STATEMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS - Berrigan Shire · 2018-06-22 · Statement of Environmental...

1629 DRAFT 1

STATEMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS

PROPOSED TEMPORARY EVENT

STRAWBERRY FIELDS FESTIVAL

MAY 2018

Statement of Environmental Effects PROPOSED TEMPORARY EVENT – STRAWBERRY FIELDS FESTIVAL

www.nghenvironmental.com.au e [email protected]

35 morrisset st (po box 434) bathurst nsw 2795 australia

0488 820 748

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t (02) 8202 8333

suite 1, 39 fitzmaurice st (po box 5464) wagga wagga nsw 2650 australia

t (02) 6971 9696

7/11 union st newcastle west nsw 2302 australia

t (02) 4929 2301

unit 8, 27 yallourn st (po box 62) fyshwick act 2609 australia

t (02) 6280 5053

suite 1, 216 carp st (po box 470) bega nsw 2550 australia

(02) 6492 8333

Document Verification

Project Title: Proposed temporary event Strawberry Fields Music and Arts Festival Tocumwal, NSW

Project Number: 18-119

Project File Name: Strawberry Fields Festival

Revision Date Prepared by (name) Reviewed by (name) Approved by (name)

Draft 16/05/2018 Stephanie Anderson Lizzie Olesen – Jensen Lizzie Olesen - Jensen

Final

nghenvironmental prints all documents on environmentally sustainable paper including paper made from 100% bagasse (a by-product of sugar production) or recycled paper.

nghenvironmental is a registered trading name of NGH Environmental Pty Ltd; ACN: 124 444 622.

ABN: 31 124 444 62


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CONTENTS

1 INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................................ 3

1.1 SUBJECT LAND AND LOCALITY .............................................................................................................4

1.2 APPLICANT AND LAND OWNERHIP ......................................................................................................4

1.3 PREVIOUS CONSENTS ...........................................................................................................................5

2 THE DEVELOPMENT PROPOSAL ................................................................................................. 6

2.1 DESCRIPTION OF DEVELOPMENT .........................................................................................................6

2.2 DAYS AND HOURS OF OPERATION .......................................................................................................6

2.3 EMPLOYMENT AND ATTENDANCE .......................................................................................................7

2.4 SECURITY AND PATRON MANAGEMENT .............................................................................................7

2.5 TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT .......................................................................................................................8

2.6 NOISE MANAGEMENT ..........................................................................................................................8

2.7 MEDICAL TREATMENT ..........................................................................................................................8

2.8 WASTE ..................................................................................................................................................9

2.9 ESSENTIAL SERVICES.............................................................................................................................9

3 SITE ANALYSIS ........................................................................................................................ 11

4 STATUTORY FRAMEWORK ...................................................................................................... 12

4.1 ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING AND ASSESSMENT ACT 1979 ............................................................. 12

4.2 BERRIGAN LOCAL ENVIRONMENTAL PLAN 2013 .............................................................................. 12

5 ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT .............................................................................................. 19

6 CONCLUSION ......................................................................................................................... 22

APPENDIX A EVENT PLAN ........................................................................................................... 23

APPENDIX B SITE MAP ................................................................................................................ 24

APPENDIX C ECONOMIC IMPACT REPORT ................................................................................... 25

APPENDIX D EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT PLAN .......................................................................... 26

APPENDIX E FIRE MANAGEMENT PLAN ....................................................................................... 27

APPENDIX F MEDICAL MANAGEMENT PLAN ............................................................................... 28

APPENDIX G RISK ASSESSMENT .................................................................................................. 29

APPENDIX H SECURITY MANAGEMENT PLAN .............................................................................. 30

APPENDIX I TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT PLAN ................................................................................. 31

APPENDIX J WASTE MANAGEMENT PLAN .................................................................................. 32

APPENDIX K WATER MANAGEMENT PLAN .................................................................................. 33


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TABLES

Table 1-1 Accompanying Plans and Documentation ...................................................................................... 3

Table 2-1 Designated entertainment areas with proposed operational days and hours ............................... 6

Table 4-1 Provisions of Clause 2.8 of BLEP 2013 ..........................................................................................12

Table 4-2 Objectives of the RU1 Primary Production zone under BLEP 2013 ..............................................14

Table 5-1 Statement of Environmental Effects .............................................................................................19

FIGURES

Figure 1-1 Subject land (Source: NSW SIXmaps, 2018) ................................................................................... 4

Figure 1-2 Location of the land with respect to Tocumwal centre (Source: Google Maps, 2018) ................. 5

