EIS 260

AA05261 2

Proposed extensions to existing gravel removal operations

adjacent to portions 102 & 159, Parish of Tomerong, Shire of

Shoalhaven by W.J. Schofield & Sons

NS TMAR1 1NUSR1ES

AA05261 2

LANDSCAPE PLANNING SERVICES 10 EAST STREET NOWRA telephone (044) 212588 ROSS LAMOND AFFORESTATION PLANTATION SERVICES PAUL BISHOP pty limited Associates

AICHFtECTS + LANDSCAPE PLANNERS

Proposz)d Ext(~)ns~ons to EAsUng 0 rav R(~)movci

OperciUons AJjacent to Porfions 102&I'Qu

PcHsh of Tomerong Shm of Shodhaven

By W.J. Schofidd a Sons

MIF7

IF ifftJ

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ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING AND ASSESSMENT ACT, 1979 (section 77 (3) (d))

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT

This Statement has been prepared by or on behalf of W.J. SCHOFIELD & SONS

being the applicant making the development application referred to below.

The Statement accompanies the development application in respect of the

development described as fo1lows=

Proposed Extension to Existing Gravel Removal Operations

at Tomerong.

The development application relates to the land described as follows:-

Crown Land adjoining Portions 102 and 159

Parish of Tomerong,

County of St. Vincent,

Shire of Shoalhaven

The contents of this statement as required by clause 34 of the Environmental

Planning and Assessment Regulation, 1980 are set forth in the accompanying

pages.

Name Qualifications and Address

of person who prepared Environmental

Impact Statement

PAUL BISHOP B.Sc (Arch) B.Arch

of Paul Bishop Pty Limited & Associates

Architects and Landscape Planners

10 East Street

Nowra 2541

I, P.R. BISHOP, of NOWRA

hereby certify that I have prepared the contents of this Statement in

accordance with clauses 34 and 35 of the Environmental Planning and

Assessment Regulation, 1980.

Signature

Date

CONTENTS

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Page No.

BACKGROTJND INFORMATION 1.

DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT 3.

DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT 13.

ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT 16.

REQUIREMENTS OF DEPARTMENTS AND AUTHORITIES 19.

CONCLUSION 21.

ANNEXURES

Site Location 1.

Site Location 2.

General Site Layout

Existing Site Conditions

Photographs

D.E.P.

Development Approval, Existing Quarry

LANDSCAPE PLANNING SERVICES 10 EAST STREET NOWRA telephone (044) 21 288 ROSS LAMOND AFFORESTATION PLANTATION SERVICES PAUL BISHOP ptv limited & Associates

AICH[TECTS + LANDSCAPE PLANNERS

PROPOSED EXTENSION TO EXISTING GRAVEL REMOVAL OPERATION. ADJACENT TO PORTIONS 102 & 159 PARISH OF TOMERONG, SHIRE OF SROALHAVEN.

By W.J. Schofield & Sons

1. BACKGROUND INFORMATION

1.1 The Proposal

The Applicant, W.J. Schofield & Sons, presently operate a gravel

removal operation in an area commonly termed the "hell hole" at

TQmerong, south of Nowra.

They have worked this site, leased from the Department of Lands for

a period of four years and have now virtually worked out the present

lease. As of 1st November, 1984, there remains only approximately

100 cubic metres of poorer sub-base quality gravel stockpiled which

is expected to last only another month.

Applications were made to the Department of Lands last February, to

extend their current lease by approximately 14,000 m2 onto the

adjoining area of Crown Land to the west, and this has been approved

in principal, subject to compliance with the requirements of Shoalhaven

City Council and the Department of Environment and Planning.

A survey carried out by the Applicants, found this to be one of the

best remaining natural gravel deposits in the area and has the obvious

advantage of being conveniently situated adjacent to their current,

site, thus allowing for a continuous operation.

The gravel is to be used as a rough surfacing material principally in

the upgrading and maintenance of roads in the Commonwealth territory

around Jervis Bay and for general subdivision work in the Shoalhaven

Shire.

The proposal is that the Applicants be permitted to continue their

existing gravel removal operations on the adjacent site.

1.2 Location

The proposed extraction site is situated immediately to the south

of the Applicants existing lease and is approximately 22 kilometers

from Nowra.

The area is edged in red inannexures 3 and 4. In relation to the

nearest villages, it is approximately 11 kilometers from Klimpton

and 11 kilometers from Tomerong, kLimpton having a population of

approximately 50 and Tomerong having a population of approximately

150.

The nearest residence is on the highway approximately 7 kilometers

from the site.

1.3 Land Zoning and Tenure

The subject land is owned by the Crown and adjoins portion 102 in

- the Parish of Tomerong, County of St. Vincent.

