Sydney Growth Trains Project Operation of Mortdale … · 1.5 Purpose of this Review of...

June 2017

Operation of Mortdale Maintenance Facility Review of Environmental Factors Sydney Growth Trains Project Ref–5701347 June 2017

Contents Abbreviations ................................................................................................................ 5

Definitions ..................................................................................................................... 7

Executive summary ...................................................................................................... 8

1 Introduction ........................................................................................................... 13 Overview of the Proposal .......................................................................... 13 1.1 Location of the Proposal ........................................................................... 14 1.2 Existing infrastructure and land uses ........................................................ 17 1.3 Mortdale Maintenance Facility construction works .................................... 19 1.4 Purpose of this Review of Environmental Factors ..................................... 19 1.5

2 Need for the Proposal ........................................................................................... 20 Strategic justification ................................................................................. 20 2.1

3 Description of the Proposal ................................................................................... 22 The Proposal ............................................................................................ 22 3.1

4 Statutory considerations ........................................................................................ 24 Commonwealth legislation ........................................................................ 24 4.1 NSW legislation and regulations ............................................................... 24 4.2 State Environmental Planning Policies ..................................................... 26 4.3 Local environmental planning instrument and development controls ........ 26 4.4 NSW Government policies and strategies................................................. 29 4.5 Ecologically sustainable development ...................................................... 31 4.6

5 Community and stakeholder consultation .............................................................. 32 Consultation requirements under the Infrastructure SEPP ........................ 32 5.1 Consultation strategy ................................................................................ 33 5.2 Public display ........................................................................................... 33 5.3 Aboriginal community involvement ........................................................... 34 5.4 Ongoing consultation ................................................................................ 34 5.5

6 Environmental impact assessment ........................................................................ 36 Noise and vibration ................................................................................... 36 6.1 Traffic and transport ................................................................................. 41 6.2 Urban design, landscape and visual amenity ............................................ 45 6.3 Indigenous heritage .................................................................................. 47 6.4 Non-Indigenous heritage .......................................................................... 48 6.5 Socio-economic impacts ........................................................................... 51 6.6 Biodiversity ............................................................................................... 54 6.7 Contamination, landform, geology and soils ............................................. 56 6.8 Hydrology and water quality ..................................................................... 58 6.9

Air quality ................................................................................................. 60 6.10 Waste ....................................................................................................... 61 6.11 Cumulative impacts .................................................................................. 61 6.12 Climate change and sustainability ............................................................ 62 6.13

7 Environmental management ................................................................................. 63 Environmental management plans ........................................................... 63 7.1 Mitigation measures ................................................................................. 63 7.2

Operation of Mortdale Maintenance Facility Review of Environmental Factors – June 2017 2

8 Conclusion ............................................................................................................ 66

References ................................................................................................................. 67

Appendix A Consideration of matters of National Environmental Significance .......... 68

Appendix B Consideration of clause 228 .................................................................. 69

Appendix C Operational Noise and Vibration Impact Assessment ............................ 72

Appendix D Aboriginal and Non- Aboriginal Heritage Impact Assessment................ 73

Document control

Status: Final

Date of issue: June 2017

Version: 1.0

Document author: Katie Mackenzie

Document reviewers: Megan Haberley, Kerri Hale, Andrew Whitten, Kai Budd, Louise Sureda

© Transport for NSW


Figures Figure 1 Planning approval and consultation process for the Proposal ................................... 11

Figure 2 Proposal site ............................................................................................................ 15

Figure 3 Regional context ....................................................................................................... 16

Figure 4 Loop Road outside the main maintenance shed ....................................................... 18

Figure 5 Inside maintenance shed .......................................................................................... 18

Figure 6 Kogarah LEP land zoning map (Proposal site in red) ................................................ 28

Figure 7 Nearest Sensitive Receivers ..................................................................................... 37

Figure 8 Surrounding Road network ....................................................................................... 41

Figure 9 Boundary Road bridge .............................................................................................. 42

Figure 10 Site access points .................................................................................................. 43

Figure 11 Train stations and bus routes in the vicinity of the Proposal (red box showing the approximate Proposal location) .............................................................................................. 44

Figure 12 View from MMF on Hurstville Road with residential dwellings visible to the west of the site ................................................................................................................................... 46

Figure 13 1943 Aerial imagery showing Mortdale Electric Car Sheds (SIXmaps 2016) .......... 49

Figure 14 Local heritage listings ............................................................................................. 50

Figure 15 Surrounding land uses ............................................................................................ 53

Figure 16 Retaining wall with trees ......................................................................................... 55

Figure 17 Wastewater treatment plant onsite ......................................................................... 59

Tables Table 1 Other legislation applicable to the Proposal ............................................................... 25

Table 2 Relevant provisions of the Kogarah LEP .................................................................... 27

Table 3 NSW Government policies and strategies applicable to the Proposal ........................ 29

Table 4 Infrastructure SEPP consultation requirements.......................................................... 32

Table 5 Measured background noise levels from noise logger ............................................... 36

Table 6 NSW EPA INP Noise emission criteria – sensitive receivers ...................................... 37

Table 7 Noise impact assessment results at nearest sensitive receivers ................................ 38

Table 8 Sleep disturbance criterion compliance at nearest sensitive receiver ......................... 40

Table 9 Proposed mitigation measures .................................................................................. 63


Abbreviations

Term Meaning

AHIMS Aboriginal Heritage Information Management System

ASS Acid Sulfate Soils

CBD Central Business District

CLM Act Contaminated Land Management Act 1997 (NSW)

DoE Commonwealth Department of the Environment

DP&E NSW Department of Planning and Environment

DSI Detailed Site Investigation (Stage II Contamination Investigation)

ECM Environmental Controls Map

EMS Environmental Management System

EPA Environment Protection Authority

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

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

EPBC Act Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Cwlth)

EPI Environmental Planning Instrument

EPL Environment Protection Licence

ESD Ecologically Sustainable Development (refer to Definitions)

FM Act Fisheries Management Act 1994 (NSW)

Heritage Act Heritage Act 1977 (NSW)

Infrastructure SEPP State Environmental Planning Policy (Infrastructure) 2007 (NSW)

LEP Local Environmental Plan

LGA Local Government Area

MMC Mortdale Maintenance Centre

MMF Mortdale Maintenance Facility

NES National Environmental Significance

Noxious Weeds Act Noxious Weeds Act 1993 (NSW)

NPW Act National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 (NSW)


Term Meaning

NSW New South Wales

OEH NSW Office of the Environment and Heritage

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

RailCorp (former) Rail Corporation of NSW

RBL Rating Background Level

REF Review of Environmental Factors (this document)

Roads Act Roads Act 1993 (NSW)

Roads and Maritime NSW Roads and Maritime Services (formerly Roads and Traffic Authority)

SEPP State Environmental Planning Policy

SGT Sydney Growth Trains

SHR State Heritage Register

TCP Traffic Control Plan

TfNSW Transport for NSW

TSC Act Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 (NSW)

TWA Trade Waste Agreement

WARR Act Waste Avoidance and Resource Recovery Act 2001 (NSW)


Definitions

Term Meaning

Ecologically Sustainable Development

As defined by clause 7(4) Schedule 2 of the EP&A Regulation. Development that uses, conserves and enhances the resources of the community so that ecological processes on which life depends are maintained, and the total quality of life, now and in the future, can be increased.

Feasible A work practice or abatement measure is feasible if it is capable of being put into practice or of being engineered and is practical to build given project constraints such as safety and maintenance requirements.

Noise sensitive receiver

In addition to residential dwellings, noise sensitive receivers include, but are not limited to, hotels, entertainment venues, pre-schools and day care facilities, educational institutions (e.g. schools, TAFE colleges), health care facilities (e.g. nursing homes, hospitals), recording studios and places of worship/religious facilities (e.g. churches).

NSW Trains From 1 July 2013, NSW Trains became the new rail provider of services for regional rail customers.

Out of hours works

Defined as works outside standard construction hours (i.e. outside of 7am to 6pm Monday to Friday, 8am to 1pm Saturday and no work on Sundays/public holidays).

Proponent A person or body proposing to carry out an activity under Part 5 of the EP&A Act - in this instance, TfNSW.

Rail possession Possession is the term used by railway building/maintenance contractors to indicate that they have taken possession of the track (usually a block of track) for a specified period, so that no trains operate for a specified time. This is necessary to ensure the safety of workers and rail users.

Reasonable Selecting reasonable measures from those that are feasible involves making a judgment to determine whether the overall benefits outweigh the overall adverse social, economic and environmental effects, including the cost of the measure.

Sensitive receivers

Land uses which are sensitive to potential noise, air and visual impacts, such as residential dwellings, schools and hospitals.

Sydney Trains From 1 July 2013, Sydney Trains replaced CityRail as the provider of metropolitan train services for Sydney.

The Proposal The operation of the Mortdale Maintenance Facility.

Vegetation Offset Guide

The TfNSW guide that applies where there is vegetation clearing proposed, and where the impact of the proposed clearing is not deemed ‘significant’ for the purposes of section 111 of the EP&A Act. The Guide provides for planting of a minimum of eight trees for each large tree with a diameter at breast height (DBH) of more than 60 cm, four trees where the DBH is 15-60 cm, or two trees where DBH is less than 15 cm.


Executive summary Overview

Transport for NSW (TfNSW) is the government agency responsible for the delivery of major transport infrastructure projects in NSW and is the proponent for the Operation of Mortdale Maintenance Facility (the Proposal).

The Proposal is part of the Sydney Growth Trains project which is the centrepiece of the NSW Government More Trains, More Services Program. This program will provide rail customers with more frequent and more express services, delivered by more modern trains and enabled through infrastructure upgrades. The NSW Government has ordered 24 new eight-car suburban trains based on the Waratah design, meaning more reliable and comfortable commuter services will begin rolling onto the tracks from late 2018.

Key features of the new Sydney Growth Trains include:

• double deck cars

• improved air conditioning with advanced temperature control

• high definition customer information screens to provide journey and safety information

• internal and external CCTV and customer help points

• improved accessibility including priority seating, wheelchair spaces and hearing aid loops.

Construction works for the MMF was approved by TfNSW under Part 5 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act) by an Environmental Impact Assessment Checklist in March 2017.

This REF has been prepared to assess the environmental impacts associated with the operation of the Proposal under the provisions of Part 5 of the EP&A Act.

Description of the Proposal

TfNSW will use a portion of the existing Mortdale Maintenance Centre (MMC) for the ongoing maintenance of the 24 new eight-car suburban trains, known as the Mortdale Maintenance Facility (MMF). The accommodation of the new trains requires some changes to the existing hours of maintenance at the upgraded MMF portion of the MMC.

The key features of the Proposal are summarised as follows:

• 24 hours per day, seven days a week operations, including maintenance activities, within the MMF

• maintenance of 24 new double-deck trains including (but not limited to):

o preventative maintenance activities

o corrective maintenance and component exchange

o train presentation activities including train washing, corrective and routine cleaning activities and graffiti removal

o train horn testing

• stabling of new double-deck trains when on site


• additional signage and lighting at the site

• staff administration activities

• commissioning and testing of each new train as it arrives.

Subject to approval, operating activities are expected to commence in early 2018. A detailed description of the Proposal is provided in Chapter 3 of this REF.

This REF has assessed the ongoing operational activities (i.e. maintenance) required for the 24 new eight-car suburban trains as part of the Sydney Growth Trains Project at the MMF only. This REF is not intended to change or seek approval for the existing Sydney Trains operating activities within the remaining portion of the MMC.

Need for the Proposal

More trains and services are needed to meet the needs of our growing city. The latest load data shows that five of the 15 train lines are running over the average 135 per cent of seating capacity in the morning peak. The NSW government is investing $1.5 billion over three years in the More Trains, More Services Program to boost capacity through hundreds of extra services, better infrastructure and new trains for Sydney.

Over the next three years the More Trains, More Services Program will deliver:

• hundreds of extra services across the network, starting with peak hour express services between Parramatta and Sydney central business district (CBD)

• new trains added to the suburban network that will spend less time in maintenance and more time on the tracks

• upgraded rail infrastructure allowing our complex network to operate at an even greater capacity, including better signalling systems, power supply upgrades and station improvements.

The Proposal fulfils the More Trains, More Services Program objectives by proposing to provide:

• increased maintenance capacity at Mortdale Maintenance Facility to facilitate expansion of the fleet and allow introduction of new train services.

The Proposal is also consistent with key planning strategies including NSW Making it Happen (NSW Government, 2015) and the NSW Long Term Transport Master Plan (TfNSW, 2012) with a focus on delivering infrastructure to support NSW population growth over the next 10 years.