Figure 3-1 Subject land (Source: NSW SIXmaps, 2018) .................................................................................11

Figure 4-1 BLEP 2013 zoning map of subject land and surrounds (NSW Planning, 2018) ............................14

Figure 4-2 BLEP 2013 Flood Planning map of subject land and surrounds (NSW Planning, 2018) ...............15

Figure 4-3 BLEP 2013 Terrestrial Biodiversity map of subject land and surrounds (NSW Planning, 2018) ..16

Figure 4-4 BLEP 2013 Riparian Lands and Wateways map of subject land and surrounds (NSW Planning,

2018) .............................................................................................................................................................17


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1 INTRODUCTION

This Statement of Environmental Effects (SEE) has been prepared to support a Development Application

(DA) seeking Council’s consideration for the proposed temporary use of land at Tuppal Road, Tocumwal.

The temporary use involves use of the land for a period of approximately five weeks, in connection with a

four-day music and arts festival. The festival is referred to as ‘Strawberry Fields’. Consent is sought for a

period of five years, with the festival to be held on an annual basis on the third weekend in November.

The festival would cater for up to 10,000 patrons, with a further 500 support staff and contractors onsite.

The delivery of the festival is supported by a suite of detailed procedures, outlined in the respective

management plans outlined in Table 1-1.

The festival has been running since 2009, having been held seven times previously at another similar site

in Tocumwal. The festival has a proven track record of good patron and site management.

Goal 1 of the Riverina Murray Regional Plan 2036 ‘A growing and diverse economy’ details strategic

directions for supporting tourism opportunities. Events and festivals are identified in the Plan as a lifestyle

activity that can promote economic growth in the region. Strawberry Fields would be set on the banks of

the Murray River, highlighting one of the iconic features of the region. The proposed festival aligns with

identified opportunities in the Plan, which are projected to “help to sustain the economies of local towns

and villages … and potentially attract visitors in off peak seasons1.

This report shall be read in conjunction with the accompanying plans and documentation as listed in Table

1-1 below.

Table 1-1 Accompanying Plans and Documentation

Reference Description Prepared by

Site Map

Event Plan

Economic Impact Report

Emergency Management Plan

Fire Management Plan

Medical Management Plan

Risk Assessment

Security Management Plan

Traffic Management Plan

Waste Management Plan

Water Management Plan

1 NSW Government Department of Planning & Environment, 2017, ‘Riverina Murray Regional Plan 2036’, p.24.


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1.1 SUBJECT LAND AND LOCALITY

The land to which this development application relates to is Part Lot 4 DP752296, Lot 5 DP752296, Lot 7

DP752296, Lot 9 DP752296 and Lot 2 DP111594, as shown in Figure 1-1 below. The land is situated at 467

Tuppal Road, Tocumwal.

The land is located on the southern side of Tuppal Road and is bound by the Murray River along the

southern boundary. The site is approximately 5km travel west of the town of Tocumwal, as shown in Figure

1-2 on the following page.

Figure 1-1 Subject land (Source: NSW SIXmaps, 2018)

1.2 APPLICANT AND LAND OWNERHIP

The applicant is Strawberry Music Group Pty Ltd, an events and entertainment company that has been in

operation since 2009. The registered proprietors of the land are a local family who operate a number of

agricultural businesses in the area.

Part Lot 4 DP752296

Lot 5 DP752296

Lot 4 DP752296

Lot 9 DP752296

Lot 2 DP111594


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Figure 1-2 Location of the land with respect to Tocumwal centre (Source: Google Maps, 2018)

1.3 PREVIOUS CONSENTS

Since 2011, each Strawberry Fields event has received development consent from Berrigan Shire Council.

The most recent development consent was issued in October 2017 under DA2017/21. This consent related

to the previous venue at Lower River Road, Tocumwal.


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2 THE DEVELOPMENT PROPOSAL

2.1 DESCRIPTION OF DEVELOPMENT

The accompanying development application seeks consent for a period of five years for the use of the

subject land for an ongoing annual event. The event is a music and arts festival referred to as “Strawberry

Fields” and would be held over the third weekend in November.

The features of the event include:

• Three different entertainment stages showcasing live music and DJ’s,

• A food and boutique craft beer/cider precinct,

• A retail precinct,

• Guest speaker presentations and workshops

• Art installations

With Strawberry Fields, all patrons camp on-site in two large designated camping areas for the duration of

the festival. Refer to accompanying Site Plan for the event.

