1 – Training

Element 2 – Monitoring and reporting

Element 3 – Auditing, review and improvement

Element 4 – Project-specific environmental requirements

APPENDIX

Appendix A – Agency comments


PART A - OVERVIEW


Construction Environmental Management Plan (SMCSWTSE-JCG-TPW-EM-PLN-

002010)

• The Visual Amenity Management Plan (SMCSWTSE-JCG-TPW-EM-PLN-002020)

provides for the retention of vegetation within construction worksites, where practicable,

to reduce impacts on visual amenity

• The Construction Soil, Water and Groundwater Management Plan (SMCSWTSE-JCG-

TPW-EM-PLN-002014) addresses the erosion and sedimentation impacts associated

with vegetation clearing

• The Waste Management and Recycling Management Plan (SMCSWTSE-JCG-TPW-EM-

PLN-002022) provides a framework for waste management. Management of mulch is

addressed in Section 6.6 of this Plan.

• The Sustainability Management Plan (SMCSWTSE-JCG-TPW-EM-PLN-002023)

addresses the requirement to enhance biodiversity conservation where reasonable and

feasible

• The Project WHS Management Plan (SMCSWTSE-JCG-TPW-HS-PLN-002050)

addresses the safety requirements associated with the use of herbicides and pesticides.

Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and product labels will also be referenced prior to application

of herbicides and pesticides. The Weed Management Procedure (SMCSWTSE-JCG-

TPW-EM-MPR-003010) identifies all record keeping requirements associated with the

use of herbicides and pesticides.


PART A - OVERVIEW


2.0 Legal and other requirements

2.1 Legislation

The main legislation relevant to flora and fauna management includes:

• National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 (NPW Act)

• Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 and amendments (TSC Act)

• Native Vegetation Act 2003 (NV Act)

• Noxious Weeds Act 1993 (NW Act) (repealed)

• Biosecurity Act 2015

• Fisheries Management Act 1994 (FM Act)

• Pesticides Act 1999

• Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act)

• Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act, 1999 (Cth) (EPBC Act)

Refer to the Construction Environmental Management Plan (SMCSWTSE-JCG-TPW-EN-

PLN-002010) for details of relevant legislation.

2.2 Project compliance requirements

Relevant planning requirements from the Conditions of Approval are summarised in the

Compliance Matrix included at the beginning of this Plan. Additional Project Planning

Approval Conditions and Revised Environmental Management Measures are included in Part

B of this Plan.

2.3 Guidelines

Additional guidelines and standards relating to the management of flora and fauna include:

• Noxious and Environmental Weed Control Handbook, 6th Edition, Nov 2014 NSW

Department of Primary Industries (DPI)

• Guidelines for Threatened Species Assessment (DEC and Department of Primary

Industries, 2005)

• Australian Standard 4970–2009 Protection of trees on development sites

• A Field Manual for the Surveying and Mapping of Nationally Significant Weeds

(McNaught, I., Thackway, R., Brown, L. and Parsons, M 2008)

• Asparagus Weeds Best Practice Management Manual

• Control Manual for Lantana (Van Oosterhout 2004)

• Best Practice Management Guidelines for Phytophthora cinnamomi within the Sydney

Metropolitan Catchment Management Authority Area (Suddaby, T. and Liew,E. 2008).


PART A - OVERVIEW


3.0 People and collaboration

3.1 Our team

The roles and responsibilities of key JHCPBG Personnel with respect to flora and fauna

management are detailed in Table 2.

Table 2: JHCPBG roles and responsibilities

Role Responsibility

Project Director • Manage the delivery of the Project including overseeing implementation of flora and fauna management

• Act as Contractor’s Representative

Approvals, Environment and Sustainability Manager

• Oversee the implementation of all flora and fauna management initiatives

Stakeholder and Community Relations Manager

• Manage consultation in relation to site establishment vegetation clearing and the screen planting drive

Project Sustainability Manager

• Coordinate the implementation of the sustainability strategy including biodiversity objectives

Construction Director • Manage the delivery of the construction process, in relation to flora and fauna management across all sites in conjunction with the Approvals, Environment & Sustainability Manager.

Construction Managers • Ensure compliance with this Plan.

Project Environment Manager

Environment Coordinators

• Assist the Construction Managers in implementing this Plan.

• Manage review and continual improvement of this Plan

• Inspecting and reporting on compliance.

Project Engineers

Site Supervisors

• Assist the Construction Managers in implementing this Plan.

Further details on roles and responsibilities are provided in the CEMP (SMCSWTSE-JCG-

TPW-EM-PLN-002010).

3.2 Specialist consultants

AMBS Heritage & Ecology (AMBS) has been engaged to provide expert advice which has

been incorporated into this Plan. Details of AMBS’s experience and credentials are available

from www.ambs.com.au. During delivery, AMBS will continue to provide specialist advice

and services in the development and implementation of this Plan to ensure that impacts can

be avoided, minimised or appropriately mitigated including:

• Pre-clearing surveys

• Vegetation/ habitat tree clearance fauna management


PART A - OVERVIEW


• Advice on the management of the weeds and plant pathogens

• Unexpected finds of threatened or endangered species

3.3 Collaboration with TfNSW and other stakeholders

As set out in Section 6.2, TfNSW is responsible for preparing the Tree Reports required by

Project Planning Approval Condition E6. JHCPBG will work collaboratively with TfNSW to

close out the requirements of this Condition.


PART A - OVERVIEW


4.0 Existing and surrounding environment

EIS Technical Paper 9: Biodiversity Assessment documents the detailed studies of the

existing terrestrial and aquatic environment in the Study Area, and provides an assessment

of the potential direct and indirect impacts of the Project, including the TSE Works, on

terrestrial and aquatic ecology. The Study Area for terrestrial ecology assessments

undertaken for EIS includes the Project construction footprint and has been typically

extended to the edge of adjoining infrastructure (e.g. roads), urban development and bodies

of water.

The following extracts from the EIS describe the flora and fauna characteristics of the Study

Area which includes the TSE Worksites prior to the commencement of construction.

4.1 Terrestrial flora

The Study Area is highly modified and has been historically cleared of native vegetation. No

naturally occurring vegetation communities were observed during site inspections

undertaken for the preparation of the EIS, and none of the vegetation in the Study Area

meets the criteria for any threatened ecological community listed under the EPBC Act or the

TSC Act.

No threatened flora species were recorded, and given the low native flora habitat values of

the Study Area, there is a low likelihood of any occurring, with the exception of planted non-

local native specimens.

4.1.1 Chatswood

Within the rail corridor north of Nelson Street the only remaining vegetation is scattered

(Ageratina adenophora (Crofton Weed) at the rail track edge, a single Pittosporum

undulatum (Sweet Pittosporum) at the base of the western slope near the Nelson Street

overbridge, and a large tree of Eucalyptus saligna x botryoides (Sydney Blue Gum) at the top

of the western slope just north of Nelson Street.

Between Nelson Street and Mowbray Road, there is planted native vegetation in the rail

corridor, mixed with invasive exotic species. The western slope is characterised by mostly

Acacia binervia (Coast Myall) and Acacia decurrens (Black Wattle), with a dense midlayer

dominated by the noxious weed Genista linifolia (Flaxleaved Broom) with scattered

occurrence of other native and exotic shrub species. On the eastern slope, the vegetation

consists of an overgrown strip at the top of a tall retaining wall, native shrub and groundcover

species mixed with Genista linifolia and other weedy exotic species.

Between Mowbray Road and Brand Street, the vegetation ranges from dense native and

exotic tree and shrub cover to weedy grass cover. The vegetation on the western side of the

rail line consists of large stands of native and exotic shrubs and trees. The vegetation on the

eastern side of the rail line includes dense stands of trees including the native species

Pittosporum undulatum (Sweet Pittosporum) and a single Syncarpia glomulifera (Turpentine),

the non-local native species Lophostemon confertus (Brush Box), thickets of the exotic tree

Acer negundo (Box-elder Maple), and a huge tree of Ficus elastica (Rubber Tree) near the

southern end. Exotic vines are abundant in this area, particularly Anredera cordifolia

(Madeira Vine), Cardiospermum grandiflorum (Balloon Vine) and Ipomoea indica (Blue

Morning Glory).

The former Ausgrid depot is characterised by planted native and exotic trees.


PART A - OVERVIEW


There are approx. nine street trees located around the worksite distributed on the Pacific

Highway, Nelson Street and Mowbray Road.

4.1.2 Artarmon (EIS site)

The vegetation of the Artarmon site comprises of cleared grassland lined by trees and

shrubs. At the time of inspection the construction of a temporary extension of Artarmon

Public School was occurring. Trees adjoining the site to the east appeared to be mostly

Eucalyptus saligna (Sydney Blue Gum).

