Review of environmental factors - Roads and Maritime Services · Minor Works Review Of...

M5 EAST – VMS UPGRADE PROJECT

Review of environmental factors Amendment - Version 2.0

FEBRUARY 2016

1 Introduction The purpose of the Minor Works REF is to describe the proposal, to document the likely impacts of the proposal on the environment, to detail mitigation measures to be implemented and to determine whether the project can proceed. For the purposes of these works Roads and Maritime Services is the proponent and determining authority under Part 5 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act).

The description of the proposed works and associated environmental impacts have been undertaken in the context of clause 228 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2000, the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 (TSC Act), the Fisheries Management Act 1994 (FM Act) and the Australian Government’s Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act). In doing so the REF helps to fulfil the requirements of section 111 of the EP&A Act, that Roads and Maritime Services examine and take into account to the fullest extent possible all matters affecting or likely to affect the environment by reason of the activity.

The findings of the REF would be considered when assessing:

Whether the proposal is likely to have a significant impact on the environment and therefore the necessity for an environmental impact statement to be prepared and approval to be sought from the Minister for Planning and Infrastructure under Part 5.1 of the EP&A Act.

The significance of any impact on threatened species as defined by the TSC Act and/or FM Act, in section 5A of the EP&A Act and therefore the requirement for a Species Impact Statement.

The potential for the proposal to significantly impact a matter of national environmental significance or Commonwealth land and the need to make a referral to the Australian Government Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities for a decision by the Commonwealth Minister for the Environment on whether assessment and approval is required under the EPBC Act.

M5 East – VMS Upgrade Project

Minor Works Review Of Environmental Factors

2 The proposal

2.1 Description

Title: M5 East Variable Message Sign Upgrade Project

File number: SF2014/036405

Road name and number: 6005 M5 East Motorway

Closest cross road(s): Between King Georges Rd and General Holmes Drive

Chainage of works: The Chainages and Locations of each VMS are listed in the Appendix.

Local government area: Canterbury City Council and Rockdale City Council

Roads and Maritime Services region: Motorway Management Branch

Description of works: Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) propose to replace the fifteen existing Variable Message Signs (VMS) that service the M5 East Motorway with new VMS including new mast arms and footings. The locations of the VMS are:

eight on the M5 East main carriageway

one on General Holmes Drive

two on Kingsgrove Road

two on Marsh Street

one on West Botany Street

Figure 1 VMS locations west of Bexley Road tunnel portal.

Figure 2 VMS locations east of West Botany Street.



The proposed works will include:

Geotechnical investigation where the footings for each existing VMS and potential new VMS mast arms will be located. This will be limited one bore hole per site by a drill rig.

3D Utility investigation for all the proposed locations where the VMS is to be installed. This will be limited to potholing and trenching (non destructive digging with a vacuum truck), if required, and electronic detection.

Geotech and Utility Survey is required for nine VMS only. The surveys undertaken during maintenance closures are for VMS 301, VMS 304, VMS 414 and VMS 006. The surveys undertaken during the day or at night under a lane closure will be VMS M5SW, VMS002, VMS003, VMS007, VMS008 and VMS 213.

Installation of new Type C VMS and footings. The new VMS will be installed adjacent to the existing VMS. The proposed VMS height will be the same as the existing Type C VMS. New footings and mast arms are required because the new VMS have a bigger face and are heavier than the current VMS.

VMS 304 is to be relocated to the median on the Western side of Kingsgrove Rd. This is due to the addition of a VMS as part of the Over Height Detection Upgrade Project.

Installation of various electrical components including controllers, loops and communications. This will be limited to connecting the upgraded VMS to existing infrastructure involving trenching.

Removal of existing Type B and Type C VMS and mast arms when new VMS are online.

Testing and commissioning of the VMS.

The proposed works on the M5 East carriageway would be carried out during M5 East maintenance closures, which occur between 22:00 and 04:30 on Sunday to Wednesday nights (see the Appendix for maintenance closure schedule). The work is undertaken at night to minimise the interruption to traffic and to maintain traffic flow during the day. The work on General Holmes Drive, Kingsgrove Rd, Marsh St, West Botany St and M5 South West will be done during standard working hours Standard working hours, Monday-Friday: 7:00am to 6.00pm and Saturday: 8.00am to 1.00pm.

The following equipment and plant would be used to carry out the proposed works:

▪ Excavator ▪ Drill Rig ▪ Crane ▪ Elevated Work Platform ▪ Light tower ▪ Sucker Truck ▪ Water Cart ▪ Chain saw

Objectives of works:

The main objectives of this project are listed below

1. Upgrade the existing VMS in line with RMS Specification TSI-SP-008 "Variable Message Signs" version 3.0 to:

▪ Improve asset performance to minimise the impact due to ageing ▪ Achieve an enhanced whole-of-life asset cost.

