lot 408 yallambie road myrup esperance · cc – justin page whelans, steve mcwhirter . 55...

55 Peppermint Drive Albany WA 6330 www.biodiversesolutions.com.au

55 Peppermint Drive Albany WA 6330

9841 3936/ 0447 555 516 [email protected]

ABN 48 138 824 272

24th January 2010 Richard Hindley Manager of Planning Shire of Esperance PO Box 507 Esperance WA 6450

Lot 408 Yallambie Road Myrup Esperance

Dear Richard, I refer to your correspondence to Whelans “Lot 408 (26) Yallambie Road Myrup – Proposed LPS 23 Scheme Amendment 4 Comments” dot point number 13 Technical Buffer Assessment. The Holcim Pit to the north is a “Prescribed Premises” under the EPA Act 1986 and has a license issued by the DEC in 2010. The assessment made by the DEC was that there was adequate separation from the Holcim operations to sensitive receptors (500m). On the 23rd January 2010 this matter was referred verbally to the DEC Albany Regional Office Caren Goodburn, which she confirmed that the Holcim Pit location conforms to the EPA Guidance Statement No.3 and is licensed. As the proposed subdivision (closest) house is >500m away (please refer to mapping attached), there is no need for a Technical Buffer Assessment. The disused Shire pits located due north of lot 408 Yallambie Road are not “Prescribed Premises” under the EPA Act 1986 and would need to be licensed to undertake operations consistent with Quarrying (crushing, blasting, screening etc) and would need to be formally assessed by the DEC should these operations be proposed. I therefore conclude that based on the information from the DEC, the attached mapping and the Holcim License (L8463/2010/1) that a Technical Buffer Assessment is not required for Lot 408 Yallambie Road as this proposed subdivision is outside of the buffer requirements as required by the EPA Act 1986 (>500m). If you have any queries regarding this matter, please feel free to contact Caren Goodburn (DEC) or myself to discus via email on [email protected] or phone/fax on 9841 3936 or 0447 555 516. Kind regards,

Kathryn Kinnear Director, Environmental Consultant Bio Diverse Solutions Albany CC – Justin Page Whelans, Steve McWhirter

mailto:[email protected]

55 Peppermint Drive Albany WA 6330 www.biodiversesolutions.com.au

Government of Western Austra lia Department of Environment and Conservation

The Manager Holcim (Australia) Pty Ltd 18 Brodie Hall Drive Bently WA 6102

Dear Sir/Madam

Environmental Protection Act 1986 Licence L8463/2010/1 Occupier: Holcim (Australia) Pty Ltd Premises: Holcim (Australia) Esperance Quarry

Your ref:

Our ref:

Enquiries:

L8463/2010/1

2010/006183-1

Nicole Dwyer

Phone: 9842 4553

Fax: 98417105

Email: [email protected]

You are hereby advised that a licence under the Environmental Protection Act 1986 (the Act) has been granted for the above premises. The Department of Environment and Conservation will advertise the issuing of this licence in the public notices section of The West Australian newspaper.

The licence is subject to the attached conditions. Under section 58 of the Act, it is an offence to contravene a licence condition. This offence carries a penalty of up to $125,000, with a daily penalty of up to $25,000.

In accordance with section 102(1)(c) of the Act, you are afforded 21 days to appeal the conditions of the licence. Under section 102(3)(a) of the Act, any other person may also appeal the conditions of the licence.

To make an appeal or check if any appeals have been made, contact the Office of the Appeals Convenor on 6467 5190. Please direct all other inquiries to the Licensing Officer above.

Peter Vasel Manager, Works Approvals and Emissions Licensing Section

Friday, 17 September 2010

enc: Environmental Protection Act 1986 Licence 8463/2010/1 copy to : Local Government Authority: Shire of Esperance

Stakeholders

DIRECTOR GENERAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES DIVISIONS: The Atrium. 168 St Georges Terrace. Perth, Western Austra lia 6000

Phone: (08) 6467 5000 Fax: (08) 6467 5562 TTY: 1880555630

PARKS AND CONSERVATION SERVICES DIVISIONS: Executive: Corner of Australia II Drive and Hackett Drive, Crawley, Western Australia 6009

Phone: (08) 9442 0300 Fax: (08) 9386 1578 Operations: 17 Dick Perry Avenue, Technology Park, Kensington, Western Australia 6151

Phone: (08) 9219 8000 Fax: (08) 9334 0498 TTY: 9334 0546

POSTAL ADDRESS FOR ALL DIVISIONS: Locked Bag 104, Bentley Delivery Centre, Western Austra lia 6983

www.dec.wa.gov.au

wa.gov.au

~ Government of Western Australia ~ Department of Environment and Conservation

LICENCE FOR PRESCRIBED PREMISES Environmental Protection Act 1986

LICENCE NUMBER: L8463/2010/1 FILE NUMBER: 20101006183-1

LICENSEE AND OCCUPIER OF PREMISES Holcim (Australia) Pty Ltd 18 Brodie Hall Drive BENTLEY, WA, 6102 ACN: 099732297

NAME AND LOCATION OF PREMISES Holcim Esperance Quarry Part Lot 835 on Plan 230232, Quarry Road, Coramup Hill ESPERANCE, WA, 6450

PRESCRIBED PREMISES CATEGORY Schedule 1 of the Environmental Protection Regulations 1987

CATEGORY DESCRIPTION

Screening, etc. of material: premises (other than

12 premises within category 5 or 8) on which material extracted from the ground is screened, washed, crushed, ground, milled, sized or separated.

CONDITIONS OF LICENCE Subject to the condi ions of licence set out in the attached pages.

Off cer delegated under Section 20 of the Environmental Protection Act 1986

ISSUE DATE Friday, 17 September 2010

COMMENCEMENT DATE: Monday, 20 September 2010

EXPIRY DATE: Saturday, 19 September 2015

CAPACITY

More than 50 000 but not more than 100 000 tonnes per year

Page 1 of 7

CONDITIONS OF LICENCE Environmental Protection Act 1986

LICENCE NUMBER: L8463/2010/1 FILE NUMBER: 2010/006183-1

DEFINITIONS

In these conditions of licence, unless inconsistent with the text or subject matter:

'Coramup Creek' means the creek which flows through the premises as depicted in Attachment 2' ,

'Director' means the Director of the Environmental Regulation Division of the Department of Environment and Conservation for and on behalf of the Chief Executive Officer as delegated under Section 20 of the Environmental Protection Act 1986;

'Director' or 'Department of Environment and Conservation' for the purposes of correspondence means

Regional Manager, South Coast Region Department of Environment and Conservation 120 Albany Highway Telephone: 98424500 ALBANY WA 6330 Facsimile: 9841 7105

Emergency: 1300 784 782;

'Native Vegetation' means the naturally occurring vegetation adjoining Coramup Creek; and

'premises' means Part Lot 835 on Plan 230232, Quarry Road as depicted in Attachment 2.

EMISSIONS TO AIR

CONTROL OF DUST

1 The licensee shall take measures to prevent the generation of airborne particulates (including dust) to ensure that no visible dust is discharged beyond the premises boundary.

2 The licensee shall ensure the measures required by Condition 1 include, but are not limited to, the following:

(i) use of water sprays, dust collection systems, coverings on conveyors and transfer points from the materials handling and plant operations;

(ii) sealing of access roads, load-out and turn around areas; (iii) use of water trucks to wet trafficable areas; (iv) use of water sprays, sprinklers or cannons, onto working and non-working

faces of stockpiles; and (v) routine maintenance and housekeeping practices to ensure no accumulation

of waste materials in or around the Premises.

ISSUE DATE: Friday, 17 September 2010 Page 2 of 7

CONDITIONS OF LICENCE Environmental Protection Act 1986


DISCHARGES TO WATER

STORMWATER MANAGEMENT

3 The licensee shall direct stormwater away from operational areas.

4 The licensee shall direct all stormwater from around the crushing plant to the wastewater treatment dam.

5 The licensee shall ensure wastewater and sediments are not discharged or allowed to be discharged:

(i) beyond the premises boundary; (ii) into Coramup Creek; and (iii) into areas containing Native Vegetation.

REPORTING CONDITIONS

ANNUAL ENVIRONMENTAL REPORT

6 The licensee shall by 31 October in each year the site is operational, provide to the Director an Annual Environmental Report containing data collected during the period beginning 1 October the previous year and ending on 30 September in that year. The report shall include, but not be limited to, the following:

(i) the monthly quantity of raw material mined (in tonnes); (ii) any changes to site layout; (iii) measures taken to suppress dust; (iv) measures taken to minimise noise; and (v) the number and type of complaints received including nature of complaint

(where appropriate cross referenced with prevailing wind directions) and action taken.

ANNUAL AUDIT COMPLIANCE REPORT

7 The licensee shall by 31 October in each year, provide to the Director an annual audit compliance report in the form in Attachment 1 to this licence, signed and certified in the manner required by Section C of the form, indicating the extent to which the licensee has complied with the conditions of this licence, and any previous licence issued under Part V of the Act for the Premises, during the period beginning 1 October the previous year and ending on 30 September in that year.


ATTACHMENT 1 - ANNUAL AUDIT COMPLIANCE REPORT


SECTION A

LICENCE DETAILS

Licence Number: Licence File Number:

Company Name: ABN:

Trading as:

Reporting period: to

STATEMENT OF COMPLIANCE WITH LICENCE CONDITIONS

1. Were all conditions of licence complied with within the reporting period? (please tick the appropriate box)

Yes 0 Please proceed to Section C No 0 Please proceed to Section B

Each page must be initialed by the person(s) who signs Section C of this annual audit compliance report.

I NITIAL: _____ _




SECTION B - DETAILS OF NON-COMPLIANCE WITH LICENCE CONDITION. PI f ease use a separate paQe or eac hi' I d 'h Icence condition that was not complie Wit.

a) Licence condition not COmplied with?

b) Date(s} when the noncompliance occurred, ifapplicable?

c) Was this non compliance reported to DEC?

DYes o Reported to DEC verbally Date DNo

o Reported to DEC in writing Date

d) Has DEC taken, or finalised any action in relation to the non compliance'?

e) Summary of particulars of non compliance, and what was the environmental impact?

f) If relevant, the precise location where the non compliance occurred (attach map or diagram)

g) Cause· of non compliance

h)Action takenoqhat will be taken to mitigClte any adverse effects of the non compliance

i) Action taken or that wi'l be taken to prevent recurrence of the non compliance

Each page must be initialed by the person(s) who signs Section C of this annual audit compliance report

INITIAL: _____ _




SECTION C - SIGNATURE AND CERTIFICATION

This Annual Audit Compliance Report may only be signed by a person(s) with legal authority to sign it. The ways in which the Annual Audit Compliance Report must be signed and certified, and the people who may sign the statement, are set out below.

Please tick the box next to the category that describes how this Annual Audit Compliance Report is being signed. If you are uncertain about who is entitled to sign or which category to tick, please contact the licensing officer for your premises.

If the licence holder is The Annual Audit Compliance Report must be signed and certified:

0 by the individual licence holder, or an individual

0 by a person approved in writing by the Chief Executive Officer of the Department of Environment and Conservation to siQn on the licensee's behalf.

A firm or other 0 by the principal executive officer of the licensee; or unincorporated company 0 by a person with authority to sign on the licensee's behalf who is approved in writing by

the Chief Executive Officer of the Department of Environment and Conservation.

0 by affixing the common seal of the licensee in accordance with the Corporations Act 2001; or

0 by two directors of the licensee; or

0 by a director and a company secretary of the licensee, or A corporation

0 if the licensee is a proprietary company that has a sole director who is also the sole company secretary - by that director, or

0 by the principal executive officer of the licensee; or

0 by a person with authority to sign on the licensee's behalf who is approved in writing by the Chief Executive Officer of the Department of Environment and Conservation.

A public authority 0 by the principal executive officer of the licensee; or (other than a local government) 0 by a person with authority to sign on the licensee's behalf who is approved in writing

by the Chief Executive Officer of the Department of Environment and Conservation.

a local government 0 by the chief executive officer of the licensee; or

0 by affixing the seal of the local government.

It is an offence under section 112 of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 for a person to give information on this form that to their knowledge is false or misleading in a material particular. There is a maximum penalty of $50,000 for an individual or body corporate.

l!We declare that the information in this annual audit compliance report is correct and not false or misleading in a material particular.

SIGNATURE: __________ _ SIGNATURE: __________ _

NAME: (printed) __________ _ NAME: (printed) ____________ _

POSITION: ___________ _ POSITION: ___________ _

DATE: ____ ~ ___ ~ _________ _ DATE: _______ ---' ___ .1 __________ _

SEAL (if signing under seal)


ATTACHMENT 2 - PLAN OF PREMISES


Holcim Esperance Quarry

Part Lot 835 on Plan 230232, Quarry Road, Coramup Hill, ESPERANCE

lITE NAP

15 Ooto!Jo< 2009

"""or: C)'G 0lI1<0: .....,.WA .-\.I -o COftouratwvll: Sm

::I: _: 1: • • OOO!Al)

3Qg.lIOOmE 3Qg.800mE ~OO.400mE



ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT REPORT

LICENCE NUMBER: L8463/2010/1 LICENCE FILE NUMBER: 2010/006183·1 APPLICATION DATE: 3 August 2010 EXPIRY DATE: 19 September 2015

PREMISES DETAILS

LICENSEE HOLDER AND OCCUPIER Holcim (Australia) Pty Ltd 18 Brodie Hall Drive BENTLEY, WA, 6102 ACN: 099732297

PREMISES Holcim Esperance Quarry Part Lot 835 on Plan 230232, Quarry Road, Coramup Hill ESPERANCE, WA, 6450

PRESCRIBED PREMISES CATEGORY

Table 1: Prescribed Premises Category from Schedule 1 of the Environmental Protection Regulations 1987 ' Category Category Description* Category Nominated number* Production or Premises

Design Throughput# Capacity*

12 Screening, etc. of More than 50 (current) material : premises 000 but not 60,000 tonnes

(other than premises more than 100 per year

within category 5 or 8) 000 tonnes per

on which material year

extracted from the ground is screened, washed, crushed, ground, milled, sized or separated.

* From Schedule 4 of the EnVIronmental ProtectIon RegulatIons 1987 # From application

Premises Capacity#

100,000 tonnes per year

This Environmental Assessment Report (EAR) has been drafted for the purposes of detailing information on the management and mitigation of emissions and discharges from the prescribed premises. The objective of the EAR is to provide a risk assessment of emissions and discharges, and information on the management of other activities occurring onsite which are not related to the control of emissions and discharges from the prescribed premises activity. This does not restrict the Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC) to assessing only those emissions and discharges generated from the activitie~ that cause the premises to become prescribed premises.

Basis of Assessment The Esperance Quarry, which has been assessed as a "prescribed premises" under category number 12, within Schedule 1 of the Environmental Protection Regulations 1987.

Page 1 of 13



"Screening etc. of material: premises (other than premises within category 5 or 8) on which material extracted from the ground is screened, washed, crushed, ground, milled, sized or separated" .