The current zoning under Shoalhaven City Council Interim Development

Order No. 1 is "Non-urban lA' and its proposed zoning under Council's

Draft Local Environment Plan is "Rural 1A".

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2

DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT

2.1 Characteristics and Economic Significance of the Resource

As noted previously, the gravel in the proposed pit area is of

particularly good quality. It represents one of the very few

remaining sites within the Shoalhaven area producing gravel.

which complies with the compaction and grading tests for roadbuilding

purposes required by the various Authorities.

The material from the proposed extraction site complies with the

requirements of the Australian Department of Housing and Construction,

and as such, is suitable for their road construction purposes.

As yet, the material has not been tested to see if it complies with

the Department of Main Roads Form No. 744 (as amended) being the

"Specification for the Supply of Natural Gravel or Crushed Rock for

Road Pavements, (Bitumen Surfaced)" or Form No. 801 being for

"Specification for the Supply of Natural Gravel or Crushed Rock for

Road Pavements, (not Bitumen Surfaced)". However, gravel from

Council's pit in the same area when mechanically stabilised with 436

micron sand has been found to comply with Form No. 801 and the

grading rule test for Al gravel.

Although the various consumers of road building material within

Shoalhaven City Council area rely primarily on the gravel deposits

at Tomerong, known locally as ironstone ridge gravel, this material

can vary considerably in quality over a very small area. Deposits

range from those tested as Al to deposits (such as from Council's

pit) requiring expensive mechanical stabilisation with up to 337 added

sand volume.

A survey of the area carried out by the Applicant, has indicated that

the proposed site represents probably the best of the remaining

deposits. The depth varies from 300 mm to 1200 mm covered by

approximately 300 mm of overburden allowing for easy and economical

removal. Other sites investigated in the area were either too shallow

or of poor quality.

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The deposit also contains an ideal amount of sandy overburden,

sandstone, ironstone and gravel which when correctly mixed

together assists in the resulting gravel mix attaining the

required test results without having to resort to mechanical

stabilization methods. Material excavated several years ago

from this same ridge was tested and shown to comply with D.M.R.

standards.

At the present time, the closest natural gravel deposits of

comparable standard or better are located at Batemans Bay

representing considerable cost penalties for transportation.

The proposed lease from the Department of Lands for this

extension of gravel removal operation will extend over an area

of approximately 14,000 sq. m. and the allowable depth for

extraction will be a maximum of 1 metre. Allowing for the

varying depths of the deposits and other indeterminate factors,

it is estimated that approximately 5,000 cubic metres will be

extracted from the site over a two year life expectancy, resulting

in a payment of approximately $3,000.00 in royalties alone.

The red gravel from the new pit is also particularly desired by the

Department of Housing and Construction for the continuing upgrading

and maintenance of roads within the Commonwealth Territory surrounding

Jervis Bay because it matches the colour and consistency of the

existing gravel (which came from the existing pit operated by the

Applicants on the adjoining site to that proposed) and because of

if its higher than average quality.

Potential contracts for the supply of the gravel for roadbuilding and

surfacing are assured not only with the Department of Housing and

Construction, but with other Public Authorities and Private Companies.

This proposed extension of an existing gravel removal area represents

probably one of the last remaining sites which can produce high quality

gravel at a relatively cheap price. The alternatives are to mechanically

mix the poorer quality gravels with other materials or to crush and mix

sandstone, siltstone, or basalt, all of which result in a higher priced

product.

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As a comparison, gravel from the proposed site can be delivered

to Jervis Bay for a price of $12.00 per cubic metre compared to

crushed siltstone from South Nowra for $20.00 per cubic metre and

$32.00 per cubic metre for crushed basalt from Kiama. Even though

the end product of these crushedrock products may be somewhat

superior in quality, they would not provide the required aesthetic

result on the existing red gravel roads around Jervis Bay and other

similar areas,

2.2 Methods of Extraction and Types of Equipment Used

The method of extraction will be similar to that employed by the

Applicants in their existing operation on the adjacent site.

A portion of the site is firstly cleared of larger timber and

undergrowth by bulldozing onto a previously cleared portion of the

site where it will be burnt and the ashes spread over therevegetation.

area. During bushfire periods the material is stockpiled until fire

restrictions are lifted. Only enough timber is cleared to permit the

immediate removal operations. If the site were to be totally cleared,

as has been the case with the other pits in the area, the removal of

the trees and roots tends to either dry out the sub-base or allow

greater water infiltration both of which affects the end quality of the

gravel. The topsoil and nutrient material is then scraped onto an area

previously mined where some will be spread over the surface to assist

in plant regeneration and the remainder stockpiled for future respreading

over the area currently mined. Not all the overburden is removed as a

small portion is retained in-situ to assist in achieving a good gravel

mix when excavated.