2. Enable the introduction of Travel Time in order to:



▪ Provide accurate and timely information to motorists to ensure they can make the best travel decisions

▪ Improve dissemination of traffic information to the public ▪ Provide appropriate traffic and transport information to enhance road network

efficiency ▪ Improve the efficiency of the road network

Ancillary facilities:

Will the proposed works require the use or installation of a compound site?

Yes No

Will the proposed works require the use or installation of a stockpile site?

Yes No

Are any other ancillary facilities required (eg temporary plants, parking areas, access tracks)?

Yes No

Proposed date of commencement:

The estimated commencement date for the proposed works is October 2014.

Estimated length of construction period:

The proposed construction works is expected to be completed by end of June 2015. The work on the Motorway will be undertaken during the four night monthly Motorway closures. All other work outside the Motorway boundary is not restricted to these closures.

2.2 Need and options

Options considered:

The options considered for the proposed works include:

1. Upgrade all VMS to current standards and enable the introduction of Travel Time at identified VMS locations.

2. Upgrade only VMS identified as Travel Time critical.

3. Do nothing.

Justification for the proposed works:

The preferred option is Option 1. Options 2 and 3 do not satisfy the proposals objective in full and do not meet Transport for NSW requirements for Travel Time.

Reason for selecting Option 1 as preferred option:

The M5 East Variable Message Signs (VMS) are used to manage the traffic movements on the M5 East and immediate surrounding network by displaying advisory and warning messages to motorists. The M5 East Operator displays relevant messages on the 14 VMS to manage incidents and traffic movement, inform motorists to take alternative routes, limit travel speed, warn of duration and location of incidents, and inform motorists of traffic conditions.

The existing 15 VMS are Type B and C two line displays and were installed during the construction of the M5 East Motorway which was completed in 2001. The VMS on the Motorway have a design life of 10 years and require more frequent maintenance than expected for this asset type. Additionally new replacement parts for these VMS are no longer available.

Further to the aging and outdated VMS on the M5 East is the introduction of Travel Time across the Sydney Motorway network. On the M5 East, nine of the existing VMS have been identified as VMS to be utilised for Travel Time. Travel Time requires three line VMS.



2.3 Statutory and planning framework

State Environmental Planning Policy (Infrastructure) 2007 (ISEPP)

ISEPP aims to facilitate the effective delivery of infrastructure across the state, including for roads and road infrastructure facilities. Clause 94 of the ISEPP permits development on any land for the purpose of a road or road infrastructure facilities to be carried out by or on behalf of a public authority without consent.

As the proposed works are appropriately characterised as development for the purposes of a road or road infrastructure facilities, and is to be carried out by or on behalf of Roads and Maritime Services, it can be assessed under Part 5 of the EP&A Act. Development consent from council is not required.

The proposal is not located on land reserved under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 and does not affect land or development regulated by State Environmental Planning Policy No. 14 – Coastal Wetlands, State Environmental Planning Policy No. 26 – Littoral Rainforests or State Environmental Planning Policy (Major Projects) 2005.

Other relevant legislation and environmental planning instruments: Nil

2.4 Community and agency consultation

ISEPP consultation:

Part 2 of the ISEPP contains provisions for public authorities to consult with local councils and other public authorities prior to the commencement of certain types of development. This is detailed below:

Is consultation with council required under clauses 13-15 of the Infrastructure SEPP?

Are the works likely to have a substantial impact on the stormwater management services which are provided by council?

Yes No

Are the works likely to generate traffic to an extent that will strain the existing road system in a local government area?

Note: The proposed work would be carried out during the scheduled maintenance closures. The proposed work will not have any additional impact on the road network.

Yes No

Will the works involve connection to a council owned sewerage system? If so, will this connection have a substantial impact on the capacity of the system?

Yes No

Will the works involve connection to a council owned water supply system? If so, will this require the use of a substantial volume of water?

Yes No

Will the works involve the installation of a temporary structure on, or the enclosing of, a public place which is under local council management or control? If so, will this cause more than a minor or inconsequential disruption to pedestrian or vehicular flow?

Yes No

Will the works involve more than a minor or inconsequential excavation of a road or adjacent footpath for which council is the roads authority and responsible for maintenance?

Yes No

Are the works located on flood liable land? If so, will the works change flooding patterns to more than a minor extent?

Yes No

Is there a local heritage item (that is not also a state heritage item) or a heritage conservation area in the study area for the works? If yes, does a heritage assessment indicate that the potential impacts to the item/area are more than minor or inconsequential?

Yes No



Is consultation with other agencies required under clause 16 of the Infrastructure SEPP?

Are the works adjacent to a national park, nature reserve or other area reserved under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974?

Yes No

Are the works adjacent to a declared aquatic reserve under the Fisheries Management Act 1994?

Yes No

Are the works adjacent to a declared marine park under the Marine Parks Act 1997?

Yes No

Are the works in the Sydney Harbour Foreshore Area as defined by the Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority Act 1998?.

Yes No

Do the works involve the installation of a fixed or floating structure in or over navigable waters?

