FAQs
Has there been a change to the 2020 Masterplan to accommodate these embellishment works?
The proposed embellishment works are consistent with the vision and objectives of the Fred Caterson Reserve Master Plan (2020).
A Master Plan is a dynamic, long-term strategic document that sets a conceptual framework to guide future investment and development. As such, it is subject to ongoing review and further design development to ensure its deliverability.
Within the constraints of the project budget, the appointed consultant team has reviewed the Master Plan layout and undertaken additional site analysis. This process has led to a refinement of certain elements of the concept design, and a reinterpretation of how some components are delivered, while still aligning with the overall intent of the adopted Master Plan.
What is the purpose of the Biodiversity Constraints Assessment (BCA)?
The Biodiversity Constraints Assessment, prepared by Biosis Pty Ltd, identifies biodiversity constraints within the study area, including any threatened entities listed under the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 [EPBC Act] and the NSW Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 [BC Act].
The report also outlines further assessments required for the project to progress and provides preliminary recommendations to help Council avoid and minimise impacts on biodiversity values, consistent with the biodiversity mitigation hierarchy.
Will the works comply with the recommendations of the Biodiversity Constraints Assessment (BCA) report?
The proposed works have been reviewed against the recommendations of the Biodiversity Constraints Assessment to ensure consistency with its findings. The project design will be refined to avoid and minimise impacts on biodiversity values wherever possible, in line with the biodiversity mitigation hierarchy.
Where the BCA has identified the need for further assessments or approvals, these requirements will be addressed as part of the project’s ongoing design and approval processes. This approach ensures that the works are delivered in accordance with the intent of the BCA and relevant biodiversity legislation.
Will any trees be removed as part of the new loop path around the fields?
No existing trees are proposed for removal in the current design scheme.
What is the proposed alignment of the new loop path?
The concept design proposes that the loop path be aligned along the perimeter fencing of Fields 2 and 3. This alignment has been selected to minimise impacts on biodiversity values within the project site. The proposed alignment is illustrated in Section 3 (p.7) of the concept design pack available for download.
How will trees be protected during construction works?
Tree protection measures will be determined through a Review of Environmental Factors (REF) once the project design is complete. These measures will also be documented in a Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP), which will be implemented by the appointed construction contractor during project delivery and will allow for the auditing of compliance of the construction works.
Will there be any impacts on the mapped nesting sites?
The current proposed development footprint will result in only minor encroachment along the perimeter of the identified high constraint area. As no existing trees are proposed for removal, hollow-bearing trees and associated nesting opportunities as identified in the Biodiversity Constraints Assessment (BCA) Report will not be directly disturbed.
Potential indirect impacts, such as construction noise, are unlikely to adversely affect the mapped potential nesting sites. Safeguards, such as no-go zones around retained vegetation, are likely to be implemented to ensure these features are not impacted by future works.