Statutory considerations

The EP&A Act provides for the environmental impact assessment of development in NSW. Part 5 of the EP&A Act generally specifies the environmental impact assessment requirements for activities undertaken by public authorities, such as TfNSW, which do not require development consent under the EP&A Act.

The State Environmental Planning Policy (Infrastructure) 2007 (the Infrastructure SEPP) is the primary environmental planning instrument relevant to the proposed development and is the key environmental planning instrument which determines that this Proposal is permissible without consent and therefore is to be assessed under Part 5 of the EP&A Act.

Clause 79 of the Infrastructure SEPP allows for the development of ‘rail infrastructure facilities’ by or on behalf of a public authority without consent on any land. Clause 78 defines ‘rail infrastructure facilities’ as including elements such as ‘maintenance, repair and stabling


facilities for rolling stock, refuelling depots, garages, maintenance facilities and storage facilities that are for the purposes of a railway and railway workers’ facilities’.

As TfNSW is a public authority and the proposed activity falls within the definition of rail infrastructure facilities under the Infrastructure SEPP, the Proposal is permissible without consent. Consequently the environmental impacts of the Proposal have been assessed by TfNSW under Part 5 of the EP&A Act.

This REF has been prepared to assess the operational environmental impacts of the Proposal. The REF has been prepared in accordance with clause 228 of the Environment Planning and Assessment Regulation 2000 (the EP&A Regulation).

In accordance with section 111 of the EP&A Act, TfNSW, as the proponent and determining authority, must examine and take into account to the fullest extent possible all matters affecting or likely to affect the environment by reason of the proposed activity.

Chapter 6 of this REF presents the environmental impact assessment for the Operation of Mortdale Maintenance Facility, in accordance with these requirements.

Community and stakeholder consultation

Under the Infrastructure SEPP, consultation is required with local councils or public authorities in certain circumstances, including where Council-managed infrastructure is affected.

TfNSW is proposing to undertake the following consultation for the Proposal:

• direct notification to community stakeholders

• public display of the REF.

Community consultation activities for the Proposal would be undertaken during the public display period of this REF. The REF would be displayed for a period of four weeks. Further information about these specific activities is included in Section 4.5 of this REF.

During this period, the REF would also be available for viewing at Oatley Public Library, Georges River Council Civic Centre, Hurstville City Library, Oatley Senior Citizens Centre, Transport for NSW (Level 5, Tower A, Zenith Centre, 821 Pacific Highway, Chatswood). The REF would also be available to download from the TfNSW website1 and a Project Infoline (1800 684 490) would be available for members of the public to make enquiries.

TfNSW would review and assess all feedback received during the public display period, prior to determining whether or not to proceed with the Proposal.

Should the Proposal proceed the community would be kept informed. Figure 1 presents an overview of the consultation and planning process and the current status of the Proposal.

1 http://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/projects/more-trains-more-services Operation of Mortdale Maintenance Facility Review of Environmental Factors – June 2017 10

http://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/projects

Figure 1 Planning approval and consultation process for the Proposal

Environmental impact assessment

This REF identifies the potential environmental benefits and impacts of the Proposal and outlines the mitigation measures to reduce the identified impacts.

The following key impacts have been identified should the Proposal proceed:

• increased operational noise within evening and night time periods (however within Environment Protection Authority (EPA) Industrial Noise Policy (INP) noise emission criteria for all periods with appropriate mitigation measures)

• reduction in available on-street parking in the vicinity of the MMF.

Further information regarding these impacts is provided in Chapter 6 of the REF.


Conclusion

This REF has been prepared having regard to sections 111 and 112 of the EP&A Act, and clause 228 of the EP&A Regulation, to ensure that TfNSW takes into account to the fullest extent possible, all matters affecting or likely to affect the environment as a result of the Proposal.

Should the Proposal proceed, any potential associated adverse impacts would be appropriately managed in accordance with the mitigation measures outlined in this REF, and the Conditions of Approval imposed in the Determination Report. This would ensure the Proposal is delivered to maximise benefit to the community and minimise any adverse impacts on the environment.

In considering the overall potential impacts and proposed mitigation measures outlined in this REF, the Proposal is unlikely to significantly affect the environment including critical habitat or threatened species, populations, ecological communities or their habitats.


1 Introduction Transport for NSW (TfNSW) was established in 2011 as the lead agency for integrated delivery of public transport services across all modes of transport in NSW. TfNSW is the proponent for the Operation of Mortdale Maintenance Facility (MMF) (the Proposal).

1.1 Overview of the Proposal

1.1.1 The need for the Proposal

The Proposal is part of the Sydney Growth Trains Project which is the centrepiece of the NSW Government More Trains, More Services Program and will provide rail customers with more frequent and more express services, delivered by more modern trains and enabled through infrastructure upgrades.

The NSW Government has ordered 24 new eight-car suburban trains based on the Waratah design, meaning more reliable and comfortable commuter services will begin rolling onto the tracks from late 2018.

Key features of the new Sydney Growth Trains include:

• improved air-conditioning with advanced temperature control


• internal and external CCTV and customer help points.

TfNSW will use a portion of the existing Mortdale Maintenance Centre (MMC) for the ongoing maintenance of the 24 new eight-car suburban trains. The accommodation of the new trains requires some changes to the existing hours of operational maintenance at the upgraded MMF portion of the centre.

The Proposal is required to facilitate the maintenance of 24 new double-deck trains to be delivered in early 2018 as part of the Sydney Growth Trains Project.

Construction works for the upgrade of the Mortdale Maintenance Facility was approved by TfNSW under Part 5 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act) by an Environmental Impact Assessment Checklist in March 2017 (refer to Section 1.4 below).

This REF has been prepared to assess the environmental impacts associated with the operation of the Proposal under the provisions of Part 5 of the EP&A Act.

1.1.2 Key features of the Proposal

The key features of the Proposal are summarised as follows:












Subject to planning approval, operating activities are expected to commence in early 2018.

This REF has assessed the ongoing operational activities (i.e. maintenance) required for the 24 new eight-car suburban trains as part of the Sydney Growth Trains Project at the MMF only. This REF is not intended to change or seek approval for the existing Sydney Trains operating activities within the remaining portion of the MMC.

A detailed description of the Proposal is provided in Chapter 3 of this REF.

1.2 Location of the Proposal

The Proposal is located at 195-235 Hurstville Road (Lot 100/ DP 1141151) approximately 20 kilometres south west of the Sydney CBD.

The Proposal is located on a site currently used by Sydney Trains for rail maintenance and stabling, known as the Mortdale Maintenance Centre. The MMC is located on land under the ownership of RailCorp.

The Proposal would occupy approximately half of the existing MMC for this Sydney Growth Trains project, known as the Mortdale Maintenance Facility (refer to Figure 2). Other areas within the MMC would be used for other operational activities as part of this Proposal including for train washing (on the eastern boarder of the MMC site) and for train movements to and from the site.

Figure 2 outlines the area in which the Proposal would occupy and undertake maintenance activities for the 24 new eight-car suburban trains. The administration building and main car park would be a shared facility for the Proposal and Sydney Trains.

The Proposal area is bounded by Hurstville/Boundary Road to the west and south, Oatley Avenue to the east, and the T4 Illawarra Railway line to the north (refer to the area in red labelled ‘study area’ in Figure 3).

The Proposal site is within the Georges River Local Government Area, at the border of the former Kogarah and Hurstville Councils.


Figure 2 Proposal site


Figure 3 Regional context


1.3 Existing infrastructure and land uses

The Proposal site is currently a rail maintenance centre for Sydney Trains. The Proposal site contains several short rail sidings, and a complex of storage and workshop sheds. There is a wastewater treatment plant onsite which treats wastewater collected from the train washing area.

The site is located in the Georges River Council area (formerly Kogarah Council) on land zoned for Rail Infrastructure Facilities (SP2). The surrounding land uses include educational establishments, an electricity transmission and distribution network, public recreation spaces, commercial businesses and low and medium density residential areas.

Mortdale Railway Station is located approximately 600 metres north of the site and Oatley Railway Station is located approximately 500 metres south of the site.

The railway line to Oatley was electrified in 1926, altering the type of rolling stock required along the Illawarra line. Purpose built sheds for storage and maintenance of the new electric cars were constructed in 1925, adjacent to Judd’s brickworks, between Mortdale and Oatley Stations. The Mortdale Maintenance Centre is listed with local significance on both the Kogarah LEP 2012 and the Hurstville LEP 2012 as ‘Mortdale Railway Station and car sheds’.

Sensitive receivers such as residential, education and community facilities in the vicinity of the Proposal include:

• residential dwellings approximately 100 metres south and west

• Mortdale Community Centre approximately 200 metres north west

• Carinya School (School for Specific Purpose) approximately 400 metres north east

• Mortdale Public School approximately 500 metres north east

• Ausgrid facility approximately 300 metres east

• Georges River College approximately 200 metres east

• Oatley Senior Citizen’s Club on the southern portion of the MMC

• Punchy’s gym approximately 50 metres west

• Mortdale-Oatley Baptist Church approximately 200 metres north west.

The closest main road is King Georges Road (approximately three kilometres to the east) which links to the M5 East.

Photographs of the existing maintenance centre are provided in Figure 4 and Figure 5.


Figure 4 Loop Road outside the main maintenance shed

Figure 5 Inside maintenance shed


1.4 Mortdale Maintenance Facility construction works

The accommodation of the 24 new eight-car trains requires some construction works at the MMC. TfNSW have previously approved the construction works at the MMC to enable the operation of the MMF as proposed in this REF. The key elements of the construction works include:

• internal works including installation of an overhead gantry crane, structural upgrade works, installation of a partition wall between the Proposal site and Sydney Trains work areas, rewire and upgrade of electrical power supply and lighting

• external works including removal of existing building on south west boundary of the site, retaining wall repairs, construction of a concrete bunded area on the Loop Road

• rail construction works including the realignment of Loop Road and related shunting/storage necks.

The construction works have been assessed by TfNSW and appropriate mitigation measures have been recommended in an environmental assessment prepared in accordance with Part 5 of the EP&A Act. This assessment and approval process was progressed seperately to this REF and therefore these works have not been considered or assessed in this REF.

Construction works commenced in April 2017 and would be finalised by January 2018.

1.5 Purpose of this Review of Environmental Factors

This REF has been prepared by TfNSW to assess the potential impacts of the Operation of Mortdale Maintenance Facility. For the purposes of these works, TfNSW is the proponent and the determining authority under Part 5 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act).

The purpose of this REF is to describe the Proposal, to assess the likely impacts of the Proposal having regard to the provisions of section 111 of the EP&A Act, and to identify mitigation measures to reduce the likely impacts of the Proposal. This REF has been prepared in accordance with clause 228 of the Environment Planning and Assessment Regulation 2000 (the EP&A Regulation).

This assessment has also considered the relevant provisions of other relevant environmental legislation, including the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 (TSC Act), Fisheries Management Act 1994 (FM Act) and the Roads Act 1993 (Roads Act).

Having regard to the provisions of the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act), this REF considers the potential for the Proposal to have a significant impact on matters of National Environmental Significance (NES) or Commonwealth land, and the need to make a referral to the Commonwealth Department of Environment for any necessary approvals under the EPBC Act. Refer to Chapter 4 for more information on statutory considerations.


2 Need for the Proposal Chapter 2 discusses the need and objectives of the Proposal, having regard to the objectives of the More Trains, More Services Program and the specific objectives of the Proposal. This chapter also provides a summary of the options that have been considered during development of the Proposal and why the preferred option has been chosen.

2.1 Strategic justification

Improving transport customer experience is the focus of the NSW Government’s transport initiatives. The NSW government is investing $1.5 billion over three years in the More Trains, More Services Program to boost capacity through hundreds of extra services, better infrastructure and new trains for Sydney.

More trains and services are needed to meet the needs of our growing city. The latest load data shows that five of the 15 train lines are running over the average 135 per cent of seating capacity in the morning peak.

Over the next three years the More Trains, More Services Program will deliver:

• hundreds of extra services across the network, starting with peak hour express services between Parramatta and Sydney CBD

• new trains added to the suburban network that will spend less time in maintenance and more time on the tracks

• upgraded rail infrastructure allowing our complex network to operate at an even greater capacity, including better signalling systems, power supply upgrades and station improvements.

The Proposal is part of the Sydney Growth Trains Project which is the centrepiece of the NSW Government More Trains, More Services Program. The program will provide rail customers with more frequent and more express services, delivered by more modern trains and enabled through infrastructure upgrades. The NSW Government has ordered 24 new eight-car suburban trains, based on the Waratah design, meaning more reliable and comfortable commuter services will begin rolling onto the tracks from late 2018.