The Esperance Quarry uses drilling and blasting techniques to extract rock material from their quarry. This material is crushed, screened and stockpiled for purchase and distribution. The operation has a nominated rate of throughput for the premises of not more than 100,000 tonnes of screened material per year.

1.0 BACKGROUND

1.1 GENERAL COMPANY DESCRIPTION Holcim (Australia) Pty Ltd owns and operates The Esperance Quarry located 10.5 kilometers north of Esperance. The quarry is located in gneissic granite and provides aggregate to the Esperance region. Current quarrying rates are approximately 60,000 tonne per annum. The quarry has been in operation for more than 50 years. Quarrying commenced at the site in 1963 and CSR Readymix eventually established the quarry however operated on a cyclic basis only. Periodically, a mobile crushing and screening plant was transported to the site every 2-3 years. The crushing plant operated during the drier months using a mobile crew. Once sufficient material was stockpiled, the quarry would cease operations.

The quarry was initially developed on the north western side of Coramup Hill with a single bench and has gradually progressed westwards into the granite ridge, culminating in a second bench. Topsoil/overburden stripped in advance of quarrying activities has always been limited in areas to only encompass immediate processing campaigns.

In the earlier days, the crushing and screening plant was located within the quarry floor for direct processing, but more recently the plant is based immediately north of the quarry adjacent to the product stockpiles.

1.2 LOCATION OF PREMISES The quarry is situated on private land owned by the Durdin family (see Figure 1). The land has been in the family since the mid 1960s. Holcim has a lease agreement with the Durdin family to access a portion of Lot 835 for the purpose of extraction, valid until 30 June 2012. A copy of the lease was supplied to DEC and has been placed on file.

The current quarry and future development area to be cleared overlies the unconfined Bremer East Fractured Rock Aquifer (DoW 2008b). The lithology is gneiss and migmatite. The underlying aquifer is composed of basement rocks, with groundwater contained within rock fractures and sandy sections of the weathered profile (DoW 2007). Gneiss rocks have very sparse joints and fractures, and often the fractures are filled with low-permeability clays. Water yield from aquifers of this type is generally low. There is no superficial or sedimentary aquifer overlying the fractured rock aquifer in the development area (DoW 2008b).

Mattiske Consulting Pty Ltd (Mattiske) undertook a flora and vegetation survey of the area in December 2007. An additional flora and vegetation survey was conducted in October 2008 to take advantage of spring rainfall and the subsequent flowering of annual vegetation to identify any species that were not located during the survey in December 2007.

A total of 127 taxa were identified in the study area. The dominant families represented were Myrtaceae, Poaceae, Proteaceae, Papilionaceae and Asteraceae. No Declared Rare Flora were located during the two surveys undertaken by Mattiske and no Priority Flora were

Page2of13

~ Government of Western Australia -W- Department of Environment and Conservation


located within the proposed area to be cleared. One Priority 3 species (Astroloma microphyl/um) was found at a location approximately 25 metres to the east of the future development area. Eight introduced species were identified , including Pe/argonium capita tum and Briza maxima, which can be serious environmental weeds if not managed (Mattiske 2008b).

Two range extensions were identified: Eucalyptus macrandra and Drosera platystigma. E. macrandra was found during the December 2007 survey inside the northern end of the future development area. No Threatened Ecological Communities or Priority Ecological Communities were identified (Mattiske 2008b). Two of the vegetation communities mapped contained some species in common with Priority Ecological Communities in the Esperance Region (Mattiske 2008b).

Page 3 of 13

Government of Western Australia Department of Environment and Conservation

om,,: IIefttIey, WA

Figure 1: Aerial view of the Esperance Quarry,


II PropoMCIon'IttArIl L--.J (II1bgoIIcIn ... .....,

r - • ...... ..-y __ J

D UmllorElll...tlon

Page 4 of 13


1.3 PROCESS DESCRIPTION


A crushing and screening plant is used to process the raw material that is extracted at the Esperance Quarry.

The operations at the quarry are broken down into six stages, listed below: 1. vegetation clearing and overburden removal; 2. drilling and blasting; 3. loading and haulage; 4. crushing and screening; 5. stockpiling and load out; and 6. weighbridge and distribution.

Other activities on site are those under the extractive industry licence and activities under the Native Vegetation Clearing Permit (3015/1).

Holcim currently extracts approximately 3000kL of water per year from Coramup Creek for use in the quarry operations. This water is used to wash the quarry product during the crushing and screening process. Once the water has passed through the final product screen it falls through a pipe with a 3mm aperture screen cloth and is discharged into a concrete pond. Heavier material settles in the pond which is cleaned during shifts with a front end loader. This material is stockpiled and blended back into the scalps material. Wastewater passes from the concrete pond to a second concrete pond which is deeper and allows the fine material in the water to settle. This material is removed routinely during shifts and again stockpiled until it is dry. The material is used to patch holes in roads and is also blended with scalp products. An outlet pipe in the second concrete pond allows water to flow through a drain, lined with leech drain material to a final holding dam. The water in the holding dam allows the remaining fines to settle again and water from the dam is recycled through the plant. Prior to each crushing campaign the fine material in this dam is cleaned out and stockpiled and eventually put back through the plant during production to be blended with scalps material.

1.4 REGULATORY CONTEXT

1.4.1 Part V Environmental Protection Act 1986, Environmental Management Previously the mobile plant used for crushing and screening of gneissic granite from Esperance Quarry was licensed under the Environmental Protection Act 1986, licence number L4742/9, however DEC now regulates the "premises" on which the activity is being undertaken.

Holcim's Esperance Quarry has been assessed as a "prescribed premises", category number 12 under Schedule 1 of the Environmental Protection Regulations 1987. The proposal requires a licence to operate.

Other legislation administered by DEC relevant to the quarry includes:

o Environmental Protection Act 1986; o Environmental Protection Regulations 1987; o Environmental Protection (Noise) Regulations 1997; o Environmental Protection (Unauthorised Discharges) Regulations 2004; and o Environmental Protection (Clearing of Native Vegetation) Regulations 2004.

Page 5 of 13

~ Government of Western Australia ..m,.. Department of Environment and Conservation

1.4.3 Other Decision Making Authorities' Legislation which applies


The Esperance Quarry will be regulated by Department of Mines and Petroleum (DMP) under the following legislation: • The Dangerous Goods Safety Act 2004; • Dangerous Goods Safety Regulations (General) 2007; • Dangerous Goods Safety (Explosives) Regulations 2007; • Dangerous Goods Safety (Storage and Handling of Non-Explosives) Regulations 2007; • Mines Safety and Inspection Act 1994; and • Mines Safety and Inspection Regulations 1995.

A Dangerous Goods Site Licence may be required for the site. An Explosives Storage Licence will be required if explosives other than those exempt from licences are stored on the site.

Department of Commerce (DoC) The storage of chemicals, explosives and dangerous goods on site is regulated under the following DoC legislation: • Occupational Safety and Health Act 1984; and • Occupational Safety and Health Regulations 1996.

1.4.4 Rights in Water Irrigation Act 1914 No licence is required for the use of the volume of water from Coramup Creek. Esperance Quarry is not in a proclaimed surface water management area under the Rights in Water and Irrigation Act 1914. Water can be taken from watercourses in non-proclaimed areas without a licence to take water, provided the volume of water taken does not appreciably diminish the flow and affect the rights of downstream users.

1.4.5 Local Government Authority The local government authority is the Shire of Esperance. Holcim hold an extractive industry licence with the Shire.

2.0 STAKEHOLDER AND COMMUNITY CONSULTATION

SUBMISSIONS RECEIVED DURING 21 DAY PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD The Application for Licence details for this facility was advertised in the West Australian newspaper on 23 August 2010 as a means of advising stakeholders and to seek public comments. No submissions were received in response to advertising.

3.0 EMISSIONS AND DISCHARGES RISK ASSESSMENT DEC considers that conditions should focus on regulating emissions and discharges of significance. Where appropriate, emissions and discharges which are not significant should be managed and regulated by other legislative tools or management mechanisms.

The following section assesses the environmental risk of potential emissions from the Esperance Quarry. In order to determine the site's appropriate environmental regulation, an emissions and discharges risk assessment was conducted of the Esperance Quarry using the environmental risk matrix outlined in Appendix B. The results of this are summarised in Table 2.

Page 6 of 13

Risk factor

Air emissions point source)



a e IS T bl 2 R' k assessmen t d an re I t gu a ory response summar: t bl " a e. Significance of emissions Socio-Political Risk DEC Regulation (EP Other management

Context of Each Assessment Act - Part V) (Iegislation,tools,agen Regulated cies) Emission

NfA. NfA NfA NfA General provisions of the No point source air emissions Environmental Protection are produced. Act 1986.

Page 7 of 13

Dust emissions

Odour emissions


3. The crushing and screening of 1. Majority of 0- no granite and movement of vehicles surrounding land is regulations,

has the potential to generate dust in farms. No public other he form of fugitive emissions from concerns raised. management

he plant. Esperance Quarry is run mechanisms. as a wet plant to reduce dust. The processing

plant is

Esperance Quarry operations have approximately 1km from the nearest

'dentified the following activities as neighbours and equiring management of dust approximately 200m

emissions: north of Coramup physical disturbance of land Creek.

surfaces (during clearing, topsoil EPA Guidance and overburden removal); Statement No. 3 for drilling and blasting; this activity is 500m

vehicle movement (on unsealed from nearest

oads and movement of heavy sensitive receptor.

)/ehicles with uncovered loads);

crushing and screening; and wind erosion (of dry exposed

surfaces such as open pit areas, stockpiles and unsealed roads).

n-he potential for dust generation ncreases in the drier summer ~onths as dry soil is less cohesive.

~itigating management actions to ~ontrol dust include:

water trucks used in the plant area, adjacent raw feed stockpiles, quarry haul roads, and overburden stripping; the contrast blast hole drill has a

dust extractor and suppression system extractor and the dust suppression system is fitted for dust control;

wet screening of aggregates; progressive rehabilitation of spoil dumps and bunds with vegetation stabilisation to curtail airborne dust from unconsolidated materials; -water sprays on : the primary hopper; conveyors 1, 2, 3, & 5; Screen 3; and Crusher 2;

crushing and screening does not occur if conditions are windy; and a sprinkler system is erected along haul roads in the drier months when material is being transported from the quarry.

Dust management of stockpiles

All aggregate produced is washed o remove dust prior to being ~tockpiled . The dust and scalps f,vhich are produced have water ~prays and sprinklers fitted above ~o that continuous water is running bver them before they are moved 'nto a more permanent stockpile area . When the plant is producing, water trucks are on site to actively manage any dust issues that may arise.

N/A. N/A. N/A. There are no odour emissions


LlC - standard dust General provisions of prevention conditions. the Environmental

Protection Act 1986.

N/A. General provisions of the Environmental Protection Act 1986.

Page 8 of 13

Discharges to water

Discharges to land

Solid I liquid wastes


1. 1. D-no No discharges to water during Majority of regulations, crushing and screening surrounding land is other operations. However, fann . No public management stonnwater flowing through the concerns raised. mechanisms. premises may collect sediments.

The processing Stonnwater from around the plant is crushing plant is directed into approximately 200m the dam and used to recycle north of Coramup wastewater from the screen. Creek. Stonnwater from the road flows into drainage channels on either side of the road that have dug-out traps at the end of them to collect any sediment which may have been picked up in the run-off. Stormwater in the quarry area flows into a sump in the quarry floor. This water is collected and used in the quarry for dust suppression of blasted rock, if required. N/A. N/A. N/A. No discharges to land during crushing and screening operations.

Process wastewater is discharged through a series of settlement ponds. The first two ponds are concrete and are routinely cleaned out with a front end loader during shifts. The fines material is stockpiles and incorporated back into scalp products. Water from the second concrete pond flows through a leech drain and into a final holding dam. Water from this dam further settles fine material and the water is recycled back through the process plant. The final holding dam is cleaned out prior to each crushing campaign and the fines are blended with the scalps material.

N/A. N/A. N/A. Esperance Quarry manage waste collection, storage and disposal of contaminated soil, water and other materials to ensure waste does not negatively impact on the environment.

Waste is generated from: general refuse and domestic waste; fuels and oils; recyclables (scrap steel) and sewage and grey water.

Domestic waste and sewage is collected by an external contractor and transported to Esperance landfill to be disposed of in accordance with regulatory requirements. Steel and waste hydrocarbons are collected by Nationwide Oil I Transpacific and recycled.


LlC - standard Environmental conditions relating to Protection stormwater (Unauthorised management. Discharges)

Regulations 2004.

Condition relating to preventing General provisions of wastewater and or the Environmental sediment accessing Protection Act 1986. the creek and areas of native vegetation.

Lie - standard Environmental conditions relating to Protection stonnwater (Unauthorised management. Discharges) Regulations

2004.

Condition relating to preventing wastewater General provisions of

leaving the site and or the Environmental

sediment accessing Protection Act 1986.

areas of native vegetation.

N/A. Environmental Protection (Unauthorised Discharges) Regulations 2004.

General provisions of the Environmental Protection Act 1986.

Environmental Protection (Controlled Waste) Regulations 2004.

Page 10 of 13

Hydrocarbonl chemical storage

Native vegetation clearing

Contaminated site identification


N/A. N/A. N/A. Esperance Quarry operations manage hydrocarbon storage, hydrocarbon spills and disposal of contaminated water and soil to minimise potential of environmental contam ination . Diesel (approx. 12,000L) and oil (20L drums) is stored in above ground storage tanks in a concrete bunded area .

Diesel fuel and other hydrocarbons are routinely used at the Esperance Quarry during mining, particularly for operation and maintenance of vehicles and machinery. Other chemicals and explosives are used on-site. 1. A clearing permit has been N/A. D- no issued for the clearance of Addressed through regulations, native vegetation relating to the the Clearing Permit other area to be extracted. Native System process. management Vegetation Clearing Permit mechanisms. (3015/1) . Any additional clearing will require further approval.

This site has not been reported N/A. N/A. as a known or suspected contaminated site.

N/A.


Managed under the Dangerous Goods storage licence and relevant legislation (Department Mines and Petroleum).

LlC - no conditions. Environmental Protection (Clearing of Native Vegetation) Regulations 2004.

N/A. Contaminated Sites Branch (Department of Environment and Conservation).

4.0 GENERAL SUMMARY AND COMMENTS

This licence relates to the use of a crushing and screening unit for a gneiss granite extractive industry.

The environmental risk of emissions or discharges during set up and subsequent operations have been assessed as insignificant, and can be managed through other provisions of the Environmental Protection Act 1986, or through other regulatory mechanisms. Due to the proximity of the processing plant to Coramup Creek it is appropriate to regulate wastewater, stormwater and sediment through licence conditions.

The licence is to be issued for a five year period.