Yes No

Are the works for the purpose of residential development, an educational establishment, a health services facility, a correctional facility or group home in bush fire prone land?

Yes No

3 Environmental assessment This section provides a detailed description of the potential environmental impacts associated with the construction and operation of the proposal. All aspects of the environmental potentially impacted upon by the proposal are considered. This includes consideration of the factors specified in the guidelines Is an EIS required? (DUAP 1999) and Roads and Related Facilities (DUAP 1996). The factors specified in clause 228(2) of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2000 and the matters of national environmental significance under the Federal Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1995 are also considered in section 5. Site-specific safeguards are provided to ameliorate the identified potential impacts.

3.1 Soil

Description of existing environment and potential impacts:

Are there any known occurrences of salinity or acid sulphate soils in the area?

The Botany Bay Acid Sulphate Soil Risk Map (Department of Land and Water Conservation) reveals a likelihood of encountering either Potential or Actual Acid Sulfate Soil (Class 2 or 3) in the vicinity of work near Cooks River Tunnel. Measures to address the Acid Sulphate Soil if encountered are addressed In the safeguards below.

Yes No

Does the project involve the disturbance of large areas (eg >2ha) for earthworks?

Yes No

Does the site have constraints for erosion and sedimentation controls such as steep gradients or narrow corridors?

Yes No

Are there any sensitive receiving environments that are located in or nearby the likely project footprint or that would likely receive stormwater discharge from the project?

Sensitive receiving environments include (but are not limited to) wetlands, state forests, national parks, nature reserves, rainforests, drinking water catchments).

Yes No

Is there any evidence within or nearby the likely footprint of potential contamination?

Yes No



Is the likely project footprint in or nearby highly sloping landform? Yes No

Are the works likely to result in more than 2.5ha (area) of exposed soil? Yes No

Safeguards

Safeguards to be implemented are:

1. Potential or actual acid sulphate soils are to be managed in accordance with the RTA’s Guidance for the Management of Acid Sulphate Materials 2005.

Additionally the Eight Key Management Principles for Dealing with ASS Situations will be followed, listed below.

1. The disturbance of ASS should be avoided wherever possible.

2. Where disturbance of ASS is unavoidable, preferred management strategies are:

- Minimisation of disturbance

- Neutralisation

- Hydraulic separation of sulfides either on its own or in conjunction with dredging

- Strategic reburial (reinterment)

Other management measures may be considered but must not pose unacceptably high risks.

3. Works should only be performed when it has been demonstrated that the potential impacts of works involving ASS are manageable to ensure that the potential short and long term environmental impacts are minimised.

4. The material being disturbed (including in situ ASS) and any potentially contaminated waters associated with ASS disturbance, must be considered in developing a management plan for ASS and/or complying with general environmental due diligence.

5. Receiving marine, estuarine, fresh or brackish waters are not to be used as a primary means of diluting and/or neutralising ASS or associated contaminated waters.

6. Management of disturbed ASS is to occur if the ASS Action criteria (noted in Attachment 1 to ASM Procedure No. 2 of the guidelines) is exceeded or reached.

7. Stockpiling of untreated ASS above permanent ground water table with (or without) containment is not an acceptable long-term management strategy. For example, soils that are to be stockpiled, disposed of, used as fill, placed as a temporary or permanent cover on land or in waterways, sold or exported off the treatment site or used in earth bunds, that exceed the Action Criteria should be treated or managed (see Attachment 1 to ASM Procedure No. 4).

8. The following issues should be considered when formulating ASS management strategies:

- the sensitivity and environmental values of the receiving environment. This includes the conservation, protected or other relevant status of the receiving environment (e.g. Fish Habitat Area, Marine Park, or protected/threatened species)

- whether ground waters and/or surface waters are likely to be directly or indirectly affected

- the heterogeneity, geochemical and textural properties of soil on site

- the management and planning strategies of local government and/or state



http://home.rta.nsw.gov.au/org/tnsw/bsg/lfms/library/ebooks/99828.pdf

government, including Regional or Catchment Management Plans/Strategies and State and or Regional Coastal Policies/Plans ASSMAC 1998 describes a series of ASS mitigation and management strategies

3.2 Waterways and water quality


Are the works located within, adjacent to or near a waterway? Yes No

Is the location known to flood or be prone to water logging? Yes No

Are the proposed works located within or immediately adjacent to the area managed by Sydney Catchment Authority covered by State Environmental Planning Policy (Sydney Drinking Water Catchment) 2011?

Maps of the Sydney Water Drinking Water Catchment are available from:

http://www.legislation.nsw.gov.au/mapindex?type=epi&year=2011&no=2 8.

Yes No

Will the proposed works be undertaken on a bridge or ferry? Yes No

Are the works likely to require the extraction of water from a local water course (not mains)?

Yes No

Safeguards


1. The proposed works are not anticipated to cause any impact on existing waterways or water quality of the receiving environment.