Key features of the 24 new eight-car suburban trains include:

• double deck cars

• improved air conditioning with advanced temperature control


• internal and external CCTV and customer help points

• improved accessibility including priority seating, wheelchair spaces and hearing aid loops.

The new trains and network improvements will together:

• provide more frequent and reliable services

• help ease congestion and improve travel times, particularly during peak hours

• provide improved customer experience.

The Proposal fulfils the More Trains, More Services Program objectives by proposing to provide: Operation of Mortdale Maintenance Facility Review of Environmental Factors – June 2017 20


In September 2015, the NSW Government announced a series of State Priorities as part of NSW: Making It Happen (NSW Government, 2015). The State Priorities are intended to guide the ongoing actions of the NSW Government across the State, and guide resource allocation and investment in conjunction with the NSW Budget. NSW: Making it Happen focuses on 12 key ‘priorities’ to achieve the NSW Government’s commitments. These priorities range across a number of issues including infrastructure, the environment, education, health, wellbeing and safety in addition to Government services.

One of the 12 priorities identified as part of NSW: Making It Happen relates to investment in building infrastructure. The ongoing development and investment in transport infrastructure is identified as part of the wider building infrastructure priority.

The NSW Government has developed a Long Term Transport Master Plan (TfNSW, 2012). This plan provides a comprehensive strategy for all modes of transport across NSW over the next 20 years, while also delivering on current commitments.

The Proposal assists in meeting these strategic planning documents by focusing on delivering infrastructure to support NSW population growth over the next 10 years.

Data forecasts indicate that there would be significant growth in population and employment from 2006 up to 2036 across the Sydney metropolitan region. The Proposal ensures new trains would spend less time in maintenance and more time on the tracks.

Public transport is viewed as critical to urban productivity, expanding employment opportunities by connecting people to jobs, reducing congestion, and supporting delivery of urban renewal. Further details of the application of NSW Government policies and strategies are discussed in Section 4.5 of this REF.


3 Description of the Proposal Chapter 3 describes the Proposal and summarises key operational activities and associated infrastructure.

3.1 The Proposal

As described in Section 1.1, the Proposal involves operational activities at Mortdale Maintenance Facility for the Sydney Growth Trains project as part of the More Trains, More Services Program.

The Proposal would occupy approximately half of the existing MMC for this Sydney Growth Trains project, known as the Mortdale Maintenance Facility (refer to Figure 2). Other areas within the MMC would be used for other operational activities as part of this Proposal including for train washing (on the eastern boarder of the MMC site) and for train movements to and from the site.

The Proposal would include the following key elements:











Major maintenance activities would be undertaken at a separate maintenance facility.

As the operation of the MMF is largely consistent with existing activities currently undertaken on site, stabling of the new trains during maintenance is not anticipated to increase the overall stabling capacity at the site.

Subject to planning approval, operating activities are expected to commence in early 2018.

The maximum number of staff onsite would be approximately 40 staff including maintenance staff, administrative and operational management staff.

3.1.1 Plant and equipment

The plant and equipment likely to be used during operation includes:

• drop tables

• fork lifts

• pallet jacks

• shunt vehicle Operation of Mortdale Maintenance Facility Review of Environmental Factors – June 2017 22

• overhead cranes

• retractable overhead system

• synchronised portable jacks

• pneumatic tools

• shed compressors.

3.1.2 Operating hours

The operating hours for the MMF is proposed to be 24 hours per day, seven days a week, including maintenance activities.

Maintenance activities would be undertaken only within the enclosed maintenance shed in the evening and night-time from 6pm to 7am (refer to Section 6.1).

3.1.3 Commissioning and testing phase

The 24 new eight-car suburban trains would start to arrive into MMF from early 2018 with the trains arriving progressively until the final train arrives in late 2018. As each train arrives into MMF, routine testing of the trains would be undertaken which would introduce additional train movements and horn testing during this time.

3.1.4 Sustainability

During operation the following sustainability initiatives would be undertaken:

• production of National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting (NGER) on the greenhouse gas emissions and energy usage in accordance with the NGER Act for scope 1, 2 and 3 greenhouse gas emissions

• monitoring energy consumption of the MMF, including electrical energy and fuel

• ensuring the energy efficiency of all plug-in electrical equipment used at the MMF complies with the requirements of the NSW Government Resources Efficiency Policy (GREP)

• development and implementation of Green Travel Plans for MMF and project associated personnel

• installation and maintenance of energy efficient LED high bay lighting and task lighting for the train maintenance building

• maximising the use of bio-fuels and alternative fuels where reasonable and feasible

• ensuring all lights and unnecessary plant and equipment are switched off.


4 Statutory considerations Chapter 4 provides a summary of the statutory considerations relating to the Proposal including a consideration of NSW Government polices/strategies, NSW legislation (particularly the EP&A Act), environmental planning instruments, and Commonwealth legislation.

4.1 Commonwealth legislation

4.1.1 Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999

The (Commonwealth) EPBC Act provides a legal framework to protect and manage nationally and internationally important flora, fauna, ecological communities and heritage places - defined in the EPBC Act as ‘matters of National Environmental Significance (NES)’. The EPBC Act requires the assessment of whether the Proposal is likely to significantly impact on matters of NES or Commonwealth land. These matters are considered in full in Appendix A.

The Proposal would not impact on any matters of NES or on Commonwealth land. Therefore a referral to the Commonwealth Minister for the Environment is not required.

4.2 NSW legislation and regulations

4.2.1 Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979

The EP&A Act establishes the system of environmental planning and assessment in NSW. This Proposal is subject to the environmental impact assessment and planning approval requirements of Part 5 of the EP&A Act. Part 5 of the EP&A Act specifies the environmental impact assessment requirements for activities undertaken by public authorities, such as TfNSW, which do not require development consent under Part 4 of the Act.

In accordance with section 111 of the EP&A Act, TfNSW, as the proponent and determining authority, must examine and take into account to the fullest extent possible all matters affecting or likely to affect the environment by reason of the Proposal.

Clause 228 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2000 (EP&A Regulation) defines the factors which must be considered when determining if an activity assessed under Part 5 of the EP&A Act has a significant impact on the environment. Chapter 6 of the REF provides an environmental impact assessment of the Proposal in accordance with clause 228 and Appendix B specifically responds to the factors for consideration under clause 228.

4.2.2 Other NSW legislation and regulations

Table 1 provides a list of other relevant legislation applicable to the Proposal.


Table 1 Other legislation applicable to the Proposal

Applicable legislation Considerations

Contaminated Land Management Act 1997 (CLM Act) (NSW)

Section 60 of the CLM Act imposes a duty on landowners to notify the Office of Environment and Heritage (OEH), and potentially investigate and remediate land if contamination is above EPA guideline levels. The site has not been declared under the CLM Act as being significantly contaminated (refer Section 6.8).

Crown Lands Act 1987 (NSW)

The Proposal does not involve works on any Crown land.

Heritage Act 1977 (Heritage Act) (NSW)

• Sections 57 and 60 (approval) where items listed on the State Heritage Register are to be impacted

• Sections 139 and 140 (permit) where relics are likely to be exposed

• Section 170 where items listed on a government agency Heritage and Conservation Register are to be impacted.

The Proposal is not listed on the State Heritage Register or Section 170 Heritage and Conservation Register as outlined in Section 6.5.

National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 (NPW Act) (NSW)

Sections 86, 87 and 90 of the NPW Act require consent from OEH for the destruction or damage of Indigenous objects. The Proposal is unlikely to disturb any Indigenous objects (refer Section 6.4). However, if unexpected archaeological items or items of Indigenous heritage significance are discovered during the operation of the Proposal, all works would cease and appropriate advice sought.

Noxious Weeds Act 1993 (NSW)

There are a number of noxious weeds that have been identified in the Georges River Local Government Area (LGA). Declared noxious weeds identified within the Proposal area would be managed according to requirements under the Noxious Weeds Act 1993.

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

The Proposal does not involve a ‘scheduled activity’ under Schedule 1 of the PoEO Act. Accordingly, an Environment Protection Licence (EPL) is not required for the Proposal. However, in accordance with Part 5.7 of the PoEO Act, TfNSW would notify the EPA of any pollution incidents that occur onsite.

Roads Act 1993 (Roads Act) (NSW)

Section 138 of the Roads Act requires consent from the relevant road authority for the carrying out of work in, on or over a public road. However, clause 5(1) in Schedule 2 of the Roads Act states that public authorities do not require consent for works on unclassified roads. No roads would be affected by operational works therefore a Road Occupancy Licence would not be required (refer to Section 6.2).

Sydney Water Act 1994 (NSW)

The Proposal would involve discharge of wastewater to the sewer. A Trade Waste Agreement with Sydney Water would be in place prior to the commencement of operation (refer to Section 6.9).

Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 (TSC Act) (NSW)

The site does not contain suitable habitat for any listed threatened species or community and is unlikely to have a significant impact on any threatened species or community (refer Section 6.7).


Applicable legislation Considerations

Waste Avoidance and Resource Recovery Act 2001 (WARR Act) (NSW)

The Contractor would carry out the Proposal having regard to the requirements of the WARR Act. A site-specific Waste Management Plan would be prepared.

Water Management Act 2000 (NSW)

The Proposal would not involve any water use (from a natural source e.g. aquifer, river – only from the network), water management works, drainage or flood works, controlled activities or aquifer interference.

4.3 State Environmental Planning Policies

4.3.1 State Environmental Planning Policy (Infrastructure) 2007

The Infrastructure SEPP is the key environmental planning instrument which determines the permissibility of the Proposal and which part of the EP&A Act an activity or development may be assessed.

Clause 79 of the Infrastructure SEPP allows for the development of ‘rail infrastructure facilities’ by or on behalf of a public authority without consent on any land (i.e. assessable under Part 5 of the EP&A Act). Clause 78 defines ‘rail infrastructure facilities as including maintenance, repair and stabling facilities for rolling stock, refuelling depots, garages, maintenance facilities and storage facilities that are for the purposes of a railway and railway workers facilities’.

Consequently, development consent is not required for the Proposal which is classified as a rail infrastructure centre, however the environmental impacts of the Proposal have been assessed under the provisions of Part 5 of the EP&A Act.

Part 2 of the Infrastructure SEPP contains provisions for public authorities to consult with local councils and other agencies prior to the commencement of certain types of development. Section 5.1 of this REF discusses the consultation undertaken under the requirements of the Infrastructure SEPP.

It is noted that the Infrastructure SEPP prevails over all other environmental planning instruments except where State Environmental Planning Policy (Major Development) 2005, State Environmental Planning Policy No 14 – Coastal Wetlands or State Environmental Planning Policy No 26 – Littoral Rainforest applies. The Proposal does not require consideration under these SEPPs and therefore do not require further consideration as part this REF.

4.4 Local environmental planning instrument and development controls

The Proposal is located within the Georges River LGA, formerly within the Kogarah LGA. The Georges River LGA has been recently formed through the merger of two previous councils; Kogarah and Hurstville. As no new LEP or DCP for the combined council has been drawn up, both remain in effect at the present time.

The provisions of the Infrastructure SEPP mean that Local Environmental Plans (LEPs), prepared by councils for an LGA, do not apply. However, during the preparation of this REF, the provisions of the Kogarah Local Environmental Plan 2012 were considered.

4.4.1 Kogarah Local Environmental Plan 2012

The Kogarah Local Environmental Plan 2012 (Kogarah LEP) is one of the governing plans for the Georges River LGA. Table 2 summarises the relevant aspects of the Kogarah LEP


applicable to the Proposal. Figure 6 shows the relevant section of the zoning map from the Kogarah LEP, with the indicative location of the Proposal.

Table 2 Relevant provisions of the Kogarah LEP

Provision description Relevance to the Proposal

Zone SP2 Infrastructure This zone covers the Proposal which is within the rail corridor (RailCorp property).

Objectives of zone • To provide for infrastructure and related uses • To prevent development that is not compatible with or that may

detract from the provision of infrastructure. Permitted without consent Nil Permitted with consent Car parks; child care centres; community facilities; depots; environmental facilities; environmental protection works; markets; places of public worship; recreation areas; respite day care centres; roads; signage. The purpose shown on the Land Zoning Map, including any development that is ordinarily incidental or ancillary to development for that purpose The operational activities to be undertaken as part of the Proposal within the SP2 zone are compatible with its existing and intended use and would therefore be permissible with consent.