Page 11 of 13


OFFICER PREPARING REPORT

Position: Nicole Dwyer Environmental Officer South Coast Regional Office Department of Environment and Conservation 98424500

September 2010

ENDORSEMENT

Position: Caron Goodbourn Regional Leader South Coast Regional Office Department of Environment and Conservation 98424500

September 2010


Page 12 of 13



APPENDIX 8: EMISSIONS AND DISCHARGES ASSESSMENT MATRIX

Table 3- Measures of Sh nificance of Emissions Emissions as a percentage of Worst Case Operating Conditions (95'" Percentile)

the re levant emission or ambient standard

>100%

50 -100%

20- 50%

<20%"

>100%

5

4 4 3

50 -100% 20 - 50%

N/A N/A 3 N/A 3 2

3 2

"For reliable technology, this figure could Increase to 30%

Table 4: Socio-Political Context of Each ulated Emission

<20%*

N/A N/A N/A

1

Relative proximity of the interested party with regards to the emission

Distant Isolated

5 Medium Low ~ ..

4 Medium Low ... . - 0 oc .. -:SCI)

3 Low No (I) E (I)

a; E t 2 No ..10" Low Low Low Low u.E

No No No No No

RISK

Note: These examples are not exclusive and professional judgement is needed to evaluate each specific case "This is determined by DEC using the DEC "Officer's Guide to Emissions and Discharges Risk Assessment" May 2006.

Table 5: Emissions Risk Reduction Matrix

iii CJ lel( '0(1) 0.. ..

I C o 0 'u u o

t/)

High

Medium High

Medium

Low

No

PRIORITY MATRIX ACTION DESCRIPTORS A = Do not allow (fix)

Significance of Emissions

2

C

C

D

D

E

B = licence condition (setting limits + EMPs - short timeframes)(setting targets optional) C = licence condition (setting targets + EMPs - longer timeframes)

D

D

E

E

E

D= EIPs, other management mechanismsllicence conditions (monitoringlreporting)/other regu latory tools E = No regulation, other management mechanisms

Note: The above matrix is taken from the DEC Officer's Guide to Emissions and Discharges Risk Assessment May 2006.

Page 13 of 13


Noise emissions 1. Noise is more likely to be an No. O-no issue during extraction i.e. Nearest neighbours regulations, blasting (not assessed by this are pastoral other application). landowners management

approximately 1 km mechanisms. ~sperance Quarry operations have to the northeast of ~een identified as requiring the processing plant. management to ensure noise and vibration emissions from the quarry EPA Guidance do not affect the amenity of nearby Statement NO. 3 for noise-sensitive premises: this activity is 500m

drilling and blasting; from nearest

crushing and screening; and sensitive receptor.

loading and transport.

!Noise from these activities can be urther amplified by certain

rneteorological conditions, such as fatmospheric temperature inversions fand the speed and direction of f.yind. The level of noise and ground ~ibration associated with blasting is falso variably dependent on the ocal geology.

Fauna can be sensitive to noise. Loud noise and vibrations can ~hange the behaviour of native auna, and result in avoidance of

jareas, effectively reducing the !suitable habitat for these species.

puarry blast patterns are designed n detail during consultation with the

/:lxplosives supplier who provides a otal drilling and blasting service. ~he service includes survey layout ~nd down-hole measuring of each ~Iast hole to accurately locate /:lxplosives, checking, charging, nitiation and videoing of blasting. iring direction and delay sequence

are carefully co-ordinated to minimise blast vibration. In addition, he Quarry Manager contacts

nearby residence, businesses and he Esperance Shire 24 hours prior o blasting.

Light emissions N/A. N/A. N/A. All operations will be conducted during daylight hours.


Lie - no conditions. Environmental Protection (Noise)

Air blast over- Regulations 1997.

pressure and ground vibration is monitored General provisions of during blasting the Environmental activities. Protection Act 1986.

N/A. General provisions of the Environmental Protection Act 1986.

Page 9 of 13

SHIRE OF ESPERANCE DISTRICT LOCAL PLANNING SCHEME NO. 23

SCHEME AMENDMENT NO. 4

LOT 408 (NO. 26) YALLAMBEE ROAD

(CORNER QUARRY ROAD), ESPERANCE

MAY 2010

2

SHIRE OF ESPERANCE

DISTRICT LOCAL PLANNING SCHEME NO. 23

AMENDMENT NO. 4

LOT 408 (NO. 26) YALLAMBEE ROAD (CORNER QUARRY ROAD), ESPERANCE

SCHEME AMENDMENT CONTENTS

1. RESOLUTION ……………………………………. 3

2. SCHEME AMENDMENT REPORT ………………. 4

3. EXISTING AND PROPOSED ZONING ………… 26

4. EXECUTION ……………………………………… 27

3

PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT ACT 2005 RESOLUTION DECIDING TO AMEND A LOCAL PLANNING SCHEME

SHIRE OF ESPERANCE


AMENDMENT No. 4 RESOLVED that the Council, in pursuance of Section 75 of the Planning and Development Act 2005, amend the above local planning scheme by:

1. Rezoning Lot 408 (No. 26) Yallambee Road (corner Quarry Road), Esperance from ‘Agriculture – General’ to ‘Rural Residential’ and amending the Scheme Map accordingly.

2. Inserting into Scheme Schedule 5 – Rural Residential Provisions the following:

No. Description of Land

Special Provisions

RR6 Lot 408 (No. 26) Yallambee Road (corner Quarry Road), Myrup

1. The area for development shall be in accordance with the “Indicative Subdivision Design” plan dated 26 November 2010, with a minimum habitable floor level of 20.4m AHD.

2. Memorials be placed on titles to advise

prospective purchasers that the development is inside/within proximity to the quarry buffer and that blasting occurs at the mine (if required, the date/time of scheduled blasting each year can be provided by enquiries made by landowners to the mining company operating the quarries).

3. On-site effluent disposal systems shall be

limited to high performance environmental systems approved by the local authority and Department of Health.

4. The local authority may require, as a

condition of planning approval, to take

4

measures that adequately preserve and protect vegetation and areas of creek foreshore worthy of preservation an protection. Such measures may include installation of fencing, firebreaks and any other measure the local authority determines necessary.


condition of planning approval, planting of trees and/or other perennial vegetation on lots that it considers require improvement and stabilisation, particularly along creek and drainage lines.

6. Vegetation that is planted, preserved

and/or protected in accordance with development of the subdivision and/or planning approval shall be retained to the satisfaction of the local authority.

7. The keeping of horses on lots of less than

4ha (or equivalent stocking rates of other animals) is not permitted, unless determined suitable by the local authority.

8. At least 100 metres horizontal separation

from Coranup Creek for conventional septics, however, this setback may be reduced to a minimum of 50 metres as approved by the local authority and Department of Health for suitable Alternative Treatment Unit (ATU).

Dated this _____ day of ________________ 2011

____________________________ M J (Mal) Osborne

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

5

SCHEME AMENDMENT REPORT

LOT 408 (NO. 26) YALLAMBEE ROAD (CORNER QUARRY ROAD)

ESPERANCE

‘AGRICULTURE – GENERAL’ TO ‘RURAL RESIDENTIAL’

MAY 2010

6

SHIRE OF ESPERANCE DISTRICT LOCAL PLANNING SCHEME NO. 23

EXISTING AND PROPOSED ZONING

LOCAL AUTHORITY : Shire of Esperance DESCRIPTION OF TOWN PLANNING SCHEME : Local Planning Scheme No. 23 TYPE OF SCHEME : District Scheme SERIAL NUMBER OF AMENDMENT : Amendment No. 4 PROPOSAL : To rezone Lot 408 (No. 26) Yallambee Road

(corner Quarry Road), Esperance to provide opportunity to subdivide and develop the land for rural residential.

7

SCHEME AMENDMENT REPORT 1.0 INTRODUCTION

This report presents a proposal to initiate a Town Planning Scheme Amendment to the Shire of Esperance District Local Planning Scheme No. 23 (LPS 23). The proposal seeks to rezone Lot 408 (No. 26) Yallambee Road (corner Quarry Road), Esperance (“the subject site”) from ‘Agriculture – General’ to ‘Rural Residential’. The local scheme amendment will provide opportunity to subdivide and develop the subject site for rural residential living.

2.0 SITE DETAILS 2.1 PROPERTY LOCATION

The subject site comprises of Lot 408 (No. 26) Yallambee Road, Esperance which is formally described as Lot 408 on Deposited Plan 137891 (Volume 1720 Folio 675). The area of the subject site is approximately 17.647 hectares. The subject site is located approximately 8.5 kilometres north east from Esperance town centre. Figure 1- Location Plan shows the location of the subject land within the Shire of Esperance municipality. Figure 2 – Cadastral Plan shows the subject land property cadastral boundaries and Figure 3 – Aerial of Subject Site is an aerial image of the property.

2.2 TOPOGRAPHY

The subject site is within an undulating landscape which slopes from the north east down to the south. The undulating gradient across the subject site does not exceed 10 degrees. The highest point is in the north east corner at approximately 25.0 AHD with the lower levels along the southern boundary at approximately 20.0 AHD. The area around Coramup Creek, including the immediate creek foreshore, is relatively flat.

2.3 SOILS

The predominant soil types found on the subject site are Deep Sands and Sand over Clayey Sands. The Deep Sands soil type is commonly grey sandy topsoil with cream slightly moist sand over yellow/orange moist sand. This soil type covers generally 60% of the subject site and is generally free draining. The ability for this soil type to absorb phosphorous to accommodate on-site effluent disposal is high. The Sand over Clayey Sand is commonly

8

grey sandy topsoil, with light grey/cream over brown mottled orange clayey sands. This soil type covers approximately 40% of the site and is also free draining, however, the phosphorous retention ability of these soils is moderate compared with the Deep Sands.

Figure 1. Location Plan 2.4 HYDROLOGY

Coramup Creek runs through the subject site west of the existing dwelling and farm buildings. The velocity of the water flow in the creek is relatively slow and drains north to the south. In the southern area of the subject site the creek collects in a small pool before continuing south towards the Lake Warden catchment. The creek foreshore is highly disturbed from years of livestock grazing (mainly cattle). Flood mapping from the Department of Water is not available, however, observed flood levels for a major event that occurred in January 2007 were collected in the area by the Department. The

9

information shows that the 2007 flood event at this location was 19.4 AHD. The landowner advises that during the January 2007 flood event, the flooding did not break the creek banks. Another flood level surveyed immediately downstream of Yallambee Road was 19.13m AHD. With regard to this information, the Department recommends that all building envelopes should be located on land above the January 2007 event flood level (19.4 AHD). Furthermore, a minimum habitable floor level of 1.0 metre above the January 2007 flood level is recommended by the Department to provide adequate flood protection. Apart from Coramup Creek, there are no other surface water bodies on the subject site. No groundwater was encountered during the site excavations of the Land Capability Assessment (soil test pits to a depth of 1.5 metres). It is anticipated that during winter, groundwater levels may be found at depth of 1.0 – 1.5 metres in the sandy clay areas.

Figure 2. Cadastral Plan of subject site (Source: Landgate, 2010)

10

Figure 3. Aerial of Subject Site taken in 2007 (Source: Landgate, 2010) 2.5 VEGETATION

An inspection of the subject site indicated that there is limited remnant native vegetation on the property. Most of the property has been cleared in the past for agricultural use. Some native riparian vegetation can be found within the foreshore area of Coramup Creek, comprising mostly of Melaleucas. The creek area is generally degraded and there is little understorey present. There are scattered mature Eucalyptus trees around the egg farm and surrounding the existing dwelling.

11

2.6 EUROPEAN & INDIGENOUS HERITAGE

There are no buildings or areas on the subject site listed in the Shire of Esperance Municipal Heritage Inventory. A search of the Department of Indigeneous Affairs Register of Aboriginal Sites indicates that the subject site may be affected by the following:

Department of Indigenous Affiairs Site Name and ID Number

Status Site Type Comments

Bukenerup Road Site ID 1644

Stored data Camp There is currently insufficient information for the Department to list the site as permanently registered

The site coverage for Site 1644 is vague and the DIA database indicates that more information is required before this site is considered for registration. It is also important to note that the database of heritage sites held by the DIA is not comprehensive and there exists the potential for unknown sites of Indigeneous heritage significance to be located within close proximity to the subject land. Due to the level of disturbance to the subject land as a result of agricultural activities and clearing over the past years, an archaeological survey is not considered necessary, however, archaeological monitoring is recommended for any eventual excavation works as part of subdivision and development. The process for protecting Indigeneous heritage sites and considering proposals that may impact a known site is set out under the Aboriginal Heritage Act 1972. This provides for a clear process for addressing these issues as they relate to the proposed Scheme Amendment. Should any site works or ground disturbing activities uncover or identify previously unknown sites of potential Indigeneous significance, works must stop until the matter is resolved under the provisions of the Act. On this basis, this issue does not prevent the proposed Scheme Amendment from proceeding, as mechanisms already exist to protect Indigeneous heritage.

12

3.0 SURROUNDING CONTEXT

The subject site is situated within the rural lands surrounding Esperance townsite. To the east and west of the subject site the rural lands have been predominantly cleared for agricultural use, with a few patches of remnant vegetation remaining. The predominant agricultural activities east and west of the subject site on rural land is grazing. To the north of the subject site are two quarries on land owned by the Shire of Esperance. The Shire currently leases the northern quarry to a licensed mining company who excavates mostly granite from the quarry. The other quarry to the south is operated by the Shire with scaled down operations mining for granite used for breakwater. The operating life of the quarries is anticipated to be at least 20 years. Immediately west and south of the quarry mine sites is parks and recreation reserve containing remnant bushland. Bushland approximately 300 metres wide currently separates the subject site and the Shire’s southern quarry. A distance of approximately 770 metres separates the subject site and the currently operational quarry to the north. The bushland within the parks and recreation reserve contains mainly Banksia woodland and mixed Eucalyptus woodland and is in many places dense. To the south of the subject site is a rural residential precinct containing lots averaging around 2 – 3 hectares. South west is the Esperance Lakes International Wetlands. Coramup Creek which runs through the subject site is a tributary creek which drains into the Esperance Lakes system. Figure 4 Aerial Surrounds is an aerial view of the land uses immediately surrounding the subject site.

Figure 4. Aerial Surrounds view of subject site and surroundings (Source: Landgate, 2010)

13

4.0 REGIONAL AND LOCAL PLANNING CONTEXT

REGIONAL PLANNING CONTEXT 4.1 SOUTH COAST STRATEGY FOR NATURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

The Shire of Esperance falls within both the South Coast and Rangelands natural resource management regions, two of six natural resource management regions in Western Australia. The strategy identifies the location of natural assets and provides for targets and strategies for long – term management. Of particular relevance to Shire of Esperance are strategies, targets and actions relating to climate change, land capability, protection of public drinking water supply, protection of biodiversity, coastal management, regional drainage and protection of agricultural land.

4.2 GOLDFIELDS - ESPERANCE REGIONAL PLANNING STRATEGY

The Goldfields – Esperance Regional Planning Strategy was adopted by the Western Australian Planning Commission and released in 2000. The strategy details the vision for the region and the actions required to achieve this vision. These are reflected in the recently approved Shire of Esperance Local Planning Strategy.

4.3 SPP NO. 2.5 “AGRICULTURAL AND RURAL LAND USE PLANNING”

To achieve the objectives of state and regional strategies, a number of state planning policies have been developed. SPP No. 2.5 refers to agricultural and rural land use planning. One of the primary objectives of the policy is to protect agricultural land resources wherever possible by discouraging unrelated land uses, minimising ad hoc fragmentation, discouraging development that may result in environmental degradation and improving resource and investment security for agricultural production.