The subject site has several safety and operational advantages compared with the previous location. These

include multiple access/egress points, improved road access, enhanced access to the Murray River for

recreation, and larger, less vegetated paddocks for use as the designated camping areas.

2.2 DAYS AND HOURS OF OPERATION

Staff and contractors will attend the site intermittently to conduct site evaluation and planning from the

last week in October. Over a period of approximately three weeks, temporary event infrastructure will be

brought into the site and established. At the completion of the festival, it would take approximately two

weeks to remove all the event infrastructure and return the site to its previous condition. It is expected

that this would be completed by the end of November.

The first patrons would begin to arrive around 2pm on the Thursday prior to the festival. Up to 500 vehicles

would be able to purchase an early-entry vehicle pass, which assists with traffic management. Patrons and

their vehicles would vacate the property by 2pm on Monday following the festival.

The following areas will be in operation during the times and days outlined:

Table 2-1 Designated entertainment areas with proposed operational days and hours

Area Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

Stage 1 Closed 1800 – 0230 1000 – 0330 0900 – 1930

Stage 2 Closed 1900 – 0230 1030 – 0330 1030 - 1900

Tea Lounge Light music 1200 – 0200 1400 – 6am 1930 - 2230

Markets Open Open Open Open

Beach 2pm – 7pm 10am – 7pm 9am – 7pm 10am – 7pm

Saloon Bar Closed 11am – midnight 10am – midnight 12pm – 7:30pm


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2.3 EMPLOYMENT AND ATTENDANCE

Strawberry Fields is only accessible to paying ticketholders.

Research indicates that 90 percent of patrons purchased their ticket more than 1 month before the event.

Therefore, it is typically easy for the event organisers to see how ticket purchasers are tracking in advance

and plan accordingly.

The event is organised by Strawberry Music Group Pty Ltd, supported by a multi-disciplinary organising

committee. Refer to the accompanying Event Plan for further details.

The annual event attracts visitors from all over the world and injects over a million dollars into the local

and regional economy. The most recent event in 2017 catered for 6,500 people, which was maximum

capacity for the previous site. It is proposed that the 2018 event would cater for 8,000 people (plus a

further 500 support staff and contractors onsite), growing to 9,000 in 2019 and 10,000 in 2020 and beyond.

In 2017 there were minimal trespassing incidents, mostly attributed to the security team patrolling the

perimeters with the use of quad bikes. If caught trespassing, a person is provided with a single and final

warning and advised to turn around and leave the area. If they return to the area again, the NSW Police

are called in to handle the matter.

2.4 SECURITY AND PATRON MANAGEMENT

Full details of the patron management and security procedures in place for the event are provided in the

accompanying Security Plan prepared by NSA Security.

NSA Security have been managing the event for the past three years and are well acquainted with the risks

that are particular to the event and the setting and are well-equipped to respond to any incidents as they

arrive. They have a proven track record of good security management with the Strawberry Fields festival.

Areas within the scope of security responsibility include but are not limited to:

• Patron admission

• Summoning of emergency services

• Handling of patrons displaying anti-social or disruptive behaviour

• Effective and efficient entry-exit management

• Physical placement of security personnel

Security would enforce age limit restrictions for the consumption of liquor and would scrutinise patron

identification at their own discretion and in accordance with their training.

At any one time, a minimum of 30 trained security officers will be on duty at the event, patrolling the

perimeter, gate entry, primary traffic intersections, the entertainment areas and the designated camping

areas. Security personnel would be in constant 2-way radio contact with the venue’s site office, ECC, first-

aid officer and event supervisors. The security officers are permitted to act at their own discretion and in

accordance with their training and company policy.

The proposed event is supported by a detailed risk assessment and emergency management procedures

as outlined in the accompanying Risk Assessment and Emergency Management Plan. Should a major

incident/emergency occur, there are two sizeable designated areas that would support an evacuation.

Refer to the accompanying Site Plan. Details about medical assessment and treatment are provided in

Section 2.7 of this report.


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2.5 TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT

Full details of the traffic management procedures in place for the event are provided in the accompanying

Traffic Management Plan.

The measures outlined in the Traffic Management Plan include a temporary speed limit reduction on

Tuppal Road, designated Stop/Slow sections at critical management points and directional signage.

It is also noted that the processing/admission of vehicles to the venue would occur on private land, within

the “car processing area” on the Site Plan, with a queuing area also made available within the bounds of

the property.