3.3 Noise and vibration


Are there any residential properties or other noise sensitive areas near the location of the proposed works that may be affected by the works (i.e. church, school, hospital):

During construction? Yes No

During operation? Yes No

Are the proposed works going to be undertaken only during standard working hours?

Standard working hours

Monday-Friday: 7:00am to 6.00pm

Saturday: 8.00am to 1.00pm

Sunday and Public Holidays: no work

The proposed work would be carried out during M5 East maintenance closures, which occur between 22:00 and 04:30 on Sunday to Wednesday nights (see the Appendix for maintenance closure schedule). The work is undertaken at night to minimise the interruption

Yes No



http://www.legislation.nsw.gov.au/mapindex?type=epi&year=2011&no=28

http://www.legislation.nsw.gov.au/mapindex?type=epi&year=2011&no=28

to traffic and to maintain traffic flow during the day.

Work on General Holmes Drive, Kingsgrove Rd, Marsh St, West Botany St and M5 South West Motorway will be undertaken during night road closures. This is required because the Traffic Management Centre (TMC) advised Road Occupancy Licences (ROL) for works on network roads approaching the motorway will not be provided to the contractor during normal business hours. As such, all works under the contract will need to be performed at night.

Is any explosive blasting required for the proposed works? Yes No

Will operation of the works alter the noise environment for sensitive receivers? This might include, but not be limited to, altering the line or level of an existing carriageway, changing traffic flow, increasing traffic speeds by more than 10km/hr or installing audio-tactile line markings.

Yes No

Will the works result in vibration being experienced by any surrounding properties or infrastructure (during either construction or operation)?

Yes No

Safeguards


1. The proposed work would be carried out during M5 East maintenance closures, occurring between 22:00 and 04:30 on Sunday to Wednesday nights (see the Appendix for maintenance closure schedule). The work is undertaken at night to minimise the interruption to traffic and to maintain traffic flow during the day.

2. Noise impacts are to be minimised in accordance with Practice Note VII in the RTA’s Environmental Noise Management Manual and RTA’s Environmental Fact Sheet No. 2 – Noise Management and Night Works.

3.4 Air quality


Are the proposed works likely to result in large areas (>2ha) of exposed soils?

Yes No

Will there be any dust sensitive receivers located within the vicinity of the proposed works during the construction period?

Yes No

Is there likely to be an emission to air during construction? Yes No

Safeguards


1. The proposed works are not anticipated to cause any impacts on existing air quality.

3.5 Non-Aboriginal Heritage


Have online heritage database searches been completed?

The proposed work is a maintenance upgrade proposal on an existing Yes No



freeway and all works are within the disturbed zone. The searches undertaken are listed below:

RTA section 170 register NSW Heritage database Commonwealth EPBC heritage list Australian Heritage Places Inventory Local Environmental Plan(s) heritage items

Are there any items of non-Aboriginal heritage or heritage conservation areas located within the vicinity of the proposed works?

Yes No

Are there any items of potential non-Aboriginal heritage significance within the vicinity of the works?

Yes No

Are works likely to occur in or near features that indicate potential archaeological remains?

Yes No

Safeguards


1. If unexpected archaeological remains are uncovered during the works, all works must cease in the vicinity of the materials/find and the steps in the RTA Standard Management Procedure: Unexpected Archaeological Finds must be followed. Roads and Maritime Services Senior Regional Environmental Officer must be contacted immediately.

2. If any items defined as relics under the NSW Heritage Act 1977 are uncovered during the works, all works must cease in the vicinity of the find and the Roads and Maritime Services Regional Environmental Officer contacted immediately.

3.6 Aboriginal Heritage


Would the works involve disturbance in any area that has not been subject to previous ground disturbances?

Yes No

Have online AHIMS search been completed?

AHIMS search attached as an appendix. Yes No

Is there potential for the proposed works to impact on any items of Aboriginal heritage?

Yes No

Would the works involve the removal of mature native trees? Yes No

Would the works impact on any features that may indicate any potential archaeological remains?

Yes No

Are the works consistent with the requirements of the RTA Procedure for Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Consultation and Investigation?

The proposed work would not impact on the Aboriginal heritage..

Yes No

Safeguards




http://home.rta.nsw.gov.au/org/ceo/envb/managing/aboriginal_heritage.html

http://home.rta.nsw.gov.au/org/ceo/envb/managing/aboriginal_heritage.html

1. If potential Aboriginal heritage items are uncovered during the works, all works in the vicinity of the find must cease and the RMS Aboriginal cultural heritage advisor and the senior regional environmental officer contacted immediately. Steps in the RTA Standard Management Procedure: Unexpected Archaeological Finds must be followed.

3.7 Biodiversity


Have relevant database searches been carried out?

The proposed work will be carried out on the surface of the existing road carriageway on M5 East Freeway. The scope of the proposed work would not have any significant biodiversity impact on the surrounding road environment. The following searches were undertaken and attached as the appendices.