4.4 SPP NO. 4.1 “STATE INDUSTRIAL BUFFER POLICY”

SPP No. 4.1 provides policy guidance for buffer requirements to existing and new industry, including Extractive Industry. Off-site buffers for extractive industry ensure the protection and long-term security of the industry/infrastructure as well as providing for the safety and amenity of surrounding land uses. Once an off-site buffer has been defined, the boundary should not be varied unless justified in a scientifically based study. The identification of an off-site buffer area requires the application of both environmental criteria and planning criteria to determine the actual size and boundaries of the buffer area. This will require the boundaries of buffer areas to meet the requirements of the EPA, the WAPC and Department of Minerals and Energy. The Department of Environmental Protection Generic Industrial Buffer Distance Review will be a guide to these buffer distances and environmental standards.

14

4.5 SPP NO. 4.3 “POULTRY FARMS POLICY”

SPP No. 4.3 provides policy guidance for development of poultry farms and proposals for residential and rural residential adjacent or in proximity to poultry farms. In this instance, given that rural subdivision is not supported on the subject land prior to the closure of the existing egg farm, the landowner proposes to relocate the egg farm in the first instance, to provide the opportunity for rural residential subdivision.

4.6 DRAFT COUNTRY SEWERAGE POLICY

This strategic document guides development in country areas where sewer is not available. All residential and tourist development proposed on the subject site is required to comply with the provisions of the draft Country Sewer Policy. This Policy is strictly administered by the State Department of Health as part of any subdivision and/or development. Generally for the subject site the following criteria applies: 1. The subject site cannot be reasonably connected to reticulated sewerage; 2. The recommended minimum density per residential dwelling is 2,000m2, which provides

sufficient area and density of development for on-site wastewater disposal, subject to land capability assessment.

LOCAL PLANNING CONTEXT

4.7 SHIRE OF ESPERANCE LOCAL PLANNING STRATEGY

The subject land is located within ‘Precinct 27 – Melijinup Heights & Quarry Road Rural Residential’ under the Shire of Esperance Local Planning Strategy (LPS). An extract from the LSP relative to the subject site is provided as follows:

15

4.8 SHIRE OF ESPERANCE DISTRICT LOCAL PLANNING SCHEME NO. 23

The subject land is zoned ‘Agriculture – General’ under the Shire of Esperance District Local Planning Scheme No. 23 (LPS 23). The proposal is to rezone the subject site from ‘Agriculture – General’ to ‘Rural Residential’. The subject site is within Special Control Areas SCA5 and SCA8B, which will be further discussed in the report.

16

4.9 SUITABILITY OF THE SUBJECT SITE FOR RURAL RESIDENTIAL

The location of the subject land is suitable for rural residential subdivision and development as the property is in close proximity to Esperance town centre and is situated within Precinct 27 – Melijinup Heights & Quarry Road Rural Residential under the Shire’s LPS. Existing rural residential land uses is directly adjacent to the south of the subject site. The subject site forms the northern most extreme of the Melijinup Heights and Quarry Road Rural Residential Precinct. Access to the subject site is via Quarry Road from the south through the rural residential precinct.

17

5.0 PURPOSE OF THE REZONING 5.1 BACKGROUND

The landowner lodged an application on 11 December 2009 with the Western Australian Planning Commission (WAPC) to subdivide the land into four 2 hectare rural residential lots and one balance lot. The proposal was considered by the Shire of Esperance at its Meeting held 27 January 2010 were Council resolved not to support the subdivision on the following basis:

Subdivision of the lot for rural residential purposes does not comply with the provisions relating to land zoned for ‘Rural’ purposes under Town Planning Scheme No. 22;

Subdivision of the lot for rural residential purposes does not comply with the provisions

relating to land zoned for ‘Agriculture - General’ purposes under Town Planning Scheme No. 23;

The further subdivision of the lot is inconsistent with State Planning Policy 2.3

‘Agriculture and Rural Land Use Planning’ and Development Control Policy 3.4 ‘Subdivision of Rural Land’;

The proposed subdivision is inconsistent with the provisions pertaining to ‘Precinct 27 –

Melijinup Heights and Quarry Road Rural Residential’ of the Draft Local Planning Strategy;

The proposed subdivision of the lot does not comply with the minimum effective

frontage provision under Local Planning Scheme No. 23 of 200 metres;

In accordance with the provisions of the Local Planning Strategy, this application for subdivision is considered premature on the basis that the Egg Farm on the subject lot remains operational; and

The subject land needs to be rezoned to facilitate any subdivision proposal for rural

residential purposes. The WAPC issued a Refusal to subdivide on 10 March 2010, stating the following reasons for the refusal.

The proposed subdivision is inconsistent with objectives of the ‘Agriculture – General’ zone as prescribed in the Shire of Esperance Local Planning Scheme No. 23 by reason that:

18

(i) If permitted, would result in an unplanned breakdown of rural land holdings; and

(ii) It does not comply with the minimum 200 metre effective frontage provision.

The proposed subdivision is inconsistent with the Shire of Esperance Local Planning Strategy for the following reasons:

(i) It does not comply with the provisions pertaining to ‘Precinct 27 – Melijinup

Heights and Quarry Road Rural Residential’ as the poultry farm remains operational and the land has not been appropriately rezoned;

(ii) The subject land has not been identified for rural residential development in the

short term; and

(iii) The subject land is located within the buffer of the Hard Rock Quarry where subdivision is not supported during the 20 year life span of the quarry.

The proposed subdivision is contrary to WAPC Development Control Policy 3.4

‘Subdivision or Rural Land’ on the basis that the subdivision of this land has not been identified in a town planning scheme or an adopted Local Planning Strategy and therefore represents the unplanned breakdown of landholdings.

The proposed subdivision is inconsistent with the key objectives of State Planning Policy

2.5 ‘Agricultural and Rural Land Use Planning’ by reason that it represents the ad hoc fragmentation of rural land.

The proposed subdivision is contrary to State Planning Policy 4.1 ‘State Industrial

Buffer Policy’ as no information has been provided to ensure an adequate level of amenity can be provided to future residents given the proximity of the site to an operational quarry. The introduction of sensitive land uses in proximity to an existing industrial land use could also compromise the ongoing operation and expansion of this land use.

The proposed subdivision is contrary to State Planning Policy 4.3 ‘Poultry Farms Policy’

Clause 5.4 as an appropriate assessment has not been undertaken that the poultry farm on the site will not adversely affect the amenity of new residents.

Approval to the subdivision would set an undesirable precedent for the further

subdivision of surrounding lots. The landowner now seeks the approval of the Shire of Esperance and Minister for Planning to rezone the land to ’Rural Residential’ as one of the requirements to be addressed to facilitate rural residential subdivision and development of the property. As to the other requirements

19

relating to the poultry farm operation and buffer from the quarry, these will be addressed in this report as being able to be satisfied to enable subdivision for rural residential to proceed.

5.2 CURRENT AND PROPOSED LAND USE

Lot 408 Quarry Road has been predominantly cleared for paddock and is currently used for grazing and an egg farm. The landowner proposes to rezone the subject site in order to pursue rural residential subdivision of the land. The existing egg farm will cease operations and the landowner intends to relocate the egg farm to another location within the municipality to allow for rural residential development on the subject site. The existing egg farm will be relocated prior to subdivision of the land, or as a condition of subdivision approval. Once the subject land has been rezoned to Rural Residential, the egg farm will continue to operate until subdivision of the land is proposed. The landowner intends to proceed with rural residential subdivision once rezoning as occurred.

20

6.0 PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS

6.1 ROADS AND ACCESS HIERARCHY No new roads are proposed (nor likely to be required) as part of the future subdivision of the subject site as the existing road reserves will be utilised. The property has dual frontage to public streets, Yallambee Road along the southern boundary and Quarry Road along the eastern boundary. Both roads are gravel roads and any upgrading to these roads is subject to detailed consideration by the Shire of Esperance at the subdivision stage. In addition, depending on the lot layout, Hills Road reserve along the western boundary may be utilised, with any road upgrading subject to the satisfaction of the local authority. The local authority upgrade requirement is bitumen seal for rural residential roads, with the extent of bitumen seal subject to subdivision design.

6.2 BUSHFIRE PLANNING AND FIRE MANAGEMENT

A Bush Fire Hazard Assessment was carried out in accordance with Appendix 1 of the Planning for Bush Fire Protection Guidelines Edition 2 (PFBP). The subject land is generally not considered as an ‘Extreme Bushfire Hazard Risk’ given that the property has been predominantly cleared, has limited fuel loading and has slopes less than 10 degrees. The bushland reserve neighbouring the subject site to the north is an Extreme Bushfire Hazard Risk, given the sloping topography and dense native vegetation. A fire break has been cleared between the subject site and the bushland to the north. The prevailing winds are south east during summer conditions, which would reduce the fire risk to the subject site if fire was to occur in the bushland reserve. The neighbouring land to the south and east is predominantly cleared agricultural land and rural residential living. These areas pose limited bush fire hazard risk. The neigbouring land to the west contains some areas of shrubland associated with catchment areas and poses a ‘Moderate Risk’. Figure 5 – Bush Fire Hazard Assessment plan shows the subject site and associated fire hazards. The Land Capability Assessment has identified a minimum 40 metre fire separation setback along the northern boundary of the subject site from the extreme fire hazard woodlands to the north. As part of subdivision and development of the subject site, a Bush Fire Management Plan would be required to be prepared as part of subdivision approval. Any proposed development would need to comply with the minimum recommended fire setback (i.e. 40m). Buildings may be permitted within a 40m – 100m setback from the northern neighbouring woodlands, with recommendation that dwellings be constructed in accordance with AS 3959 – 2009 as per the PFBP Guidelines (p.46 - E4.3c). However, as shown in Figure 10, there is sufficient area within lots to build without necessarily encroaching into the 100 metre setback area from the northern woodlands.

21

Figure 5. Bush Fire Hazard Assessment plan showing that the subject site has a

‘Low Risk’ classification at the strategic planning level

6.3 SUBDIVISION INTO RURAL RESIDENTIAL LOTS

The minimum lot size within Precinct 27 – Melijinup Heights & Quarry Road Rural Residential under the Shire’s LPS is 2.0 hectares. The potential maximum lot yield for the subject site is therefore 8 rural residential lots. However, subject to rezoning, the current landowner at this stage may wish to pursue the original subdivision plan (which was previously refused by WAPC) to create 5 rural residential lots and a creek foreshore reserve (Figure 6 – Conceptual Subdivision Plan) to link up the north and south ‘Parks, Recreation and Conservation – Local’ reservations for Coramup Creek.

22

Figure 6. Conceptual Subdivision Plan with alignment of Coramup Creek ‘Parks, Recreation and Conservation’ reserve

Any subdivision of the property would be subject to detailed subdivision design. Environmental and geotechnical investigations would also likely be required to identify and/or address any on-site effluent disposal and ground contamination issues as a result of the operations of the egg farm. This would also outline any remedial works, which would be undertaken as part of subdivision. A Land Capability Assessment has been carried out for the subject site to determine suitability for rural residential subdivision and development. Opportunities and constraints have been identified and suitable areas for rural residential development have been mapped (refer to Figure 7 - Proposed Areas for Development)

23

Figure 7. Proposed Areas for Development

24

6.4 DEVELOPMENT WITHIN QUARRY BUFFER

The Shire owns the two quarries on the neighbouring land to the north of the subject site. The northern quarry is currently leased to a mining company who extracts hard rock (mainly granite) from quarry site. Access to the quarry by mining vehicles is mainly from Myrup Road to the north, as the Shire has placed restrictions on the lease to limit the number of mining vehicles accessing the mine via Quarry Road, which would take mining vehicles through the rural residential precinct to the south. By their nature, extractive industries generate noise and dust and have the potential to cause nuisance to nearby sensitive land uses, such as residential. Blasting at hard rock quarries also potentially generates air and ground vibration and may also give rise to dust, fumes and flyrock. The extent to which these issues impact on the amenity of surrounding land uses depends upon the specific situation, management and procedural controls as determined by the mining operator and separation distances. The generic (or default) buffer distance for a hard rock extractive industry (involving quarrying, blasting, crushing and screening) is 1000 metres under the EPA’s Guidance for the Assesment of Environmental Factors : Separation Distances between Industrial and Sensitive Land Uses No. 3 (2005). The generic nominated 1000 metre buffer does not take into consideration size and scale of operations. It is noted that both quarries to the north are relatively small in size and scale of operations. The extractive industry undertaken on the quarry site to the north is required to be licenced by the Department of Environment and operations carried out in accordance with the relevant EPA Code of Practice for extractive industries. SPP No. 4.1 requires that any development within the generic buffer (1km) must be supported by scientific study which assesses the magnitude of the potential impacts and relevance to acceptable standards. Alternatively, confirmation from DEC of an alternative buffer distance may be provided in lieu of a technical report. The location of both quarries is shown on Figure 8 – Quarry 1.0km Buffer. Consultations with the mining company operating the large northern quarry has provided information as to the nature of blasting at the mine and measures taken to reduce impacts on adjacent and nearby residences. The company has set in place procedures that are required to be taken into account by contractors who undertake the blasting at the mine. The parameters provide a process whereby the purpose is to: document blasting events so as to provide auditable evidence showing factors

taken into consideration such as ground conditions, blasting history, weather conditions etc;

ensure blasting is carried out by qualified technicians; and

25

ensure blasting is carried out in accordance with mine safety procedures and standards.

Prevailing winds are predominantly from the south-west (winter) and south-east (summer). The mining company operating the quarry advises that blasting occurs on average 5 - 6 times per year. The blasting contractor is required to strictly design blasts to keep noise and vibration levels below minimum standards. Blasts are designed to direct the minimal amount of fly rock that occurs back onto the quarry floor. There has been no evidence to date of fly rock from the quarry blasting impacting on Lot 408 Quarry Road. In terms of noise impact, all blasting is monitored for noise and vibration by the blasting contractor and these tests are carried out next to the windmill located near the north east corner of Lot 408 Quarry Road. All blasting operations is conducted as per the Australian Standards for Minesite Blasting (Extractive Industry). The last blasting operations occurred on the 3rd November 2009. Auditable records indicated that blasting sound was at 111.1dBL on an east/southeast prevailing wind. This level does not exceed the Environmental Protection (Noise) Regulations 1997, which states: DAYTIME BLASTING For blasting carried out between 7am and 6pm on any day which is not a Sunday or public holiday, the airblast level received on any other premises must not exceed - * 125 dB Llinear, peak for any blast; and * 120 dB Llinear, peak for nine in any 10 consecutive blasts, regardless of the interval between blasts. (Environmental Protection (Noise) Regulations 1997.)