The excavation process involved working to a face not stripping off in

layers.

The applicants have found that the best gravel mix is achieved by

working to the full depth of the face (approximately 1 metre deep)

by shaving at an angle with a bulldozer over a maximum width of 10 metres.

Some of the sandy loam overburden is then mixed with the ironstone,

sandstone and gravel to produce a gravel mix of very high quality.

LA

They have also found that the gravel should not be stockpiled for

more than a month as it tends to deteriorate rapidly when it dries

out or becomes saturated with rainwater.

The best method is to shave off the material and load it directly onto

a truck as required. It seems that this is the only way the moisture

level can be maintained at an ideal level.

The shaving method also tends to break up the large ironstone rocks

which may be encountered, whereas if the area is scraped, these rocks

would normally be merely pushed away.

If these procedures are correctly implemented, then the gravel once laid,

watered and the compacted, produces a very hard surface.

It is anticipated that the following equipment will be used on the site:

caterpillar D6 Bulldozer

955 trackscavator

- (c) 4 bogey-wheel tip trucks in peak periods with an overall average

of only two trucks.

There would be on average, four, eight tonne truck trips to and from

the site each day intermittently when the pit is being used with a

peak capacity of about eight truck trips per day. The bulldozer would

normally be stored at the applicants workshop and depot at Bomaderry

and be brought to the site at monthly intervals or otherwise as required

to mix and stockpile the gravel. The loader would also be transported to

and from the site as required on the back of a tip truck. No equipment

is left on site when the pit is not being worked.

2.3 Transportation

As can be seen from the accompanying site plan, vehicles using the

proposed extraction site will travel by public road. The road is

generally in a well maintained condition and serves the other gravel

pits in the area as well as for forestry purposes.

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Sight line distances at all intersections are excellent.

The proposed extension to the gravel removal operation will not

increase the volume of traffic using the road as the application

merely involves the relocation of the current operation onto the

adjoining site.

2.4 Life of the Operation

The site will be worked intermittently depending on demand and it

is anticipated that the deposit will be depleted within two years.

2.5 Number of Persons Employed

When fully operational in peak periods, there will be two plant

operators and four truck drivers working on the site.

2.6 Noise

The noise generated will come from the machinery used for extraction,

loading and transporting the material.

It is expected that noise levels from the site equipment will measure

81-86 dB (A) at 15 metres. This would be similar to the other existing

gravel operations in the area and is somewhat insignificant when

compared to the blasting operations which occur on the adjacent sandstone

quarry site.

The large distance away from houses means that there will be only very

minor nuisance value caused to residents by noise and the level will not

be increased beyond that which presently exists.

2.7 Hours of Operation

It is intended that the site will be operated only during normal working

hours, 7.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m., Monday to Friday.

1. 2.8 Dust

Work at the construction site will cause dust. However, the type of

extraction process proposed involving small areas being worked at a

time and only small stockpiles of material on site, means that the

dust generation aspect would be fairly minimal compared to the much

larger quarry operations in the area.

It is proposed also that a landscaped tibufferl? will be retained around

the perimeter of the site and this will help in abating any dust

problems. Vehicles travelling to and from the site will also generate

dust, but once again this proposal will not increase the current level

or road transport using the road and the large distance to the nearest

houses should mean that the dust nuisance problem would be minimal.

2.9 Proposals for Rehabilitation

At present, the Department of Lands requires that, once mining operations

have been completed, the stockpiled overburden material be respread over the

disturbed area and the whole surface ripped with a bulldozer to a depth

of 300 mm. The ripping operation allows for the aeration of the sub-base

and the infiltration of rainwater as well as a means by which roots of

the young self sown plants can establish quickly in the very hard sub-base

material.

To ensure that this work in restoring the existing land area is correctly

carried out and the whole area rehabilitated generally, the Department

currently holds a $1,500.00 bond.

Should the Applicant be permitted to extend the gravel removal operations

onto the adjacent site, the Department would require that the same

rehabilitation methods be employed and a similar bond would be kept as

assurity.

The Applicant propose that the following work will be carried out to

restore the existing worked out area.

1. The naturally vegetated buffer strip retained alongside Parma Creek

Fire Trail will be cleaned up by dozer only where necessary to push

away any remaining tree trunks and overburden material.

S

Care will be taken not to damage any existing vegetation and sapling

regrowth or to disturb the natural nutrient and surface compost layers.

The sides of the existing pit will then be shaved to an angle of

incline not exceeding about 150 to limit any erosion problems that

may occur and the whole distrubed surface shaped as necessary to

approximately the finished levels. The stockpiled overburden material

will then be spread over the entire surface to ensure a uniform

cover. Once these operations have been dompleted the surface will

then be deep ripped.