Clause 5.9 Clause 5.9 of the Kogarah LEP is concerned with the preservation of trees and development consent is required for tree removal in most instances. However by virtue of clause 5(3) and 79 of the Infrastructure SEPP, the clearing of vegetation for the Proposal is permissible without development consent. No vegetation is anticipated to be removed as a result of this Proposal.

Clause 5.10- Heritage conservation

Clause 5.10 of the Kogarah LEP aims to conserve the heritage significance of heritage items within the LGA. ‘Mortdale Railway Station and car sheds’ is listed under Schedule 5 – Environmental Heritage of the Kogarah LEP.


Figure 6 Kogarah LEP land zoning map (Proposal site in red) Operation of Mortdale Maintenance Facility Review of Environmental Factors – June 2017 28

4.5 NSW Government policies and strategies

Table 3 provides an overview of other NSW Government policies and strategies relevant to the Proposal. Table 3 NSW Government policies and strategies applicable to the Proposal

Policy/Strategy Commitment Comment

NSW Long Term Transport Master Plan (TfNSW, 2012)

The NSW Long Term Transport Master Plan identifies a planned and co-ordinated set of actions to address transport challenges and will guide the NSW Government’s transport funding priorities over the next 20 years. The Master Plan would meet a number of challenges to building an integrated transport system for Sydney and NSW, including: • customer-focused integrated

transport planning • integrated modes to meet

customer needs • getting Sydney Moving Again • sustaining Growth in Greater

Sydney. The Master Plan links to NSW 2021, the Metropolitan Strategy for Sydney, the State Infrastructure Strategy, regional and sub-regional strategies, and national plans.

The Proposal implements the following key theme in the Master Plan: • integrating, modernising, growing

and managing the transport system.

Rebuilding NSW – State Infrastructure Strategy 2014 (NSW Government, 2014)

Rebuilding NSW is a plan to deliver $20 billion in new productive infrastructure to sustain productivity growth in our major centres and regional communities. Rebuilding NSW will support overall population growth in Sydney and NSW. Public transport is viewed as critical to urban productivity, expanding employment opportunities by connecting people to jobs, reducing congestion, and supporting delivery of urban renewal.

The Proposal supports investment in rail infrastructure, and aligns with the reservation of $8.9 billion for urban public transport to support Sydney’s population, that is expected to reach almost six million by 2031.


Policy/Strategy Commitment Comment

NSW: Making It Happen (NSW Government, 2015)

In September 2015, the NSW Government announced a series of State Priorities as part of NSW: Making It Happen (NSW Government, 2015). The State Priorities are intended to guide the ongoing actions of the NSW Government across the State, and guide resource allocation and investment in conjunction with the NSW Budget. NSW: Making it Happen focuses on 12 key ‘priorities’ to achieve the NSW Government’s commitments. These priorities range across a number of issues including infrastructure, the environment, education, health, wellbeing and safety in addition to Government services. One of the 12 priorities identified as part of NSW: Making It Happen relates to investment in building infrastructure. The ongoing development and investment in transport infrastructure is identified as part of the wider building infrastructure priority.

This Proposal is consistent with NSW Making It Happen by assisting in the delivery of infrastructure to support NSW population growth over the next 10 years

NSW Government Resource Efficiency Policy (NSW Office of Environment and Heritage, 2014)

In 2014, the NSW Government adopted the NSW Government Resource Efficiency Policy (GREP) to reduce the NSW Government’s operating costs and lead by example in increasing the efficiency of the resources it uses. The Policy aims to drive resource efficiency by NSW Government agencies in three main areas – energy, water and waste – and also reduce harmful air emissions from government operations. This policy replaces the previous NSW Government Sustainability Policy and streamlines reporting under the Waste Reduction and Purchasing Policy (WRAPP).

This Proposal will ensure the MMF complies with the requirements of the GREP.


4.6 Ecologically sustainable development

TfNSW is committed to ensuring that its projects are implemented in a manner that is consistent with the principles of ecologically sustainable development (ESD). The principles of ESD are generally defined under the provisions of clause 7(4) of Schedule 2 to the EP&A Regulation as:

• the precautionary principle – If there are threats of serious or irreversible damage, a lack of full scientific uncertainty should not be used as a reason for postponing measures to prevent environmental degradation

• intergenerational equity – the present generation should ensure that the health, diversity and productivity of the environment are maintained or enhanced for the benefit of future generations

• conservation of biological diversity and ecological integrity – the diversity of genes, species, populations and their communities, as well as the ecosystems and habitats they belong to, should be maintained or improved to ensure their survival

• improved valuation, pricing and incentive mechanisms – environmental factors should be included in the valuation of assets and services.

The principles of ESD have been adopted by TfNSW throughout the development and assessment of the Operation of Mortdale Maintenance Facility. Section 3.1.4 summarises how ESD would be incorporated in the design development of the Proposal. Section 6.13 includes an assessment of the Proposal on climate change and sustainability.


5 Community and stakeholder consultation Chapter 5 discusses the consultation undertaken to date for the Proposal and the consultation proposed for the future. This chapter discusses the consultation strategy adopted for the Proposal and the results of consultation with relevant government agencies and stakeholders.

5.1 Consultation requirements under the Infrastructure SEPP

Part 2, Division 1 of the Infrastructure SEPP contains provisions for public authorities to consult with local councils and other public authorities prior to the commencement of certain types of development. Clauses 13, 14, 15 and 16 of the Infrastructure SEPP require that public authorities undertake consultation with councils and other agencies, when proposing to carry out development without consent.

Table 4 provides details of consultation requirements under the Infrastructure SEPP for the Proposal. Table 4 Infrastructure SEPP consultation requirements

Clause Clause particulars Relevance to the Proposal

Clause 13 | Consultation with Councils – development with impacts on council related infrastructure and services

Consultation is required where the Proposal would result in: • substantial impact on stormwater

management services • generating traffic that would place

a local road system under strain • involve connection to or impact on

a council owned sewerage system • involve connection to and

substantial use of council owned water supply

• significantly disrupt pedestrian or vehicle movement

• involve significant excavation to a road surface or footpath for which Council has responsibility.

The Proposal includes works that would continue to utilise the Council stormwater system as similar to existing use on site. Refer to Section 6.9.

Clause 14 | Consultation with Councils – development with impacts on local heritage

Where the Proposal: • substantially impacts on local

heritage item (if not also a State heritage item)

• substantially impacts on a heritage conservation area.

The Proposal is locally heritage listed. There is no proposed impact to the local heritage as a result of the Proposal. Refer to Section 6.5.

Clause 15 | Consultation with Councils – development with impacts on flood liable land

Where the Proposal: • impacts on land that is susceptible

to flooding – reference would be made to Floodplain Development Manual: the management of flood liable land.

The Proposal is not located on land that is susceptible to flooding. Accordingly, consultation with Council is not required in regard to this aspect. Refer to Section 6.9.


Clause Clause particulars Relevance to the Proposal

Clause 16 | Consultation with public authorities other than Councils

For specified development which includes consultation with the OEH for development that is undertaken adjacent to land reserved under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974, and other agencies specified by the Infrastructure SEPP where relevant. Although not a specific Infrastructure SEPP requirement, other agencies TfNSW may consult with could include: • Roads and Maritime Services • Sydney Trains • OEH.

The Proposal is not located adjacent to land reserved under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974. Accordingly, consultation with the OEH on this matter is not required. Extensive consultation has been undertaken with Sydney Trains.

5.2 Consultation strategy

The consultation strategy for the Proposal was developed to encourage stakeholder and community involvement and foster interaction between stakeholders, the community and the project team. The consultation strategy that was developed, having regard to the requirements of the planning process, ensures that stakeholders and the community are informed of the Proposal and have the opportunity to provide input.

The objectives of the consultation strategy are to:

• provide accurate and timely information about the Proposal and REF process to relevant stakeholders

• raise awareness of the various components of the Proposal and the specialist environmental investigations

• ensure that the potentially impacted community are aware of the REF and consulted where appropriate

• provide opportunities for stakeholders and the community to express their view about the Proposal

• understand and access valuable local knowledge from the community and stakeholders

• record the details and input from community engagement activities

• build positive relations with identified community stakeholders

• ensure a comprehensive and transparent approach.

5.3 Public display

The REF display strategy adopts a range of consultation mechanisms, including:

• public display of the REF at various locations

• distribution of a project update to the local community, businesses and key stakeholders outlining the Proposal and inviting feedback on the REF


• advertising the REF public display in local newspapers with a link to the TfNSW website2 and information on how to provide feedback

• project email3 and Project Infoline (1800 684 490) for information about the Proposal, REF and how to make a submission

• consultation with George’s River Council, Sydney Trains and other stakeholders.

Community consultation activities for the Proposal would be undertaken during the public display of this REF. The display period of the REF would be advertised in the week prior to the commencement of the public display. The REF would be displayed for a period of approximately four weeks.

The REF would be placed on public display at the following locations:

• Hurstville City Library, Corner Queens Road & Dora Street Hurstville

• Oatley Senior Citizens Centre, 161 Hurstville Road, Oatley

• Oatley Public Library, 26 Letitia Street, Oatley

• Georges River Council, 24 MacMahon Street, Hurstville

• Transport for NSW Office, Level 5, Tower A, Zenith Centre, 821 Pacific Highway, Chatswood

The REF would also be available on the TfNSW website. Information on the Proposal would also be available through the Project Infoline or by email. During this time feedback is invited. Following consideration of feedback received during the public display period, TfNSW would determine whether to proceed with the Proposal and what conditions would be imposed on the project should it be determined to proceed.

5.4 Aboriginal community involvement

An Aboriginal Heritage Inventory Management System (AHIMS) search was undertaken on 12 December 2016 for the area covered by the Proposal plus four square kilometres. A total of 41 sites were identified in the extensive AHIMS search area. One registered Aboriginal site, AHIMS site #45-6-0566, is located approximately 30 metres north west of the Proposal area.

Desktop assessment of historical resources and background imagery has indicated that the Proposal area has been subject to high levels of ground disturbance. The disturbance is related to the construction of the railway, car sheds, and associated infrastructure. Continued redevelopment of the area has increased disturbance levels within the proposal area, through installation of utilities and further structures.

Based on these results the Proposal area has been assessed as having low potential to contain Aboriginal archaeological deposits. Therefore it was not considered necessary to undertake specific Aboriginal consultation.

5.5 Ongoing consultation

At the conclusion of the public display period for this REF, TfNSW would acknowledge receipt of feedback from each respondent. The issues raised by the respondents would be considered by TfNSW before determining whether to proceed with the Proposal (refer Figure 1, page 11).

2 http://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/projects/more-trains-more-services 3 [email protected] Operation of Mortdale Maintenance Facility Review of Environmental Factors – June 2017 34

http://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/projects

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/projects/more-trains-more-services

mailto:[email protected]

Should TfNSW determine to proceed with the Proposal, the Determination Report would be made available on the TfNSW website and would summarise the key impacts identified in this REF, demonstrate how TfNSW considered issues raised during the public display period, and include a summary of mitigation measures proposed to minimise the impacts of the Proposal.

Should TfNSW determine to proceed with the Proposal, the project team would keep the community, council and other key stakeholders informed of the process, identify any further issues as they arise, and develop additional mitigation measures to minimise the impacts of the Proposal. The interaction with the community would be undertaken in accordance with a Community Liaison Plan to be developed prior to the commencement of operation.


6 Environmental impact assessment Chapter 6 of the REF provides a detailed description of the likely environmental impacts associated with the Proposal. For each likely impact, the existing environment is characterised and then an assessment is undertaken as to how the Proposal would impact on the existing environment.

This environmental impact assessment has been undertaken in accordance with clause 228 of the EP&A Regulation. A checklist of clause 228 factors and how they have been specifically addressed in this REF is included at Appendix B.

6.1 Noise and vibration

An operational Noise and Vibration Impact Assessment (NVIA) was undertaken by Acoustic Dynamics (April 2017), and is summarised below. Refer to Appendix C for the full assessment.

6.1.1 Existing environment

The MMC is an existing maintenance and stabling facility which has been in operation since 1925. Sydney Trains currently operate the MMC including train washing, maintenance and stabling. The site currently operates when train movements are required which can be as early or late as the first and last trains. Trains are stabled at the MMC overnight and maintenance activities are undertaken generally within daytime hours.

As the operation of the MMF is largely consistent with existing activities currently undertaken on site, stabling of the new trains during maintenance is not anticipated to increase the overall stabling capacity at the site.

This Proposal assesses the extension of hours for all operational activities (including maintenance) to 24 hours, seven days a week within the MMF, with maintenance activities during evening and night-time (6pm to 7am) to be undertaken within the maintenance shed.