The first patrons would begin to arrive around 2pm on the Thursday prior to the festival. Up to 500 vehicles

would be able to purchase an early-entry vehicle pass. A large proportion of patrons would also travel to

and from the festival using the coach service provided by the event organisers. These measures reduce

the traffic generated in connection with the festival and accordingly assist traffic management overall.

The traffic management procedures would also include safety initiatives such as breathalyser testing to

assist patrons in determining if they are alcohol or substance affected and should use alternative transport

arrangements.

2.6 NOISE MANAGEMENT

Full details of the noise assessment and management procedures in place for the event are provided in the

accompanying Noise Management Plan prepared by Noise Consulting.

It is proposed that the entertainment areas would be located on the southern side of the property, amongst

a vegetated area. The location is substantially separated from sensitive locations, with the nearest

receptors located 1,000 metres north-east and 1,100 metres south-west. Further consultation with the

affected landowners would occur in the finalisation of planning for the event. Respite arrangements could

be made available to the affected owners, if desired.

The town of Tocumwal is located approximately 5km “behind” the proposed stage locations, with noise

generally projected in the opposite direction. The Murray Valley National Park is located immediately west

of the site and is considered to be a sensitive location. The Woperana campground in the Park is only

suited to use by a small number of campers at any one time. Any campers present would experience

temporary noise impacts. It would be appropriate to erect signage at the entrance to the park advising

users of the Park about the proposed event and anticipated noise impacts.

It is also noted that an acoustic consultant would be present during the festival to monitor actual noise

levels and compliance with the Noise Management Plan.

2.7 MEDICAL TREATMENT

Full details of the medical support in place for the event is provided in the accompanying Medical

Management Plan prepared by Colbrow Medics.

A fully-equipped Event Medical Centre would be in place for the duration of the festival, from 9am

Thursday to 6pm Monday. The Centre would be staffed with qualified and experienced doctors, nurses,

paramedics and support staff. The centre would also be supported by roaming medical teams.

Ambulance Victoria have also been enlisted to cater for any serious injuries or accidents, should they occur.

An ambulance would be stationed on-site during peak times.


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2.8 WASTE

Full details of the waste management procedures in place for the event is provided in the accompanying

Waste Management Plan.

A three bin (general waste, recycling and compost) system will be implemented through all areas of the

venue. This will provide opportunities to divert waste streams to recycling and composting and achieve a

reduction in overall waste going to landfill.

Any liquid wastes generated from food vendors is required to be removed from the venue by the individual

vendor and disposed of at an appropriately licenced facility or t

Site support staff will in place to constantly monitor and manage waste. They will bin liners full of waste

and replace liners on the spot, to maintain the bins in place where needed. All waste would be removed

from the site and the immediate external surrounds as part of the decommissioning of the site. The site

would be returned to its previous condition.

2.9 ESSENTIAL SERVICES

2.9.1 Electricity

Power would be distributed across the site using stand-alone diesel-run generators. For fire prevention,

the generators would be set up in a bunded, self-contained area, with patron access excluded. Back-up

generators would also be in place.

The provision and maintenance of power on-site would be managed by a team of qualified electricians and

who would be stationed on-site for the duration of the event. All electrical equipment would be installed,

tested and maintained in accordance with industry standards

Adequate security lighting would be provided during night time hours to provide for safe movement of

patrons and staff.

2.9.2 Potable Water

There will be several potable drinking water stations situated within the entertainment areas and

designated camping areas. This water will be delivered by a local supplier, held in storage tanks and

distributed throughout the site via a temporary plumbing system. Backup arrangements are in place such

that the supply of potable water would be uninterrupted throughout the event.

The water stations would be supported by signage reinforcing a message of water conservation.

2.9.3 Bathroom facilities

Bathroom facilities would be made available in the entertainment areas and designated camping areas.

Back of house facilities would also be available for staff and contractors’ use only. The effluent would be

transported offsite and disposed of, rather than distributed onto the subject property.

It is expected that Council would provide guidance on the final numbers, but it is anticipated that 1 single

toilet unit would be provided for every 50 patrons, 1 single toilet unit or urinal for every 100 male patrons.

The facilities would include 2 x unisex wheel-chair accessible facilities as well.


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Site support staff would in place to constantly monitor and manage the cleanliness of the bathroom facilites

and to replenish supplies where required.

The bathroom facilities would be imported during the site establishment phase and available for the use

of site staff and contractors during this time. They would be one of the last pieces of infrastructure to be

removed from the site during the “bump out” phase.