DECCW Wildlife Atlas Commonwealth EPBC Roads and Maritime Services Environmental Corridors database

Yes No

Did the database searches identify any endangered ecological communities, threatened flora and/or threatened or protected fauna within the vicinity of the proposed works?

Yes No

Will the proposed works require the removal of any other vegetation? Yes No

Will the proposed works affect any tree hollows or hollow logs? Yes No

Are there any known areas of critical habitat, SEPP 14 wetland area or SEPP 26 littoral rainforest area within the vicinity of the proposed works?

Yes No

Will the proposed works provide any additional barriers to the movement of wildlife?

Yes No

Will the proposed works disturb any natural waterways or aquatic habitat?

Yes No

Will the proposed works disturb any crevices or other locations (such as on bridges and culverts) for potential bat habitat?

Yes No

Will there be impact on any vegetation or land that is part of an offset or is protected under a condition of approval from a previous project?

Yes No

Safeguards


1. If unexpected threatened fauna or flora species are discovered, stop works immediately and follow the RTA Unexpected Threatened Species Find Procedure in the RTA Biodiversity Guideline 2011 – Guide 1 (Pre-cleaning process).

2. Vegetation that has been protected or planted as part of offset works provided as part of an approved project (e.g. in association with fauna crossings) is not to be removed.

3. Works are not to create an ongoing barrier to the movement of wildlife.



3.8 Trees


Do the proposed works involve pruning, trimming or removal of any tree/s?

One small tree will be removed on Kingsgrove Rd southbound. One tree will be removed on Kingsgrove Rd northbound. Two trees will be removed on West Botany Street and some tree

trimming of branches overhanging an M5 East noise wall. Five trees will be removed on the M5 East westbound

(see appendix A and B)

Yes No

Do the trees form part of a streetscape, an avenue or roadside planting? Yes No

Have the trees been planted by a community group, landcare group or by council or is the tree a memorial or part of a memorial group eg. has a plaque?

Yes No

Do the trees form part of a heritage listing or have other heritage value? Yes No

Safeguards


1. Trees will be marked for removal.

2. Only trees marked for removal will be removed.

3.9 Traffic and transport


Are the proposed works likely to result in detours or disruptions to traffic flow (vehicular, cycle and pedestrian) or access during construction?

The proposed work on General Holmes Drive, Kingsgrove Rd, Marsh St, and West Botany St will likely require lane closures. These roads are multi-lane and full closures will not be required.

The proposed work will be undertaken during planned maintenance closures or single lane road closures. There will be no additional impact caused by the proposed work. The D5 detour route is an established M5 East detour which exists for the planned maintenance closures. This detour is displayed on the M5 East and RMS websites and also displayed permanently on all RMS guide signs on the route.

Yes No

Are the proposed works likely to result in detours or disruptions to traffic flow (vehicular, cycle and pedestrian) or access during operation?

Yes No

Are the proposed works likely to affect any other transport nodes or transport infrastructure (eg bus stops, bus routes) in the surrounding area? result in detours or disruptions to traffic flow (vehicular, cycle and pedestrian) or access during operation?

Yes No

Safeguards


1. The M5 East Freeway will be closed to traffic during the proposed works. All traffic will be detoured via an alternative signposted route.



2. Advance warning signs, VMS board messages and other appropriate traffic control signage related to the proposed works would be implemented on site to inform the motorists and assist with the detour routes during the works.

3. As part of the M5 East Service Provider’s Community Plan the closures will be posted on the M5 East Website and a closure email will be sent to email subscribers.

3.10 Socio-economic


Are the proposed works likely to impact on local business? Yes No

Are the proposed works likely to require any property acquisition? Yes No

Are the proposed works likely to alter any access for properties (either temporarily or permanently)?

Yes No

Are the proposed works likely to alter any on-street parking arrangements (either temporarily or permanently)?

Yes No

Are the proposed works likely to change pedestrian movements or pedestrian access (either temporarily or permanently)?

Yes No

Are the proposed works likely to impact on any items or places of social value to the community (either temporarily or permanently)?

Yes No

Are the proposed works likely to reduce or change visibility of any businesses, farms, tourist attractions or the like (either temporarily or permanently)?

Yes No

Safeguards


1. The proposed works would not cause any known potential impacts on the socio-economic environment.

3.11 Landscape character and visual amenity


Are the proposed works over or near an important physical or cultural element or landscape? (heritage items and areas, distinctive or historic built form, National Parks, conservation areas, scenic highways etc)?

Yes No

Would the proposed works obstruct or intrude upon the character or views of a valued landscape or urban area. For example locally significant topography, a rural landscape or a park, a river, lake or the ocean or a historic or distinctive townscape or landmark?

Yes No

Would the proposal require the removal of mature trees or stands of vegetation, either native or introduced?

Yes No

Would the proposal result in large areas of shotcrete visible from the road or adjacent properties?

Yes No



Would the proposal involve new noise walls or visible changes to existing noise walls?