A site survey was undertaken on 26 October 2015 and an unattended noise logger was deployed from 26 October 2015 to 5 November 2015 to measure the background noise levels. The logger was placed at a location representative of the existing noise environment of the nearest sensitive receivers to the Proposal site. The monitoring location represents a marginally quieter background noise environment, and as such the background noise levels are considered conservative.

Table 5 outlines the measured noise levels from the noise logger and the background noise level at a nearby sensitive receiver. Table 5 Measured background noise levels from noise logger

Logger location

Period Background noise level LA90 (dB)

Measured LAeq (dB)

25 Waratah St, Oatley

Daytime (7am1 to 6pm) 45 61

Evening (6pm to 10pm) 44 64

Night-time (10pm to 7am1) 38 62

Note 1) 8am on Sundays and Public Holidays

The results of the background noise monitoring indicate that the noise environment at the nearest sensitive receivers is dominated by a suburban hum.


Nearest sensitive receivers The following properties (refer to Figure 7) have been considered representative of the most potentially affected sensitive receivers:

• 2 Oatley Parade- South

• 1A Wonoona Parade W- West

• 2 River Road- South west

• 2 Oatley Avenue- South east

• Georges River College- East

• Commercial/industrial- North

Figure 7 Nearest Sensitive Receivers

Noise criteria The noise criteria for the Proposal based on background noise monitoring and the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) Industrial Noise Policy (INP) is presented in Table 6. Table 6 NSW EPA INP Noise emission criteria – sensitive receivers

Location Period Intrusive LAeq(15min) Criterion (dB)

Nearest Sensitive Receiver Boundary (residential)

Daytime (7am1 to 6pm) 50

Evening (6pm to 10pm) 49

Night-time (10pm to 7am1) 43

School classroom (internal)

Noisiest 1-hour period when in use

35

Commercial When in use 65

Note 1) 8am on Sundays and Public Holidays Operation of Mortdale Maintenance Facility Review of Environmental Factors – June 2017 37

6.1.2 Potential impacts

Noise The use of the Proposal site during 24 hour a day/seven days a week operating hours for maintenance is likely to contribute to the surrounding noise environment. Noise sources associated with the Proposal were identified as either internal or external noise sources.

Internal noise sources may include drop tables, forklifts, pallet jacks, shunt vehicles, grinding, manual hammering, pneumatic wrenches, overhead cranes, retractable overhead system, shed compressors, voices, train horn testing, various alarms and reversing beepers. External noise sources may include forklifts, shunt vehicles, voices and reversing beepers.

The noise sources would operate for varying durations, as required for the operation of the facility. Other noise generating sources may be present on site, however these are unlikely to generate excessive noise and vibration.

An assessment of the proposed operations was undertaken to determine the noise emission levels at the nearest sensitive receivers. The analysis and prediction of noise levels was undertaken using background noise monitoring measurements and theoretical model calculations (including factoring in topography, airborne noise losses and acoustic shielding).

During upgrade works to the MMC (refer to Section 1.4), an acoustic treatment would be applied to the western side of the maintenance shed. This acoustic treatment has been incorporated into the noise modelling.

Table 7 outlines the predicted noise emission levels at the nearest sensitive receivers as a result of the Proposal. Table 7 Noise impact assessment results at nearest sensitive receivers

Location Period Overall LAeq(15min) Noise Emission Level (dB)

Intrusive Noise Emission LAeq(15min) Criterion (dB)

Complies?

Residential receivers at 2 Oatley Parade (to the south)

Daytime 27 50 Yes

Evening 27 49 Yes

Night-time 27 43 Yes

Residential receivers at 1A Wonoona Parade W (to the west)

Daytime 32 50 Yes

Evening 32 49 Yes


Residential receivers at 2 River Road (to the south west)

Daytime 29 50 Yes

Evening 29 49 Yes


Location Period Overall LAeq(15min) Noise Emission Level (dB)

Intrusive Noise Emission LAeq(15min) Criterion (dB)

Complies?


Residential receivers at 2 Oatley Avenue (to the south east)

Daytime 28 50 Yes

Evening 28 49 Yes


Georges River College

When in use 32 35 Yes

Commercial/ Industrial (north)

When in use 32 65 Yes

The measurement results and calculation results presented in Table 7 indicate that noise emission levels resulting from representative sources associated with the Proposal are all below the EPA INP noise emission criteria for all periods (daytime, evening and night-time) provided the appropriate mitigation measures (as outlined below in section 6.1.3) are implemented. The assessment has considered cumulative noise emission from the various noise generating items used at the site in a typical ‘worst-case’ 15 minute period.

The noise model has assumed that high noise generating activities would only take place during the daytime period. Horn testing would be undertaken within the maintenance shed during daytime periods to minimise noise impacts.

More modern train sets will be serviced at this maintenance facility, and are generally quieter than older sets and do not have alternators or older style compressors. As such the movement of trains under electric power at low speeds would not constitute a significant noise source at the sensitive receivers.

Maintenance activities during the proposed evening and night-time operating hours would be undertaken within the maintenance shed.

The loudest event associated with the Proposal during the night-time hours would be the use of the pneumatic wrench within the maintenance shed. The potential maximum LA1(60seconds) noise emission levels have been assessed against the EPA sleep disturbance criterion, based on the loudest event associated with the Proposal to the nearest sensitive receivers during night-time hours (refer to Table 8).


Table 8 Sleep disturbance criterion compliance at nearest sensitive receiver

Location Noise source Maximum LA1(60

sec) Noise Emission Level (dB)

EPA sleep disturbance screening criterion

Complies?

Residential receivers at 2 Oatley Parade (to the south)

Pneumatic wrench within the maintenance shed

36 53 Yes

Residential receivers at 2 River Road (to the south west)

As above 45 53 Yes

Residential receivers at 1A Wonoona Parade W (to the west)

As above 41 53 Yes

The Proposal during the night-time period complies with the EPA’s sleep disturbance criterion at all nearest sensitive receivers.

Vibration There would be very few, if any, items of vibration generating equipment used during the operation of the MMF that would affect the nearest sensitive receivers. As such, there would be no anticipated vibration impacts to the nearest sensitive receivers as a result of the Proposal.

6.1.3 Mitigation measures

The following mitigation measures would apply to the Proposal:

• A suitable Operational Noise and Vibration Management Plan (ONVMP) would be developed for the Proposal

• Operational noise compliance monitoring at representative stages to validate predicted noise levels identified in the ONVMP would be undertaken

• Higher noise emitting activities would be undertaken within the daytime period

• Any maintenance outside of daytime hours would be undertaken within the maintenance shed

• Train horn testing would be undertaken within the maintenance shed and during daytime hours where feasible and reasonable.

Refer to Table 9 for a list of proposed mitigation measures.


6.2 Traffic and transport


Adjacent road network The Proposal site is bound by Hurstville/Boundary Road to the west, Oatley Avenue to the east and Hurstville Road to the south. The closest main road is King Georges Road (to the east) which links to the M5 East (refer to Figure 8). Directly west of the site is a one lane road bridge, Boundary Road Bridge (refer to Figure 9).

Figure 8 Surrounding Road network


Figure 9 Boundary Road bridge

Parking conditions and site access The Proposal site can be accessed by two gates on Hurstville Road. Gate 1 is used as the entrance to the main car park for staff and visitors and is located next to the administration building. Gate 2 provides an additional entry point used for emergency access/egress and Gate 3 provides wider access for deliveries (refer to Figure 10).

Additional parking onsite is on the eastern side of the main train shed and in the car park adjacent to Gate 3. There are also a number of unmetered parking spaces along Hurstville Road in close proximity to the site.


Figure 10 Site access points

Access to public transport Mortdale Railway Station is located approximately 600 metres north of the site and Oatley Railway Station is located approximately 500 metres south of the site.

Punchbowl Bus Company operates a local bus route (955) between Hurstville Station and Mortdale Station (via Oatley Station) (refer to Figure 11).


Figure 11 Train stations and bus routes in the vicinity of the Proposal (red box showing the approximate Proposal location)

Pedestrian and cyclist Local Council managed pedestrian pathways are located within the vicinity of the Proposal and can be used to walk to and from either Mortdale or Oatley Stations.

There are no dedicated cycle paths directly to the Proposal site however local roads can be used. There are no dedicated cyclist parking or facilities at the Proposal site. Operation of Mortdale Maintenance Facility Review of Environmental Factors – June 2017 44


Trip generation Traffic movements are likely to include a maximum of approximately 40 additional staff travelling to and from site daily by private vehicle. Some staff may utilise public transport to access the site.

Traffic impacts as a result of staff traveling to and from the site are expected to be minor and would not cause a significant increase to traffic numbers within the local area.

Parking The majority of staff parking would be at the main car park at Gate 1 with additional requirements met by utilising on-street parking on Hurstville Road. Parking requirements would be considered prior to commencement of operation and, if required, additional parking may be created or utilised for staff use adjacent to Gate 2 or Gate 3.

Operational staff may also use public and active transport to travel to the site.

There may be a minor reduction in on-street parking on Hurstville Road however as local parking in the surrounding area is not currently considered at capacity, this is impact is anticipated to be minor.



• Parking requirements would be reviewed prior to commencement of operation ensuring adequate parking requirements are met within the vicinity of the site for an average day at maximum workforce.

• A Green Travel Plan would be created to encourage operational staff to use public and active transport to the site.


6.3 Urban design, landscape and visual amenity


Visual character The Proposal site consists of an existing rail maintenance centre. The Proposal site contains several short rail sidings, and a complex of storage and workshop sheds.

The dominant character of the area surrounding the Proposal site is suburban. The Proposal site is situated on the border of Oatley and Kogarah suburbs in the Georges River Council. These suburbs are predominately residential.

The Proposal site is located on a crest above the surrounding landscape, with the location of the maintenance sheds having been previously cut and levelled. A retaining wall is located along a portion of the western border of the Proposal site. Vegetation including trees and shrubs are located around the boundary of the Proposal site.

The immediate landscape character around the Proposal is dominated by the linear infrastructure corridor of the T4 Illawarra Rail Line, educational and community facilities and low density residential.


Visibility The Proposal is visible from ground level by residential sensitive receivers on the western and southern sides surrounding the Proposal site (refer to Figure 12). The rail corridor, associated security fencing and Hurstville Road provide buffered views for the sensitive receivers on the western side. The crest landform provides a buffer for the sensitive receivers on the southern side of the Proposal.

Figure 12 View from MMF on Hurstville Road with residential dwellings visible to the west of the site


Due to the urban nature of the landscape character and its current use as a rail maintenance centre, the landscape character of the site and its immediate surrounds have a low sensitivity; meaning that the landscape can more easily absorb changes as a result of the Proposal.

The site will be upgraded during construction to remove a small shed on the south west boundary of the site (refer to Section 1.4). The reduction in the small shed would increase the visibility of the main maintenance shed on site.

No vegetation would be removed as a result of the Proposal. Some additional signage would be installed around the boundary of the Proposal site.

The Proposal would include the installation of lighting for operational, safety, security and maintenance purposes. It is unlikely that any additional lighting would result in a direct line of sight from surrounding sensitive receivers. Light installations would be installed in accordance with the AS 4282:1997 Controlling the Obtrusive Effects of Outdoor Lighting, and avoid light spill to adjoining road corridors and residential areas.

The overall effect would be that the existing landscape character would remain largely similar to the current view of the maintenance centre. The changes are consistent with the character of the maintenance centre and would have a minor to negligible visual impact on the surrounding sensitive receivers.



The following mitigation measure would apply to the Proposal:

• All permanent lighting would be designed and installed in accordance with the requirements of standards relevant to AS 4282 Controlling the Obtrusive Effects of Outdoor Lighting.


6.4 Indigenous heritage

A heritage impact assessment of the Proposal site was conducted by Artefact for TfNSW in February 2017 for the construction phase of the project (refer to Appendix D). The relevant sections of the assessment have been summarised below.


Background Aboriginal people were highly mobile hunter-gathers and utilised a range of resources, some of which were only available seasonally. This necessitated movement and/or trade in such resources. Tribal boundaries in eastern Australia have largely been reconstructed on the basis of surviving linguistic evidence and, as such, are only approximate. The language group spoken on the Cumberland Plain is known as Darug. The traditional boundaries of the Darug people are thought to extend from the mouth of the Hawkesbury River inland to Windsor, Penrith and Campbelltown and then to Mount Victoria. It is understood that the area north of Georges River was inhabited by Darug people, and the area to the south by Dharawal people, although it is likely that there was some overlap in land and resource use between these groups.