4.1.3 Artarmon (Modification 1)

This site is currently occupied with industrial buildings.

4.1.4 Crows Nest

There are approximately 19 street trees located around the worksite distributed on the Pacific

Highway, Hume Street, Clarke Street and Oxley Street.

4.1.5 Victoria Cross North (EIS site)

The existing site is occupied by structures with a number of street trees adjacent to the

buildings.

4.1.6 Victoria Cross North (Modification 1)

There is a number of street trees located around the worksite distributed on the Miller Street,

Berry Street and McLaren Street.

Plane trees are located on the nature strip on McLaren Street and Miller Street and within the

south western corner of the alternative site along McLaren Street

Three fig trees are also located within the alternative site as follows:

• One mature fig tree growing into the existing retaining wall along Miller Street at the south

western corner of the site,

• Two large mature fig trees growing within the site footprint along McLaren Street in the

south east corner of the site. Both trees have been trimmed extensively on their northern

canopy and the tree canopy growth is therefore over McLaren Street to the south.

Existing earthworks on the northern side of these trees will also have impacted on the

root system of these trees.

4.1.7 Victoria Cross South

The existing site is occupied by structures with a number of street trees adjacent to the

buildings.

4.1.8 Blues Point

The Blues Point temporary site comprises cleared mown grassland adjacent to the foreshore

of Sydney Harbour. The dominant species across the site is the cosmopolitan native grass

Cynodon dactylon (Couch). There is a large fig tree at the eastern end of Blues Point

Reserve outside of the TSE Worksite, which will not be directly impacted by the TSE Works.


PART A - OVERVIEW


4.1.9 Barangaroo

The vegetation of this site consists of planted street trees within a highly modified urban

context. On the western side of Hickson Road is a row of planted Ficus microcarpa var. hillii

(Hills Weeping Fig). The only other vegetation in the street comprises occasional exotic

landscape plantings.

4.1.10 Martin Place

There are approx. nine street trees, located around the worksite distributed on the Hunter

Street, Castlereagh Street and Elizabeth Street.

4.1.11 Waterloo

The Waterloo site was comprised entirely of buildings and there was no vegetation observed

on the site.

There are approx. 18 street trees, located around the worksite distributed on the Raglan

Street, Botany Road and Wellington Street.

4.1.12 Marrickville

Vegetation is limited to planted and regrowth native and exotic species, mainly along the

south-eastern boundary of the worksite.

Tree species include local native species such as Eucalyptus crebra (Narrow-leaf Ironbark),

Eucalyptus robusta (Swamp Mahogany), Casuarina glauca (Swamp oak), Allocasuarina

littoralis (Black She-oak) and Cupaniopsis anacardioides (Tuckeroo), as well as exotic trees

and shrubs including Schinus areira (Peppercorn), Celtis sinensis (Chinese Hackberry),

Plumeria rubra (Frangipani) and Nerium oleander (Oleander).

The ground layer is highly modified, with areas of fill and mounds of uncontained soil

observed; ground layer species are mainly weedy exotic grasses and herbs, with

Megathyrsus maximus (Guinea Grass), Paspalum dilatatum (Pasapalum), Ehrharta erecta

(Panic Veldtgrass), Pennisteum setaceum (Fountain Grass), Bidens pilosa (Cobblers Pegs),

Ageratina adenophora (Crofton Weed), Cestrum parqui (Green Cestrum), Araujia sericifera

(Mothvine) and Parietaria judaica (Asthma Weed).

Vegetation in the remainder of the worksite is confined to planted trees and shrubs in nature

strips and landscape areas associated with the industrial buildings. There are some trees of

Eucalyptus robusta and Melaleuca linariifolia (Flax-leaved Paperbark) growing immediately

to the west of the canal where it adjoins Sydney Steel Road.

4.2 Terrestrial fauna

There was no fauna species recorded at Artarmon (existing and alternative sites), Crows

Nest, Victoria Cross (EIS and alternative sites), Martin Place and Pitt Street.

4.2.1 Chatswood

The Chatswood dive site and northern surface works has limited fauna habitat values due to

lack of native vegetation, urban development and high levels of disturbance from road and

rail traffic. Common urban birds were observed at this site including Noisy Miner (Manorina

melanocephela), Sulphur-crested Cockatoo (Cacatua galerita) and Eastern Koel

(Eudynamys orientalis).


PART A - OVERVIEW


A potential hollow-bearing tree was located in the middle of the depot. A nest box and a

hollow-bearing tree were observed on the southern boundary of the depot. The remainder of

the depot contains buildings and hardstand. Most buildings did not appear suitable for

microbats. One brick building in the depot had eaves and potential flyways, however, no

microbats were recorded during the survey.

Two concrete road overbridges are present in worksite. Crevices in the bridge deck could

provide roosting habitat for microbats. The bridges are subject to high levels of road and rail

traffic and as such, suboptimal for microbats. None were observed during targeted surveys.

4.2.2 Artarmon (EIS site)

The site would provide some foraging and nesting habitat for common urban fauna. It

otherwise has limited habitat value for fauna due to the disturbed nature of the site including

urban development and roads.

4.2.3 Artarmon (Modification 1)

The buildings at the 98-104 Reserve Road site which would be impacted by the proposed

modification were considered for their potential to provide fauna habitat. These buildings and

structures are unlikely to provide potential habitat due to their location within a busy industrial

area and lack of available water and native vegetation in proximity to the site.

4.2.4 Victoria Cross North (EIS site)

The site would provide some foraging and nesting habitat for common urban fauna. It

otherwise has limited habitat value for fauna due to the disturbed nature of the site including

urban development and roads.

4.2.5 Victoria Cross North (Modification 1)

The site is a vacant lot which have previously been cleared. There is potential fauna habitat

in and or immediately adjacent to the site.

4.2.6 Blues Point

The site has limited fauna habitat value, though shorebirds could occur as vagrants on the

shoreline or in grassland behind it. The boat ramp was not inspected from the water during

the field survey, and as such, the presence of microbat habitat in the underside of the boat

ramp cannot be ruled out.

4.2.7 Barangaroo

Common native and exotic birds were observed during the field survey including Common

Myna (Sturnus tristis), Rock Dove (Columba livia), Rainbow Lorikeet (Trichoglossus

haematodus) and a White-plumed Honeyeater (Lichenostomus penicillatus) was observed

foraging in roadside shrubs. Fig trees at this worksite could provide foraging habitat for the

Grey-headed Flying-fox when fruiting.

4.2.8 Waterloo

Based on this inspection, the buildings did not appear suitable for microbats due to the high

levels of activity within, lack of suitable insulation and lack of entry/exit points. No microbats

were observed or recorded during Anabat surveys of the worksite.


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4.2.9 Marrickville

A total of 15 vertebrate fauna species were recorded within or in proximity to the Worksite,

including three mammal species and 12 bird species.

Grey-headed flying fox (Pteropus poliocephalus), which is a threatened species was

recorded. Grey-headed flying fox is listed as a Vulnerable species under both the EPBC Act

and TSC Act. A large number of Grey-headed flying foxes were observed flying over the site,

likely flying out from the permanent camp at Wolli Creek, located four kilometres southwest

of the dive site. This camp is estimated to support up to 20,000 Grey-headed flying foxes and

is listed as a Nationally Important camp for the species. No Grey-headed flying foxes were

observed foraging within the site, however several were observed visiting eucalypt trees in

proximity to the stormwater storage basin, adjoining the site to the west. The Study Area

offers a small area of marginal foraging habitat for the species, due to the presences of

known feed trees such as Eucalyptus robusta (Swamp Mahogany) and Pittosporum

undulatum (Sweet Pittosporum) (Eby and Law 2008).

All other native fauna species recorded are considered common and abundant throughout

their ranges, such as Rainbow Lorikeet, Noisy Miner (Manorina melanocephala), Australian

Raven (Corvus coronoides) and Magpie Lark (Grallina cyanoleuca). Exotic species identified

included Starling (Sturnus vulgaris), Common Myna (Acridotheres tristis) and Cat (Felis

catus). Calls of one microbat species, Gould’s Wattled Bat (Chalinolobus gouldii) was

recorded in proximity to the storm water storage basin, located immediately west of the site.

Potential microbat roosting habitat was identified in Bedwin Road overbridge, located 30

metres to the east of the worksite. Warehouses and industrial buildings adjoining the rail

corridor to the north did not appear to support potential microbat roosting habitat, however,

microbats could possibly roost within two large warehouses on Sydney Steel Road.

