Hunter Expressway Stage 1 Construction Environmental ...

January 2011

Stage one early works constructionenvironmental management plan

Hunter Expressway

PREPARED BY:

Bowditch Group

PO Box 4059

RATHMINES NSW 2283

T: 0418 497 528

F: 02 4975 3861

Email: [email protected]

PREPARED FOR:

Roads and Traffic Authority of NSW

Hunter Region

59 Darby Street

NEWCASTLE NSW 2300

COPYRIGHT: The concepts and information contained in this document are

the property of the NSW Roads and Traffic Authority (RTA).

Use or copying of this document in whole or in part without

the written permission of the RTA constitutes an

infringement of copyright.

Copy No. Issued to Version

2 Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water

RevC_100630

3 Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts

RevC_100630

4 Steve Goodwin (RTA stage 1 project manager) RevE_110125 5 Ken Holmes (project EMR) RevE_110125 6 David Ledlin (RTA senior environment officer) RevE_110125 7 Hudson Bawden (RTA communications manager) RevE_110125 8 Grant Fletcher (AbiGroup Environment Manager) RevE_110125 9 Nominated site officer ( – AbiGroup) RevE_110125

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Contacts NOTE: PERSONAL CONTACT INFORMATION HAS BEEN REMOVED

Glossary ACHPM Aboriginal cultural heritage plan of management

Alliance A commercial partnership between the RTA (owner participant) and one or a number of non-owner participants to design and deliver a project together where risks and rewards are shared.

CEMP Construction environmental management plan

CMS Construction method statement

Compliance audit Verification of how implementation is proceeding with respect to a construction environmental management plan (CEMP), the conditions of approval and all other relevant licences and approvals.

CoA Ministers conditions of approval

Construction All construction work in respect of the Activity other than survey, acquisitions, fencing, investigative drilling or excavations, building/road dilapidation surveys, minor clearing (except where threatened species, populations or ecological communities would be affected), establishing site compounds (in locations meeting the criteria of the Conditions), or other activities determined by the EMR to have minimal environmental impact (e.g. minor access roads, minor adjustments to services/utilities, etc).

DECC NSW Department of Environment and Climate Change (formerly EPA and now DECCW)

DECCW NSW Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water (formerly DECC). Throughout this CEMP, DECCW is to replace any references to:

• DEC.

• DECC.

• EPA.

• NPWS.

• The Manager CPPD Central Directorate.

• Director-General of National Parks and Wildlife.

Design and construct A commercial arrangement between the RTA and a contractor where by a project will be priced and built in accordance with the requirements laid out by the RTA.

Director-General Director-General of the NSW Department of Planning (or delegate)

DLWC Department of Land and Water Conservation (now elements form part of Land and Property Management Authority)

DoP Department of Planning

DUAP Department of Urban Affairs and Planning (now DoP)

EA Energy Australia

EEC Endangered ecological community

Ecologically sustainable development

Using, conserving and enhancing the community’s resources so that the ecological processes on which life depends are maintained and the total quality of life now and in the future, can be increased (Council of Australian Governments, 1992)

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EPA NSW Environment Protection Authority (now part of DECCW)

EMS Environmental management system

Environmental aspect Defined by AS/NZS ISO 14001:2004 as an element of an organisation’s activities, products or services that can interact with the environment.

Environmental impact Defined by AS/NZS ISO 14001:2004 as any change to the environment, whether adverse or beneficial, wholly or partially resulting from an organisation’s environmental aspects.

Environmental incident An unexpected event that has, or has the potential to, cause harm to the environment and requires some action to minimise the impact or restore the environment

Environmental objective Defined by AS/NZS ISO 14001:2004 as an overall environmental goal, consistent with the environmental policy, that an organisation sets itself to achieve

Environmental Management Representative

A suitably qualified and experienced person independent of project design and construction personnel employed for the duration of construction. The principal point of advice in relation to all questions and complaints concerning environmental performance. Their specific functions are defined in the Minister for Planning conditions of approval 19 to 21

EP&A Act Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979

EWMS Environmental work method statement

Fisheries, NSW NSW Fisheries (now Department of Primary Industries – Fisheries)

HHMP Historical Heritage Management Plan

HRS RTA Hunter Road Services

I & I NSW - Fisheries Industry & Investment NSW - Fisheries (formerly Department of Primary Industries – Fisheries NSW Fisheries)

LHCCREMS Lower Hunter and Central Coast Regional Environmental Management Strategy

Minister Minister for Planning

Non-compliance Failure to comply with the requirements of the project approval or any applicable license, permit or legal requirements.