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3 SITE ANALYSIS

The land to which this development application relates to is Part Lot 4 DP752296, Lot 5 DP752296, Lot 7

DP752296, Lot 9 DP752296 and Lot 2 DP111594, as shown in the figure below.

The land is situated at 467 Tuppal Road, Tocumwal. The site is approximately 5km travel west of the town

of Tocumwal.

Figure 3-1 Subject land (Source: NSW SIXmaps, 2018)

The land is located on the southern side of Tuppal Road and is bound by the Murray River along the

southern boundary. The subject land is bordered by the Murray Valley National Park (including the

Woperana campground) to the west and private property to the east.

The property is privately-owned agricultural land, with no established dwelling. It is used for livestock

grazing and production, with rye grass cropping for additional livestock feed.

The subject land is categorised as being bushfire prone land and flood prone land, according to Council

mapping. The site is also the subject of planning overlays for terrestrial biodiversity, riparian land and

wetlands. This is further discussed in Section 4.2 of this report.

Extent of proposed use

Lot 7 DP752296 Lot 2 DP111594

Lot 5 DP752296 Lot 9 DP752296

Part Lot 4 DP752296


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4 STATUTORY FRAMEWORK

4.1 ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING AND ASSESSMENT ACT 1979

Temporary events are a form of ‘development’ and as such require a development application to be

submitted in accordance with the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act, 1979.

4.2 BERRIGAN LOCAL ENVIRONMENTAL PLAN 2013

4.2.1 Clause 2.8 Temporary use of land

The proposed activity is not exempt from the requirement for development consent, according to relevant

Policies and Schedule 2 of the Berrigan Local Environmental Plan 2013.

Pursuant to the provisions of Clause 2.8 Temporary use of land, development consent is required for the

proposal. Clause 2.8 of the BLEP provides the following matters for consideration:

Table 4-1 Provisions of Clause 2.8 of BLEP 2013

Clause 2.8 matters Comment

(1) The objective of this clause is to provide for the temporary use of land if the use does not compromise future development of the land, or have detrimental economic, social, amenity or environmental effects on the land.

The proposal is considered to achieve this objective as the land can be returned to its existing state at the conclusion of each proposed event. Further, the proposal is supported by a suite of management plans that target any impacts the event might have on the local amenity or environment.

It is also considered that the proposal contributes to social and economic objectives and would not have a net adverse impact in this regard. The proposal is consistent with identified strategic outcomes included in the Riverina Murray Regional Plan 2036.

(2) Despite any other provision of this Plan, development consent may be granted for development on land in any zone for a temporary use for a maximum period of 52 days (whether or not consecutive days) in any period of 12 months.

The proposal is consistent with these requirements as it is anticipated the total timeframe of temporary use would be not more than 40 days in any period of 12 months. This includes the site establishment phase, the event itself and the decommissioning of the site.

(3) Development consent must not be granted unless the consent authority is satisfied that:

(a) the temporary use will not prejudice the subsequent carrying out of development on the land in accordance with this Plan and any other applicable environmental planning instrument, and

It is considered that the proposal is consistent with this requirement. As identified above, the land can be returned to its existing state at the conclusion of each proposed event. This would allow the site to be used for a range of other permitted activities during the intervals and in the future.

(b) the temporary use will not adversely impact on any adjoining land or the amenity of the neighbourhood, and

The proposal would contain most of its impacts within the boundaries of the site. A matter for concern may be the amenity impact on noise;


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however, a noise management plan has been specifically developed in this regard and noise abatement measures have been incorporated.

Further, the subject land is reasonably isolated from sensitive receptors and located a suitable distance from the town of Tocumwal. There is one dwelling located on the opposite side of Tuppal Road that may experience some temporary impacts. The organisers are consulting directly with the affected owner in the planning of the event.

(c) the temporary use and location of any structures related to the use will not adversely impact on environmental attributes or features of the land, or increase the risk of natural hazards that may affect the land, and

All structures are low-impact and temporary. The land can be returned to its existing state at the conclusion of each proposed event, indicating that there would be no impact on the environmental attributes of the site. Compared with the previous festival site, the subject land is less environmentally constrained.

The site is subject to bushfire and flooding hazards, according to Council mapping. However, the proposed event is supported by procedures to reduce risks and to management evacuations scenarios should this be necessary.

(d) at the end of the temporary use period the land will, as far as is practicable, be restored to the condition in which it was before the commencement of the use.

The proposal is considered to achieve this objective as the land can be restored to its former condition.