Microbats could gain access to these warehouses via visible gaps below the roof. Existing

culverts beneath the worksite could offer additional microbat roosting habitat.

4.3 Aquatic vegetation

Aquatic vegetation is protected under the Fisheries Management Act 1994 (e.g. saltmarsh,

seagrasses, and mangroves) and a permit is required for any works which are likely to harm

aquatic vegetation. Expansive seagrass meadows are not known to occur between Walsh

Bay and Lavender Bay within the Project area, however small isolated and fragmented

patches of Zostera capricorni have been identified on the western and northern parts of

Lavender Bay. Other fragmented patches of Zostera capricorni are also located to the north-

west in Berrys Bay. Seagrasses are unlikely to be located away from the intertidal or shallow

subtidal zones in the Harbour due to the deep and turbid waters which limit light available for

photosynthesis.

Other aquatic macrophytes (saltmarsh, mangroves) are not known to occur within or near the

project area. Kelp (Ecklonia radiata) and other algae are commonly found in the shallow

subtidal areas within the Harbour, including Berrys Bay, Lavender Bay and Walsh Bay.

The population of the seagrass Posidonia australis in Sydney Harbour is listed as an

endangered population under the FM Act, and forms part of an endangered ecological

community listed under the EPBC Act. Posidonia australis is not known to occur in the

project area, with the closest recorded observations to the east near Darling Point.

The listed pest algal species, Caulerpa taxifolia, is not known to occur in the project area or

in nearby Berrys Bay and at the Barangaroo development.


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Lavender Bay near the southernmost tip of McMahons Point is designated as a Wetlands

Protection Area in the Sydney Harbour Regional Environmental Plan (Sydney Harbour

Catchment) 2005.

4.4 Benthic fauna and habitat

The harbour sediments at the nearby Barangaroo development in the south are dominated

by silts, clays and sand, making up at least 95% of the sediment composition. The remainder

is made up of gravel and cobbles.

Sediment composition in Berrys Bay contains the same particle size classes but is slightly

coarser, with a smaller contribution of clay but a greater contribution of silt, sand and gravel.

Contamination is the harbour is widely reported and is typically associated with finer

sediments.

As part of the EIS, sediment samples from Sydney Harbour within the two grout zones were

analysed for potential contaminants. Sediments here were a little coarser, consisting of

muddy, sandy gravels and muddy, gravelly sands and containing a lot of shell fragments.

Elevated levels of mercury, lead, polychlorinated PCDD/Fs, DDD, total PAHs and TBT were

detected.

The sediments within this region provide habitat for benthic infauna and epifauna. Those

occupying nearby areas of Berrys Bay and Barangaroo include sponges, ascidians,

polychaete worms, amphipods, crustaceans, cnidarians, brittle stars, bivalves and

gastropods. No seagrasses or other vegetation have been identified at these locations in

previous video tows.

Threatened benthic infauna or epifauna are not known to occur in the area.

4.5 Aquatic fauna

Fish species in Sydney Harbour include the common recreational fish species such as

yellowfin bream (Acanthopagrus australis), tarwhine (Rhabdosargus sarba), snapper

(Chrsophrys auratus), mullet (Family: Mugilidae), dusky flathead (Platycephalus fuscus),

sand whiting (Sillago ciliate), leatherjackets (Family: Monocanthidae), luderick (Girella

tricuspidata) and large tooth flounder (Pseudorhombus arsius).

The Black Rockcod is listed as a vulnerable species under the FM Act. The Black Rockcod is

a reef dwelling species found along the NSW coastline. They inhabit caves, gutters, beneath

bommies in near shore environments to depths of 50m. Large juveniles can be found around

rocky shores in estuaries. Near shore environments could provide suitable habitat and there

is a notable, 45 metre deep hole immediately to the east of the project area.

Sharks and marine birds and mammals are also known to occur in the area, including Bull

Sharks, Little Penguins and dolphins. The Little Penguin population in the Manly Point area is

listed as an Endangered Population under the TSC Act. Little Penguins are often observed

feeding throughout the Harbour.

Pipefish and seahorses (Syngnathids) are protected under the FM Act and most species are

listed Marine species under the EPBC Act. Along coasts, Syngnathids are commonly found

near algae, weed or seagrass habitats or around man-made structures (e.g. jetties). Suitable

habitat is not known to occur in the project area.


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4.6 Threatened fauna

There are four fauna species listed under the EPBC Act and/or TSC Act, were considered to

have a high or moderate likelihood of occurrence at one or more of the sites:

• Grey-headed Flying-fox – Vulnerable under TSC Act and EPBC Act

• Eastern Freetail-bat – Vulnerable under TSC Act

• Eastern Bentwing-bat – Vulnerable under TSC Act

• Southern Right Whale – Endangered under TSC Act and EPBC Act

The Grey-headed Flying-fox has been recorded frequently in the Sydney area with 461

records of the species within 10 kilometres of the study area.

There are 82 records of the Eastern Bentwing-bat within 10 kilometres of the study sites and

10 records of the Eastern Freetail-bat. The Eastern Freetail-bat roosts in hollow-bearing

trees which are present at the Chatswood dive site and northern surface works. The Eastern

Freetailbat also roosts in buildings, as does the Eastern Bentwing-bat. Buildings at the

Waterloo, Chatswood and Marrickville worksites generally did not appear suitable for these

microbat species, however, internal inspections were not undertaken and many of the

buildings were not accessible for survey. Based on external visual inspections and aerial

photographs, most buildings appeared to be unsuitable for microbat roosts as they would be

unlikely to maintain warm or stable temperatures. The buildings at the Marrickville,

Chatswood and Waterloo worksites generally comprise factories/stores with high corrugated

iron rooves.

There are eight records of the Southern Right Whale within 10 kilometres of the Study Areas.

Southern Right Whales visit southern Australia during the winter months, and they are

increasingly found in NSW waters. The whales are often seen in very shallow water,

including estuaries and bays. The species is not known to regularly occur in Sydney Harbour,

however, it has been recorded close to Blues Point, likely as a vagrant.

Assessments of Significance were undertaken for relevant threatened species, listed under

the EPBC Act that have a moderate or high likelihood of occurrence at least one of the sites.

Two threatened species are considered to have a high to moderate likelihood of occurrence

in the study area: Grey-headed Flying Fox (Pteropus poliocephalus) and Southern Right

Whale (Eubalaena australis).

The findings of the EPBC Act significant impact assessments are summarised in Table 3.

Table 3: Summary of EPBC Act requirements

Threatened species Important population Likely significant impact

Grey-headed Flying Fox (Pteropus poliocephalus)

No No

Southern Right Whale (Eubalaena australis)

No No


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4.7 Groundwater dependent ecosystems

As detailed in the EIS Technical Paper 9: Biodiversity Assessment a search of the National

Atlas of Groundwater Dependent Ecosystems (BOM 2015) did not identify any Groundwater

Dependent Ecosystems within the study area.

At Waterloo Station, there is around four metres of sand near ground surface. The sand layer

forms part of the Botany Sands Groundwater Source. Waterloo Station would be tanked and,

as such, the sand layer would be hydraulically isolated (via permanent lining) from the station

shaft, by design. As such, there would be no hydraulic connection between the project and

the Botany Sands Groundwater Source and thereby no impact to the Botany Wetlands

groundwater dependent ecosystem.

4.8 Noxious weeds

Seventeen exotic species recorded in the study area are declared noxious under the NSW

Noxious Weeds Act 1993 for either the Willoughby, North Sydney, Sydney and/or Marrickville

local government areas. Table 4 provides details of the noxious weeds recorded in the Study

Area.

Table 4: Noxious weeds recorded in the study area

Worksite Scientific name Common name Control class

Listed control area (LGA)

Chatswood Anredera cordifolia Madeira Vine 4 Willoughby

Arundo donax Giant Reed 4 All

Asparagus aethiopicus Asparagus Fern 4 All

Cardiospermum grandiflorum

Balloon Vine 4 Willoughby

Chrysanthemoides monilifera subsp. monilifera

Boneseed 1 All

Cinnamomum camphora Camphorlaurel 4 Willoughby

Genista linifolia Broom 4 All

Genista monspessulana Montpelier Broom 3 Marrickville

Willloughby

Ipomoea indica Blue Morning Glory 4 Willloughby

Lantana camara Lantana 4 All

Ligustrum lucidum Broad-leaved Privet 4 All

Ligustrum sinense Small- Leaved Privet 4 All

Ochna serrulata Mickey Mouse Plant 4 Willloughby


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Worksite Scientific name Common name Control class

Listed control area (LGA)

Olea europaea subsp. cuspidata

African Olive 4 Willloughby

Marrickville Celtis sinensis Chinese Hackberry 4 All

Cestrum parqui Green Cestrum 3 All

Ricinus communis Castor Oil Plant 4 Marrickville


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5.0 Aspects and potential impacts

The key aspects and potential impacts in relation to the overall management of flora and

fauna during the TSE Works are listed in Table 5. These are the key identified risks for the

overall management of flora and fauna during the TSE Works.