Non-conformance Failure to conform to the requirements of project system documentation including this CEMP or supporting documentation

Project The Hunter Expressway

RCBC Reinforced concrete box culvert

RCP Reinforced concrete pipe

RTA Roads and Traffic Authority of NSW

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Content 1 Introduction 1 1.1 The Project 1 1.2 Purpose of this CEMP 2 1.3 Statutory context 3 1.4 Consultation 4 1.5 Certification and approval 4 1.6 Environmental Protection Licence 5 1.7 Distribution 5 1.8 Revision 5 2 Project description 6 2.1 Need for early works 6 2.2 Early works activities 6

2.2.1 Energy Australia native vegetation clearing 6 2.2.2 Freeway corridor boundary fencing 7 2.2.3 Access Road – Averys Lane 8 2.2.4 Noise attenuation (property treatments) 8 2.2.5 Geotechnical investigations 11 2.2.6 Global navigational satellite system network 14 2.2.7 Installing minor culverts 14

2.3 Vegetation clearing within the project footprint 15 2.4 Threatened species 16 2.5 Aboriginal heritage 17 2.6 Construction traffic 17 2.7 Construction hours 17 2.8 Compounds and stockpile sites 18 2.9 Anticipated noise and vibration levels 19 2.10 Location of the Works 21 3 Planning 23 3.1 Project environmental obligations 23 3.2 Legal and other requirements 23 3.3 Environmental monitoring construction 24 3.4 Environmental aspects and impacts 25 3.5 Objectives 30 3.6 Project changes 30 4 Implementation and operation 31 4.1 Environmental management system documentation 31

4.1.1 Construction environmental management plan 32 4.1.2 Environmental management sub-plans and strategies 32 4.1.3 Environmental control plan and sensitive area plans 32 4.1.4 Construction method statements / environmental work method statements 33 4.1.5 System procedures, forms and other documents 33

4.2 Sub-contract management 33 4.3 Public availability 34 5 Resources, roles, responsibility and authority 35

5.1.1 Management structure 35 5.1.2 RTA 36 5.1.3 Sub-contractors and other personnel 36 5.1.4 Energy Australia 36 5.1.5 Environmental Management Representative 36

6 Competence, training and awareness 38 6.1 Environment induction 38 6.2 Tool box talks, training and awareness 38 7 Communication 40 7.1 Internal communication 40 7.2 External communication 40

8 Operational control 42 8.1 Hold points 42 8.2 Environmental work method statements 43 8.3 Incident and emergency preparedness and response 43 9 Inspection, monitoring and auditing 45 9.1 Equipment 45 9.2 Environmental inspections 45

9.2.1 Weekly site inspections 45 9.2.2 Environmental management representative inspections 45 9.2.3 Pre-work inspections 45

9.3 Environmental monitoring 46 9.4 Auditing and reporting 47 9.5 Evaluation of compliance 49 9.6 Non-conformity, corrective and preventative actions 49 10 Review 50 11 Documentation 51 11.1 Environmental records 51 11.2 Document control 51 12 Environmental control plan 52 12.1 General controls 53 12.2 Consultation 55 12.3 Emergency preparedness 58 12.4 Fire precautions 58 12.5 Traffic and access 59 12.6 Flora and fauna management 60 12.7 Weeds and soils management 69 12.8 Aboriginal heritage 70 12.9 Non-Aboriginal heritage 77 12.10 Soil and water quality 81 12.11 Noise and vibration 84 12.12 Air quality 89 12.13 Waste 90 12.14 Contaminated land 92 12.15 Landscaping 93