There has been no record of any complaints or nuisance from nearby residences in relation to the blasting events at the quarry mine. The procedures set in place by the mining company operating the quarry ensure that blasting is undertaken to create as minimal disturbance to nearby residences as possible. Given that blasting is carried out within the EPA noise regulations and that events of fly rock landing within the subject site has never been documented, it is considered that the impacts of the quarry mine blasting (i.e. fly rock, vibration and noise) is minimal. Notwithstanding, it is recommended that memorials be placed on titles to advise prospective purchasers that the development is inside the quarry buffer and that blasting occurs at the mine (if required, the date/time of scheduled blasting can be provided by enquiries made by landowners to the mining company). The other quarry to the south is operated by the Shire with scaled down operations mining for granite used for breakwater. Blasting is limited and rarely undertaken. As with the operational quarry to the north, which has more regular blasting, any blasting at the Shire’s quarry would need to conform with EPA regulations and Australian Standards for Minesite Blasting (Extractive Industry). Consultations with the Shire indicate that there are no intentions of increasing the size and scale of operations similar to the licensed quarry to the north.

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Consultation with Department of Environment and Conservation Discussions were held with officers at the DEC in relation to the proposed development and proximity to the northern operational quarry. The larger pit to the north is currently being operated as a “Prescribed Premises” under the EPA Act 1984. A license to the quarry operator was issued by DEC in 2010. The assessment made by the DEC was that there was adequate separation (i.e. 500 metres) from the quarry operations to sensitive land uses, such as residential. The quarry operations are considered to be relatively small in size and scale and a buffer of 500 metres is considered sufficient. The DEC officer verbally advised during discussions (23 January 2011) that there is no need for a Technical Buffer Assessment as the proposed development is not within 500 metres from the quarry operations. The disused Shire pits located due north of the subject site are not “Prescribed Premises” under the EPA Act 1984 and would need to be licensed to undertake operations consistent with quarrying (i.e. blasting, crushing, screening etc) and would need to be formally assessed by the DEC should these operations be proposed.

Figure 8. Quarry 1.0km Buffer around quarries north of subject site

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Cumulative impacts of northern quarries The size and scale of the Shire’s quarry pit is limited as to its operational capacity and impacts. It is likely that a DEC buffer distance of 500 metres would also apply if the Shire’s quarry were granted a “Prescribed Premises” and licensed under the EPA Act 1984. In such a scenario, if both quarries were operating at the same time, the cumulative affected area is shown in Figure 9 – Quarry 500m buffer by the overlapping 500 metre radius circles. As can be seen, the cumulative impacts would not have an adverse impact on the subject site. The quarries could operate without significant impact on the surrounding sensitive land uses. It should be noted that any quarry licence issued by DEC requires compliance with Environmental Protection (Noise) Regulations 1997 in terms of any scheduled blasting. It is likely that concurrent blasting at the two quarries would not be supported and that blasting at each quarry would be undertaken at different times (i.e. on different days). Memorials are to be placed on titles at subdivision stage to indicate to prospective landowners that the lots are within proximity to operation quarries to the north. This requirement is to be reflected in Schedule 5 of LPS 23. Department of Environment & Conservation Quarry Licence Conditions The quarry currently in operation has been licensed by DEC (Licence No. L8463/2010/1) for a period of five years. The conditions of the Licence requires that the quarry operator take appropriate measures to prevent the generation of airborne particulates (including dust) to ensure that no visible dust is discharged beyond the “premises boundary”. This includes using water trucks, water sprays, dust collection systems, coverings and maintenance to ensure no dust is blown from the quarry site onto neighbouring properties. The “premises boundary” covers only a portion of Part Lot 835 Quarry Road, surrounding the operational quarry up to the Shire’s quarry. Each year, an Annual Environmental Report and Annual Audit Compliance Report is required to be provided to the DEC for compliance checks.

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Figure 9. Quarry 500m Buffer around quarries north of subject site

6.5 BASIC RAW MATERIALS

The Shire of Esperance Local Planning Strategy requires that landowners should identify the possible presence of basic raw materials (i.e. sand, clay, gravel, limestone and hard rock) on their respective properties. Should any significant deposits of any basic raw material be found (subject to extraction in an environmentally and economically sustainable manner), every effort should be made to extract that basic raw material prior to subdivision and/or development. The Land Capability Assessment did not identify any significant deposits of basic raw materials for the subject site.

6.6 STORMWATER DRAINAGE AND NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT

There are no proposed roads as part of the subdivision and development of the subject site as the existing dual street frontage to Yallambee Road and Quarry Road should provide sufficient road access to proposed lots. Upgrading of existing roads (i.e. upgrading to

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bitumen seal) is to be undertaken to the satisfaction of the Shire of Esperance. A Stormwater Management Plan is to be provided at the subdivision stage as part of conditional approval to demonstrate a sustainable drainage strategy.

6.7 LOCATION OF BUILDING ENVELOPES There is a requirement for the provision of adequate setbacks from wetlands and watercourses in relation to on-site effluent disposal. Building envelopes for dwellings and outbuildings should be located within pockets of better capability land. Where considered appropriate, subdivision applications must include the location of proposed building envelopes and/or specify building exclusion areas where development is discouraged. Figure 10 – Indicative Building Envelopes shows potential locations for dwellings.

Figure 10. Indicative Building Envelopes for future dwellings on subject site

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6.8 LAKE WARDEN RECOVERY CATCHMENT – SCA 5 The Precinct is subject to Clause 6.9 of LPS 23 which sets out ‘Wetlands of Significance and Lake Warden Recovery Catchment – Special Control Area 5’. The purpose of SCA 5 is to provide guidance for land use and development within the catchment of wetlands of significance. The objectives of SCA 5 are to: Ensure that the use and development of affected land is compatible with and does not

detrimentally affect the SCA 5 wetlands; Encourage retention and planting of native vegetation and properly managed

perennial pasture; Encourage fencing and rehabilitation of creek lines; and

Discourage subdivision and intensification of development within Department of

Environment and Conservation Priority 1 areas due to the risks posed by the shallow water table, flooding, nutrient pollution, domestic animal impact and risks to public health.

As part of any application for subdivision or development approval on the subject site, consideration should be given to protect or re-vegetate the margins of wetlands and natural drainage lines that feed into the tributary creeks outside of the subject land area. The fencing of these areas will be required to restrict access by livestock and maintain minimal disturbance to allow rehabilitation. Re-vegetation will contribute towards managing soil erosion by water flow, which ultimately has an influence on water quality. Because most of the subject land has been cleared, the prospective landowners should be encouraged to re-establish degraded pastoral areas and/or plant native vegetation towards better land management. Proposals that include the filling, excavation of drainage into or out of a wetland are to be referred to the Department of Environment and Conservation for assessment. Any developments affecting wetlands are to incorporate an assessment of their conservation value (using DEC criteria) and may be required to include a wetland management plan addressing, as appropriate:

- Fertiliser usage; - Fencing and restriction of stock access; - Vegetation re-planting and buffer zones/setbacks from effluent disposal systems; - Groundwater extraction

Figure 11 – Lake Warden Priority 1 & 2 mapping for the subject site shows that a portion of the subject site is included in the Priority 1 area. Notwithstanding, this does not preclude subdivision or development from occurring. Strict environmental controls, such as no livestock

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and compulsory use of alternative treatment units for on-site effluent disposal within the Priority 1 area can be enforced. This will assist in management of potential land use impacts within the Lake Warden Catchment area. In addition, LPS 23 at Clause 6.9.5 (b) prohibits the keeping of horses (or the equivalent stocking rates of other animals) on lots of less than 4.0 hectares. Given that the proposed subdivision lots will be within proximity to Coramup Creek and will be predominantly 2.0 hectares, discussions with Council indicate that no livestock should be permitted.

Figure 11. Lake Warden Priority 1 & 2 mapping over subject site

(Source: Shire of Esperance, 2010 – modified)

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6.9 ESPERANCE AIRPORT SPECIAL CONTROL AREA 8 Precinct No. 27 is situated within Special Control Area 8 as set out under Clause 6.12 of LPS 23. More particularly, the Precinct falls within SCA 8B, which requires that planning approval is required for any proposed development exceeding 15 metres in height. Development with SCA 8 includes planting of trees and shrubs, a flagpole, antenna, aerial, tower, electricity transmission line, satellite dish, chimney, flue, smokestack or other similar structure. Development proposals are required to comply with the Shire of Esperance Local Planning Scheme No. 23 with respect to SCA 8.

6.10 STAGING It is likely that the subject land would be developed in a single stage, with development on both sides of the Coramup Creek. It is uncertain at this stage whether there would be a creek crossing (designed to the satisfaction of the Shire and Department of Water) or if the lots on the western side of the creek would take access from Hills Road. In the case of the later, upgrading of Hills Road to bitumen seal may provide an alternative access to the portion of the subject site on the western side of Coramup Creek. Both options would be subject to further investigation at the detailed subdivision design stage by a qualified consulting engineer. Prior to subdivision, the chicken farm would need to be relocated as identified under the Local Planning Strategy. All buildings pertinent to the chicken farm would need to be demolished and removed. Some infrastructure (i.e. equipment shed/s) may be retained if it can be used for rural residential living, however, it is envisaged that the main chicken farm sheds, that house the animals, would be removed altogether.

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7.0 ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS 7.1 LAND CAPABILITY ASSESSMENT

A Land Capability Assessment was undertaken in February 2010 to determine the suitability of the subject land for rural residential development. The assessment of the subject land involved both desktop assessment and field investigations, including vegetation and soils analysis. The major limitations identified included: Bush Fire Hazard Separation minimum 40 metre setback from the vegetation on the

northern property; however development may come within 40m – 100m from vegetation on the neighbouring northern [quarry] property based on recommendation to comply with AS 3959 - 2009;

No development within 19.4 AHD contour (floodway); and Building development setback (minimum 30 metres) from Coramup Creek, with at least

100 metres horizontal separation from Coranup Creek for conventional septics. However, using Alternative Treatment Unit (ATU) this setback may be reduced to 50 metres as approved by the local authority and Department of Health.

Geotechnical investigation of the soil types (soil mapping) indicates that the subject land has ‘High Capability’ for rural residential land use. The predominant soil type found on the subject site (Deep Sands and Sand over Sandy Clay) is considered suitable for on-site effluent disposal and construction of dwellings. Subdivision and development for rural residential use can proceed subject to the limitation considerations above.

7.2 REHABILITATION OF CREEK FORESHORE The Coramup Creek foreshore is highly disturbed from years of livestock grazing. Environmental assessment indicates that the creek foreshore should be fenced from stock and revegetated to restore the stability of the banks and encourage biodiversity. Consideration should be given to preparation of a Rehabilitation Management Plan as part of subdivision conditional approval.

7.3 SITE CONTAMINATION A site assessment revealed there is no underground storage of fuel, minimal use of fertilisers and chemicals associated with the poultry farm. Historically the subject site has not been used for any industry which would cause site contamination. The existing poultry farm is proposed to be relocated and soil testing is recommended following removal of the poultry farm use. Testing is recommended to investigate whether there are any excess nutrients from extretia

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within the ground or on the surface which could remain as residue in the soil. This will also confirm that the site meets environmental standards for soil (DEC Guidelines).

7.4 ACID SULPHATE SOILS Acid Sulphate Soils can occur in waterlogged soils and typically sandy silts and peat soils. There is a possibility that Acid Sulphate Soils could occur in seasonally wet and inundated areas within the creek areas of the subject site. However, if development (such as house and road construction) is restricted to outside these waterlogged areas (and the soils are not disturbed), then there should be no issues with regard to the proposed development. Notwithstanding, consideration of acid sulphate soils should be given at the Land Capability Assessment stage prior to subdivision.

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8.0 SERVICING CONSIDERATIONS 8.1 POWER

Power is provided to the subject land by overhead lines in Yallambee Road. The proposed subdivision will require existing power to be extended. This is likely to be underground within Quarry Road road reserve. Subdivision west of Coramup Creek will also require extension of existing power to the west (underground) within Yallambee Road.

8.2 WASTEWATER

The Land Capability Assessment identifies the subject site as being suitable and conducive to on-site effluent disposal. Due to the free draining sands, it is recommended that Alternative Treatment Units be used for on-site effluent disposal. The normal setback from Coramup Creek is at least 100 metres horizontal separation from Coranup Creek for conventional septics. However, using Alternative Treatment Unit (ATU) this setback may be reduced to 50 metres as approved by the local authority and Department of Health.

8.3 WATER SUPPLY

There is no reticulated water supply that services the local area. The only viable alternative source of water supply for the proposed development is rainwater harvesting. Rainwater tanks provide a source of clear, soft natural water, and provide a more self-sufficient and sustainable lifestyle. Esperance has a Mediterranean-type climate with an average 619mm of rainfall annually, with approximately 68% of rainfall occurring between May - October. The average annual rainfall in the area is sufficient for opportunities for rainwater harvesting sufficient to provide adequate supply of potable water for domestic use. It is proposed that development of each residential dwelling incorporate provision of a 120,000 litre rainwater tank. A minimum roof catchment area can be determined using the following formula [Clause 5.18.1 of LPS 23]:

The size of the collection area is to be based on the following calculation:

Collection area 237m2 = 120,000 divided by 0.85 x (619mm (local rainfall) – 24mm)

Where:

Collection area (m2) is the minimum area for rain surface runoff that is required to

service the water tank. 120,000 is the minimum size of the water tank in litres (unless Council has determined

an alternative size in accordance with the Scheme). 0.85 is the efficiency of the collection (a minimum of 85% of the water will be collected).

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Local rainfall is the average annual mean rainfall measured in millimeters (mm) guided by the nearest collection point provided by the Bureau of Meteorology.

24mm is the anticipated loss through absorption and wetting of materials based on 2mm a month.”

The quality of soft rainwater that can be harvested is potentially good as there is limited atmospheric pollution in and around the locality. It is envisaged that each prospective landowner would consider the way in which rainwater is to be harvested and determine the size and location for rainwater tank/s as part of development plans. Filtering systems can be applied to roof gutters, rainwater tank and domestic piping to filter out larger particles that may be present.

8.4 TELECOMMUNICATIONS

Telecommunications is provided to the subject land by existing services in Yallambee Road. The proposed subdivision will require the existing telecommunications services to be extended. For subdivision along Quarry Road, this would require extension of services underground within Quarry Road road reserve. Subdivision west of Coramup Creek will also require extension of existing telecommunication to the west (underground) within Yallambee Road.

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9.0 SUMMARY

The proposal to rezone Lot 408 (No. 26) Quarry Road, Esperance from ‘Agriculture – General’ to ‘Rural Residential’ is consistent with the Shire of Esperance Local Planning Strategy. A local scheme amendment will provide opportunity to subdivide and develop the subject site for rural residential living. Prior to subdivision and development for rural residential, the existing poultry farm will be required to cease operations. The landowner proposes to relocate the egg farm to another location within the municipal. The suitability of the site for rural residential has been confirmed by Land Capability Assessment and adequate servicing and accessibility can be provided to the site. The quarry operations to the north are not considered to be a significant factor as blasting and quarry operations are within acceptable EPA regulations and limits. This is confirmed by blasting reports and noise measurements taken within proximity of the north east corner of the subject site. Building envelopes for development can be located as far from the quarry operations as possible, if considered necessary. There are significant environmental benefits associated with the proposal. The proposed relocation of the egg farm will reduce environmental impacts within the water catchment of Esperance Lakes. At present the egg farm is in close proximity to Coramup Creek. Relocation of the egg farm will have long term environmental benefits. In addition, rehabilitation along the degraded areas of Coramup Creek can occur as part of subdivision and development for rural residential.