Initial contact between Aboriginal people and European settlers in the Hurstville region occurred in 1788, taking place at Lime Kiln Bay along the Georges River. Europeans continued to survey and explore this region over the next 20 years, at which time the first land grants were made. Two of the largest grants in Sydney were made in this region in 1808, to brothers John and Robert Townson. The grants made to the Townson’s became the suburbs of Hurstville, Bexley, Peakhurst, Penshurst and Mortdale. The land was variously purchased and subdivided throughout the nineteenth century, with the primary activity being farming.

Register search An extensive search of the Aboriginal Heritage Information System (AHIMS) database was undertaken on 12 December 2016. The AHIMS search provides archaeological context for the area and identifies whether any previously recorded Aboriginal sites are located within or near the Proposal area. The AHIMS search included a four kilometre square centred on the Proposal area.

A total of 41 sites were identified in the extensive AHIMS search area. This search indicated that one registered Aboriginal site, AHIMS site (#45-6-0566), is located approximately 30 metres north west of the Proposal area. The site consists of a shell midden measuring 100 metres by 50 metres in area. The site contained shell material and two identified stone artefacts within a matrix of brown sandy soil. AHIMS site (#45-6-0566) has no permits or reports pertaining to it.

Archaeological potential Previous investigations in the Proposal area have identified the estuarine zone as an integral part of past Aboriginal subsistence activities. The underlying Hawkesbury Sandstone geology Operation of Mortdale Maintenance Facility Review of Environmental Factors – June 2017 47

is also likely to have created shelters in proximity to the Proposal area which would have provided habitation structures suitable for occupation by Aboriginal people. Due to the location of the Proposal area on a relatively flat elevation, it is highly unlikely that shelters would have occurred within the Proposal area.

Desktop assessment of historical resources and background imagery has indicated that the Proposal area has been subject to high levels of ground disturbance. The disturbance is related to the construction of the railway, car sheds, and associated infrastructure. Continued redevelopment of the area has increased disturbance levels within the proposal area, through installation of utilities and further structures.

Based on these results the Proposal area has been assessed as having low potential to contain Aboriginal archaeological deposits.


Based on this assessment it is considered that the proposal would have a negligible impact upon potential Aboriginal archaeological deposits. No potential impact to Indigenous heritage is anticipated as a result of the Proposal.



• In the event that any Aboriginal sites are disturbed and identified within the area of works, works within the immediate vicinity of the Aboriginal object would stop immediately and the OEH would be contacted so that appropriate management strategies can be identified and followed in accordance with the TfNSW Unexpected Heritage Finds Guideline (TfNSW, 2015a). This protocol is to be included in the Operational Environmental Management Plan (OEMP).


6.5 Non-Indigenous heritage

A heritage impact assessment of the Proposal site was conducted by Artefact for TfNSW in February 2017 for the construction phase of the project (refer to Appendix D). The relevant sections of the assessment have been summarised below.


Background The railway line to Oatley was electrified in 1926, altering the type of rolling stock required along the Illawarra line. Purpose built sheds for storage and maintenance of the new electric cars were constructed in 1925, adjacent to Judd’s brickworks, between the Mortdale and Oatley Stations. The sheds were the first to be used for electric cars on the suburban rail systems, and were part of a group constructed under the Bradfield electrification plan. Others enacted under this plan were Hornsby, Flemington and Punchbowl.

The sheds were constructed with a distinctive sawtooth roof form, which is visible in a 1943 aerial (refer to Figure 13). This roof form is no longer visible in modern aerial imagery, and it is understood that the complex has undergone significant redevelopment since its construction. The heritage listing for the Mortdale Station and Car Sheds states: The Mortdale sheds have been extensively redeveloped over time, and the centre, now known as the Mortdale Maintenance Centre, is essentially a modern complex.


Historical plans suggest that no development was enacted within the Proposal area prior to the construction of the electric car sheds, owing to the proximity to the rail line and Judd’s brickworks.

Figure 13 1943 Aerial imagery showing Mortdale Electric Car Sheds (SIXmaps 2016)

Register search The Mortdale Maintenance Centre is listed with local significance on both the Kogarah LEP 2012 and the Hurstville LEP 2012 as ‘Mortdale Railway Station and car sheds’ (refer to Figure 14). There are also six listed heritage items within 50 metres of the Proposal area.

The site is not listed on the State Heritage Register or the Section 170 Heritage and Conservation Registers.


Figure 14 Local heritage listings


Historical archaeological potential Background research and previous subdivision plans indicate that prior to the construction of the electric car sheds there were no permanent structures within the Proposal area. Prior to the construction of the MMC in the 1920s, the region was occupied by farms and ephemeral residential development. Into the early twentieth century, subdivision was enacted and residential development intensified. The Oatley subdivision plan shows planned allotments in the vicinity of the Proposal area; however, the location of Judd’s brickworks suggests that these allotments were not created. It is also important to note that the map detail provided in this report is an indicative sketch of the local area and as such does not show correct proportions or scale.

It is therefore unlikely that any former residences would have been located within the Proposal area. Historic redevelopment throughout the Proposal area is also likely to have impacted any potential archaeological remains, relating to the brickworks or previous MMC outbuildings.

The Proposal area is considered to have low potential to contain significant archaeological remains.


The Proposal will increase the use of the MMC. The MMC has been assessed as having local heritage significance for its association with the Bradfield Electrification plan in the mid-1920s which established the car sheds as the first of their kind on a suburban line. The structure of the MMC has undergone significant redevelopment throughout its history. There is little to no original fabric left within the structure due to a series of modifications and additions. The Proposal has been assessed as having nil potential to impact the aesthetic heritage significance of the MMC. The Proposal is considered to have a minor positive impact on the historical heritage significance of the MMC as it will ensure the continued operation of the car sheds, which have maintained their existing use for nearly 90 years.

The Proposal has been assessed as having nil potential to impact surrounding heritage items or landscapes.



• In the event that any potential archaeological ‘relics’ are identified or disturbed within the site during works, all work in the area shall cease and a qualified archaeologist is to be consulted to determine an appropriate course of action prior to the recommencement of work in the area of the ‘relic’ including whether the Heritage Division is to be contacted in agreement with TfNSW in accordance with the TfNSW Unexpected Heritage Finds Guideline (TfNSW, 2015a). This protocol is to be included in the OEMP.


6.6 Socio-economic impacts


The Proposal is located within the Georges River LGA, across both Mortdale and Oatley suburbs, in the south west of the Sydney metropolitan area, approximately 20 kilometres from the Sydney CBD. The Proposal is located on RailCorp owned land.


The MMF site is considered a brownfields site with the current land use as a rail maintenance centre for Sydney Trains. The site is located on land zoned for Rail Infrastructure Facilities (SP2) (refer to Figure 6).

The surrounding land uses include educational establishments, an electricity transmission and distribution network, public recreation spaces and community facilities, commercial businesses and low and medium density residential areas (refer to Figure 6). Sensitive receivers such as residential, education and community facilities in the vicinity of the Proposal include:

• residential dwellings approximately 75-100 metres south and west

• Mortdale Community Centre approximately 200 metres north west

• Carinya School (School for Specific Purpose) approximately 400 metres north east

• Mortdale Public School approximately 500 metres north east

• Ausgrid facility approximately 300 metres east

• Georges River College approximately 200 metres east

• Oatley Senior Citizen’s Club on the southern portion of the MMC

• Punchy’s gym approximately 50 metres west

• Mortdale-Oatley Baptist Church approximately 200 metres north west.

Mortdale Railway Station is located approximately 600 metres north of the site and Oatley Railway Station is located approximately 500 metres south of the site.

The profile.id4 website provides community profile information about Oatley and Mortdale

which is summarised below. Oatley is an established residential area, with substantial parklands, and small commercial areas near the railway station and along Mulga Road. Mortdale is an established residential area, with industrial areas in the north west, and commercial areas near the railway station. Oatley and Mortdale are home to around 21,000 residents (2015) and have lower density residential housing compared with the Greater Sydney region.

4 http://profile.id.com.au/georges-river/about/?WebID=240 http://profile.id.com.au/georges-river/about/?WebID=230 Operation of Mortdale Maintenance Facility Review of Environmental Factors – June 2017 52

http://profile.id.com.au/georges-river/about/?WebID=240

http://profile.id.com.au/georges-river/about/?WebID=230

Figure 15 Surrounding land uses


No property acquisition would be required as a result of the Proposal.

As outlined in Section 6.1, there would be additional noise sources during the operation of the MMF including the extension of maintenance activities to 24 hour a day, seven days a week. Some additional noise impacts may be experienced by the local community, however the noise impact assessment identifies that noise levels would comply with EPA noise criteria at the nearest sensitive receivers at all times with appropriate mitigation measures in place.

As outlined in Section 6.2, there may be a reduction in on-street parking in the vicinity of the Proposal due to an increased workforce on site. Mitigation measures such as developing a Green Travel Plan for workers to utilise public transport to site as well as consideration for additional on-site parking would reduce this potential impact.


Consultation between TfNSW and Sydney Trains is currently underway to ensure the best possible change management outcomes are achieved as a result of the Proposal for both the MMF and MMC.

As the operation of the MMF is largely consistent with existing activities currently undertaken on site, the Proposal is not anticipated to have any additional socio-economic impacts to the surrounding community or businesses.


Mitigation of potential socio-economic impacts can be considered in line with mitigation of noise impacts and traffic impacts outlined in sections 6.1 and 6.2 respectively.

In addition, the following mitigation measures are proposed:

• A Community Liaison Plan (refer to Section 5) would identify all potential stakeholders and the best practice methods for consultation with these groups

• Feedback through the submissions process would be encouraged and opportunities and channels for the community and stakeholders to have input into the project would be provided.


6.7 Biodiversity


The Proposal site contains a small number of planted trees around the perimeter of the site, including on top of the existing retaining wall on the west of the site (refer to Figure 16). No EPBC Act or TSC Act listed threatened flora or fauna species have been identified at the Proposal site.

The vegetation and fauna habitat throughout the majority of the Proposal area has been modified by changes in land use. Remnant vegetation has been cleared to make way for the rail maintenance centre.

Nearest remnant vegetation occurs in the riparian corridor of the Georges River approximately 1.8 kilometres to the south west of the Proposal site. The riparian corridor provides limited connectivity to native vegetation facilitating the movement of fauna throughout the landscape.

There are a number of noxious weeds that have been identified in the Georges River LGA which may be present within the Proposal site.


Figure 16 Retaining wall with trees


The Proposal would be undertaken within the existing MMC on an existing paved area. There would be no clearing of the trees or tree trimming within the site.

As the site is highly urbanised and no clearing of vegetation is proposed within the site, it is anticipated that the Proposal would have nil impact on flora or fauna.

The identification and management of any noxious weeds would be undertaken on site as required under the associated legislation.



• Declared noxious weeds identified within the Proposal area would be managed according to requirements under the Noxious Weeds Act 1993 and the TfNSW Weed Management and Disposal Guide (TfNSW, 2015c).

• Separate approval would be required for the trimming, cutting, pruning or removal of trees or vegetation in accordance with TfNSW’s Vegetation Management (Protection and Removal) Guideline (TfNSW, 2015b).



6.8 Contamination, landform, geology and soils


Landform The elevation of the site is approximately 40 metres above sea level and is consistent across the area. The site is less than two kilometres from Georges River, and in proximity to a small tributary. The site is currently a rail maintenance centre and therefore it is expected that man-made fill and pavement would form the uppermost ground layers.

Soils and Geology The site is largely underlain by Middle Triassic period Wianamatta Group Ashfield Shale comprising black to dark grey shale and laminate. The geology of the Proposal area is dominated by silt and clay sized alluvial materials derived from the Wianamatta Group. A portion of the Proposal area overlies Hawkesbury Sandstone, consisting of medium to coarse grained quartz sandstone.

The Proposal area is at an interface of the Blacktown, Lucas Heights, and Gymea soil landscapes. Soils within the Proposal area are most likely to be Blacktown Soils, consisting of shallow to moderately deep (<100 centimetres) Red and Brown Podzolic Soils on crests, upper slopes and well-drained areas; and deep (150-300 centimetres) Yellow Podzolic Soils and Soloths on lower slopes and in areas of poor drainage. Soils of the Lucas Heights and Gymea landscape, consisting of moderately deep Yellow Earths and Earthy Sands, hardsetting Yellow Podzolic Soils and Siliceous Sands may also occur.