It is not proposed that all of the existing mined out area will be

rehabilitated at this time as a portion of the site will be required

for the stockpiling of gravel and overburden material proposed to be

removed from the adjoining site.

To ensure that the natural self sown forest regrowth will occur

as quickly as possible, the Applicant proposed to take suitable

measures to ensure that the area is no longer disturbed. This

would involve the placing of logs or other suitable barriers across

several open areas between the trees fronting the roadway where cars

or other vehicles could have previously entered. In addition, if it

can be shown not to be a hazard to any animals in the area, the large

width of the existing pit area will be traversed with a steel star peg

fence between log straining posts with two plain wire strands and cloth

markers clearly defining its position. This fence will separate the

restored area from the work area and will be progressively moved across

the site to follow the continuing mining operation.

As can be seen from the accompanying photographs, a portion of the site

is traversed after heavy rain by stormwater runoff from the road.

This is obviously the lowest point of the site and represents a natural

drainage route to the gulley and creek beyond. The road catchment area

is relatively small as the gradient is minimal along that section of

road and there is only a very gentle cross fall over the site so the

small flow of water is not of any great concern to vehicles needing to

cross over. The water is never more than several centimetres deep and

the hard gravel surface does not turn boggy. Erosion potential is also

very low due to the very hard sub-base material.

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Measures which will be taken to reduce the effect of this

runoff include the placing of logs and rocks down the slope

from the roadway into the old pit area approximately 800 mm

below, to slow down the flow rate and reduce the potential for

Scouring.

As an interim measure the course would be relocated approximately

5 metres to the north by gentle shaping with a dozer blade so

that it goes well clear of the proposed gravel and overburden

stockpile from the proposed pit extension. As the pit moves

progressively to the south and the stockpiles are no longer required

in that area the whole of the surface will then be partially ripped

at approximately 5 metre intervals tranverse to the flow of the

water to allow for some regrowth yet at the same time not break up

the surface to an extent where there is a risk of erosion. Even

though the watercourse has flowed over the site now for several years

without any measures taken to restrict or influence its flow, there

is virtually no indication of any erosion problems as a result.

At present, the access road into the site forms the boundary between

the existing pit area and the proposed extension to the pit. It also

serves as the access into the gravel and sandstone pits on the

adjoining portion 102. Although there is no formal "right of way"

across the subject crown land giving access to the adjoining private

holding, and there are several other existing but unused tracks into

portion 102 from the road well clear of the Applicants mining operations

the Applicant will still maintain this access through the gravel pit.

To enable the area beneath the existing road to be mined, where the

depth of gravel is approximately 1200 mm, the road will need to be

temporarily relocated several metres to the north through the mined

out pit area. No trees or vegetation will be distrubed during this

work and the Applicant has indicated that the road area could be

completely mined and the new access road reinstated in the same

position but at the lower level within one day if necessary to lessen

the inconvenience caused to the adjoining property holders.

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As mentioned previously, the mining operation involves the periodic

clearing of the site and mining only as the gravel is required.

To ensure a product of the highest standard, trees should not be

removed from the mine area for more than several months prior to

mining and for similar reasons, gravel should not be stockpiled on

site for more than one month. This means that the mining operation

is a continuing process.

Should the Applicant be permitted to extend his gravel removal operation

after the adjoining site then the rehabilitation process is proposed

to be continuous as we].l,

Once the trees and shrubs have been removed, they are to be burnt on

the adjacent mined area & the residue spread over the previously

topsoiled and ripped surface to assist further in seed distribution of

the native species. The topsoil and overburden will be stripped and

stockpiled and then, after mining, it will be spread over the site beforE

ripping. The main difference between the operation on the existing leas€

and that proposed for the new area will be that the rehabilitation proceE

will be continuous rather than delayed until the completion of the entirE

mining operation. To protect the newly rehabilitated areas, the star

post fence previously discussed will be relocated to alongside the

northern side of the access roadway.

Much of the overburden material scraped off the adjoining privately

owned site has been deposited over the proposed boundary of the

Applicants lease. This material will be scraped to a much less angle

of recline and tidied up generally to assist regrowth. Tree trunks

and rubbish deposited on the site will also be removed by the

Applicant and burnt.

The proposed extension to the lease allows for a 20 metre wide buffer

strip of natural forest to be retained along the full length of the

road frontage and the adjoining portion 102. The Applicant undertakes to

maintain this buffer in a natural state and to take steps to prevent

its distubance by vehicles by the placing of log barriers etc, across

existing and potential access points.