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PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT ACT 2005

SHIRE OF ESPERANCE


AMENDMENT NO. 4

The Shire of Esperance under and by virtue of the powers conferred upon it in that behalf by the Planning and Development Act 2005 hereby amends the above town planning scheme by:

1. Rezoning Lot 408 (No. 26) Yallambee Road (corner Quarry Road), Esperance from ‘Agriculture – General’ to ‘Rural Residential’ and amending the Scheme Map accordingly.

2. Inserting into Scheme Schedule 5 – Rural Residential Provisions the following:

No. Description of Land

Special Provisions

RR6 Lot 408 (No. 26) Yallambee Road (corner Quarry Road), Myrup

1. The area for development shall be in accordance with the “Indicative Subdivision Design” plan dated 26 November 2010, with a minimum habitable floor level of 20.4m AHD.

2. Memorials be placed on titles to

advise prospective purchasers that the development is inside/within proximity to the quarry buffer and that blasting occurs at the mine (if required, the date/time of scheduled blasting each year can be provided by enquiries made by landowners to the mining company operating the quarries).

3. On-site effluent disposal systems shall

be limited to high performance environmental systems approved by the local authority and Department of Health.

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4. The local authority may require, as a condition of planning approval, to take measures that adequately preserve and protect vegetation and areas of creek foreshore worthy of preservation an protection. Such measures may include installation of fencing, firebreaks and any other measure the local authority determines necessary.


condition of planning approval, planting of trees and/or other perennial vegetation on lots that it considers require improvement and stabilisation, particularly along creek and drainage lines.

6. Vegetation that is planted, preserved

and/or protected in accordance with development of the subdivision and/or planning approval shall be retained to the satisfaction of the local authority.

7. The keeping of horses on lots of less

than 4ha (or equivalent stocking rates of other animals) is not permitted, unless determined suitable by the local authority.

8. At least 100 metres horizontal

separation from Coranup Creek for conventional septics, however, this setback may be reduced to a minimum of 50 metres as approved by the local authority and Department of Health for suitable Alternative Treatment Unit (ATU).

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ADOPTION

Adopted by resolution of the Council of the Shire of Esperance at the meeting of the Council held on the day of 2011.

______________________________ MAYOR

______________________________ CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

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FINAL APPROVAL

Adopted for Final Approval by resolution of the Council of the Shire of Esperance at the meeting of the Council held on the day of 2011 and the Common Seal of the Shire of Esperance was hereunto affixed by the authority of a resolution of the Council in the presence of:

______________________________ MAYOR

______________________________ CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Recommended/Submitted for Final Approval

______________________________ Delegated under S.16 of the P & D Act 2005

______________________________ Date

Final Approval Granted

______________________________ Minister for Planning

______________________________ Date

Lot 408

Quarry Road

Esperance

Kathryn Kinnear

Bio Diverse Solutions

29/3/2010

Land Capability Report

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CONTENTS 1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ...................................................................................................................... 3 2. INTRODUCTION................................................................................................................................ 4

2.1.ALIGNMENT TO LEGISLATION, POLICY AND GUIDELINES .................................................................... 4 2.2.LAND CAPABILITY ASSESSMENT METHOD ....................................................................................... 4

3. SITE DETAILS .................................................................................................................................. 5 3.1.CURRENT SITE LAND USE .............................................................................................................. 5 3.2.ZONING ...................................................................................................................................... 6 3.3.ADJACENT LAND USES .................................................................................................................. 6 3.4.CLIMATE ..................................................................................................................................... 6 3.4.1.RAINFALL ................................................................................................................................. 6 3.4.2.TEMPERATURE ......................................................................................................................... 7 3.4.3.WIND ...................................................................................................................................... 7

4. SITE ASSESSMENT .........................................................................................................................10 4.1.TOPOGRAPHY AND SLOPE ............................................................................................................10 4.2.GEOLOGY AND SITE SOILS ...........................................................................................................10 4.2.1.DEEP SANDS ...........................................................................................................................10 4.2.2.SAND OVER CLAYEY SAND ........................................................................................................10 4.3.VEGETATION ASSESSMENT ..........................................................................................................10 4.4.HYDROLOGY AND WETLANDS ........................................................................................................11 4.5.ON SITE EFFLUENT DISPOSAL .......................................................................................................12 4.6.DRAINAGE AND STORM WATER .....................................................................................................13 4.7.CONSTRUCTABILITY ....................................................................................................................13 4.8.FIRE MANAGEMENT .....................................................................................................................14 4.9.ACCESS AND INFRASTRUCTURE ....................................................................................................14 4.10.CONTAMINATED SITES ...............................................................................................................15 4.11.ADJACENT LAND USE - QUARRY..................................................................................................15

5. LAND USE REQUIREMENTS ..............................................................................................................16 5.1.RURAL RESIDENTIAL ...................................................................................................................16 5.2.LAND RESOURCE CHARACTERISTICS ............................................................................................17

6. LAND RESOURCE SURVEY ...............................................................................................................19 6.1.QUALITIES AND LIMITATIONS .........................................................................................................19 6.2.OVERALL LAND CAPABILITY ANALYSIS ...........................................................................................21 6.3.LIMITATIONS MAPPING .................................................................................................................22

7. PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT CONSIDERATIONS ................................................................................23 7.1.ON-SITE SEPTIC EFFLUENT DISPOSAL ...........................................................................................23 7.2.GENERAL FOUNDATION AND BUILDING STABILITY ............................................................................23 7.3.DRAINAGE AND WATER SENSITIVE URBAN DESIGN PRINCIPLES .......................................................23 7.4.WETLANDS & HYDROLOGY ..........................................................................................................24 7.5.FIRE MANAGEMENT .....................................................................................................................24 7.6.CONTAMINATED SITES .................................................................................................................24

8. CONCLUSIONS ...............................................................................................................................25 9. REFERENCES .................................................................................................................................26 APPENDICES Appendix A – Subject Area Appendix B – Site Soil Testing Profiles Appendix C – Laboratory Testing Appendix D – Hydrogeology Mapping Appendix E – Hydrology and Wetlands Appendix F – DoW Correspondence

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1. Executive Summary

Bio Diverse Solutions was commissioned as Environmental Consultants to undertake a Land Capability Assessment of Lot 408 Quarry Road, Esperance. The Land Capability Assessment compares the physical requirements for a particular land use with the qualities of the land. The analysis determines the ability of the land to sustain a particular land use without resulting in significant environmental degradation. The land use that has been considered for this study area is Rural Residential with on-site effluent disposal.

The assessment of the subject site involved desktop analysis of climate, site history, vegetation, wetlands and geology of the site. Site assessment was undertaken of remnant vegetation, site soils analysis and laboratory testing of soils by Albany Soil and Concrete Testing.

The site testing and environmental assessment revealed two Map Units – Map Unit 1 (Deep sands), Map Unit 2 (Deep sands over clayey sand). Both Map Unit 1 and Map Unit 2 have a Land Capability Rating of II-Areas with a High Capability for the proposed activity or use.

The subject site has soils and site conditions which support the proposed Rural Residential, land use. Some planning considerations are required for Rural Residential construction, particularly setbacks from the Coramup Creek, fire hazard setbacks, building above the 19.5m contour and erosion from prevailing winds and water over slopes.

The creek line should be protected from development and agricultural use and revegetated with endemic species with mid and understorey native species, which will assist in stabilisation of the site, provide refuge for animals, Biodiversity assets, provide buffers and give amenity to the overall site.

A chook farm is presently located on the property, if the site is approved to be subdivided the proponent proposes to move this to another property. Upon removal is recommended that site soil and water testing occurs to ensure there is no residual nutrients from the activity.

A quarry is located to the north of the subject site, blasting operations occur within the the Environmental Protection (Noise) Regulations 1997. As there is existing residences adjacent to the subject site and blasting occurs on winds directed away from the site, this is not seen as a limitation to the site.

It is noted that this assessment does not include engineering assessment or geotechnical assessment for structural house/building designs. Bio Diverse Solutions recommend that this would be required prior to commencement of building/development.

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2. Introduction

Bio Diverse Solutions was commissioned to undertake a Land Capability Assessment of Lot 408 Quarry Road, Esperance. This Land Capability Assessment details the sustainability of the property for Rural Residential land use and is aligned to the Department of Agriculture and Food standards and State Planning Commission Land Capability Assessment for Local Rural Strategies (1989).

The Land Capability Assessment involves a number of inter-related stages including: 1. Land Use Requirements – Specifies and defines the proposed land use, list the land

qualities and characteristics to determine each land quality. 2. Land Resource Survey – Divides the study are into mapping units which have

measureable differences and may influence the land attributes and land capabilities. 3. Land Capability Analysis – for each mapping unit rate each individual land quality and

determine overall capability to sustain the land use.

2.1. Alignment to Legislation, Policy and Guidelines

In assessing the property, Bio Diverse Solutions has prepared this report aligned to the following legislation:

State Planning Commission, Land Capability Assessment for Local Rural Strategies (1989)

Environmental Protection (Noise) Regulations 1997.

Health Act (1911) and draft Health Act (2008)

Agriculture and Related Resources Protection Act 1976

Environmental Protection Act 1986

Environmental and Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999

Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) (2005) Environmental Guidance for Planning and Development Draft Guidance Statement No 33 June 2005

Environmental Protection (Clearing Native Vegetation) Regulations

Environmental Weeds Strategy for Western Australia 1999

Wildlife Conservation Act 1950

CALM Act 1980

2.2. Land Capability Assessment Method

The Land Capability Assessment compares the physical requirements for a particular land use with the qualities of the land. This analysis determines the ability of the land to sustain a particular land use without resulting in significant environmental degradation. The land use that has been considered for this study area is Rural Residential with on-site effluent disposal.

This study was undertaken in February 2010 and has included analysis of the soil and landform from soil survey, environmental assessment and laboratory analysis of soils.

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3. Site Details

The subject site is located north east of Esperance town site on Quarry Road, in the municipality of the Shire of Esperance. Lot 408 Quarry Road is 17.3ha in total and is situated in a rural residential/rural interface. Please refer to Figure 1 below - Locality map and Appendix A – Subject Site and Location Map.

Figure 1 – Subject site locality

This Land Capability Assessment relates to Lot 408 Quarry Road, Esperance and the proposed development of housing as per the requirements of „Rural Residential‟ State Planning Commission, Land Capability Assessment for Local Rural Strategies (1989). The “Subject site” is defined as the 17.3ha of lot 408 Quarry Road, Esperance as Shown in Appendix A – Subject site.

3.1. Current site land use

The site is currently rural land and has been stocked with cattle and has a chicken farm for egg production in the southern area near the residence. Most of the subject site is cleared paddock with a resident/shed area in the south. It is proposed to move the chicken farm to another site if this proposal is approved by the Shire of Esperance. Please refer to Photographs 1 and 2 below.

Photograph 1 – View of cattle grazed on the farm.

Photograph 2 – View of existing residence

Lot 408 Quarry Road

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3.2. Zoning

The current zoning for the subject site is “Agricultural General”, it is proposed under Shire of Esperance District Town Planning Scheme No.23 to subdivide the site into rural residential blocks (approximately 2 ha lots).

3.3. Adjacent Land uses

The subject site is located within a rural residential/rural interface, with rural residential properties to the south (approximately 2 ha lots). There is a Shire Reserve (R15239) to the north and an extractive industry (Quarry) to the north of the Shire reserve. To the west is feehold land which is uncleared and the land to the east is cleared rural land (paddocks). Please refer to subject site mapping Appendix A.

The current residence is accesssed by Yallambie Road from the south. Yallambee Road is a formed gravel road off Quarry Road. Yallambie Road is unformed west of the current residence access and Hills road to the west is unformed.

3.4. Climate

Esperance has a Mediterranean-type climate with warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters. It is subject to wide variations in the weather, from hot summer days when northerly winds arrive from the interior of the state, to cold, wet winter days with southerly winds from the Southern Ocean.

The climate is strongly influenced by the position of the band of high pressure known as the sub-tropical ridge. The seasonal variations are mainly due to the north-south movement of this ridge. Persistent east to southeast winds prevail in summer when the ridge is south of the state. The ridge moves north in the cooler months allowing the moisture-laden westerly winds south of the ridge to deliver much of the annual rainfall.

3.4.1. Rainfall

Cold fronts embedded in the westerlies are common in the winter months. Approximately 68% (418 mm) of the annual average rainfall (619 mm) occurs between May and October with July being the wettest month with an average of 99.7 mm. There can be considerable variation in the total rainfall from year to year. It has ranged from 1003 mm in 1968, to 404 mm in 1994. Other dry periods include 1896, 1914, 1919, 1954, 1969, 1977-78, 1982-83, 1991 and 1994 (BOM, 2010).

Figure 2 – BoM Rainfall for Esperance Station

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3.4.2. Temperature

January and February maximum temperatures average 26°C, although temperatures above 35°C occur about 11 times each year when dry north to northeasterly winds arrive from the interior of the state. The highest temperature recorded at the Meteorological Office was 46.7°C on 1 February 1991. Such high temperatures are usually followed by a dramatic cool change when the winds shift to the south and drop the temperature by up to 20°C. Occasionally the change is accompanied by a thunderstorm from the north or west that can produce a spectacular lightning display and strong winds. Winter daytime maximum temperatures average 17-18°C although it may be somewhat colder when strong southerly winds follow a cold front (BOM, 2010).

The ocean temperatures help to moderate overnight winter temperatures. July, the coldest month, has an average minimum temperature of 8°C and while the lowest minimum temperature recorded at the Post Office is -0.6°C. Temperatures below 4°C are rare (BOM, 2010).

Figure 3 – Average Temperatures BoM

3.4.3. Wind

Although fronts and depressions may bring strong to gale force winds, winter winds are more variable and generally lighter than those of summer. Winds in the summer months are predominantly from the south east, please refer to Wind rose (Figure 4 over the page). Wind directions during winter are from the south west, west and north west, from prevailing frontal development and mid level disturbances. Please refer to Figure 5 on Page 10

Evaporation in the summer months is high with a January average of 240mm (8mm a day). The monthly evaporation decreases to 66mm in June (2mm a day). Daily evaporation can vary significantly from over 15mm on a hot windy summer day to almost negligible on a cold wet winter day (BOM, 2010).

3.4.4. Wind

Although fronts and depressions may bring strong to gale force winds, winter winds are more variable and generally lighter than those of summer. Winds in the summer months are predominantly from the south east, please refer to Wind rose (Figure 4 over the page). Wind directions during winter are from the south west, west and north west, from prevailing frontal development and mid level disturbances. Please refer to Figure 5 on Page 10.

Evaporation in the summer months is high with a January average of 240mm (8mm a day). The monthly evaporation decreases to 66mm in June (2mm a day). Daily evaporation can vary significantly from over 15mm on a hot windy summer day to almost negligible on a cold wet winter day (BOM, 2010).