Contamination A preliminary site contamination investigation (stage 1) was undertaken by HLA Envirosciences in 2005. That report concluded that potentially contaminating activities have occurred across the site and are predominantly related to the historical and current use of the site for railway maintenance and cleaning activities since 1926. Environmental incidents involving hydrocarbon spills and the excavation of buried asbestos containing materials have been previously reported at the site. Chemicals of concern identified by the Phase 1 investigation include heavy metals, hydrocarbons, pesticides, PCBs, asbestos and VOCs.

An additional preliminary environmental site investigation (stage 1) was undertaken by Environmental Investigation Services in January 2016. The investigation included a review of historical information and soil sampling at seven locations across the Proposal site.

A detailed site investigation (stage 2) was undertaken by ADE Consulting Group in April 2017. The detailed investigation undertook 10 additional boreholes across the Proposal site.

The following potential contamination sources have been identified at the site:

• fill material

• an oil/water separator was located in the vicinity of the pit

• fuels, oils and solvents have been stored at the site and may have been used during the site use

• oil and grease was observed stored in barrels at designated points along the railway tracks

• use of pesticides

• hazardous building materials may be present as a result of former building and demolition activities. These materials may also be present in the existing buildings and structures on site


• a dry cleaner was located approximately 350 metres to the north of the site in 1970. Due to the distance from this site the dry cleaner is considered to represent a low risk of contamination to the subject site.

Searches were undertaken from the NSW EPA databases which included the site area and surrounding areas in the report buffer of one kilometre. The searches indicated the following:

• there were no records for the site under Section 58 of the CLM Act 1997. There was a record for a landfill located 472 metres to the southeast of the site

• the site has not been notified under Section 60 of the CLM Act 1997. There were two notified properties in the report buffer. These were a motor mechanic located 470 metres to the south east of the site and a landfill located 472 metres to the south east of the site. Both these sites are down gradient and unlikely to present a potential contamination source

• records were identified for licenced activities at the site under the PoEO Act 1997 including waste generation and storage associated with the maintenance centre. The records included a license for waste generation at the adjacent Ausgrid site. The waste under both licenses is likely to include waste oil and other products associated with maintenance works. Current and historical licenses were identified for several properties within the report buffer, however these activities are considered unlikely to pose a contamination risk to the site.

These stage 1 and stage 2 investigations concluded:

• concentrations of chemical contaminants analysed in soil samples are below the adopted National Environmental Protection (Assessment of Site Contamination) Measure- 2013 Amendment for commercial/industrial land use (HIL-D)

• no asbestos containing materials were observed in any borehole or soil sampling undertaken.

Acid sulfate soils Acid sulfate soil risk maps have been obtained from the Kogarah Local Environmental Plan 2012 Acid Sulfate Soils Map. Based on the acid sulfate soils map, there is no known occurrence of acid sulfate soils at the site.


The Proposal would require the use of various chemicals and hazardous materials to undertake maintenance and cleaning activities on site.

Improper chemical handling or disposal practices, or accidental spillages or leakages of chemicals during use have the potential to cause localised soil contamination and potential for broader impacts to catchments in the vicinity of the Proposal. The storage, use and disposal of chemicals would be undertaken in accordance with Australian Standards, EPA Guidelines and TfNSW’s Chemical Storage and Spill Response Guidelines (TfNSW, 2015d).

Hydrocarbons and chemicals such as fuels, lubricants and oils would be stored onsite in dedicated facilities such as secure sheds, containers, storage tanks and proprietary hazardous substance cupboards, and in accordance with the applicable Safety Data Sheet (SDS).

The Proposal is not anticipated to contribute to the contamination of the site as operational activities would be undertaken in accordance with relevant legislation, standards and guidelines (refer to mitigation measures below).




• Vehicles and machinery would be properly maintained and routinely inspected to minimise the risk of fuel/oil leaks.

• All fuels, chemicals and hazardous liquids would be stored away from drainage lines, within an impervious bunded area in accordance with Australian Standards, EPA Guidelines and TfNSW’s Chemical Storage and Spill Response Guidelines (TfNSW, 2015d). Disposal of any such substances must involve suitable treatment or disposal on or offsite through an appropriately equipped and licenced facility.

• In the event of a pollution incident, works would cease in the immediate vicinity and the Contractor would immediately notify the TfNSW Project Manager and TfNSW Environment and Planning Manager. The EPA would be notified by TfNSW if required, in accordance with Part 5.7 of the PoEO Act.


6.9 Hydrology and water quality


The Proposal area is located approximately 1.8 kilometres north of the Georges River, one kilometre north east of Gungah Bay, and one kilometre north west of Oatley Bay. Renown Creek, a first order tributary of Georges River is 800 metres west. Georges River extends to Botany Bay, located 6.5 kilometres east of the Proposal area. The area surrounding the Georges River is known to be a resource rich estuarine zone.

Groundwater The preliminary environmental site investigation (stage 1), undertaken by Environmental Investigation Services in January 2016, identified hydrogeological information for the Proposal site. There were a total of three registered bores within 50 metres of the site. All three bores were installed on the adjacent Ausgrid site, registered for monitoring purposes and installed to depths of approximately 10.11 metres to 10.25 metres. Standing water levels in the bores ranged from four metres below ground level to 8.5 metres below ground level.

Stormwater Georges River Council stormwater drainage exists in the area.

There is an existing drainage system within the Proposal site including underground pipework, underground pits/grates, roof drainage, downpipes, spoon drains and swales which collects stormwater drainage from the centre and discharges to the local council drainage system. Storm water drainage discharge points are located in the north west and south east of the site.

Flooding The map of area subject to flood related development controls for Kogarah City Council indicates that the 100 year Average Recurrence Interval storm event flood does not impact the site.

Wastewater A wastewater treatment plant is in operation on site to predominately treat wastewater from train cleaning (refer to Figure 17). Wastewater is currently discharged in accordance with Operation of Mortdale Maintenance Facility Review of Environmental Factors – June 2017 58

Sydney Water discharge standards in the Sydney Water Trade Wastewater Agreement (TWA) for the site.

The existing wastewater treatment plant consists of aerated holding tank, duty-standby diaphragm pumps, oil water separator, duty-standby caustic soda dosing pumps, pH instrument, flow monitoring instrument and caustic soda chemical drums (bunded).

The wastewater treatment plant is currently operated in accordance with Sydney Water TWA requirements and meets the agreement discharge standard limits.

Figure 17 Wastewater treatment plant onsite


A new graffiti removal area would be used on site to remove graffiti from train sets. The graffiti removal area would be bunded and any collected water would be managed appropriately to ensure the water from this bunded area does not enter the stormwater network and it is appropriately treated and disposed of.

The Proposal is unlikely to have an additional impact upon the local council stormwater network. The Proposal would be operating within the footprint of the existing maintenance centre and would not result in an increase of impermeable surfaces. As such there would not be a significant increase in stormwater run-off.

The wastewater treatment plant and associated Sydney Water TWA would be the responsibility of the Contractor for the TLS of the Proposal. The wastewater treatment plant would ensure the water being discharged from the Proposal site meets Sydney Water Operation of Mortdale Maintenance Facility Review of Environmental Factors – June 2017 59

standards. As a result of the wastewater treatment plant and associated TWA and appropriate control measures, no water quality impacts are anticipated as a result of the Proposal.

No major additional water uses would be required for the operation the Proposal.

No flooding or groundwater impacts onsite or to the surrounding area are anticipated as a result of the Proposal.



• The collected water from the external bunded area (for graffiti removal) would be managed to ensure any water from this bunded area does not enter the stormwater network and it is appropriately treated and disposed of in accordance with legislative requirements.

• The Contractor would obtain or transfer the Sydney Water TWA from Sydney Trains for the Proposal site prior to commencement of operations.


6.10 Air quality

Based on a review of the existing land uses surrounding the Proposal, the existing air quality is considered to be characteristic of an urban environment in Sydney. There are several sources that may be contributing to the air quality in the study area as discussed below.


The OEH monitor air quality across NSW. Ground-level ozone (a key component of photochemical smog which appears as white haze in summer) remains an issue for Sydney and concentrations generally continue to exceed national air quality standards on a number of days each year.

A search of the National Pollutant Inventory database 2014-2015 indicated that there are no industrial sources that have reported emissions in the 2223 postcode.

A number of non-industrial sources in the study area have the potential to influence the local air quality to varying degrees. These include:

• vehicle exhaust from the surrounding road network, with particular focus on vehicles on Hurstville/Boundary Road

• domestic solid fuel burning

• railways (diesel freight).

Potentially affected receivers within the vicinity of the site Proposal include local residents, businesses, community centres and schools surrounding the site.


The increased hours of operation for maintenance activities within the MMF would slightly increase use of plant and equipment over a 24-hour period, however the related plant and equipment emissions are anticipated to be negligible. There would also be a minor increase in the number of vehicles entering and exiting the site due to an increased number of workers on site, however this increase in local vehicle emissions is likely to be negligible and is not expected to have a significant impact on local air quality.




• Plant and machinery would be regularly checked and maintained in a proper and efficient condition

• Plant and machinery would be switched off when not in use, and not left idling.


6.11 Waste

Operation activities on site would generate the following waste:

• oil and lubricants

• packaging waste

• metals

• hazardous waste associated with spill management

• batteries and E-waste

• LED lights and glass

• recycled office waste

• general waste, including food and other wastes generated by staff onsite.



• Any hazardous waste must be stored in an environmentally safe manner pending removal to a licenced waste facility and must not come into contact with any incompatible waste.

• The Proponent shall ensure that any transport, handling and management of Hazardous Materials during operation does not result in a potentially hazardous storage environment or present a significant risk to human health, life or property, or the biophysical environment, consistent with State Environmental Planning Policy No. 33 - Hazardous and Offensive Development and associated guidelines.

• Waste generated as a result of the Proposal on the site would be assessed and classified in accordance with the Waste Classification Guidelines (EPA, 2014) prior to disposal. Waste must be:

o transported only to a controlled waste facility, or to a waste facility that can lawfully receive that waste; or

o recovered in accordance with the EPA's Waste Recovery Exemptions.


6.12 Cumulative impacts

In accordance with clause 82 of the EP&A Regulation, any cumulative environmental effects of the Proposal associated with other existing and likely future activities must be taken into account in determining the potential impacts of the proposal on the environment.


Cumulative impacts occur when two or more projects are carried out concurrently and in close proximity to one another. The impacts may be caused by operational activities and can result in a greater impact to the surrounding area than would be expected if each project was undertaken in isolation. Multiple projects undertaken at a similar time/similar location may also lead to construction fatigue, particularly around noise, traffic and air quality impacts, if not appropriately managed.

A search of the Department of Planning and Environment’s Major Projects Register, Joint Regional Planning Panel Development and Planning Register, and Georges River Council Development Application Register on 2 May 2017 identified the following proposed projects in approximately a one kilometre radius of the Proposal:

• a proposed State Significant Development application for Mortdale Resource Recovery Centre approximately two kilometres north west of the Proposal

• a local development application for a new warehouse 1.7 kilometres north west of the Proposal

• a local development application for alterations and additions to a dwelling approximately one kilometre south west of the Proposal.

As this Proposal assesses the operation of the MMF, it is anticipated there would be no ongoing cumulative impacts with other nearby proposed or current developments.

6.13 Climate change and sustainability

6.13.1 Greenhouse gas emissions

The increased hours of operation for maintenance activities within the MMF would slightly increase use of plant and equipment over a 24-hour period, however the related emissions are anticipated to be negligible.

Due to the small scale of the Proposal and the limited potential for greenhouse gas emitting operational activities, it is considered that greenhouse gas emissions resulting from the Proposal would be negligible.

6.13.2 Climate change

The dynamic nature of our climate system indicates a need to focus attention on how to adapt to the changes in climate and understand the limitation of adaptation. The effects of climate on the Sydney region can be assessed in terms of weather changes, storm intensity, flooding and increased risk of fire.

Climate change could lead to an increase in the intensity of rainfall events, whereby the rainfall excepted to occur in a 100-year average recurrence interval flood event would occur more frequently. The Proposal is not located within a flood prone area and the site includes an existing stormwater drainage network which would ensure the Proposal would withstand the effects of increased rainfall events.

Climate change could lead to an increase in frequency and severity in bushfires. The Proposal is not situated on land mapped as bush fire prone, but would be equipped with appropriate fire protection measures.


7 Environmental management This chapter of the REF identifies how the environmental impacts of the Proposal would be managed through environmental management plans and mitigation measures. Section 7.2 lists the proposed mitigation measures for the Proposal to minimise the impacts of the Proposal identified in Chapter 6.