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Other depleted gravel pits in the area which have •not been

rehabilitated at all have shown a substantial self sown

vegetation cover within a 2 year period indicating that if

appropriate steps are taken to prevent casual encrouchment

or disturbance by vehicles, an appropriate rehabilitation of

the Applicants site will be satisfactorily completed within

a similar period.

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3. DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT

3.1 Existing Site Conditions

The Applicant has operated a gravel extraction pperation on the

adjoining site for the past four years.

The area is renowned for its high quality gravel and is, therefore,

characterized by several depleted and existing gravel removal

operations.

Within the immediate area, there are two very large operational

gravel pits. One adjoins the subject land on Portion 102 and

extracts both gravel and sandstone for crushing, and the other is

operated by Shoalhaven City Council on a site approximately 1

kilometer away.

As can be seen from the enclosed Topographical map for the area, the

J(II)((t. flht( Is IO(tlt(d Ofl a Hulal I H dge With a p,(flL ly ('FOSS tall to

the north west. Approximately 300 metres from the western boundary.

the land drops steeping away over a sandstone cliff edge into a

gorge formed by Parma Creek. Minor overflow of stormwater goes

through the pit to flow mt Parma Creek and the existing pit area

does not inhibit this flow to the north west.

The nearest features of cultural or social significance to the site are

the villages of Tomerong with a population approximately 100 and

Klimpton with a population of approximately 50. Both are small rural

residential communities and both are approximately 7 kilometers away in

a straight line. The nearest residence to the site is at the "Log Cabin'

Roadhouse on the highway approx. 6 km away. There is also a "Bike Farm"

for trail bike enthusiast. situated approximately 6 kilometers away.

The only feature of economic significance in the area apart from the

other gravel pits, is the Forestry Commission operation along Blackbutt

Ridge Fire Trail, the main access road to the site off the highway.

There are no farms in the area due to the nature and lack of topsoil

+

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The access road to the site is principally used by trucks servicing

the gravel pits in the area and for forestry purposes. Although

the road eventually links through to Trunk Road 96 to Braidwood,

it deteriorates to a very poor condition after 6 kilometers from

the subject site at a crossing over Parma Creek. From here the

road is passable only by the most avid of adventurers in four

wheel drive vehicles.

There is no indication that the-area has any tourist resource and as

such, the site would not be subject to scrutiny from passsng traffic.

The proponents are not aware of any features within or adjacent to

the site of archeological significance.

3.2 Vegetation

The area of the proposed gravel pit extension has been recently affected

by fire. Consequently plant species present are relatively immature.

Eucalyptus gummifera and Eucalyptus eugeniodes are the dominant species.

Banksia serrata and Syncarpia glomulifera are prevalent throughout

the site. Associated species include:

Banksia spinulosa

Lamberia formosa,

Persoonia levis

Patersonia glabrata

Acacia stricta

Hakea sericea

Boronia reticulata

Boronia ledifolia

Cassinia longifolia

Acacia longifolia

Isopogon anethifolios

Telopea speciosissima

Pimilea humilis

Xanthorrhoea australis

Compholobium latifolium

Daviesia ramosissima

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From an environmental point of view, significant damage has already

occured in the area due to logging operations over many years.

It has been an important pit prop producing area for at least 50

years with many mills once scattered throughout the area mainly

seeking turpentine, ironbank and spotted gum.

Although virtually every mill has long since vanished, the area is

still extensively logged by the Forestry Commission,

An extensive area along the access road to the gravel pit site has

recently been selectively cleared by the Commission. A controlled

"Trickle burn" has been allowed to go through the understory and

undesirable largerspecies such as Eucalpptus gummifera, have been

ringbaked so as to encourage the growth primarily of Eucalyptus

macculata and Eucalyptus pilularis. This cycle for pit prop production

is usually repeated every 8 to 10 years.

Whereas the native forest provides for, and for some species even

relies on a bushfire every couple of years, for regeneration,

- the trickle burn process and selective logging practises represent

a highly debatable problem in ecological terms. It would be relatively

- safe to say, however, that these forestry operations do have a

significant effect on the natural ecology of the area and the forest is

no longer in a natural state.

From an economic point of view, the immediate area of the proposed gravel

pit has been previously logged and there are no longer any trees of

sufficient value to warrant their preservation for forestry purposes.

As previously mentioned, the main species remaining are Eucalyptus

gummifera and Eucalpytus eugeniodes and these have no intrinsic

commercial value.

4, -16-

4, ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

4.1 Erosion and Siltation

The small volume and velocity of the stormwater runoff from the

road which presently crosses the pit area after heavy rain does

not appear to present any significant erosion problems. The

sub-base material is very hard and the Applicants will take several

measures to reduce even further the potential of erosion.