Table 5: Summary of overall aspects and potential impacts

Aspects Potential Impacts

Erosion Vegetation removal and grubbing would result in increased risk of soil erosion. Note as the TSE Worksites are in a highly urbanised area, previous landuses resulted in the vast majority of the sites being covered by hardstand. As such, erosion potential will be limited to small, localised areas where vegetation (largely individual trees) are cleared. The TSE Worksites identified as having a high soil erosion hazard are Chatswood, Artarmon, Victoria Cross, Blues Point, Martin Place, Barangaroo, and Marrickville (refer to Section 4.1 of the Construction Soil, Water and Groundwater Management Plan).

Sedimentation Potential for sediment laden site runoff from cleared areas

Groundwater Groundwater dependent ecosystems (GDEs) – the TSE Works will not impact on GDEs as there are no GDEs in the vicinity of the TSE Worksites.

Design specifications Limitations on opportunities to minimise vegetation clearing, due to prescribed scope of works and worksite space constraints.

Sustainability Reduction in biological sustainability due to vegetation and/or habitat removal. There is no flora and fauna identified as threatened or vulnerable under relevant legislation within the TSE Worksites.

Flora • Removal of street trees and other vegetation to make way for the TSE Works. As an indicative estimate, up to 2.5 hectares of vegetation may be cleared as part of the TSE Works, as per the table below.

TSE Worksite Indicative estimate of vegetation removal (ha)*

Chatswood 1.6

Crows Nest 0.06

Victoria Cross North 0.08

Victoria Cross South 0.06

Barangaroo 0.26

Martin Place North <0.01

Waterloo 0.01

Marrickville 0.38

*Estimates have been calculated by measuring canopy area using aerial imagery in the TSE Works Geographical Information System and are indicative only.


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Aspects Potential Impacts

• Removal of habitat trees to make way for the TSE Works

Fauna • Disturbance or mortality of fauna during clearing works

• Habitat loss or degradation (e.g. hollow bearing trees, potential roosts in man-made features i.e. buildings, under bridges etc.)

Waste Reuse of material from felled trees (i.e. mulch)

Visual amenity Vegetation removal may result in a reduction in visual amenity to surrounding receivers, particularly where perimeter vegetation may be impacted to construct necessary security and noise attenuation structures.

Weed management Incorrect disposal of weeds removed as part of the TSE Works

The flora and fauna management strategy outlined in Section 6.0 of this Plan has been

developed taking into consideration the potential environmental impacts detailed above. Site-

specific procedures for the TSE Works, including the Site Environment Plans (SEPs), will

also be developed considering these potential impacts.


PART A - OVERVIEW


6.0 Flora and fauna management

6.1 Marine works

The extent of works is limited to driven piles and specific management measures will be

included in site-specific SEPs and Erosion and Sediment Control Plans (ESCPs).

Disturbance to the seabed will be minimised.

6.2 Vegetation within and around TSE Worksites and revegetation

Project Planning Approval Condition E6 requires that:

The CSSI must be designed to retain as many trees as possible and provide replacement trees such that there a net increase in the number of trees. The Proponent must commission an independent, experienced and suitably qualified arborist to prepare a comprehensive Tree Report before removing any trees as detailed in the EIS, as amended by the documents listed in A1. The Tree Report must include:

(a) a description of the conditions of the tree(s) and its amenity and visual value; (b) consideration of all options to avoid tree removal, including relocation of services,

redesign or relocation of ancillary components (such as substations, fencing etc.) and reduction of standard offsets to underground services; and

(c) measures to avoid tree removal, minimise damage to, and ensure the health and stability of those trees to be retained and protected. This includes details of any proposed canopy or root pruning, root protection zone, excavation, site controls on waste disposal, vehicular access, materials storage and protection of public utilities.

In the event that tree removal cannot be avoided, then replacement trees are to be planted within, or in close proximity to the CSSI or other location in consultation with the Relevant Councils and agreed by the Secretary. The size of the replacement trees will be determined in consultation with the relevant Council. A copy of the Tree Report must be submitted to the Secretary before the removal, damage and/or pruning of any trees, including those affected by the site establishment works. All recommendations of the Tree Report must be implemented by the Proponent, unless otherwise agreed by the Secretary.

The Tree Report may be prepared for the entire CSSI or separate reports may be

prepared for individual areas where tree removal and/or pruning is proposed.

TfNSW is responsible for E6 and will prepare a Tree Report(s) for trees impacted or removed

by TSE Works within TSE Site Access Areas and identified in the EIS and additional trees

within and surrounding worksites identified by JHCPBG. TfNSW must complete all review

and consultation and provide to the Secretary in advance of the commencement of relevant

works, except that:

• JHCPBG must produce a Tree Report for trees impacted or removed by the TSE

Contractor’s Activities beyond TSE Site Access Areas and not identified in the EIS or not

currently identified as being impacted

• JHCPBG must design the TSE Works to retain as many trees as possible, and

• JHCPBG must inform TfNSW of any tree omitted from TfNSW’s Tree Report, or any tree

addressed in the TfNSW Tree Report that JHCPBG considers it is able to retain.

Indicative worksite layouts have been refined to conserve vegetation where practicable.

However due to the restricted space on the worksites, it is anticipated that all vegetation will


PART A - OVERVIEW


be removed. Vegetation adjacent to or within construction sites that is to be retained and

protected will be appropriately demarcated (e.g. fenced, flagged, etc.), and signage will be

erected identifying these areas as ‘Tree Protection Zone – No Access’, in accordance with

AS 4970–2009. These areas will also be clearly marked on Site Environment Plans (SEPs)

as ‘Tree Protection Zone – No Access’. SEPs will be developed prior to commencing works

on site and endorsed by the Environment Representative. The SEPs will include information

obtained from the preclearance surveys, including areas of retained vegetation and no-go

zones and act as Vegetation Management Plans.

Weekly Joint Environment Inspections will include monitoring areas of retained vegetation to

ensure that no unapproved disturbance occurs.

In addition to the retention of existing trees and landscaping within the TSE Worksites, there

may be a need to design and implement additional landscaping within TSE Worksites. Any

temporary landscaping within TSE Worksites and landscaping and/or maintenance of land

outside the TSE Worksites (e.g. nature strips) would be implemented under the direction of

TfNSW.

The established TSE Worksites will be handed over to TfNSW to allow construction of

Permanent Works outside the scope of the TSE Works. As such full construction site

demobilisation and revegetation of these worksites is not within the scope of the TSE Works.

The exception is Blues Point and Barangaroo:

• At Blues Point the site will be rehabilitated to its pre-existing condition after the four TBM

retrievals are completed

• At Barrangaroo a part of the site area not required for station fit out will be rehabilitated to

its pre-existing condition.

6.3 Protection of adjacent water bodies/watercourses

The TSE Works do not include any waterway crossings or direct encroachment onto creek

banks. However construction will be undertaken as detailed in Table 6.


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Table 6: Works adjacent to water bodies

Worksite Body of water/ watercourse

Aspects, potential impacts and management

Blues Point Sydney Harbour The temporary worksite will be constructed directly adjacent to Sydney Harbour.

Erosion and sediment controls will be designed and installed on the Blues Point worksite in accordance with the BlueBook to minimise impacts on the harbour during construction works.

Barangaroo Darling Harbour This worksite will be constructed directly adjacent to Darling Harbour.

Erosion and sediment controls will be designed and installed on the Barangaroo worksite in accordance with the BlueBook to minimise impacts on the harbour during construction works.

Marrickville Eastern Canal Stormwater connection works into the Eastern Canal are required. The Eastern Canal is completely modified due to past urbanisation and is now a concrete channel.

Erosion and sediment controls will be designed and installed on the Marrickville worksite in accordance with the BlueBook to minimise impacts on the canal during construction works.

Measures to minimise impacts on adjacent bodies of water and waterways are addressed in

the Construction Soil, Water and Groundwater Management Plan (SMCSWTSE-JCG-TPW-

EN-PLN-002014), which addresses the erosion and sedimentation impacts associated with

vegetation clearing, sets out the Water Quality Monitoring Program and discharge

procedures.