7.1 Environmental management plans

An Operational Environmental Management Plan (OEMP) for the Proposal would be prepared in accordance with the requirements of TfNSW’s Environmental Management System (EMS). The OEMP would provide a centralised mechanism through which all potential environmental impacts relevant to the Proposal would be managed, and outline a framework of procedures and controls for managing environmental impacts during operation.

The OEMP would incorporate as a minimum all environmental mitigation measures identified below in Section 7.2, any conditions from licences or approvals required by legislation, and a process for demonstrating compliance with such mitigation measures and conditions.

7.2 Mitigation measures

Mitigation measures for the Proposal are listed below in Table 9. These proposed measures would minimise the potential adverse impacts of the Proposal identified in Chapter 6 should the Proposal proceed.

Table 9 Proposed mitigation measures

No. Mitigation measure

General

1. Prior to the commencement of operation, all contractors would be inducted on the key project environmental risks, procedures, mitigation measures and conditions of approval.

2. Any modifications to the Proposal, if approved, would be subject to further assessment and approval by TfNSW. This assessment would need to demonstrate that any environmental impacts resulting from the modifications have been minimised.

3. An OEMP for the operational phase of the Maintenance Facility Site would be prepared by the Contractor in accordance with the relevant requirements of Guideline for Preparation of Environmental Management Plans, (Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Natural Resources, 2004) for approval by TfNSW.

Noise and vibration

4. A suitable Operational Noise and Vibration Management Plan (ONVMP) would be developed for the Proposal

5. Operational noise compliance monitoring at representative stages to validate predicted noise levels identified in the ONVMP would be undertaken

6. Higher noise emitting activities would be undertaken within the daytime period

7. Any maintenance outside of daytime hours would be undertaken within the maintenance shed



8. Train horn testing would be undertaken within the maintenance shed and during daytime hours where feasible and reasonable.

Traffic and site access

9. Parking requirements would be reviewed prior to commencement of operation ensuring adequate parking requirements are met within the vicinity of the site for an average day at maximum workforce.

10. A Green Travel Plan would be created to encourage operational staff to use public and active transport to the site.

Urban design, landscape and visual amenity

11. All permanent lighting would be designed and installed in accordance with the requirements of standards relevant to AS 4282 Controlling the Obtrusive Effects of Outdoor Lighting.

Indigenous heritage

12. In the event that any Aboriginal sites are identified or disturbed within the area of works, works within the immediate vicinity of the Aboriginal object would stop immediately and the Office of Environment and Heritage (OEH) would be contacted so that appropriate management strategies can be identified and followed in accordance with the TfNSW Unexpected Heritage Finds Guideline (TfNSW, 2015a). This protocol is to be included in the OEMP.

Non-Indigenous heritage

13. In the event that any potential archaeological ‘relics’ are identified or disturbed within the site during works, all work in the area shall cease and a qualified archaeologist is to be consulted to determine an appropriate course of action prior to the recommencement of work in the area of the ‘relic’ including whether the Heritage Division is to be contacted in agreement with TfNSW in accordance with the TfNSW Unexpected Heritage Finds Guideline (TfNSW, 2015a). This protocol is to be included the OEMP.

Socio-economic

14. A Community Liaison Plan would identify all potential stakeholders and the best practice methods for consultation with these groups

15. Feedback through the submissions process would be encouraged and opportunities and channels for the community and stakeholders to have input into the project would be provided.

Biodiversity

16. Declared noxious weeds identified within the Proposal area would be managed according to requirements under the Noxious Weeds Act 1993 and the TfNSW Weed Management and Disposal Guide (TfNSW, 2015c).

17. Separate approval would be required for the trimming, cutting, pruning or removal of trees or vegetation in accordance with TfNSW’s Vegetation Management (Protection and Removal) Guideline (TfNSW, 2015b).



Soils and water

18. Vehicles and machinery would be properly maintained and routinely inspected to minimise the risk of fuel/oil leaks.

19. All fuels, chemicals and hazardous liquids would be stored away from drainage lines, within an impervious bunded area in accordance with Australian Standards, EPA Guidelines and TfNSW’s Chemical Storage and Spill Response Guidelines (TfNSW, 2015d). Disposal of any such substances must involve suitable treatment or disposal on or offsite through an appropriately equipped and licenced facility.

20. In the event of a pollution incident, works would cease in the immediate vicinity and the Contractor would immediately notify the TfNSW Project Manager and TfNSW Environment and Planning Manager. The EPA would be notified by TfNSW if required, in accordance with Part 5.7 of the PoEO Act.

21. The collected water from the external bunded area (for graffiti removal) would be managed to ensure any water from this bunded area does not enter the stormwater network and it is appropriately treated and disposed of in accordance with legislative requirements.

22. The Contractor would obtain or transfer the Sydney Water TWA from Sydney Trains for the Proposal site prior to commencement of operations.

Air quality

23. Plant and machinery would be regularly checked and maintained in a proper and efficient condition.

24. Plant and machinery would be switched off when not in use, and not left idling.

Waste

25. Any hazardous waste must be stored in an environmentally safe manner pending removal to a licenced waste facility and must not come into contact with any incompatible waste.

26. The Proponent shall ensure that any transport, handling and management of Hazardous Materials during operation does not result in a potentially hazardous storage environment or present a significant risk to human health, life or property, or the biophysical environment, consistent with State Environmental Planning Policy No. 33 - Hazardous and Offensive Development and associated guidelines.

27. Waste generated as a result of the Proposal on the site would be assessed and classified in accordance with the Waste Classification Guidelines (EPA, 2014) prior to disposal. Waste must be:

• transported only to a controlled waste facility, or to a waste facility that can lawfully receive that waste; or

• recovered in accordance with the EPA's Waste Recovery Exemptions.


8 Conclusion This REF has been prepared in accordance with the provisions of section 111 of the EP&A Act, taking into account to the fullest extent possible, all matters affecting or likely to affect the environment as a result of the Proposal.

The Proposal would provide the following benefits:

• maintenance of 24 new double-deck trains


The likely key impacts of the Proposal are as follows:

• increased operational noise within evening and night time periods (however within EPA INP noise emission criteria for all periods with implementation of appropriate mitigation measures)

• reduction in on-street parking capacity in the vicinity of the MMF.

This REF has considered and assessed these impacts in accordance with clause 228 of the EP&A Regulation and the requirements of the EPBC Act (refer to Chapter 6, Appendix A and Appendix B). Based on the assessment contained in this REF, it is considered that the Proposal is not likely to have a significant impact upon the environment or any threatened species, populations or communities. Accordingly an EIS is not required, nor is the approval of the Minister for Planning.

The Proposal would also take into account the principles of ESD (refer to Section 3.1.4). These would be considered during the operational phase of the Proposal. This would ensure the Proposal is delivered to maximum benefit to the community, is cost effective and minimises any adverse impacts on the environment.


References Acoustic Dynamics, 2017, Operational Noise and Vibration Assessment

Artefact, 2017, Mortdale Maintenance Facility Aboriginal and Non-Aboriginal Heritage Impact Assessment Report

Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Natural Resources, 2004, Guideline for Preparation of Environmental Management Plans, Sydney

Department of Planning and Environment, 2014, A Plan for Growing Sydney, Sydney

EPA, 2000, NSW Industrial Noise Policy, Sydney

EPA, 2014, Waste Classification Guidelines, Sydney

NSW Government, 2014, Rebuilding NSW - State Infrastructure Strategy 2014, Sydney

NSW Government, 2015, State Priorities – NSW: Making It Happen, Sydney

OEH, 2011, Guidelines for Consultants Reporting on Contaminated Sites, Sydney

TfNSW, 2012, NSW Long Term Transport Master Plan, Sydney

TfNSW, 2015a, Unexpected Heritage Finds Guideline, Sydney

TfNSW, 2015b, Vegetation Management (Protection and Removal) Guideline, Sydney

TfNSW, 2015c, Weed Management and Disposal Guide, Sydney

TfNSW, 2015d, Chemical Storage and Spill Response Guidelines, Sydney

TfNSW, 2017, Mortdale Maintenance Facility Construction Planning Approval (unpublished)


Appendix A Consideration of matters of National Environmental Significance

The table below demonstrates TfNSW’s consideration of the matters of NES under the EPBC Act to be considered in order to determine whether the Proposal should be referred to Commonwealth Department of the Environment.

Matters of NES Impacts

Any impact on a World Heritage property? Nil

Any impact on a National Heritage place?

Nil

Any impact on a wetland of international importance?

Nil

Any impact on a listed threatened species or communities?

Nil

Any impacts on listed migratory species?

Nil

Does the Proposal involve a nuclear action (including uranium mining)?

Nil

Any impact on a Commonwealth marine area?

Nil

Does the Proposal involve development of coal seam gas and/or large coal mine that has the potential to impact on water resources?

Nil

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

Nil


Appendix B Consideration of clause 228 The table below demonstrates TfNSW’s consideration of the specific factors of clause 228 of the EP&A Regulation in determining whether the Proposal would have a significant impact on the environment.

Factor Impacts

(a) Any environmental impact on a community? The use of the Proposal site during 24 hour a day/ seven days a week operating hours for maintenance is likely to contribute to the surrounding noise environment. An assessment of the proposed operations was undertaken to determine the noise emission levels at the nearest sensitive receivers. The measurement results and calculation results indicate that noise emission levels resulting from many sources associated with the Proposal are all below the EPA INP noise emission criteria for all times. There may be a minor reduction of on-street parking capacity on Hurstville Road as a result of the Proposal however this is not considered to have a significant impact to local parking for the surrounding area.

Minor

(b) Any transformation of a locality? The Proposal would not transform the locality as the site would remain as the existing land use of a rail stabling and maintenance centre/facility.

Nil

(c) Any environmental impact on the ecosystem of the locality? The Proposal would not result in the removal of any vegetation, therefore there would be no environmental impact on the ecosystem of the locality.

Nil

(d) Any reduction of the aesthetic, recreational, scientific or other environmental quality or value of a locality? As the Proposal would not change the existing land use of the site or remove any vegetation, there would be no reduction of the aesthetic, recreational, scientific or other environmental quality or value of the locality.

Nil

(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 or future generations? The MMC has been assessed as having local heritage significance for its association with the Bradfield Electrification plan in mid-1920s which established the car sheds as the first of its kind on a suburban line. The structure of the MMC has undergone significant redevelopment throughout its history. There is little to no original fabric left within the structure due to a series of modifications and additions. The Proposal has been assessed as having nil potential to impact the aesthetic heritage significance of the MMC. The Proposal is considered to have a minor positive impact on the historical heritage significance of the centre as the operation of the site will ensure the continued operation of the car sheds, which have maintained their existing use for nearly 90 years.

Minor positive


Factor Impacts

(f) Any impact on the habitat of protected fauna (within the meaning of the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974)? The Proposal would not result in the removal of any vegetation, therefore there would be no impact on the habitat of protected fauna.

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 Proposal would not result in the removal of any vegetation or undertake any other activity that would endanger any species.

Nil

(h) Any long-term effects on the environment? The Proposal is unlikely to have any long term effects on the environment.

Nil

(i) Any degradation of the quality of the environment? During operation, there is potential for a minor increase in noise levels to be experienced by nearby residents, however these noise levels would be below EPA noise criteria levels for all times. Appropriate mitigation measures would be implemented to minimise noise impacts.

Minor

(j) Any risk to the safety of the environment? The Proposal is unlikely to cause any pollution or safety risks to the environment provided the recommended mitigation measures are implemented.

Nil

(k) Any reduction in the range of beneficial uses of the environment? The Proposal is unlikely to have any reduction in the range of beneficial uses of the environment.

Nil

(l) Any pollution of the environment? An increase in operational noise has been predicted for the Proposal, however, these impacts are expected to be below EPA noise criteria levels and managed with the implementation of appropriate mitigation measures. The Proposal is unlikely to cause any pollution to the environment provided the recommended mitigation measures are implemented.

Minor

(m) Any environmental problems associated with the disposal of waste? The Proposal is unlikely to cause any environmental problems associated with the disposal of waste. All waste would be managed and disposed of with a site-specific Waste Management Plan. Mitigation measures would be implemented to ensure waste is reduced, reused or recycled where practicable.

Nil

(n) Any increased demands on resources (natural or otherwise) that are, or are likely to become, in short supply? The Proposal is unlikely to increase demands on resources that are or are likely to become in short supply.

Nil

(o) Any cumulative environmental effect with other existing or likely future activities? Cumulative effects of the Proposal are described in Section 6.12. The Proposal is unlikely to have any cumulative adverse long term impacts.

Nil


Factor Impacts

(p) Any impact on coastal processes and coastal hazards, including those under projected climate change conditions? The Proposal would not affect or be affected by any coastal processes or hazards.

Nil


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