Appendices

Appendix A Project requirements

Appendix B Legal and other requirements

Appendix C Sensitive area plans

Appendix D Document register

Appendix E Aboriginal cultural heritage plan of management

Appendix F Construction noise and vibration management sub plan

Appendix G Sensitive area plans – AbiGroup culvert works, geotechnical investigations and fencing locations

1 Introduction

1.1 The Project

On behalf of the Australian and NSW governments, the Roads and Traffic Authority of NSW (RTA) is constructing a freeway between the F3 Freeway and Branxton (the Hunter Expressway or expressway). The Hunter Expressway will provide about 40 kilometres of new dual carriageway between the F3 Freeway at Seahampton and the New England Highway west of Branxton. Figure 1 shows the location of the Hunter Expressway.

The Australian Government announced in the May 2009 Budget Statement that it will provide $1,451 million (plus earned interest income) towards the cost of constructing the Hunter Expressway. The NSW Government is committed to contributing up to $200 million, if required, to complete the project. Construction started in July 2010 and the expressway is scheduled to open in 2013.

Figure 1 Location of the Hunter Expressway

Hunter Expressway

Stage one early works construction environmental management plan

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Construction of the Hunter Expressway will take place in three stages. While commencing at different times, each stage will have periods where they overlap. All stages will be complete at or before December 2013 and the Project will be commissioned and opened to traffic in its entirety. The three stages of construction are:

• Stage 1 - Early Works between the F3 Freeway Seahampton and the New England Highway, Branxton.

• Stage 2 - the Alliance section between the F3 Freeway, Seahampton and the approach to the Kurri Kurri interchange (chainage -800 to chainage 12,900).

• Stage 3 – the Design and Construction section between the Kurri Kurri interchange and the New England Highway, Branxton (chainage 12,900 to chainage 39,500).

In addition to the above, the RTA is also undertaking a number of preparatory activities that do not constitute construction for the purposes of the planning approval.

1.2 Purpose of this CEMP

This Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) has been prepared for Stage 1 Early Works (Early Works or Works) associated with the Hunter Expressway and applies to discrete utility adjustments, boundary fencing, noise attenuation, geotechnical investigations, the installation of a global navigational satellite system network, access works along the project corridor and the installation of some minor culverts between Kurri Kurri and Branxton. A description of the Works is provided in Section 2.

The CEMP has been prepared with reference to the RTA QA Specification G36 (Environmental Protection – Management System) and Guideline for the Preparation of Environmental Management Plans (DIPNR, 2004).

The purpose of this CEMP is to provide a structured approach, through a system and procedures, to the management of environmental issues during Early Works for the Project. Implementing this CEMP will effectively ensure that the RTA meets relevant regulatory and policy requirements in a systematic manner and continually improves its performance. The CEMP ensures the relevant requirements of the Minister’s conditions of approval, the Commonwealth Minister for the Environment conditions of approval, the Director-General of National Parks and Wildlife Service conditions of concurrence, and other subsequent requirements are met (see Appendix A).

In particular, this CEMP:

• Provides specific mitigation measures and controls that can be applied on-site to avoid or minimise negative environmental impacts.

• Provides specific mechanisms for compliance with applicable policies, approvals, licences, permits, consultation agreements and legislation.

• Describes the environmental management related responsibilities.

• Identifies environmental training and induction requirements for personnel and sub-contractors.

• Outlines a monitoring regime to check the adequacy of controls as they are implemented during the works.

Stage 1 Early Works is construction generally considered to be of a minor nature with limited impacts and low level of associated environmental risk. Sub-plans, protocols and strategies applicable and appropriate to the activities proposed in Early Works have been prepared and provided as information with this CEMP.

Stage 2 and Stage 3 construction include broad scale and extensive road construction activities with more substantial impacts and a higher level of associated environmental risk. Accordingly, the full suite of sub-plans,

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protocols and strategies specifically referred to in the conditions of approval will be developed and implemented for these stages. Stages 2 and 3 will be delivered through an Alliance agreement and a Design and Construct contract, respectively. The respective Alliance and Design and Construct contractors will prepare all documentation required by the approval in the sections where they carry out construction.