The Water Resourses Commission have indicated that the proposed

extensions to the gravel removal operation onto the adjacent site

will not increase the current siltation levels in Parma Creek and

would have no impact on the quality of the domestic water, supply

of farms further downstream.

4.2 Possible Cumulative Effects

As the proposed gravel pit is merely the continuation of an existing

operation to be carried out on the adjacent site, no cumulative

- effects are anticipated.

4.3 Flora and Fauna

Approximately 35% of the site will be retained in its natural state to

act as a buffer to the roadway and the adjoining private holding.

The remainder of the site will be gradually cleared over the estimated

2 year life of the operation

Rehabilitation work on the existing quarry will be carried out almost

immediately and re-establishment of the native underbrush should

occur naturally within 2 to 3 years.

Native fauna would suffer to the extent that they would be deprived of

that area as a living and feading habit. However, the native

animals which may frequent this area would already be accustomed to

the workings of machinery on the two adjoining sites and the passing

of traffic and no adverse affects can be foreseen.

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* 4.4 Aboriginal Sites

The National Parks and Wildlife Service has indicated that

nothing of any significance has been recorded in the area of

the subject site. Even though there is a very low likelihood of

finding anything of significance, they still request that a survey

of the site be carried out should the Development Application be

approved.

4.5 Noise and Dust

As previously stated, the noise and dust levels from machinery

working on site and from trucks travelling to and from the site

will not be increased beyond current levels. The nearest residences

are at least 6 kilometers away and there should be little if any

nuisance value.

4.6 Trucking Levels and Highways

Overall, the level of operation will remain the same as presently

exists and should not have any impact. All the roads are well

maintained and sight distances are excellent.

4.7 Waste Material Disposal

As there is very little stripping required prior to reaching good

gravel (approximately 300 mm) and as all the stripped material will

be stockpiled on site, for future restoration work, there will be no

waste products produced. Timber and undergrowth removed during the

initial clearing operations will be burnt on previously cleared land

and in such a manner so as not to create a fire hazard or contravene

restrictions imposed in high fire danger periods.

l8

4.8 Landscaping and Visual Impact

Although the work site will be only 20 metres from the roadway,

it will be visually screened to an extent by the natural

vegetation retained in this buffer zone. The proposed quarry is

also very small in comparison with others in the area and should

therefore, have a lesser impact. The methods previously discussed

by which the Applicants will protect these landscaped buffer zones

from damage and rehabilitate the disturbed areas after mining should

ensure that the operation will have only a minimum impact especially

since the access road is only used generally by trucks servicing the

gravel pits in the area and for forestry purposes.

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5. REQUIREMENTS OF DEPARTMENTS AND AUTHORITIES

5.1 Lands Office

The Department of Lands approves in principal to the granting of

a Quarry Licence subject to compliance with any conditions imposed

on the Development Application.

5.2 Water Resources Commission

As the existing levels of siltation in Parma Creek will not be

substantially increased by the Development, no objection to the

proposal is raised.

5.3 National Parks and Wildlife Service

The service reports that they have nothing on record to suggest

that there is anything of aboriginal significance in the area,

however, they would still wish to conduct a survey, should the

proposal be approved.

5.4 Department of Public Works

As the site is adjacent several other operational gravel pits and the

proposal is merely to extend an existing operation onto an adjacent

site, the Department can see no objection with the proposal at this

stage but have asked to see a more detailed analysis of the proposal.

The subject site is not within any Environmental Protection Zones

including:

Wetlands Protection

Estuarine Wetlands Protection

Water Catchmerit Areas Protection

7(dl) Scenic Protection

7(d2) Special Scenic Protection

7(e) Escarpment Protection

7(fl) Coastal Protection

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7(f2) Coastal Reservation

7(f3) Foreshore Protection

5.5 Shoalhaven City Council

The Council is the consent Authority for the proposal.

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6. CONCLUSION

The proposal involves merely the extension of existing gravel

removal operations onto an adjacent site of only approximately

14,000 m2. As such, the Environmental Impact of the development

will be almost minimal.

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11 WJSCHOFIELD & SONS BLUE EDGE about 1 ha. Ii application for additional area.

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Exis ing Site Condition

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(1: 1000)

RED EDGE quarry licence for gravel remwc AMA WJ, SCHOFIELD & SONS

BLUE EDGE: application for additionat are

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TYPICAL VEGETATION PROPOSED PIT AREA

Existing access road showing old pit on the right and the proposed pit area on the left.

Note: stormwater runoff from Parma Creek Fire Trail following heavy rain.

Natural buffer retained to visually screen existing pit area.