(4) Despite subclause (2), the temporary use of a dwelling as a sales office for a new release area or a new housing estate may exceed the maximum number of days specified in that subclause.

Not relevant.

(5) Subclause (3) (d) does not apply to the temporary use of a dwelling as a sales office mentioned in subclause (4).

Not relevant.

4.2.2 Land use zoning and objectives

The subject land is zoned RU1 Primary Production under the provisions of the Berrigan Local Environmental

Plan (BLEP) 2013, as indicated in the figure on the following page.

Pursuant to the provisions of Clause 2.8 Temporary use of land, the temporary use of land is permitted in

any zone, provided that the relevant matters can be satisfied. It is considered that the relevant matters

have been satisfactorily addressed above and thus, the proposal can be consented to by Council.

Clause 2.3 of the LEP requires Council to have regard to the objectives for development in a zone when

considering a development application. The proposed temporary use of land is not antipathetic to the

objectives of the RU1 Primary Production, as outlined in the table on the following page.


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Figure 4-1 BLEP 2013 zoning map of subject land and surrounds (NSW Planning, 2018)

Table 4-2 Objectives of the RU1 Primary Production zone under BLEP 2013

Objectives Comment

To encourage sustainable primary industry production by maintaining and enhancing the natural resource base.

The proposal would not compromise the future use of the land for primary production activities.

To encourage diversity in primary industry enterprises and systems appropriate for the area.


To minimise the fragmentation and alienation of resource lands.

The temporary use of the land would have no implications for fragmentation and alienation of resource lands.

To minimise conflict between land uses within this zone and land uses within adjoining zones.

The objective would be achieved as the proposal relates to the temporary use of land. The site is isolated by the presence of boundary vegetation and the Murray River. The impacts of the proposed event would be felt by very few due to the isolated from sensitive receptors.

To permit development that enhances the agricultural and horticultural production potential of land in the locality.


To permit low-key tourist and visitor accommodation that is compatible with the scenic amenity, and promotes the character, of the area.

The proposal is tourist-related. Although, not providing permanent visitor accommodation opportunities, it would provide for temporary visitor accommodation (through on-site camping for the duration of the event) and would attract 10,000 patrons to the area.


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Owing to its intending setting on the banks of the Murray River, the proposal would showcase the scenic amenity and the unique character of the locality. The proposal is consistent with identified strategic actions in the Riverina Murray Regional Plan 2036.

To enable function centres to be developed in conjunction with agricultural uses.

Not relevant to the proposal.

4.2.3 Clause 6.2 Flood planning

The subject land is identified as a flood planning area, according to the Flood Planning Map of the BLEP

2013 as shown in the figure below.

Figure 4-2 BLEP 2013 Flood Planning map of subject land and surrounds (NSW Planning, 2018)

The proposal is viewed as being compatible with the flood hazard of the land. This is predominantly by

virtue of the advance flood warning of several days that is available for this area. If flooding was to occur

in the or be expected to occur, the proposed event would not go ahead.

In this regard, there would be no effect on flood behaviour. There would also be no social and economic

costs to the community associated with the flooding, as there would be no loss of life or property expected.

Given that the proposal involves the temporary use of land and the erection of low-impact temporary

structures, the impact on the environment, river banks and riparian vegetation is considered to be minimal.

The risk to life from flood can be managed by way of abandoning the event if flooding was to occur or be

expected to occur. Further, in the unlikely event of a flood more suddenly occurring or expected during

the event, there are procedures in place for the total evacuation of the venue, as outlined in the

accompanying Emergency Management Plan.


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4.2.4 Clause 6.3 Terrestrial biodiversity

The subject land is mapped as biodiversity sensitive land and is subject to the provisions of this clause, as

shown in the figure below.

There are no identified impacts that would compromise the importance of the vegetation on the land to

the habitat and survival of native fauna. There are no identified impacts to the habitat elements providing

connectivity on the land.

It is considered that the proposed use of biodiversity sensitive land would have a minor to moderate impact

on the condition, ecological value and significance of the fauna and flora on the land. Further, it is

considered that there is potential to fragment, disturb or diminish the biodiversity structure, function and

composition of the land. These impacts are anticipated given the intended location of the entertainment

areas and the number of patrons expected.

Impacts would be relatively minor, such as trampling of some vegetation, although designated movements

areas would be provided to minimise this. There would be no tree removal, however there is a proposal

to remove dead wood for fire safety purposes. In consultation with Council, further consideration should

be given to prioritising biodiversity concerns over fire safety concerns, as fires would be a comparatively

low-risk event, whilst dead wood provides important shelter and nesting habitat for native fauna. Further,

any dead wood present would not significantly contribute to the pace of a bushfire, given the other

groundcover and overstorey vegetation that is present.