Yes No

Would the proposal involve the removal or reuse of large areas of road corridor, landscape, either verges or medians?

Yes No

Would the proposal involve substantial changes to the appearance of a bridge (including piers, girders, abutments and parapets) that are visible from the road or residential areas?

Yes No

If involving lighting, would the proposal create unwanted light spillage on residential properties at night (in construction or operation)?

Yes No

Would any new structures or features being constructed result in over shadowing to adjoining properties or areas?

The works will not cause a overshadowing of adjoining properties. The proposed works on the M5 East Motorway will involve minor changes to the location of current VMS gantries and the relocation of one VMS gantry.

Yes No

Safeguards


1. The proposed works would cause minor impacts on the landscape character and visual amenity. A community information notice will be sent out to advise the identified residents.

3.12 Waste


Are the proposed works likely to generate >200 tonnes of waste material (contaminated and /or non-contaminated material)?

Yes No

Are the proposed works likely to require a licence from OEH? Yes No

Safeguards


1. Resource management hierarchy principles are to be followed:

a. Avoid unnecessary resources consumption as a priority.

b. Avoidance is followed by resource recovery (including reuse of materials, reprocessing, recycling and energy recovery).

c. Disposal is undertaken as a last resort.

(In accordance with the Waste Avoidance & Resource Recovery Act 2001)

2. RMS sites will not be available for any waste disposal. Bulk project waste sent to a site (excluding Office and Environment and Heritage Licensed landfills) for land disposal is to have prior formal written approval from the landowner, in accordance with RTA Environmental Direction No. 20 – Legal Off-site disposal of Bulk RTA Project Wastes.

3. There is to be no disposal or re-use of construction waste on to other land.

4. Waste will not be burnt on site.

5. Waste material will not to be left on site once the works have been completed.



6. Working areas are to be maintained, kept free of rubbish and cleaned up at the end of each working day.

7. Waste including waste metal will be taken to metal recyclers.

4 Consideration of State and Commonwealth environmental factors

4.1 Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2000 checklist

In addition to the requirements of the Is an EIS required? guideline as detailed in the REF, the following factors listed in clause 228(2) of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation, 2000 have also been considered to assess the likely impacts of the proposal on the natural and built environment. This consideration is required to comply with sections 111 and 112 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.

Environmental Factor Impacts

(a) Any environmental impact on a community?

The proposed works would have minor shot term negative effect on the community.

Nil

(b) Any transformation of a locality?

The proposed works would not transform the locality, as works would generally be contained within the existing road formation and be carried out on existing Roads and Maritime Services assets.

Nil

(c) Any environmental impact on the ecosystems of a locality?

The proposed works would not have potential environmental impacts on the ecosystems of a locality.

Nil

(d) Any reduction of the aesthetic, recreational, scientific or other environmental quality or value of a locality?

The proposed works would not reduce the aesthetic, recreational, scientific or other environmental quality or value of the locality, as works would generally be contained with the existing road formation. The relocation of one VMS gantry would have a minor negative effect on the aesthetic quality of the Motorway.

Negative, minor long term effect

(e) Any effect on a locality, place or building having aesthetic, anthropological, archaeological, architectural, cultural, historical, scientific or social significance or other special value for present generations?

The proposed works would not have an effect on a locality, place or building having aesthetic, anthropological, archaeological, architectural, cultural, historical, scientific or social significance or other special value for present generations

Nil

(f) Any impact on habitat of any protected fauna (within the meaning of the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974)?

The proposed works would not have any impact on the habitat of any protected or endangered fauna due to the limited scope of works for the proposed activities and the implementation of the safeguards given in Section 3 of this REF.

Nil

(g) Any endangering of any species of animal, plant or other form of life, whether living on land, in water or in the air?

The proposed works would not endanger any species of animal, plant or other form of life, whether living on land, in water or in the air due to the

Nil



limited scope of works for the proposed activities and the implementation of the safeguards given in Section 3 of this REF.

(h) Any long-term effects on the environment?

The proposed works would have positive long-term effects on the environment due to improved safety for road users. There are no anticipated negative long-term effects on the environment from the maintenance works due to the limited scope of these works and the implementation of the safeguards given in Section 3 of this REF.

Positive

(i) Any degradation of the quality of the environment?

The proposed works would not cause a degradation of the quality of the environment

Nil

(j) Any risk to the safety of the environment?

The proposed works would have minimal risk to the safety of the environment due to the scope of works for the maintenance activities covered in this REF, and the potential impacts would be minimised with the implementation of the safeguards given in Section 3 in this REF.

Nil

(k) Any reduction in the range of beneficial uses of the environment?

The proposed works would not cause a reduction in the range of beneficial uses of the environment.

Nil

(l) Any pollution of the environment?

The proposed works would potentially cause minor pollution of the environment, however the potential impacts would be minimised with the implementation of the safeguards given in Section 3 of this REF.

Negative, minor short term effect

(m) Any environmental problems associated with the disposal of waste?