Existing access road looking back to Parma Creek Fire Trail,

Note: Depth of gravel deposits at face, approximately 1100 mm This face will be the first area worked as part of the proposed pit extension. I

Existing pit area which is now depleted and is to be covered with the stockpiled overburden material and ripped approximately 100 m to allow for natural forest regeneration.

EXISTING PIT

:

Stormwater runoff from Parma Creek Fire Trail following heavy rain.

Mined out area due to be revegetated.

EXISTING PIT

r r'

Existing access road through existing pit area to privately owned gravel and sandstone mine in background.

Existing privately owned gravel removal operation on adjacent site (Portion 102).

Adjacent existing pit showing existing tree buffer.

Road where it crosses Parma Creek approximately 7 m from proposed pit

becomes passable only by four wheel drive vehicles.

PARMA CREEK ROAD.

Fluge area of Council's pit in comparison to proposed quarry.

Note: Large stockpiled reserves and surface water.

Secondary access road.

Note: road surface water discharging onto site.

EXISTING PIT OPERATED BY SHOALHAVEN CITY COUNCIL

Approximately 5 kilometres further up Parma Fire Trail from proposed pit.

Intersection looking south

Intersection looking north

SIGHT LINES INTERSECTION OF BLACKBUTT FIRE TRAIL AND PRINCES HIGHWAY

SHDALHAVEN CITY COUNCIL

low OUR REF.: 82/2359 GP:JR ENQUIRIES: Mr G Ponton YOUR REF.:

CITY ADMINISTRATIVE CENTRE

OOX 42, P.O. NOWRA, N.S.W. 2541

PHONE: [044] 216011 TELEX 22488

hUb 1983 W J Schofield & Sons 18 Meroo Road BOMADI:unY ;'';'i 1

Dear, Sir,

ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING AND ASSESSMENT ACT, 1979 NOTICE TO APPLICANT OF DETERMINATION OF A DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION

To: W J Schofield & Sons of 18 Meroo Road, Bomaderry being the applicant in respect of development application No. 82/2359 (Extractive Industry - Removal of Gravel), relating to the land described as follows:

Vacant Crown Land - Adjacent to Portions 159 & 102, Parish of Tomerong, County of St Vincent

Pursuant to Section 92 of the Act, notice is hereby given that the development application has been determined by granting of consent, subject to conditions.

The conditions of the consent and reasons for such conditions are set out as follows:-

Conditions of the City Planner:

Compliance with Standard Conditions, copy of which is attached.

All stripped topsoil shall be stockpiled for use in reinstating the subject site upon completion of quarrying.

Excavation shall not take place within 20 metres of the adjacent freehold land to the west.

4• No trees shall be removed within 20 metres of the public road.

To prevent ponding) excavation shall only be undertaken in a manner which does not obstruct the discharge of natural drainage.

The point, or points of surface water runoff shall be designed in a manner which prevents scour or erosion.

To facilitate restoration, the excavation shall be carried out in a proper workmanlike manner with sides battered at a slope not steeper than 1:4.

Blasting shall be carried out only in accordance with Ordinance 143 made under the Local Government Act.

'I

OUR REF.: CITY ADMINISTRATIVE CENTRE

ENDUIRIES: BOX 42, P.O. NOWRA, N.S.W. 2541

YOUR REF.: PHONE: [044) 216011 TELEX 22488

-2- W J Schofield & Sons ----------------------------------

15 AUG 1% -----------------------------------

8. Upon completion of quarrying operations, the area worked shall be filled and topsoiled and revegetated with flora indigenous to the area. All restoration work shall be completed to the satisfaction of Council.

Endorsement of date of CONSENT AUG

NOTES

This consent is valid for two years from the date hereon, unless an environmental planning instrument prohibiting the development is gazetted within one year of the date hereon. Then the consent is only valid for one year from the date that instrument comes into force.

Section 97 of the Act confers on an applicant who is dissatisfied with the determination of a consent authority a right of appeal to the Land and Environment Court exercisable within twelve (12) months after receipt of this notice.

Yours faithfully,

W. G. LAMOND, Town Cler

End.

New South Wales Government

Deportment of Environment and Planning Am

Remington Centre 1/5 Liverpool Street, Sydney 2000 Box 3927 C PC, Sydney 2001

Mr. P. R. Mahedy, DX.l5Sydney

Paul Bishop and Associates, 10 East Street, Telephone 02) 266 7111 Ex

NOWRA 2541 7568 Contact.

G. Reffell Our reterence:

84/305 5 Your reterence

Dear Sir,

Proposed Extension to Gravel Removal Operations adjacent to Portions 102 and 159, Parish of Tomerong. Shire of Shoalhaven. By W. J. Schofields and Sons.

Thank you for your letter dated 22nd June, 1984 which indicates that you are consulting with the Director with regard to the preparation of an environmental impact statement (E.I.S.).