In the case that the Water Quality Monitoring Program detects an impact that is attributed to

construction, then further mitigation will be carried out and further ecological monitoring may

be required.

6.4 Pre-clearing surveys

Immediately prior to works commencing at each site, pre-clearing surveys and inspections

for threatened flora and fauna species and habitat features will be undertaken by AMBS.

Information obtained from pre-clearing inspections will also be included on the Site

Environment Plans where appropriate. Outlined below are the methodologies and

requirements for pre-clearing surveys and inspections, to be implemented as part of the TSE

Works.

6.4.1 Overview, objectives and purpose

The objective of the pre-clearance survey is to reduce, where possible, the direct impacts of

habitat loss that will occur from the clearing of vegetation and other habitat. Clearing of

vegetation will be required in a number of locations to make way for construction worksites.

Clearing of other features that may provide habitat (e.g. bush rock, rubbish, structures) will

occur at the same time, where these occur.


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This clearing of vegetation and other habitat will have direct impacts on the flora and fauna

that are present at the time of the clearing and may have indirect impacts on fauna that

utilise the habitat from time to time. These impacts include the loss of any plants that occur in

the clearance area, potentially the loss of any animals that occupy the clearance area, and

the loss of habitat for plants and animals. The extent of direct impacts on local fauna will

depend, to some extent, on the ability of individuals to survive the initial vegetation clearance

and to successfully migrate to surrounding habitat, where it occurs.

The pre-clearance surveys may assist in reducing the overall impacts by identifying habitat

trees and other features where additional care should be taken during vegetation clearance.

Pre-clearance surveys will involve surveys throughout all of the areas where vegetation will

be cleared to make way for the TSE Works and will be performed by qualified and

experienced ecologists from AMBS. The purpose of the surveys will be to:

• Identify and mark the location of any threatened flora or fauna that may not have been

detected previously

• Mark habitat trees or other features where special attention will be required during

vegetation clearing

• Mark habitat features (such as tree hollows and logs) that could be salvaged and to

identify potential locations where salvaged features could be placed

• Identify and mark the type and location of weed species and infestations

• Identify and mark locations with top soil suitable for re-use

• Check the physical demarcation of the limit of clearing.

6.4.2 Survey scope

Pre-clearance surveys will be confined to only those areas directly impacted by the TSE

Works as detailed in Table 7.

Table 7: Scope of pre-clearance surveys (based on information provided in the EIS)

Pre-clearance Survey Item

Ch

ats

wo

od

Cro

ws N

est

Art

arm

on

Vic

tori

a C

ross

Blu

es P

oin

t

Bara

ng

aro

o

Mart

in P

lace

Pit

t S

treet

Wate

rlo

o

Marr

ick

ville

Threatened fauna X X

Hollow bearing trees (approx. number already identified)

2

Man-made features i.e. buildings, under bridges etc.

X X X

Location of vegetation to be protected

X


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Pre-clearance Survey Item

Ch

ats

wo

od

Cro

ws N

est

Art

arm

on

Vic

tori

a C

ross

Blu

es P

oin

t

Bara

ng

aro

o

Mart

in P

lace

Pit

t S

treet

Wate

rlo

o

Marr

ick

ville

Location of potential habitat for flora and fauna relocation

Assessment of weed issues X X X X

Vegetation removal X X X X X X

The location and extent of each construction site will be identified and boundaries clearly

marked on site plans prior to on-site surveys.

6.4.3 Timing

Pre-clearing surveys will be undertaken prior to site clearing and completed progressively as

per the construction program.

It is recognised that these surveys are being completed in the context of investigations

undertaken for the EIS, in accordance with the methodologies listed in Section 6.5, below.

The EIS identifies that some fauna species that have been recorded in the local area occur

on a seasonal or migratory basis, and may be absent from the locality for much for the year.

Fauna behaviours may also affect detectability, with easily disturbed or cryptic species

sometimes difficult to detect during surveys. The methodologies in Section 6.5, below include

measures that take this into consideration, and an assessment of the species’ likely

occurrence will be made on the basis of the habitat present and the extent of previous

surveys. If tree hollows suitable for use by threatened microbats are encountered, but

microbats are not active at the time of the survey, it will be assumed that the threatened

microbat occurs. Measures to mitigate impacts on individuals of threatened species that may

occur within the TSE Works during vegetation clearing have been included in Section 6.6.

6.4.4 Reporting

Pre-clearing Survey Reports for each of the TSE Worksites, where a survey is required are

being progressively prepared following the completion of site survey work.

A Pre-clearing and Grubbing Checklist (SMCSWTSE-JCG-TPW-EM-FRM-004004) will be

completed and signed immediately prior to clearing works being undertaken (see Section

6.6). Completed checklists will be saved in JHCPBG’s Oris system.

A post-clearance survey report, including any relevant Geographical Information System

(GIS) files, will be produced for worksites where vegetation has been removed. This survey

report will validate the type and area of vegetation cleared, including confirmation of the

number of hollows impacted and the corresponding nest box requirements to offset these

impacts.


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6.5 Survey methodology

6.5.1 Weed identification

Weed management is a requirement, and as such each site will be surveyed to record the

type and location of weed species and infestations to inform weed management (refer to

Section 6.8).

6.5.2 Threatened fauna

Surveys for threatened fauna will be performed, with techniques including:

• Diurnal ‘hand searches’ of ground habitats

• Searches for dens and nests

• Search for scats

• Spotlighting for nocturnal fauna

• Stag-watching

• Use of ultra-sonic call recording for microchiropteran bats.

In the event that a threatened species not previously identified and considered in EIS is

encountered, the distribution and habitat utilisation of the species will be investigated to

identify appropriate impact avoidance or mitigation measures. Measures will be taken to

ensure that the TSE Works will not significantly impact on the species while impact mitigation

measures are investigated. Any threatened species finds and management will be reported

to DP&E as part of the Construction Compliance Reports required by Project Planning

Approval Condition A34.

6.5.3 Habitat feature identification

A suitably qualified ecologist from AMBS will identify features that could provide potential

resources for fauna. This will include assessments of ground cover and identification of

hollow-bearing trees, and potential bat roosts (at Marrickville). Assessments of ground cover

will identify features that should be searched and/or cleared carefully during vegetation

clearance (cracks and crevices, bush rock, rubble, logs, etc.). Assessments of vegetation will

identify and mark hollow-bearing trees and trees or shrubs containing nests. The ecologist

will watch nests and hollows for evidence of current activity.

6.6 Vegetation clearing protocol

Vegetation clearing protocols are summarised in the Tree Clearing and Grubbing Procedure

(SMCSWTSE-JCG-TPW-EM-MPR-003006). A number of ‘hold points’ are associated with

vegetation clearing, as follows:

• Prior to the clearing of any vegetation, a Pre-clearing and Grubbing Checklist

(SMCSWTSE-JCG-TPW-EM-FRM-004004) must be completed and signed off by the

Environment Team and Construction Team. Completed checklists will be saved in

JHCPBG’s Project Pack Web system.

• No removal of trees can be undertaken without the approval of the Project Environment

Manager (or delegate).


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• An approved Erosion and Sediment Control Plan must also be implemented prior to

vegetation removal at a construction site (refer to Construction Soil, Water and

Groundwater Management Plan (SMCSWTSE-JCG-TPW-EM-PLN-002014)).

The boundaries of areas for clearing will be identified and clearly marked by JHCPBG prior to

clearing, using tape, flagging tape and/or spray paint. Areas of adjacent vegetation and

habitat areas that will not be cleared will be fenced to prevent accidental clearing. A

representative from the JHCPBG Environment Team will conduct an inspection of the area to

be cleared prior to clearing being undertaken, as part of the process of completing a Pre-

clearing and Grubbing Checklist (SMCSWTSE-JCG-TPW-EM-FRM-004004).

Where hollow-bearing trees or other habitat features were identified during the pre-clearing

survey (see Section 6.4), an ecologist from AMBS will be present during vegetation clearing

in order to search for threatened fauna in tree hollows and other habitat features as the

vegetation is removed, and tend to any animals that are displaced or injured at the time of

the clearance.

The vegetation clearing will be undertaken as follows:

1. Following completion and sign off of a Pre-clearing and Grubbing Checklist

(SMCSWTSE-JCG-TPW-EM-FRM-004004) in Project Pack Web, all non-marked trees

and features will be removed first. Groundcover habitat features that are not too large to

be moved will be removed and searched. All remaining marked habitat trees will be

knocked (gently tapped with construction equipment) at the end of each day of clearing

and groundcover features such as logs will be gently rolled and searched for the

presence of animals at the same time.