The waste generated during the proposed works would be contained and removed for disposal to approved recycling facilities or to licensed landfill in accordance with the safeguards in Section 3 of this REF. No environmental problems are anticipated for the disposal of waste.

Nil

(n) Any increased demands on resources, natural or otherwise which are, or are likely to become, in short supply?

The proposed works would not significantly increase demands on resources, which are, or are likely to become, in short supply. The safeguards listed in Section 3 of this REF would be implemented to minimise any impacts.

Nil

(o) Any cumulative environmental effect with other existing or likely future activities?

The proposed activities have the potential to have cumulative environmental effects with other existing or likely future activities, however the effects would be minimal due to the limited scope of works for the activities covered in this REF, and the potential impacts on the environment would be minimised with the implementation of the safeguards given in Section 3 in this REF.

Nil

(p) Any impact on coastal processes and coastal hazards, including those under projected climate change conditions?

The proposed works would not have any impact on coastal processes and coastal hazards.

Nil

4.2 Matters of national environmental significance checklist



Under the environmental assessment provisions of the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999, the following matters of national environmental significance are required to be considered to assist in determining whether the proposal should be referred to the Australian Government Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities.

Factor Impact

a. Any impact on a World Heritage property? Nil

b. Any impact on a National Heritage place? Nil

c. Any impact on a wetland of international importance? Nil

d. Any impact on a listed threatened species or communities? Nil

e. Any impacts on listed migratory species? Nil

f. Any impact on a Commonwealth marine area? Nil

g. Does the proposal involve a nuclear action (including uranium mining)? Nil

Additionally, any impact (direct or indirect) on Commonwealth land? Nil

4.3 Neutral or Beneficial Effect Assessment

State Environmental Planning Policy (Sydney Drinking Water Catchment) 2011 relates to the use of land within the Sydney drinking water catchment. In accordance with Clause 12 of the SEPP, Roads and Maritime Services is required to consider whether or not an activity to which Part 5 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act applies will have a neutral or beneficial effect on water quality before carrying out the activity.

The proposed works would not be carried out on land within the Sydney drinking water catchment area. Therefore the proposed works would not have any impact or effect on water quality.

5 Summary of safeguards and environmental management measures

This section provides a summary of the site specific environmental safeguards and management measures identified in described in section 3 and 4 of this REF. These safeguards will be implemented to reduce potential environmental impacts throughout construction and operation. A framework for managing the potential impacts is provided with reference to environmental management plans and relevant Roads and Maritime Services QA specifications. Any potential licence and/or approval requirements required prior to construction are also listed.

Table 5.1: Summary of site-specific safeguards for proposed works.

Soil The proposed works are not anticipated to result in any impact on the existing soil environment. Where Acid Sulfate Soil has the potential to be present, the following procedure RTA Guidelines for the Management of Acid Sulfate Materials, 2005 will be followed to prevent any impact on the surrounding environment in case any Acid Sulfate Soil is encountered.

Waterways and water quality

The proposed works are not anticipated to cause any impact on existing waterways or water quality of the receiving environment.

Noise and vibration 1. Most of the proposed work would be carried out during M5 East maintenance closures, which occur between 22:00 and 04:30 on



Sunday to Wednesday nights (see the Appendix for maintenance closure schedule). The work is undertaken at night to minimise the interruption to traffic and to maintain traffic flow during the day.

2. All other noise impacts are to be minimised in accordance with Practice Note VII in the RTA’s Environmental Noise Management Manual and RTA’s Environmental Fact Sheet No. 2 – Noise Management and Night Works.

Air quality The proposed works are not anticipated to cause any impacts on existing air quality.

Non-Aboriginal Heritage

1. If unexpected archaeological remains are uncovered during the works, all works must cease in the vicinity of the materials/find and the steps in the RTA Standard Management Procedure: Unexpected Archaeological Finds must be followed. Roads and Maritime Services Senior Regional Environmental Officer must be contacted immediately.

2. If any items defined as relics under the NSW Heritage Act 1977 are uncovered during the works, all works must cease in the vicinity of the find and the Roads and Maritime Services Regional Environmental Officer contacted immediately.

Aboriginal Heritage 1. If Aboriginal heritage items are uncovered during the works, all works in the vicinity of the find must cease and the RTA’s Aboriginal cultural heritage advisor and the senior regional environmental officer contacted immediately. Steps in the RTA Standard Management Procedure: Unexpected Archaeological Finds must be followed.

Biodiversity 1. If unexpected threatened fauna or flora species are discovered, stop works immediately and follow the RTA Unexpected Threatened Species Find Procedure in the RTA Biodiversity Guideline 2011 – Guide 1 (Pre-cleaning process).

2. Vegetation that has been protected or planted as part of offset works provided as part of an approved project (e.g. in association with fauna crossings) is not to be removed.

3. Works are not to create an ongoing barrier to the movement of wildlife.

Trees 1. Trees will be marked for removal.