As development consent is necessary for the proposal and it is designated development within the meaning of Schedule 3 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation, 1980, it is necessary that an E.I.S. accompany the development application to Council and to assist in comprehension, a copy of the Director's requirement should be appended to the E.I.S.

The basic requirement is that an E.I.S. be prepared in accordance with Clause 34 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation, 1980, and that it bear a certificate required by Clause 26(1)(b) of the Regulation.

With regard to the form and content of the E.I.S. it is advised the Director requires that you take into account matters specified in the attachment to this letter. These matters are to be adequately addressed in the statement and taken into account in the determination of the proposal by Council with whom we suggest you confer.

There are legislative requirements for the preservation of relics and aboriginal places. Where there is a possibility of these being encountered in development, the incorporation of an aboriginal archaeological survey as part of an environmental impact statement may be necessary. Where aboriginal archaeolog-ical surveys are needed, it is a requirement that they be undertaken by persons who are professionally qualified archaeologists or anthropologists, or who are members of the Association of Consulting Archaeologists. If in doubt on this matter, a proponent should consult with the National Parks and Wildlife Service.

Where matters are likely to come within the scope of legislation relative to air, water and noise control as administered by the State Pollution Control Commission, the view of the Commission should be sought. If aspects of the proposal significantly affect agricultural land or agricultural industry, the views of the Department of Agriculture should also be sought and appropriately addressed in the E.I.S.

Should you require any further information regarding this matter, please do not hesitate to contact us again.

Yours fthfu1ly

Manager, 2sses- sments Branch DJe_iQITheDiretQi

NEW SOUTH WALES DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT AND PLANNING

11AQEALE

Proposed Extension to Gravel Removal Operations adjacent to Portions 102 and 159 Parish of Tomerong, Shire of Shoalhaven. By W.J. Schofields & Sons.

A comprehensive environmental impact statement should adequately cover all the matters specified in Clause 34 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation, 1980.

These matters should be clearly and succinctly outlined in the text and where appropriate supported by adequate maps, plans, diagrams or other descriptive details to enable all concerned to gain a clear understanding of the full scope of the development and its likely impact on the environment.

The following particular matters should be included in its coverage:

Background information.

Location of works. Broad nature and extent of works proposed. Land tenure, boundaries, site details in relation to environmental planning instrument zonings and any other land use ('OUSt 1,I hit

Detailed description of the proposal.

This description should not only describe the proposal at the site but also describe any associated operations such as winning and transport of materials, processes involved, disposal of wastes, rehabilitation, landscaping and use of the end product if likely to have environmental implications.

Particular matters to be covered include:

Characteristics and economic significance of the resource. Possible availability of alternative sources. Methods of extraction/plans of operations. Type of machinery and equipment to be used. Expected life of the operation. Number of persons to be employed. Hours of operation. Location and quantity of any necessary stockpiling. Access arrangements - truck routes and number of truck movements. Quantity of materials to be extracted. Noise levels. Proposals for rehabilitation and assurances of effective completion.

c? S4j-o.

Description of the environment.

This description should provide details of the environment in the vicinity of the development site and also of aspects of the environment likely to be affected by any facets of the proposal. In this regard, physical, natural, archaeological and economic aspects of the environment should be described to the extent necessary for assessm ent of the environmental impact of the proposed development.

Assessment of environmental impact and measures to be taken to reduce the impact especially with respect to:-

Details of proposed site drainage and treatment of the wat&course that runs through the proposed pit site. Any likely cumulative effects of the proposed operation when considered together with other operations in the vicinity. Possible effects of flooding on the operations. Effects on fauna and flora Likely noise disturbance caused by the operations, including transport operations, on nearby residences. Other impacts of trucking movements, (cL1.- uj ,i ifirmJ. Dust control and any nuisance likely to be caused. Water treatment and other pollution control measures.

o Disposal of waste material. Landscaping measures and effects on the visual environment. The proposed final use of the site, intended rehabilitation procedures and likely effectiveness of rehabilitation. Any likely affectation of sites of aboriginal archaeological or heritage value if located in the vicinity of the operations.

5. Authorities contacted.

Th.e names of authorities contacted should be listed. Any comments relating to specific matters of interest raised by such authorities should be declared, including those in relation to possible cumulative environmental problems that may result.

J SCJICFIEL .Nfl S

Fropod EXtEflS1OflS tO O;.iStiOO

rav2 rovai operatio.E a.jcei 12 rrcnr -

Frrower's namtj ______

MEO

J SiiOFiELD ND

Proposed extnsrs to YitiflQ

rEocva! orotons Jcert to pors

102 & 1:1 Parish Tomeri-Ong,