A staging plan has been prepared that outlines when sub-plans, protocols and strategies will be prepared and provided to DoP for approval (where relevant).

1.3 Statutory context

The Hunter Expressway (or F3 to Branxton Link as it was then known) was originally assessed and determined under Part 5 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (the EP&A Act). It is within the Cessnock, Lake Macquarie, Maitland and Singleton local government areas. In June 1995, Connell Wagner (1995) finalised the environmental impact statement (the EIS) for the RTA. Following introduction of the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 (TSC Act) and consideration of impacts on threatened fauna, Connell Wagner (2001) finalised a fauna impact statement in January 1997 (the FIS). The RTA commissioned additional studies, including two reviews of environmental factors on detailed route selection between Allandale and Greta in 1998 and 2000.

The then Director-General of the National Parks and Wildlife granted concurrence subject to 15 conditions on 3 October 2001. The then Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning approved the Hunter Expressway on 7 November 2001, subject to 129 conditions. On 1 August 2005, the Minister’s approval became a project approval under Part 3A of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act) in accordance with the transitional provisions. At the request of the RTA, the Minister modified the approval on 31 July 2006 to permit staged construction (but not opening). The approval was again modified on 19 August 2007 to reflect changes to the alignment of the project at the Sugarloaf Range, changes to the configuration of the Kurri Kurri interchange and adjustments to the alignment and configuration of the project between Tuckers Lane and Black Creek. The inclusion of road-related ancillary infrastructure, including boundary fencing and water quality controls was also recognised as part of the modification. On 28 June 2010, the approval was further modified to reflect a more contemporary approach to construction management practices. Changes included methods for engaging community and other relevant stakeholders, and the structure, content and implementation of construction environmental management documentation.

On 2 August 2007, the Hunter Expressway (inclusive of all modifications) was approved under the Commonwealth Environment Protection Biodiversity Conservation Act, 1999 (EPBC Act), subject to a number of conditions.

As a separate but related undertaking, Energy Australia (EA) are relocating or otherwise adjusting electricity infrastructure at a number of locations adjacent to and within the footprint of the Hunter Expressway. The Energy Australia proposal was referred to the Commonwealth under the EPBC Act and was then designated a controlled action due to potential impacts on threatened species and communities. A Review of Environmental Factors and Species Impact Statement was subsequently prepared and placed on public exhibition on 11 November 2009.

Some of the vegetation clearing associated with the construction of the Energy Australia project is common with that required for the Hunter Expressway. All clearing associated with road construction, construction access and road-related ancillary infrastructure (sediment basins, fencing etc) has been assessed and approved as part of the Hunter Expressway. Clearing for electricity adjustments in these areas is therefore subject to the terms of the Hunter Expressway approval, including the requirement to prepare a CEMP.

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Energy Australia obtained all necessary approvals at, or before, July 2010 and determined to proceed with the adjustments. In this context, the Early Works CEMP includes clearing of vegetation for electricity adjustments where that clearing occurred within the Hunter Expressway footprint. Clearing for electricity relocations outside the expressway footprint is the responsibility of Energy Australia and was undertaken in accordance with the approvals it obtained and the construction management documentation it prepared.

1.4 Consultation

Extensive consultation throughout the development of the Project has been undertaken both prior to and following project approval. This consultation has lead to a number of design changes/refinements, compensatory habitat packages and heritage off-sets.

Further consultation with relevant stakeholders and government authorities has continued through the development of this CEMP. Those consulted include:

• Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water.

• Department of Primary Industries - Fisheries.

• Land and Property Management Authority.

• Lake Macquarie City Council.

• Cessnock City Council.

• Singleton Council.

The main comments and issues raised during consultation included:

• The importance of implementing best practice sediment and erosion control measures during construction, particularly in areas adjacent to waterways and where temporary crossings are required.

• The requirement for a scheduled development works licence under the POEO Act to carry out Early Works activities.

• The need to provide addition information on sensitive area maps eg threatened flora and fauna recorded sightings.

• The need for minor editorial amendments and requests for clarifications.