2. Only trees marked for removal will be removed.

Traffic and transport 1. The M5 East Freeway will be closed to traffic during the proposed works. All traffic will be detoured via an alternative signposted route.

2. Advance warning signs, VMS board messages and other appropriate traffic control signage related to the proposed works would be implemented on site to inform the motorists and assist with the detour routes during the works.

3. As part of the M5 East Service Provider’s Community Plan the closures will be posted on the M5 East Website and a closure email will be sent to email subscribers.

4. Works on Kingsgrove Rd, Marsh St, West Botany St will utilise single lane closures on multi-lane roads, with no requirement for full road closures.

Socio-economic The proposed works would not cause any known potential impacts on the socio-economic environment.

Landscape The proposed works would cause minor impacts on the landscape



character and visual amenity

character and visual amenity. A community information notice will be sent out to advise the identified residents.

Waste 1. Resource management hierarchy principles are to be followed:

Avoid unnecessary resources consumption as a priority. Avoidance is followed by resource recovery (including reuse of

materials, reprocessing, recycling and energy recovery). Disposal is undertaken as a last resort.

(In accordance with the Waste Avoidance & Resource Recovery Act 2001)

2. RMS sites will not be available for any waste disposal. Bulk project waste sent to a site (excluding Office and Environment and Heritage Licensed landfills) for land disposal is to have prior formal written approval from the landowner, in accordance with RTA Environmental Direction No. 20 – Legal Off-site disposal of Bulk RTA Project Wastes.

3. There is to be no disposal or re-use of construction waste on to other land.

4. Waste will not be burnt on site.

5. Waste material will not to be left on site once the works have been completed.

6. Working areas are to be maintained, kept free of rubbish and cleaned up at the end of each working day.

7. Waste including waste metal will be taken to metal recyclers.

5.1 Licensing and approvals

List of licences and / or approvals required for the proposed works:

Table 5.2: Summary of licensing and approval required.

Requirement Timing

Road Occupancy Licence Licence will be required prior to the commencement of the works.

5.2 Other requirements

Environmental management plan sent to environment staff for review. Yes No



Ha san R slan

6 Certification, review and decision 6.1 Certification

This minor works review of environmental factors provides a true and fair review of the proposal in relation to its potential effects on the environment. It addresses to the fullest extent possible all matters affecting or likely to affect the environment as a result of the proposal.

Prepared by:

Camden MacRae

Project Engineer, Operations and Maintenance

Motorway Management Date: 512 2-/?— 0

Minor Works REF reviewed by:

Project Manager Motorway Management

Date: /5— (> 742(‘

M5 East —VMS Upgrade Project


6.2 Environment staff review

The Minor Works REF has been reviewed and considered against the requirements of sections 111 and 112 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.

In considering the proposal this assessment has examined and taken into account to the fullest extent possible, all matters affecting or likely to affect the environment by reason of that activity as addressed in the Minor Works REF and associated information. This assessment is considered to be in accordance with the factors required to be considered under clause 228 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2000.

The proposal described in the Minor Works REF will have some environmental impacts which can be ameliorated satisfactorily. Having regard to the safeguard and management measures proposed, this assessment has considered that these impacts are unlikely to be significant and therefore an approval for the proposal does not need to be sought under Part 5.1 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.

The assessment has considered the potential impacts of the activity on critical habitat and on threatened species, populations or ecological communities or their habitats for both terrestrial and aquatic species as defined by the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 and the Fisheries Management Act 1994.

The proposal described in the Minor Works REF will not affect declared critical habitat. The activity described in the Minor Works REF will not significantly affect threatened species, populations or ecological communities or their habitats. Therefore a species impact statement is not required.

The assessment has also addressed the potential impacts on the activity on matters of national environmental significance and any impacts on Commonwealth land and concluded that there will be no significant impacts. Therefore there is no need for a referral to be made to the Australian Government Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities for a decision by the Commonwealth Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Water on whether assessment and approval is required under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999.

The REF is considered to meet all relevant requirements.



6.3 Environment staff recommendation

It is recommended that the proposal to M5 East Variable Message Sign Upgrade Project at multiple locations as described in this Minor Works REF proceed subject to the implementation of all safeguards identified in the Minor Works REF and compliance with all other relevant statutory approvals, licences, permits and authorisations. The Minor Works REF has examined and taken into account to the fullest extent possible all matters likely to affect the environment by reason of the activity and established that the activity is not likely to significantly affect the environment. The REF has concluded that there will be no significant impacts on matters of national environmental significance or any impacts on Commonwealth land.

The REF determination will remain current for until October 2019 at which time it shall lapse if works have not been physically commenced. The pre-construction checklist must be completed prior to the commencement of any works.

commend by:

3-3-eph Fanous

\g vironment Manager, Sydney

Determination

In accordance with the above recommendation and sections 111 and 112 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, I determine that Roads and Maritime Services may carry out the proposal.

Felicity Finlayson

General Manager, Motorway Management

M5 East—VMS Upgrade Project


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