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Figure 4 – Summer (Jan) wind rose BoM

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Figure 5– Winter (Aug) wind rose BoM

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4. Site Assessment

Assessment of 408 Quarry Road, Esperance involved desktop analysis of climate, site history, vegetation, and geology of the site. Site assessment was undertaken of remnant vegetation, site soils analysis and laboratory testing of soils by Albany Soil and Concrete Testing. The results of these assessments are included in the following section and then referred to the in Land Resource Survey ratings Section 6.

4.1. Topography and Slope

The subject site is located in an undulating landscape with the average slope for the site (assessed over 100m grids) calculated to be 5º. The site slopes form the north east (highest point 25m AHD) towards the south (20m AHD). There is a creek line dissecting the property with the areas adjacent to the creekline relatively flat (<5 º).

4.2. Geology and Site Soils

Soil Landscape Mapping undertaken of the Esperance Region (Overhue et al 1991) indicates the site is from the Quartenary/Cainozoic Period from the Gore Land System- Discontinuous level to gently undulating coastal plain with subdued sand dunes, lakes and swamps, unconsolidated Pleistocene sediments. The soil types are uniform sands with a yellow podzolic B horizon (G3b); G3 soil types have deep sand showing a bleached A2 Horizon overlaying a soft Yellow B horizon. Locally referred to as a Corinup Sand (Overhue et al 1991). Site soil testing confirmed the site to be 2 soil categories – Deep Sands, and Sands over Clayey Sand.

4.2.1. Deep Sands

This soil type was encountered over approximately 60% of the site. Soils were commonly grey sandy topsoil, with cream slightly moist sand over yellow/orange moist sand. No water table was reached in any of the Test Pits. Test Pits 1, 3, 4, and 5 encountered these soil types. Please refer to Soil Profile and Site Photos Appendix B. Laboratory testing was undertaken for rates of permeability in the Light brown/cream coloured sands (A Horizon) with a result of 10-5. This indicates the soils are free draining. PRI tests were undertaken with a result of 12.4 indicating the sands have a high ability to treat effluent waters. Please refer to Appendix C for Laboratory Results.

4.2.2. Sand over Clayey Sand

This soil type was encountered over approximately 40% of the site. Soils were commonly grey sandy topsoil, with light grey/cream over brown mottled orange clayey sands. Water table was not reached in any of the Test pits. Test pits 2,6 and 7 encountered this soil types. Please refer to Soil Profile and Site Photos Appendix B. Laboratory testing was undertaken for rates of permeability in the cream coloured sands (A horizon) 10-4. This indicates the soils are moderate to free draining. PRI tests were undertaken with a result of 2.7 indicating the sands in the A horizon in these soils have a moderate ability to treat effluent waters. Please refer to Appendix C for Laboratory Results.

4.3. Vegetation Assessment

Site assessment revealed there was little native vegetation on site. There is some remnant riparian vegetation (melaleucas) along the Coramup Creek which is running from

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the north to the south of the property. Very little understorey is present with the creek assessed as being in degraded condition from grazing of Cattle. Please refer to Photograph 3 below. This vegetation type is considered to be in a “Completely Degraded” condition: “The structure of the vegetation is no longer intact and the area is completely or almost completely without native species” (Keighery, 1994).

Adjacent to the north of the subject site is a Shire of Esperance Reserve (R15239) Reserve for Recreation, this reserve contains remnant native vegetation, Banksia woodland and mixed Eucalyptus woodland. Please refer to Photograph 4 below.

It is therefore recommended that:

Vegetation is retained within the Coramup Creek and fenced off from grazing; and

Undertake planting of native riparian species for stabilisation and encourage regrowth along the creekline.

4.4. Hydrology and wetlands

Hydrogeological mapping undertaken of the Esperance Region (Overhue et al 1991) indicates the site is from the Quartenary/Cainozoic Period. Lot 430 (Qa) have Surficial Aquifer- local sedimentary aquifer minor groundwater resources. Please refer to 250k Hydrogeological Mapping Appendix D.

The Coramup Creek extends through Lot 408, please refer to Hydrology and Wetland Mapping Appendix E. The creek foreshore is highly disturbed from years of grazing of cattle. It is recommended that the creek line be fenced from stock and revegetated to restore the stability of the banks and to encourage floristic diversity.

Flood mapping from the DoW is not available, however correspondence with DoW to Whelans Town Planners revealed that flooding occurs below the 19.5m contour. (L.Bowyer 2010) Please refer to information from the DoW Appendix F.

The Coramup Creek is steeply incised (>10%) along the majority of lot 408, Please refer to Photographs 5 and 6 over the page. Conversation with the owner of lot 408

Photo 3- View of Coramup Creek, little native vegetation is present from grazing of cattle.

Photo 4 – View of adjacent Shire Reserve 15239.

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indicated that flood water in the 2007 flood occurrence did not extend over the banks of the creek. (Pers Comms S.McWhirter 2010)

In the southern area of the subject site the Creek pools before extending south towards the Lake Warden catchment. Surface water flows are from the ridge in the north east towards the south and west of the creek line draining to the south west. These are indicated on the Hydrology and Wetland mapping Appendix D. . Further site feature survey would verify water movement across the site. Groundwater was not encountered in any of the Test Pits, it would be anticipated that water may be found at depth (1000-1500mm) in the sandy clay areas which are lower in aspect (Test Pits 2 and possibly 6 and 7).

As per DoW guidelines, it is recommended there is a setback distance of 30m from the Coramup Creek from any development and on-site effluent disposal.

It is therefore recommended:

Revegetation of the creekline area with native endemic species;

Development occurs above the 19.5m contour; and

Setback of development from Coramup Creek as per Country Sewerage Guidelines 30m.

4.5. On site effluent disposal

The Draft Country Sewerage Policy (Amended 2003) states the following specific requirements for on-site wastewater disposal. • Irrespective of the type of on-site wastewater disposal system proposed, there should be at

least 0.5 metres separation between the natural ground surface and the highest known groundwater level;

• The site is required to have soil characteristics capable of receiving all wastewater likely to be generated on the site without risk to public health or the environment; and

• The natural land slope on which wastewater disposal is to occur shall not exceed a one in five gradient.

Photo 5 – View of creekline from the north of lot 408

Photograph 6 – view of creek from back of existing residence/sheds.

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Wastewater System Installation Requirements: • The wastewater disposal site should not be subject to inundation or flooding at a probability

greater than once in 10 years; • No wastewater system shall be constructed so that effluent or liquid wastes will be

discharged into the ground at a distance less than 30 metres from any well, stream or private supplies intended for consumption by humans;

• The depth to highest groundwater level from the underside of a septic tank effluent drainage receptacle shall be a minimum of 1.2metres. (For existing developed areas or infill areas a depth to highest known groundwater level may be a minimum of 1.2metres from ground level);

• Setbacks, groundwater clearance and installation requirements of systems other than conventional septic tank systems shall comply with any particular treatment relevant to the particular system. These are as required under the Health (Treatment of Sewerage and Disposal of Effluent and Liquid Waste) Regulations 1974, or conditions set by the Executive Director, Public Health.

The site meets the minimum requirements for the Country Sewerage Policy. The site has free draining sands, with sandy clays at depth in some areas. The higher elevated areas there is no expectation that under late winter conditions there would be any perched water tables. According to the indicative permeability of each soil category with regard to the indicative drainage class in the AS/NZS 1547:2000 permeability results for the site indicate that the sands are moderate to well draining soils. It is therefore recommended that:

Residences will need to be a minimum setback of 30m from any creek line in the subject area.

4.6. Drainage and storm water

To enable implementation of Water Sensitive Urban Design principles, planning consideration should be given at design stage to effectively manage road drainage across the site. Vegetated swales should be incorporated into the design to hold the 1:1 storm events and reduce the speed of run-off into adjacent areas. The individual lots should be encouraged to undertake on-site infiltration through the use of soak wells.

It is therefore recommended that:

Vegetated swales along road reserves;

Use of native endemic plants for road reserve areas and uptake of excess nutrients and slowing sedimentation prior to entering any wetlands;

Having soak wells on each residence for on-site infiltration of excess water;

Residents are encouraged to install rainwater tanks to utilise rainwater for grey water use and consumption (note if used for consumption then refer to Department of Health Water Quality Guidelines);

4.7. Constructability

This report does not include any engineering assessment. The site is generally viewed to have site soils which are conducive to ease of excavation, on-site drainage and foundation stability. The sands would most likely be classified as an A Class Site - Most sand and rock sites with little or no ground movement from moisture changes. Prior to any residential construction, this would need to be confirmed by a structural engineer.

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The dominant soil type is deep sands, and is suitable to be reused as fill where required. Sands should be compacted and free of loose materials and debris through screening prior to compaction.

It is noted that the engineering designs will need to account for the soils being loose sands and that these soil types are susceptible to wind and water erosion and thus will require stabilisation, especially over slopes.

4.8. Fire Management

A Fire Management Plan in consultation with Fire and Emergency Services (FESA) has not been prepared as part of this assessment. As the prevailing winds are from the south east during summer conditions (see Figure 4) this site is not considered a “Bushfire prone area”. The site is predominantly cleared paddock, there is Shire Reserve to the north which is uncleared (with a fire break), this would be classified as a Shrubland (under 4m height trees FESA Guidelines) a minimum setback for houses adjacent to this reserve of 40m is recommended. Where 100m can be achieved this is preferred. A minimum fuel reduction area of 20m (under 10˚ slope) will also need to be implemented. The 40m Fire Hazard setback has been mapped in the Limitation Mapping (see Page 22).

It is therefore recommended Setback distances are between 40-100m from the Shire Reserve to the North is

implemented;

4.9. Access and infrastructure

The subject site is connected to mains power at the existing residential/shed area located in the south of the property. If rural residential is viable then power will need to be supplied to each lot. The subject site is accessed from Quarry Road, which connects Fisheries Road into Esperance. This road is a well formed all weather gravel road. Access to any potential residential lots is recommended via Quarry Road and Yallambie Road. It is proposed that water will be sourced from Rainwater. Landowners should be encouraged to minimise water and fertiliser use on lawns and gardens as per the recommendations of the Water Corporation‟s “Waterwise” website: http://www.watercorporation.com.au/w/waterwise_index.cfm Rainwater for consumption requires treatment and residents should be referred to the Department of Health Water Quality Guidelines. Untreated rainwater use is supported for non-potable uses such as garden watering, flushing toilets, washing machines and car washing. Water should be captured and re-used where possible for any activities on the residential areas. It is therefore recommended that:

Waterwise initiatives are implemented at residences; and

Rainwater is collected for grey water use and potable water is treated to appropriate health guidelines.

http://www.watercorporation.com.au/W/waterwise_index.cfm

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4.10. Contaminated sites

A Contaminated sites assessment aligned to DEC Guidelines was not undertaken for the purpose of this report. Site assessment revealed there is no underground storage of fuel, minimal use of fertilisers, chemicals etc. associated with the chook farming practises. The Chook farm is proposed to be removed, the existing house will form one lot. Soil testing may be warranted after the removal of the Chook farm to ensure excess nutrients from extretia are not remaining insitu. It is therefore recommended that:

When the chook farm is removed that soil testing is undertaken to ensure the site meets environmental standards for soil (DEC Guidelines).

4.11. Adjacent Land use - Quarry

To the north of the subject site there is a quarry operated by Holcim. Prevailing winds are predominantly from the south-west (winter) and south-east (summer). Holcim advises that the quarry undertakes blasting 5 - 6 times per year, with the next blast scheduled for Sept - Oct 2010. Blasting contractors Maxim‟s are required to design blasts to keep noise and vibration levels below minimum standards. Blasts are designed to direct the minimal amount of fly rock that occurs back onto the quarry floor. All blasting is monitored for noise and vibration by the blasting contractor and these tests are carried out next to the windmill located on the edge of the egg farm paddock on Quarry Road. Maxim‟s blasting operations occur as per their “Technical Services Requirements” Manual. Blasting operations occurred on the 3rd November 2009 records indicated that blasting sound was at 111.1dBL on an east/southeast prevailing wind. This level does not exceed the Environmental Protection (Noise) Regulations 1997:

DAYTIME BLASTING

For blasting carried out between 7am and 6pm on any day which is not a Sunday or public holiday, the airblast level received on any other premises must not exceed - * 125 dB Llinear, peak for any blast; and * 120 dB Llinear, peak for nine in any 10 consecutive blasts, regardless of the interval between blasts. (Environmental Protection (Noise) Regulations 1997.) If operations continue to proceed from Holcim during the recommended periods, and on south east prevailing winds then this is not seen as being a restriction to residences, given there is established rural residences directly adjacent and to the south of the subject site.

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5. Land Use Requirements

Areas of land for sub-division approval are assessed through Land Capability to analyse the sustainability of the particular activity and the environmental effects the proposed use may have on the land. This determines the attributes the land contains which can affect the proposed land use for the area. The Land Use proposed for this development is „Rural Residential‟.

5.1. Rural Residential

The State Planning Commission (1989) Land Capability Assessment for Local Rural Strategies defines Rural Residential Development as:

“ Rural-residential is a multiple form of land use where land is utilised primarily for residential purposes, but often also for some form of agricultural uses. Individual lot sizes range from 1 ha upwards but are generally between 2 and 5 ha.”

The subject site is predominantly for residential use and the remainder of the land is to be continued as its present day form as rural use. Rural use has therefore not been assessed as the development of housing is of primary concern in this LCA.

Land Use requirements – Rural Residential development with on-site effluent disposal

• Housing foundation – the land should provide a stable surface and stable soil conditions for housing construction and for the construction of footings (i.e. excavation depth of 1m)

• Reticulated water and/or installation of power poles and telephone cables -0 the land should be capable of being trenched to 1m depth

• Septic tank operation - the land should be capable of being relatively easily excavated to a maximum depth of 1.5m to allow the installation of a septic tank system. Alternatively the septic tank may be located within a sand pad. The soils should be capable of absorbing the effluent efficiently and should also be capable of purifying the waste stream percolating through the soil. The favoured soils are therefore sands, sandy loams to clay loams. The depth of the unconfined water table should not restrict the ability of the soil to absorb or purify the effluent.

• Stormwater disposal – the soils should be capable of readily absorbing stormwater discharge. The depth of the unconfined water table should not restrict the ability of the soils to absorb the water discharged.

• Housing construction – the soils should not be subject to waterlogging as this may lead to problems within internal damp and establishing and maintaining gardens.

• Hazards – the dwelling and septic tank system should not be threatened by flooding or wave erosion (coastal recession) the dwelling and other facilities (including roads) should not be susceptible to wind erosion (sand inundation and scour). Stormwater shedding from sealed surfaces (roofs, paved areas, roads) should not result in soil erosion. Dwellings and associated facilities should not be threatened by bushfires.

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5.2. Land Resource Characteristics

The Land Resource Characteristics have been overlaid to determine the mapping units assessed at Lot 408 Quarry Road, Esperance. The mapping units were determined by the following information:

• Soil and Landscape characteristics, including texture, depth, soil profile, aspect, slope and water table.

• Soil testing and Laboratory analysis.

• Environmental mapping.

• Historical land use.

The Three mapping units are defined in Table 1 below.