2. At least 48 hours after the clearance of non-marked vegetation, each habitat tree will be

carefully removed in the presence of a suitably qualified ecologist and thoroughly

searched for the presence of animals:

- Marked trees will be shaken prior to felling using a bulldozer or similar equipment and

then left for a short period to allow any fauna using the hollows to be observed.

- Hollow-bearing trees will be slowly pushed over or cut into sections and removed, with

care taken to avoid damage to hollows.

- A suitably qualified ecologist will instruct the equipment operators regarding how and

which side to fell the trees so that hollows can be quickly checked. In some

circumstances sections of a tree containing a hollow or habitat may be individually

removed prior to felling. For example, a hollow branch could be individually removed

and placed gently on the ground for checking by fauna rescue personnel, prior to felling

the tree.

3. Habitat features to be used for habitat enhancement or in rehabilitation works will be

relocated to adjacent habitat (subject to landowner consent).

Fauna found during the clearance searches will be either left to move into adjacent habitat on

their own accord or captured and released into adjacent suitable habitat, at a time suitable

for the subject species. Diurnal fauna will be either left to move on their own accord or

captured and released as soon as practical in an adjacent location that will not be impacted

by the vegetation clearance. Nocturnal fauna will be captured and held in captivity under

suitable conditions and released at dusk. If injured fauna are identified, the animal(s) will be


PART A - OVERVIEW


immediately taken to the nearest veterinarian, WIRES representative or Sydney Wildlife for

treatment.

Suitable hollows will be removed with a chainsaw, capped and re-erected in habitat

enhancement areas or stored for use in rehabilitation works. Other habitat structures (logs,

rocks, stumps and stags) suitable for relocation will be cut into sections relocated to suitable

habitat areas or stored for use in rehabilitation works.

JHCPBG will target a 100% reuse of all vegetative waste material (excluding weeds) (e.g. for

erosion and sediment control). As such, mulch that is not immediately reused for erosion and

sediment control will be transferred to a recycling facility for reuse.

6.7 Nest boxes

If habitat trees are identified during pre-clearing surveys, JHCPBG, in consultation with

AMBS, will determine if it is practicable to install nest boxes in adjacent vegetation.

Consultation with the land owner will be undertaken to identify suitable trees to install the

nest boxes in. Where nest boxes are installed, an offset ration of 1:1 would be applied,

where feasible (i.e. one nest box for every hollow identified during the pre-clearing surveys).

It is noted that the surrounding environment is heavily urbanised and therefore it is unlikely

that nest boxes can be installed.

6.8 Weed management

As part of the scope of Pre-clearing Surveys (Section 6.3), each site will be surveyed to

record the type and location of weed species and infestations. Weeds encountered will be

managed as necessary to control their spread.

Weed management is to be completed prior to vegetation removal where practicable and

subject to the Site Access Schedule. Ongoing weeding will occur throughout the construction

phase, where required. Cleared weed material will be disposed of at a site licensed to

receive green waste.

To control the potential spread of weeds, the following procedures will be followed:

• This protocol is reflected in the Weed Management Procedure (SMCSWTSE-JCG-TPW-

EM-PLN-003010).

• All plant and machinery will be inspected prior to coming to site (Plant Inspection

Checklist: SMCSWTSE-JCG-TPW-HS-FRM-004102), which includes a check to ensure

that all machinery has been cleaned.

Any use of herbicides will be strictly in accordance with the Pesticides Act 1999, product

label, and the Project WHS Management Plan (SMCSWTSE-JCG-TPW-EM-PLN-002050). In

addition, where approved herbicides are required to be used to control weed species near

water, i.e. creeks, drainage depressions, and stormwater drains, extra care is to be taken to

limit overspray. All herbicides will only be used during suitable meteorological conditions.

Herbicides are not to be used without the prior approval of the Project Environment Manager.

If a non-glyphosate herbicide is to be used, approval from the WHS Manager and Approvals,

Environment and Sustainability Manager are required. This ‘hold point’ is clearly stated in the

Weed Management Procedure (SMCSWTSE-JCG-TPW-EM-PLN-003010).


PART A - OVERVIEW


6.9 Fauna management during construction

6.9.1 Management of sensitive fauna species

The EIS indicates that threatened bat species and that occur, or have the potential to occur,

in the Study Area may be impacted by noise and lighting related to the TSE Works to some

degree; however, there is already existing disturbance at most of the worksites due to their

urban settings.

To reduce disturbance to bats and nocturnal birds (and other sensitive fauna), where

reasonable and feasible, the following measures will be undertaken:

• Artificial lighting i.e. mobile lighting, fixed lighting installed on buildings/ structures will be

directed to where it is needed and in a downwards orientation to avoid light spillage

• Artificial light will be positioned to face away from areas of native vegetation

• The brightness of lights will be reduced to as low as legally possible, and in conformance

with workplace health and safety standards

• Amplified speakers i.e. PA and emergency system would be directed downwards and

away from areas of native vegetation.

Relevant measures will be identified in accordance with the Visual Amenity Management

Plan (SMCSWTSE-JCG-TPW-EM-PLN-002020) and included in the Site Environment Plans

(SEPs).

Note: as part of the Demolition Contract for both the Waterloo and Marrickville worksites,

fauna surveys were undertaken for bats prior to demolition works commencing. These survey

works were undertaken by Biosis.

6.9.2 Pest control

Where it is determined that pest control is required, a suitably experienced and qualified

subcontractor will be engaged to undertake this work. Where pest control has been

undertaken, a record will be made and maintained on the JHCPBG system.

6.9.3 Wildlife relocation and rescue

Relocation of fauna will be in accordance with the Fauna Handling Procedure (SMCSWTSE-

JCG-TPW-EM-PLN-003007) and any recommendations set out in the Pre-Clearing Surveys

(Section 6.3). If injured fauna are identified onsite during the TSE Works, the animal(s) will

be immediately taken to the nearest veterinarian, WIRES representative or Sydney Wildlife

for treatment.

The relocation of poisonous snakes, if required, is hazardous and will be carried out by an

experienced and appropriately licenced fauna handler. Likewise, handling of bats is also a

work health and safety issue (due to the Lyssavirus and Hendra virus being detected in bats

in Australia) and will be carried out by an experienced and appropriately qualified handler.

6.10 Protocol for any unexpected threatened species identified during construction

As noted in Sections 6.4 and 6.5.2, the location of any threatened flora or fauna or an

Endangered Ecological Community that has not been previously identified, will be recorded

during the Pre-clearing surveys and/or the ecological monitoring. AMBS will undertake an

assessment of potential impacts and identify any required mitigation measures for


PART A - OVERVIEW


implementation in consultation with the Department of Planning and Environment and the

Office of Environment and Heritage.

6.11 Design changes

Any design changes which have direct impacts on land outside of the footprint that has not

been the subject of previous assessment, will be assessed in accordance with the protocols

set out in the Construction Environmental Management Plan (SMCSWTSE-JCG-TPW-EM-

PLN-002010) and required additional mitigation measures will be identified, integrated into

the Site Environment Plans (SEPs) and implemented.


PART B – SYSTEMS AND TOOLS


Part B – Systems and tools

Part B of this Plan explains how the flora and fauna impacts of the TSE Works will be

minimised. All relevant mitigation measures from the Project Planning Approval Conditions,

and Revised Environmental Mitigation Measures identified in Section 11.2 of the PIR, are

addressed in this section of the Plan. Compliance with all elements of these systems and

tools is required at all times to minimise the likelihood of causing unauthorised environmental

harm and maximise the uptake of opportunities to reduce environmental impact.

Part B contains the following:

• Environmental Elements and Expectations: These describe what is required of the

TSE Works in order to implement the objectives of JHCPBG’s Environment and

Sustainability Policy Statement:

- Element – Key aspects for managing this function in delivering the TSE Works

- Intent – A one-line statement describing the overall purpose of the Element

- Expectation – The outcomes achieved as part of each Element.

• Requirements: These are the specific actions performed in order to demonstrate

compliance with the Elements and Expectations.

• Responsibility and Key Contributor: This information is included to ensure absolute

clarity as to those people responsible for achieving compliance with the stated

Expectation, as well as those that will need to assist/contribute to achieving compliance.

• Deliverables: This column of the table lists the tangible outcomes to be produced in

order to demonstrate compliance with the environmental Elements and Expectations




Element 1 – Training

All staff, employees and subcontractors will actively drive continuous improvement in the environmental performance of the TSE Works

Expectations How will JHCPBG meet the Expectation? Responsible Key Contributor

Deliverables

1.1 All personnel have completed an induction containing relevant environmental information before they are authorised to work on the Project

Induction presentation will include:

• Tree clearing procedure

• Management of retained vegetation

• Weed management

• Fauna handling procedure

• Management of unexpected threatened species identification

Human Capital Manager



Induction presentation

1.2 Toolbox talks are used to reinforce key management requirements and lessons learnt

• Toolbox talks will be held regularly during site establishment and investigations. They will reinforce and reiterate information from inductions.