Consultation will continue throughout the Early Works with relevant stakeholders and government authorities. The outcomes of this consultation will be documented where relevant in subsequent revisions of the CEMP, the annual review/completion reporting for the Works, or the head contractors CEMP for the Project.

1.5 Certification and approval

This CEMP must be certified by the project’s Environmental Management Representative as being in accordance with the CoAs and all undertakings made in the EIS and Representations Report (CoA 24).

The CEMP must be approved by the Project Manager and the DoP (CoA 24) prior to the commencement of construction.

Following approval, it will be made publicly available by the DoP in accordance with (CoA 24).

The document revision process is described in Section 1.8 below.

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1.6 Environmental Protection Licence

A ‘scheduled development works’ licence required under section 47 of the POEO Act was issued for the Stage 1 Early Works on 1 July 2010.

A separate ‘scheduled activity – premises based’ licence required under section 48 of the POEO Act has been obtained by AbiGroup for culvert installation works performed under this CEMP. A description of these works is provided in Section 2.2.

1.7 Distribution

This CEMP is available to personnel and sub-contractors. A controlled copy of the CEMP and supporting documentation will be maintained by the RTA Senior Environmental Officer and held at the RTA Darby Street office. An electronic copy can be found on the Project website (http://www.rta.nsw.gov.au/ constructionmaintenance/majorconstructionprojectsregional/hunter/f3_branxton/index.html).

The document is uncontrolled when printed.

Registered copies will be distributed to:

• Department of Planning.

• Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water.

• Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts.

• Project Manager (RTA).

• Environmental Management Representative.

• RTA Senior Environmental Officer.

• RTA Communications Manager.

• Environment Manager (AbiGroup).

• Early works Superintendent (AbiGroup).

• Nominated site office (where applicable).

1.8 Revision

A document review process ensures that environmental documentation including this CEMP is updated as appropriate for the specific works that are occurring on-site. This includes the review process described in Section 10.

An adaptive management approach will be applied so that any corrective actions arising out of the inspection and audit process are used to modify and improve the management of any potential environmental impacts.

Should the document review process identify any issues or items within the documents that are either redundant or in need of updating, it is the responsibility of the Senior Environment Officer, or delegate, to prepare the revised documents.

The revised document will then be issued to the Project Manager and the Environmental Management Representative for certification of the changes within five working days of the amendment being made.

Where the Environmental Management Representative deems it necessary, the amended CEMP will be forwarded to the Director-General for DoP approval.

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2 Project description

2.1 Need for early works

The 40 kilometre Hunter Expressway Project will be constructed in two main stages – an alliance delivery model for the section between the F3 Freeway, Seahampton and just south of Kurri Kurri interchange (stage 2), and a traditional design and construct contractual arrangement between the Kurri Kurri interchange and the New England Highway, Branxton (stage 3).

To meet delivery timeframes and allow an opening to traffic in 2013, the RTA, and its contractors where necessary, has, or will be, carrying out some activities as Early Works.. Section 2.2 provides a description of these Early Works. Early Works include activities which constitute “construction” as defined by the Minister’s CoA and other preparatory non-construction activities the RTA and its contractors will carry out for the purposes of the Project.

These stage 1 Early Works activities are necessary to avoid conflicting activities and schedules, particularly those associated with utility adjustments by other government agencies. These Early Works also seek to minimise some potential environmental impacts to the community and the environment during construction, ie noise, access and water quality impacts.

2.2 Early works activities

The stage 1 Early Works will include seven components:

• Energy Australia native vegetation clearing (completed in 2010).

• Freeway corridor boundary fencing.

• Private resident property access construction off Averys Lane (no longer planned as early works).

• Noise attenuation (property treatments).

• Geotechnical investigations.

• Global navigational satellite system network (completed in 2010).

• Installing minor culverts.

2.2.1 Energy Australia native vegetation clearing

As part of a more substantial utility relocation and adjustments project being performed by Energy Australia, works will take place within the Hunter Expressway footprint to clear native vegetation. The locations of these works are shown in figures 6, 8-10, 13, 18 and 20-21 of Appendix C. Note that for completeness, the extent of native vegetation clearing for each adjustment is shown in its entirety. This CEMP however only applies to that portion of clearing within the Hunter Expressway footprint.