It is also noted that the event would extend for only four days (the establishment and decommissioning

phases would involve comparatively few people compared with the event itself). Accordingly, it is expected

that the biodiversity values would easily recover from the temporary use of the land.

Figure 4-3 BLEP 2013 Terrestrial Biodiversity map of subject land and surrounds (NSW Planning, 2018)


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4.2.5 Clause 6.4 Riparian land and watercourses

The subject land is indicated as “riparian land” and is subject to the provisions of this clause, as shown in

the figure below.

The riparian land and Murray River are proposed to be used only as a recreation area for swimming from

approximately 10am to 6pm during the event. There would be no structures or notable disturbance of

land within this area. Further, use of the riparian area and waterway would be under the guidance and

supervision of event support staff.

It is expected that due to the nature and extent of the proposed use of the riparian environment, there

would be no adverse impacts on the water quality. The use presents no opportunities to adverse impact

on fish and other aquatic organisms or to obstruct their free movement along the waterway.

There is no proposal to extract water from the river as all necessary potable water would be imported to

the site and available from several potable water stations throughout the entertainment and camping

areas.

Given that there would be no structures proposed in the riparian area and no notable disturbance of the

land (apart from low-impact recreational use by some festival patrons), it is considered that the activities

would not compromise the stability of the banks of the watercourse. The activities would not prevent any

future rehabilitation actions either.

Figure 4-4 BLEP 2013 Riparian Lands and Wateways map of subject land and surrounds (NSW Planning, 2018)


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4.2.6 Clause 6.6 Development on river bed and banks of the Murray River

As indicated in the previous section, the intended use of the river banks and Murray River would include

use as a recreation area for swimming from approximately 10am to 6pm during the event. There would

be no structures erected or notable disturbance of the land.

Accordingly, it is considered that there is low potential for the creation of erosion. The nature and extent

of the proposed use of the riparian environment is temporary and low-impact. There are expected to be

no adverse impacts on riverine habitat or flora and fauna habitats.

The proposed temporary use of the wider site for the Strawberry Fields festival presents no opportunities

to affect the drainage or flow patterns of water replenishing the river. There would be no alteration of the

landform and no permanent structures erected.

4.2.7 Clause 6.7 Development on river front area

The accompanying development application relates only to the temporary use of land, which is provided

for under Clause 2.8 of the BLEP. There are no permanent structures proposed in the river front area.

4.2.8 Clause 6.10 Essential services

The proposed event is supported by satisfactory arrangements for all essential services to support the

patrons, staff and contractors. Refer to Section 2.8 of this report for further detail.


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5 ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT Table 5-1 Statement of Environmental Effects

Primary Matters Likely Impacts Safeguards and Mitigation Measures

Context & Setting Positive. The proposed setting would showcase the unique character of the town of Tocumwal and the iconic Murray River would provide the backdrop.

The subject site is also well-separated from sensitive receptors and would not adversely impact on other established uses.

Nil.

Privacy, Views & Sunlight Nil. The proposed areas of use are well-separated from any sensitive receptors and would not impact on privacy, views and solar access.

Nil.

Access & Traffic Minimal. Detailed traffic management arrangements as in place, as discussed in the accompanying Traffic Management Plan.

The vehicle checkpoint and queuing area would be located on private property, minimising the impact on Tuppal Road.

A large proportion of patron would travel to the festival on coaches arranged by the organisers, which reduces traffic impacts on Tuppal Road, surrounding residents and the township of Tocumwal in general.

Safeguards and mitigation measures are contained in the accompanying Traffic Management Plan.

Infrastructure Minimal. The proposed event is supported by satisfactory arrangements for all essential services to support the patrons, staff and contractors. Refer to Section 2.9 of this report for further detail .

Back-up arrangements are in place for essential services.

Heritage Nil. The proposal relates to the temporary use of land. Nil.

Construction Minimal. All structures erected would be temporary and the land would be restored to its existing condition at the completion of the event.

Nil.

Land Resources Nil. The temporary use of the land as proposed herein demonstrates that the agricultural resources of the land would not be compromised.

Nil.

Soils & Water Minimal. The proposal would not have a permanent impact on soils; the land would be returned to its previous condition at the completion of the annual event.