Table 1– Mapping Units Lot 408 Quarry Road

MAP UNIT

CHARACTERISTICS

Map Unit 1

Deep sands, Free draining, PRI high, Predominant soil type across the site. Predominantly pasture (cleared land).

Slope <5%

Map Unit 2

Sands over clayey sands, predominantly low lying areas, moderate PRI slope<5%

The mapping units location on Lot 408 Quarry Road, Esperance. are shown on the Map over the page, generalised Soil Diagrams are shown below.

BGL Map Unit 1 Map Unit 2

0m

Sand Sand

750mm

Sand

Sand Sandy clay

1500mm

19 19

6. Land Resource Survey

The Department of Agriculture and State Planning Commission utilise a five class system of assessing Land Capability, these five classes rate the degree of physical limitations associated with land use and management needed for these. Please refer to Table 2.

Table 2 Land Capability Classes

CAPABILITY CLASS

DEGREE OF LIMITATION

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

I Very low Areas with a very high capability for the proposed activity or use. Very few physical limitations to the specified use are present or else they are easily overcome. Risk of land degradation under the proposed use is negligible.

II Low Areas with a high capability for the proposed activity or use. Some physical limitations to the use do occur affecting either its productive use or the hazard of land degradation. These limitations can however, be overcome through careful planning.

III Moderate Areas with a fair capability for the proposed activity or use. Moderate physical limitations to the land use do occur which will significantly affect its productive use or result in moderate risk of land degradation unless careful planning and conservation measures are undertaken.

IV High Areas with a low capability for the proposed activity or use. There is a high degree of physical limitations which are either not easily overcome by standard development techniques or which result in a high risk of land degradation without extensive conservation requirements.

V Very High Areas with a very poor capability for the proposed activity or use and the severity of physical imitations is such that its use is usually prohibitive in terms of either development costs or the associated risk of land degradation.

6.1. Qualities and limitations

The proposed land use has a set of qualities for which the Land Capability Assessment will be considered. Table 3 over the page outlines the landscape qualities and the overall Capability rating for Rural Residential.

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Table 3 – Land Capability for Rural Residential

The following table is the land capability classification system for Rural Residential from the State Planning Commission (1989) Land Capability Assessment for Local Rural Strategies.

Landscape Qualities Rural Residential

Ease of excavation, x Very high Moderate Low Low

Foundation stability, b Very high High Moderate Low Very Low

Water logging hazard, i Low Moderate High Very High

Water erosion hazard, e Low Moderate High Very High

Wind erosion hazard, w Low Moderate High Very High

Wave erosion hazard,u High Very High

Soil absorption ability, a High Moderate Low Very Low

Flood hazard, f High Very High

Water pollution hazard,s Low Moderate High

Bushfire hazard, z Very low Low Moderate High Very High

Soil Salinity, y Very low Low Moderate High

Overall capability rating

I II III IV V

Utilising the above table the following assessment is made for Map Unit 1, please refer to Table 4 below.

Table 4 – Land Capability Rating Map Unit 1

Landscape Qualities Light Rural Industry

Map Unit A Comments

Ease of excavation, x Very High Deep sands

Foundation stability, b High Compaction sands encountered throughout site

Water logging hazard, i Low Not anticipated in areas above 19.5m contour Water erosion hazard, e Moderate Slopes could increase water erosion

Wind erosion hazard, w Moderate Site subject to prevailing winds, counter measures will need to be employed in exposed sands

Wave erosion hazard,u Nil Site not subject to Soil absorption ability, a High Capable of receiving on-site effluent Moderate to

high PRI‟s

Flood hazard, f Low Elevated areas above the 19.5m contour Water pollution hazard,s Moderate Setbacks from creekline 30m Bushfire hazard, z Moderate Site subject to Fire 40m setbacks from Shire reserve Soil Salinity, y Very Low Calcareous sands nil salinity expected. Overall capability rating II Areas with a high capability for the proposed

activity or use.

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Utilising Table 3 the following assessment is made for Map Unit 2, please refer to Table 5 below.

Table 5 – Land Capability Rating Map Unit 2

Landscape Qualities Light Rural Industry

Map Unit A Comments

Ease of excavation, x High Sand over clayey sand Foundation stability, b Moderate Groundwater possible at 1500mm in clayey sand

Water logging hazard, i Low Free draining sands 1000mm Water erosion hazard, e Low Gentle slopes Wind erosion hazard, w Moderate Site subject to prevailing winds, counter measures

will need to be employed in exposed sands

Wave erosion hazard,u N/A Site not subject to Soil absorption ability, a Moderate Moderate PRI Flood hazard, f Low Above the 19.5m contour Water pollution hazard,s Moderate Setbacks from creekline 30m Bushfire hazard, z Moderate Site subject to Fire 40m setbacks from Shire

reserve Soil Salinity, y Low Calcareous sands nil to low salinity expected Overall capability rating II Areas with a high capability for the proposed

activity or use.

6.2. Overall Land Capability Analysis

Map Unit 1 – Deep Sands

Rural Residential – Overall Capability Rating of II-Areas with a High Capability for the proposed activity or use.

This Map Unit has high capability for Residential land use, however is subject to setbacks and limitations, refer to limitations mapping over the page.

Map Unit 2 – Sand over Sandy Clay

Rural Residential – Overall Capability Rating of II-Areas with a High Capability for the proposed activity or use.

This Map Unit has high capability for Residential land use, however is subject to setbacks and limitations, refer to limitations mapping over the page.

22 22

6.3. Limitations Mapping

23 23

7. Planning and Management Considerations

The following recommended planning and land management considerations arise from the Land Capability Assessment:

7.1. On-site Septic Effluent Disposal

Overall the subject site has soils which are conducive to on-site effluent disposal; however will be subject to setback distances from the creek line. The sites are free draining sands and perched or high water tables are not anticipated.

It is recommended that: o Residences will need to be a minimum setback of 30m from Coramup Creek.

7.2. General Foundation and building stability

The site is mostly sandy soils (probable A Class Site), with possible compaction sands available on site. Site Classifications will need to be confirmed by a structural engineer. With appropriate site preparation where required, the subject land will support building development. The soil type of sands is suitable to be reused as fill where required. Sands should be compacted and free of loose materials and debris through screening prior to compaction. Loose sands should be protected from erosion factors.

It is recommended that: o Further geotechnical investigation is required to determine bearing capacity for

pavement design and structural ratings;

o As the site is predominantly sandy in nature it is recommended that best practise is carried out if the site is developed for use, sediment traps are installed during development, and any cleared areas are stabilised.

7.3. Drainage and Water Sensitive Urban Design Principles

To enable implementation of WSUD principles, planning consideration should be given at design stage to effectively manage road drainage across the site. Vegetated swales should be incorporated into the design to hold the 1:1 storm events and reduce the speed of run-off into adjacent areas. The individual lots should be encouraged to undertake on-site infiltration through the use of soak wells. As most rain water captured from roof top areas will be used for grey water use/consumption, there should be minimal excess water run-off from post development areas. Roads and infrastructure should be aligned to contours to reduce speed of runoff and increase capture of water resources.

It is recommended that: o Vegetated swales along road reserves;

o Aligning road areas to contours for ease of drainage;

o Installing soak wells on each residence for onsite infiltration of excess water;

o Residents are encouraged to install rainwater tanks to utilise rainwater for grey water use and consumption (note if used for consumption then refer to Department of Health Water Quality Guidelines);

o Use of native endemic plants for road reserve areas and uptake of excess nutrients and slowing sedimentation.

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7.4. Wetlands & Hydrology

The Coramup Creek drains from the North to the South of Lot 408. The creek has been grazed for some years and is in very degraded condition. It is recommended this is fenced from stock and revegetated. Setback distances are required from the DoW, these should be a minimum of 30m from the creek edge. Correspondence with the DoW indicates that 100 year flood levels are up to the 19.4m contour, therefore all residences should be located above this level.

It is recommended that:

o Revegetation of the creek line area with native endemic species;

o Development occurs above the 19.5m contour; and

o Setback of development from Coramup Creek as per Country Sewerage Guidelines 30m.

7.5. Fire Management

The native vegetation to the north is continuous vegetation (over 100m) and in prevailing summer winds could place housing in the north under some fire risk from hot north west and north east winds. A minimum setback of 40m is recommended, where possible 100m should be achieved.

It is recommended that:

o A development setback from the native vegetation in the Shire Reserve is applied of 40-100m

7.6. Contaminated Sites

A Contaminated Sites investigation was not undertaken within the scope of this project; site assessment revealed there are not fuels or contaminants stored on site. The chook farm is proposed to be moved if the subdivision is approved. Soil testing post the removal of the chook farm should be undertaken to ensure there is no excess of nutrients to the site.

It is therefore recommended that: Upon removal of the Chook farm that soil testing is undertaken aligned to DEC guidelines.

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8. Conclusions

Bio Diverse Solutions was commissioned as Environmental Consultants to undertake a Land Capability Assessment of Lot 408 Quarry Road, Esperance. The Land Capability Assessment compares the physical requirements for a particular land use with the qualities of the land. The analysis determines the ability of the land to sustain a particular land use without resulting in significant environmental degradation. The land use that has been considered for this study area is Rural Residential with on-site effluent disposal.

The assessment of the subject site involved desktop analysis of climate, site history, vegetation, wetlands and geology of the site. Site assessment was undertaken of remnant vegetation, site soils analysis and laboratory testing of soils by Albany Soil and Concrete Testing.

The site testing and environmental assessment revealed two Map Units – Map Unit 1 (Deep sands), Map Unit 2 (Deep sands over clayey sand). Both Map Unit 1 and Map Unit 2 have a Land Capability Rating of II-Areas with a High Capability for the proposed activity or use.

The subject site has soils and site conditions which support the proposed Rural Residential, land use. Some planning considerations are required for Rural Residential construction, particularly setbacks from the Coramup Creek, fire hazard setbacks, building above the 19.5m contour and erosion from prevailing winds and water over slopes.

The creek line should be protected from development and agricultural use and revegetated with endemic species with mid and understorey native species, which will assist in stabilisation of the site, provide refuge for animals, Biodiversity assets, provide buffers and give amenity to the overall site.

A chook farm is presently located on the property, if the site is approved to be subdivided the proponent proposes to move this to another property. Upon removal is recommended that site soil and water testing occurs to ensure there is no residual nutrients from the activity.

A quarry is located to the north of the subject site, blasting operations occur within the the Environmental Protection (Noise) Regulations 1997. As there is existing residences adjacent to the subject site and blasting occurs on winds directed away from the site, this is not seen as a limitation to the site.

It is noted that this assessment does not include engineering assessment or geotechnical assessment for structural house/building designs. Bio Diverse Solutions recommend that this would be required prior to commencement of building/development.

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9. References

AS 1547-2000 Australian Standard, On Site Domestic Waste Water Management, Primary Referenced Standard, Australian Building Codes Board and Standards Australia.

Bureau of of Meteorology Climate Statistics Esperance Station database accessed March 2010.

Bowyer, L (2010) ,DoW, Email to Justin Page Whelans Town Planners “Flooodway mapping for Coramup Creek in Esperance”.

Department of Health WA “Movement of Nutrients from on-site waste water systems in soils” 2001.

Department of Water 1:250 000 Hydrogeology Map Series (2001) Mapping dataset, Government of Western Australia

Department of Water Public Drinking Water Supply Act (2001) Mapping dataset, Government of Western Australia.

Government of Western Australia Environmental Protection (Noise) Regulations 1997.

Keighery, B. (1994) Bushland Plant Survey, A Guide to Community Survey for the Community, Wildflower Society of WA.

Land Capability Assessment for Local Rural Strategies, 1989, State Planning CommissionWestern Australia.

Moore, G. (1998) Soilguide. A handbook for understanding and managing agricultural soils’. Department of Agriculture, Western Australia. Bulletin No. 4343.

Overhue, T.D, Muller, PG and Ge S.T (1991) “Soil Landscape Map of the Esperance Region” (Scale 1:50000 map sheets) WADA Land Resource Map Sheet 3.

Personal Communication with Stehen McWhirter to Kathryn Kinnear February 2010.

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Appendices

Appendix A – Subject Area

Appendix B – Site Soil Testing Profiles and Photos

Appendix C – Laboratory Testing

Appendix D - Vegetation Mapping

Appendix E – 250K Hydrogeological Mapping

Appendix F– DoW Correspondence

28 28

Appendix A

Subject Area & Location Map

30 30

Appendix B

Soil Testing Profiles and Photos

32 32

Soil Profile Sampling

Location: 408 Quarry Road, Esperance Date tested: 23/2/2010 Sampled by: Kathryn Kinnear Location Site

description Depth of profile (mm)

Soil Description

Test Pit 1 0399820 6262066

In paddock north of house

0-80 80-400 400-700 700-900 900-1500

Brown sandy topsoil, dry Brown sand, slightly moist Brown sand, dry Brown compacted sand, dry Light brown/cream sand, dry No Water Table

Test Pit 2 0399887 6262071

In gully north of residence, cleared paddock.

0-100 100-400 400-560 560-1000 1000-1500

Light brown silty sand topsoil, organic matter slightly moist Light brown silty sand dry (SAMPLE 1 lab test) Light brown mottled brown/orange silty sand sl moist Cream/light brown sand, sl moist Brown mottled orange sandy clay No Water Table Penotronmeter tests 12,9,9,10

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Location Site description

Depth of profile (mm)

Soil Description

Test Pit 3 0400026 6262073

North east corner, highest point of site

0-100 100-200 200-550 550-1000

Grey sandy topsoil, dry, rootlets Light grey silty sand, dry Cream sand slightly moist Yellow sand slightly moist No Water Table Pentronmeter 5, 7,9

Test Pit 4 0400024 6261953

In cleared paddock midslope

0-200 200-700 700-1600

Grey sandy topsoil, dry, rootlets Cream/light yellow sand, dry Yellow fine sand slightly moist No Water Table Pentronmeter 6,6,7

Test Pit 5 0400067 6261840

East of residence/shed above 19m contour

0-150 150-450 450-750 750-1500

Grey sandy topsoil, dry rootlets Grey sand, dry Light brown sand, moist Light brown mottled orange moist sand No Water Table Pentronmeter 10,7,6,8

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Location Site description

Depth of profile (mm)

Soil Description

Test pit 6 0399663 6262039

North-west of house in cleared paddock

0-200 200-1100 1100-1300 1300-1500

Grey sandy topsoil, dry, rootlets Dry to moist light brown/cream sand (SAMPLE 1 lab test) Moist mottled brown orange/grey clayey sand Moist light grey/orange clayey sand No Water Table Pentronmeter 3, 4, 6, 5

Test Pit 7 0399678 6261917

In cleared paddock west of house

0-200 200-600 600-1400 1400-1500

Grey sandy topsoil, dry, rootlets Dry to moist light brown/cream sand Cream sand slightly moist Moist mottled brown orange/grey clayey sand No Water Table Pentronmeter 6, 5, 8

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Appendix C

Laboratory Testing

38

Appendix D

Hydrogeological Mapping

40 40

Appendix E

Hydrology and Wetland Mapping

42 42

Appendix F

DoW Correspondence

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