The Energy Australia work, within and outside the expressway footprint, is anticipated to take about 18 months, although individual sections, particularly those within the expressway footprint, will be substantially shorter occurring over a period of a few weeks.

The sequence of activities for this component of the Works will include:

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• Survey and identification of vegetation to be protected.

• Installation of environmental controls (exclusion fencing for no-go areas (eg protected vegetation, Aboriginal heritage) and erosion and sediment controls).

• Installation of habitat rehabilitation measures (eg nesting boxes).

• Stage 1 clearing.

• Relocation of hollows and other rehabilitation features.

• Stage 2 clearing.

2.2.2 Freeway corridor boundary fencing

Freeway boundary fencing is required along the Project corridor in selected areas to control access. As part of the Early Works program, about 54 kilometres of boundary fencing will be installed as shown in Figures 5-14 and 16-22 of Appendix C and Appendix G3, respectively.

Boundary fencing will comprise a series of concrete posts set nominally at 3 metre intervals with five strands of rural fencing wire (ie typically top, bottom and middle as barbed wire and plain wire in between). Corridor boundary fencing will be installed in accordance with property acquisition agreements. In some instances, this may require barbed wire for all strands. The fence will be erected on both sides of the corridor as required, offset at about 0.3 of a metre from the surveyed boundary.

Access along the fence line, for a four-wheel drive and/or a small tractor with augur and post rammer, will be required during installation and for future maintenance. This access, including the fence, will be a maximum of three metres in width. Large vegetation will be retained, but small shrubs and saplings which prevent vehicle access will be cut at ground level.

The Works will move progressively along the corridor at a rate of typically 200 to 300 metres per day depending on ground conditions. It is anticipated that the Works will continue for a period of about six to eight months.

The sequence of activities for fencing includes:

• Installing environmental controls (exclusion fencing for no-go areas eg protected vegetation, Aboriginal heritage).

• Survey alignment for fencing.

• Cut and place vegetation within corridor.

• Augur pilot hole and drive concrete posts.

• Run and strain wire.

• Install vehicle access gates where required.

• Remove any temporary environmental controls.

In five locations, Endangered Ecological Community clearing is required to enable longer continuous runs of boundary fencing for the AbiGroup works as shown below in Table 1. Figures corresponding to information detailed in Table 1 are provided in Appendix G3.

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Table 1 Vegetation clearing for freeway boundary fencing

Chainage Vegetation community Clearing required (ha)

14320 – 14340 Kurri Sand Swamp Woodland 0.006

14360 – 14400 Kurri Sand Swamp Woodland 0.012

21080 – 21240 Lower Hunter Spotted Gum – Ironbark Forest 0.048

22360 – 22540 Lower Hunter Spotted Gum – Ironbark Forest 0.054

37140 – 37260 Central Hunter Ironbark Spotted GumGrey Box Forest 0.036

Total clearing required (ha) 0.156

2.2.3 Access Road – Averys Lane

A permanent sealed access for two properties currently with direct access off John Renshaw Drive will be provided from Averys Lane. The access diverts perpendicular from Averys Lane at about 500 metres north the intersection of John Renshaw Drive and Averys Lane (see Figure 7 of Appendix C). Earthworks, including blasting, will be required to provide requisite grades down onto the floodplain, with a weir provided to allow for water passage during localised flooding. In major flood events the road would be unpassable and an emergency access provided direct to the freeway.

The new access road will be about 450 metres in length and comprise a sealed asphalt finish. It is anticipated that the works will take about three months to complete.

The sequence of activities for the access road will include:

• Installation of environmental controls (exclusion fencing for no-go areas (eg protected vegetation, Aboriginal heritage) and erosion and sediment controls).

• Site establishment (temporary site shed and port-a-loo).

• Erection of stock fencing.

• Clearing of vegetation.

• Excavation of embankment (eg rock hammering/rock blasting).

• General earthworks (cut and fill balance, grading and construction of formation).

• Installation drainage infrastructure.

• Paving and seal (asphalt).