• Toolboxing will be undertaken on the TSE Works flora and fauna management procedures


Site Supervisor


Toolbox records





All staff, employees and subcontractors will actively drive complaint environmental performance of the TSE Works


Deliverables

2.1 Worksites are regularly inspected to ensure the adequacy of controls

JHCPBG will regularly review the TSE Works to ensure compliance with this Plan. Routine weekly inspections will be conducted to monitor flora and fauna management, and will be documented in JHCPBG’s electronic system.


Superintendents

Site Supervisors

Soil Conservationist

Environment Inspection Reports

Site Diary entries

2.2 Flora and fauna monitoring

JHCPBG will monitor trends in environmental data including weed management and fauna relocation/rescue.

Approvals, Environment & Sustainability Manager


Audit checklist

2.3 Hold Point release prior to clearing

Prior to the clearing of any vegetation, a Pre-clearing and Grubbing Checklist (SMCSWTSE-JCG-TPW-EM-FRM-004004) must be completed and signed off by the Environment Team and Construction Team. Completed checklists will be saved in JHCPBG’s Project Pack Web system.

Senior Environment Coordinators

Pre-clearing and Grubbing Checklist





We will continually improve our environmental systems and environmental performance by monitoring and reviewing their effectiveness


Deliverables

3.1 Audits are undertaken to ensure compliance with the requirements of this Plan

Procedures for corrective actions are addressed in the Construction Environmental Management Plan (SMCSWTSE-JCG-TPW-EM-PLN-002010).

Audits will be performed in accordance with the CEMP and we will update this Plan and/or associated documents or procedures if required


Environment Co-ordinators


Audit Reports

Corrective Action Reports

3.2 All non-compliances are reported and actioned

A flora and fauna non-compliance can generally be defined as a failure to comply with the Project Planning Approval.

Where a non-conformance is raised as part of an audit or an incident or complaint investigation the audit, incident or complaint report may be used to close out the non-conformance and it is not necessary to raise a separate non-conformance reporting process.

Corrective and Preventative Actions may also be raised in accordance with the Construction Environmental Management Plan (SMCSWTSE-JCG-TPW-EM-PLN-002010).


Project Sustainability Manager


Environment Co-ordinators

Audit Reports

Corrective Action Reports




Element 4 – Project specific requirements

Construction Environmental Management Framework

No. Requirement How will JHCPBG meet the Expectation?

Responsible Key Contributor

Timing

11.1a The following flora and fauna management objectives will apply to construction:

i. Minimise impacts on flora and fauna; Section 6.0 Project Environment Manager


During construction

ii. Design waterway modifications and crossings to incorporate best practice principles;

Section 6.1 Design Manager


Pre-construction

iii. Retain and enhance existing flora and fauna habitat wherever possible; and

Section 6.2 Project Environment Manager


Pre-construction and construction

iv. Appropriately manage the spread of weeds and plant pathogens.



During construction






Timing

11.2b Principal Contractors would undertake the following ecological monitoring as a minimum:

i. A pre-clearing inspection will be undertaken prior to any native vegetation clearing by a suitable qualified ecologist and the Contractor’s Environmental Manager (or delegate). The pre-clearing inspection will include, as a minimum:

• Identification of hollow bearing trees or other habitat features;

• Identification of any threatened flora and fauna;

• A check on the physical demarcation of the limit of clearing;

• An approved erosion and sediment control plan for the worksite; and

• The completion of any other pre-clearing requirements required by any project approvals, permits or licences.

Section 6.4 AMBS



Pre-construction

ii. The completion of the pre-clearing inspection will form a HOLD POINT requiring sign-off from the Contractor’s Environmental Manager (or delegate) and a qualified ecologist; and

Section 6.4 Environment Coordinator

Site Supervisor

Pre-construction






Timing

iii. A post clearance report, including any relevant Geographical Information System files, will be produced that validates the type and area of vegetation cleared including confirmation of the number of hollows impacted and the corresponding nest box requirements to offset these impacts.

Section 6.4.4 AMBS



During construction

11.2c The Principal Contractor’s regular inspections will include a check on the ecological mitigation measures and project boundary fencing.





During construction

11.2d The following compliance records would be kept by the Principal Contractor:

i. Records of pre-clearing inspections undertaken;

ii. Records of the release of the pre-clearing hold point; and

iii. Records of ecological inspections undertaken.

Section 6.4 and 6.6





11.3a Examples of flora and fauna mitigation measures include:

i. Areas to be retained and adjacent habitat areas will be fenced off prior to works to prevent damage or accidental over clearing;

Section 6.4 and 6.6 Project Environment Manager








Timing

ii. Clearing will follow a two-stage process as follows:

• Non-habitat trees will be cleared first after sign-off of the pre-clearing inspection; and

• Habitat trees will be cleared no sooner than 48 hours after non-habitat trees have been cleared. A suitably qualified ecologist will be present on site during the clearing of habitat trees. Felled habitat trees will be left on the ground for 24 hours or inspected by the ecologist prior to further processing.

Section 6.4 and 6.6 Project Environment Manager

AMBS


During construction

iii. Weed management is to be undertaken in areas affected by construction prior to any clearing works in accordance with the Noxious Weeds Act 1993.


It is noted that the Noxious Weeds Act 1993 has been repealed by the Biosecurity Act 2015 (as listed in Section 2.1).



During construction

Project Planning Approval



Timing

E6 The CSSI must be designed to retain as many trees as possible and provide replacement trees such that there a net increase in the number of trees. The Proponent must commission an independent, experienced and

See Section 6.2 TfNSW Pre-construction






Timing

suitably qualified arborist to prepare a comprehensive Tree Report before removing any trees as detailed in the EIS, as amended by the documents listed in A1. The Tree Report must include:

(d) a description of the conditions of the tree(s) and its amenity and visual value;

(e) consideration of all options to avoid tree removal, including relocation of services, redesign or relocation of ancillary components (such as substations, fencing etc.) and reduction of standard offsets to underground services; and

(f) measures to avoid tree removal, minimise damage to, and ensure the health and stability of those trees to be retained and protected. This includes details of any proposed canopy or root pruning, root protection zone, excavation, site controls on waste disposal, vehicular access, materials storage and protection of public utilities.

In the event that tree removal cannot be avoided, then replacement trees are to be planted within, or in close proximity to the CSSI or other location in consultation with the Relevant Councils and agreed by the Secretary. The size of the replacement trees will determined in consultation with the relevant Council. A copy of the Tree Report must be submitted to the Secretary before the removal, damage and/or pruning of any trees, including those affected by the site establishment works. All recommendations of the Tree Report must be implemented by the Proponent, unless otherwise agreed by the Secretary.






Timing

The Tree Report may be prepared for the entire CSSI or separate reports may be prepared for individual areas where tree removal and/or pruning is proposed.

E7 The large fig tree at the eastern end of Blues Point Reserve (approximate coordinates latitude: 33.848764 and longitude: 151.204568) must be retained. Any proposal to prune either the canopy or roots of the tree must be submitted to the Secretary for approval and accompanied by an assessment of the potential impact to its long term viability by a suitably qualified arborist, consistent with Condition E6.


There will be no impacts to the fig tree at Blues Point referenced in Condition E7 as a result of the TSE Works.




Revised Environmental Management Measures and Environmental Performance Outcomes



Timing

B1 An ecologist would be present during the removal of any hollow-bearing trees.

Section 6.4 and 6.6 AMBS


During construction

B2 Potential bat roosting locations at Central Station, Waterloo Station and Marrickville dive sites would be checked by a qualified ecologist or wildlife handler prior to demolition. Any bats found would be relocated, unless in torpor, in which case the relocation would be delayed until the end of the torpor period.

Section 6.5 notes that pre-clearing surveys will include searches for bat roosts.

This REMM applies only to the Marrickville


AMBS







Timing

Worksite for the TSE Works, as works at Central Station are outside the scope of the TSE Works, and demolition work at the Waterloo Worksite falls under the Demolition Contract scope. Demolition carried out under the Demolition Contract is addressed in separate Management Plans prepared by the demolition contractors and approved by DP&E.

B3 The local WIRES group and / or veterinarian would be contacted if any fauna are injured on site or require capture and / or relocation.