The operations of the proposed festival would prevent water quality impacts and would not compromise the condition of the Murray River banks and waterway.

Nil.


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Air & Microclimate Minimal. Vegetation cover would be maintained across the site to minimise dust generation. Vehicle movements would be controlled to designated areas.

Nil.

Noise & Vibration Moderate. The event will generate a high level of noise at times, within the immediate venue.

The noise generated by the event would comply with the identified noise criteria as outlined in the Noise Management. An acoustic consultant would be located onsite during the event to monitor noise levels and compliance with the Noise Management Plan.

Surrounding residents would also be advised of the upcoming festival by way of letter drop. Preliminary consultation has occurred with the most-affected receptor, located on the opposite side of Tuppal Road.

Safeguards and mitigation measures are described in the accompanying Noise Management Plan.

Flora & Fauna Minor to moderate. The proposal relates to the temporary use of land which is considered to be biodiversity sensitive according to LEP maps.

There is no tree clearing; however, removal of dead wood for fires safety is proposed.

There would be measures in place to minimise and mitigate impacts. It is considered that the biodiversity values would be able to recover from any residual impacts as the event would only extent for four days and the land would be returned to its existing condition.

Refer to Section 6.3 of this report for further safeguards and mitigation measures.

There may be an opportunity to reconsider the proposed removal of dead wood for fire safety purposes in consultation with Council. The fire risk is comparatively low, however, dead wood provides important habitat for native fauna.

Waste Minimal. A three bin system would be implemented throughout the entertainment and camping areas to divert waste streams from landfill where possible. These bins would be monitored by support staff. The site would be cleared of all waste as part of the decommissioning phase.

Safeguards and mitigation measures are described in the accompanying Waste Management Plan.

Land Hazards Minimal. The site is mapped as bushfire prone and flood prone land. The event would be abandoned if there was any indication of a flood occurring according to meteorology reports. Fire prevention and management procedures are in place to mitigate the risk of bushfire. An Emergency Management Plan is also in place which provides for total evacuation of the site if the situation should arise.

Safeguards and mitigation measures are outlined in the accompanying Fire Management Plan and Emergency Management Plan.

Social Impact Positive. The event aligns with regional strategic goals for social connection. Safeguards and mitigation measures to protect the health and safety of patrons are outlined in the accompanying suite of management plans.


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Economic Impacts Positive. The event will provide a substantial economic stimulus for the local community. The event aligns with regional strategic goals for promoting economic activity by way of tourism opportunities.

Nil.

Cumulative Impacts There are no identified cumulative impacts of the proposal. Implement the range of safeguards and mitigation measures outlined in management plans for the proposed event.

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6 CONCLUSION

This Statement of Environmental Effects (SEE) has been prepared to support a Development Application

(DA) seeking Council’s consideration for the proposed temporary use of land at Tuppal Road, Tocumwal.

The temporary use relates to ‘Strawberry Fields’, a four-day music and arts festival, to be held on an annual

basis on the third weekend in November. It is expected that the total period of use would be approximately

40 days including establishment, the festival itself and the decommissioning phase. This is consistent with

the relevant provisions of Clause 2.8 of the Berrigan Local Environmental Plan 2013.

The festival has been running since 2009, having been held previously at another similar site in Tocumwal.

The festival has a proven track record of good patron and site management.

The proposal aligns with strategic directions for the region as outlined in the Riverina Murray Regional Plan.

Events and festivals are identified in the Plan as tourism opportunities that can “help to sustain the

economies of local towns and villages … and potentially attract visitors in off peak seasons. Strawberry

Fields would be set on the banks of the Murray River, highlighting one of the iconic features of the region.

The festival would cater for up to 10,000 patrons, with a further 500 support staff and contractors onsite.

The SEE demonstrates that the proposed event would be supported by satisfactory arrangements for

traffic, security, waste, essential services and emergency situations.

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APPENDIX A EVENT PLAN

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APPENDIX B SITE MAP

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APPENDIX C ECONOMIC IMPACT REPORT

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APPENDIX D EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT PLAN

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APPENDIX E FIRE MANAGEMENT PLAN

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APPENDIX F MEDICAL MANAGEMENT PLAN

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APPENDIX G RISK ASSESSMENT

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APPENDIX H SECURITY MANAGEMENT PLAN

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APPENDIX I TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT PLAN

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APPENDIX J WASTE MANAGEMENT PLAN

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APPENDIX K WATER MANAGEMENT PLAN

STATEMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS - Berrigan Shire · 2018-06-22 · Statement of Environmental...

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