During construction

B4 Procedures would be developed and implemented, in accordance with the National System for the Prevention and Management of Marine Pest Incursions, during Sydney Harbour ground improvement works to avoid transportation of marine pests from other locations, particularly the marine alga Caulerpa taxifoli.

Not anticipated that any ground improvement works would be undertaken as part of the TSE Works

N/A N/A






Timing

Table 11.2 of Section 11.3 of the PIR

Biodiversity

The project design considers all feasible measures to avoid and minimise impacts on terrestrial and aquatic biodiversity.

Offsets and/or supplementary measures are assured which are equivalent to any remaining impacts of project construction and operation.

The biodiversity outcome would be consistent with the Framework for Biodiversity Assessment

The project would minimise impacts to biodiversity.

Section 1.4 lists the TSE Works objectives relating to management of flora and fauna, which are centred around minimising overall impacts on biodiversity, to the greatest extent practicable.

Section 6.0 describes flora and fauna management strategies and measures that will be adopted during the TSE Works to achieve these objectives.



Construction Managers

Design and construction


APPENDICES


Appendix A – Agency comments




Document Reviewed Construction Fauna and Flora Management plan

Organisation City of Sydney

Date 1 August 2017

No Comment JHCPBG Response

1. Tree Management

The City requests that the Tree Report(s) be shared, and any

later amendments, with effected councils in order to notify us of

proposed tree removals, and to help us plan and manage trees

that may be affected. (Note - They must prepare a tree report

and submit it to the Secretary NSW Planning, but there is no

formal approval of the report, and the conditions state they must

implement all recommendations of the tree report).

The Tree Assessment Report is a staged report, with each stage

being endorsed by the independent Environmental

Representative as fulfilling the requirements of Planning Approval

Condition E6.

Once endorsed, the Sydney Metro Website is updated with the

latest revision.

2. Tree Management

The City recommends that an AQF Level 5 arborist with

demonstrated experience managing complex projects prepare

the Tree Report and perform the required site supervision works.

An experienced arborist performs the survey and prepares the

arboriculture aspects of the Tree Report. An experienced arborist

shall participate in supervision of the works when required under

JHCPBG’s procedures.

3. Tree Management

The City recommends TfNSW / John Holland CPB Contractors

Ghella (JHCPBG) notifies the community prior to any tree

Placement of signs on the trees on surrounding construction

fencing is not proposed. It is JHCPBG’s experience that these

signs at times can be tampered with and cause confusion over

which trees are to be removed.





removal, through signs placed on the trees on surrounding

construction fencing.

It is JHCPBG’s practice to include details of tree removal works

in community notifications, which will go to residences and

businesses within 100 metres of the worksites.

4. Tree Management

The City requests for consideration be given to the City of

Sydney supplying, planting and maintaining any replacement

trees to be planted within our LGA.

As part of Station Design and Precinct Plans (SDPP) prepared

prior to commencement of permanent built surface works

according to condition E101 of the Planning Approval, Sydney

City Council will be consulted to identify suitable replacement

tree landscaping aspects.

5. Flora and Fauna

The City requests for consideration be given to utilising hardwood

nest boxes due to their longevity and structural integrity

compared to plywood nest boxes

If nest boxes are installed they will be constructed out of

hardwood, as requested by City of Sydney Council.

6. Flora and Fauna

The City awaits the next revision to assess the marine works

component

No marine works are proposed in areas controlled by the City of

Sydney. The existing wharf at Barangaroo is on land controlled

by the Barangaroo Development Authority and the wharf

construction works at Blues Point are in areas controlled by North

Sydney Council and Roads and Maritime Services.

7. Flora and Fauna

The City requests for consideration that any vegetation required

to be removed, with the exception of trees, is mitigated through

replacement. The replacement should consider species that

maximise urban ecology objectives and promote biodiversity and

habitat through the inclusion of complex vegetation structures

There is no requirement to track non-tree species in the process

for vegetation removal under the Infrastructure Approval.

Refer to response for item 4, relevant councils shall be consulted

in landscaping designs within the SDPPs.





and diverse species composition. Ongoing maintenance and low

water usage are considered in the selection of plant species.

8. Flora and Fauna

The City requests that any fauna required to be relocated or

encountered during works, such as vegetation or habitat feature

clearance, be compiled and shared with the City

TfNSW will be provided with records of fauna relocation and

removal of habitat features such as hollows and this information

can also be shared at meetings with Council.

9. Flora and Fauna

The City requests that large stone/rock should also be

considered as habitat features, alongside tree hollows and logs,

and assessed accordingly.

There are no large stone/rock within the worksites within City of

Sydney Local Government Area.




Document Reviewed Construction Flora and Fauna Management Plan

Organisation Inner West Council

Date 17/08/17


1. Part A: 2.1 Legislation – should make mention of the

NSW Biosecuirty Act 2015 which came into effect

from 1 July 2017 and replaces the Noxious Weeds

Act 1993

Part A, Section 2.1 amended to include the Biosecurity Act 2015 and state

that the Noxious Weeds Act 1993 has been repealed.

2. Part A: 6.0 Flora and fauna management – the

process proposed for the pre-clearing surveys in

Section 6.5 to be undertaken by AMBS Ecology is

supported; can Council have access to the Pre-

clearing Survey Report for the TSE Worksite in

Marrickville?

TfNSW have prepared the Tree Assessment Report and will fulfil the

requirements of Planning Condition E6.

TfNSW will consult with the Inner West Council on tree removal.

JHCPBG will provide Inner West Council with a copy of the Pre-Clearing

Survey Report for Marrickville when finalised.

3. Part A: 6.6 Survey methodology – sound

methodology; suggest adding ‘scats’ to the list of

survey techniques to help inform presence of all

fauna including pests such as foxes;

Section 6.6.2 has been updated to include ‘scats’ as a survey technique.

Section 6.7 updated to include ‘Sydney Wildlife’ as another contact.





page 31 suggest also having Sydney Wildlife listed as

another contact (it is the sister organisation to

WIRES)

4. Part A: 6.8 Nest boxes – if nest boxes are deemed

practicable and the adjacent vegetation is on land

owned/managed by Inner West Council, they need to

be consulted in this final determination

Section 6.8 amended as follows:

If habitat trees are identified during pre-clearing surveys, JHCPBG, in

consultation with AMBS, will determine if it is practicable to install nest boxes

in adjacent vegetation. Consultation with the land owner will be undertaken

to identify suitable trees to install the nest boxes in. Where nest boxes are

installed, an offset ration of 1:1 would be applied, where feasible (i.e. one

nest box for every hollow identified during the pre-clearing surveys). It is

noted that the surrounding environment is heavily urbanised and therefore it

is unlikely that nest boxes can be installed.

5. Part A: 6.9 Weed and management – Should this be

“weed and pest management”?;

Must consider whether weeds are providing important

habitat and not remove if avoidable

Section 6.9 amended to say ‘Weed management’.

Only vegetation that is required to be removed to make way for the TSE

Works, including weeds, will be cleared.

6. Part A: 6.10.2 Pest control – who will determine if

pest control is required, AMBS?

If Inner West Council is the adjacent

landowner/manager then we would like to know what

pest control is carried out if any

Where JHCPBG identify a pest problem on our worksites we will engage a

suitably experienced and qualified subcontractor to provide advice and

undertake the pest control.

Council will be notified where required

http://www.sydneywildlife.org.au/





7. Part A: 6.10.3 Wildlife relocation and rescue – again,

consider adding Sydney Wildlife as another rescue

service contact in the in case WIRES cannot help eg

are overloaded

Fauna Handling Procedure (SMCSWTSE-JCG-TPW-EM-PLN-003007) has

been amended to include Sydney Wildlife.

http://www.sydneywildlife.org.au/





Organisation North Sydney Council

Date 31/07/2017


1. Considering the developed nature of the sites within NSC and

the protocols they have put in place with AMBS I have no

specific comments or concerns in regard to the Flora & Fauna

Report. Council requests that input from Council's Tree

Management Team or Landscape Planners be sought in relation

to impacts on street trees at all construction sites.

TfNSW have prepared the Tree Assessment Report and will fulfil

the requirements of Planning Condition E6.





Organisation Willoughby City Council

Date 16/08/2017


1. Willoughby Council endorses the objectives expressed in s1.4 Noted

2. Council welcomes the engagement of specialist to advise on the

implementation of this Plan.

Noted

3. While acknowledging the low flora and fauna habitat value,

Council supports the establishment of pre-clearance surveys

(s6.5.1); and the adoption of a vegetation clearing protocol; and

the fauna management protocol (s6.10.1)

Noted

leaders in environmental consulting - jhcpbg€¦ · framework as required by condition e81....

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