• Commissioning and removal of temporary environmental controls.

2.2.4 Noise attenuation (property treatments)

Individual property treatments, for those eligible under the Project, will commence as part of the Early Works at select locations along the corridor. These properties are listed in Table 2 below and are shown in places on sensitive area maps provided in Appendix C. The nature of treatment will depend on the physical characteristics of individual buildings, but might include treatments such as double glazing of windows and installation of door seals on exposed facades, the provision of mechanical ventilation and acoustic courtyard fencing where required.

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Works will start where impacts from construction related activities are likely to occur early in the delivery of the Project. Where possible, property treatments will be installed prior to construction for the Project commencing in that area, subject to owner/tenant negotiations.

Table 2 Properties subject to noise treatment

No. Lot Plan Address Suburb and post code

1. 2551 827110 951 Lovedale Road Allandale 2325




5. 188 755204 88 James Lane Bishops Bridge 2326




9. 221 881054 2A Russell Street Branxton 2335

10. 21 593748 271 Camp Road Greta 2334

11. 1 416028 273 Camp Road Greta 2334

12. 2 1129191 321 Tuckers Lane Greta 2334


14. 434 755231 72 Hart Road Loxford 2326

15. 433 755231 78 Hart Road Loxford 2326

16. 70 1087121 7 McLeod Road Loxford 2326

17. 1 854893 54 Bakers Lane Sawyers Gully 2326

18. 51 542253 71 Bakers Lane Sawyers Gully 2326

19. 20 854107 970 Old Maitland Road Sawyers Gully 2326






25. 359 755231 42 Lumby Lane Sawyers Gully 2326

26. 12 1082775 78 Lumby Lane Sawyers Gully 2326

27. 322 755231 103 Bishops Bridge Road Sawyers Gully 2326

28. 1 999156 549 Majors Lane Sawyers Gully 2326

29. 453 755231 2 Dawes Avenue Loxford 2326

30. 11 844443 7 Standen Drive Lower Belford 2335

31. 60 809738 2013 New England Highway Greta 2334


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34. CA 405885 2029 New England Highway Greta 2334


36. 902 747350 2084 New England Highway Branxton 2335


38. 100 1083950 165 Camp Road Greta 2334



41. 444 755231 0 Horton Road Loxford 2326

42. 11 1015148 2657 New England Highway Belford 2335










52. 102 1104942 413 Majors Lane Keinbah 2321

53. 2 1034109 19 Hinds Lane Sawyers Gully 2326





58. 5 1082569 242 Averys Lane Buchanan 2323







65. 1 500208 860 Buchanan Road Buchanan 2323

66. 32 839218 1575 George Booth Drive Buchanan 2323

67. 102 1061872 263 John Renshaw Drive Buchanan 2323

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68. 30 1085798 348 John Renshaw Drive Buchanan 2323



























2.2.5 Geotechnical investigations

Geotechnical investigations will be undertaken at discrete locations along the route between Kurri Kurri and Branxton to assist in the development of detailed design. The proposed location and type of investigations, and the area of vegetation to be cleared to facilitate the works, have been listed in Table 3 and shown on sensitive area plans in Appendix G1.

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Table 3 Geotechnical investigation locality and type

Investigation type

Chainage Vegetation community Clearing required (ha)

Bore holes

Bore Hole 1001 13775 Kurri Sand Swamp Woodland 0.012




Bore Hole 1026 22710 Lower Hunter Spotted Gum – Ironbark Forest 0.006

Bore Hole 1028 24075 Hunter Lowland Redgum Forest 0.048












Bore Hole 1049 36320 Central Hunter Ironbark Spotted Gum Grey Box Forest 0.0105



Test pits

Test Pit 2004 15440 Kurri Sand Swamp Woodland 0.012









Test Pit 2013 19330 Lower Hunter Spotted Gum – Ironbark Forest 0.018


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Investigation Clearing Chainage Vegetation community type required

(ha)

Test Pit 2018 22270 Central Hunter Riparian Forest 0.0225




Test Pit 2022 23780 Hunter Lowland Redgum Forest 0.087





















Test Pit 2048 37180 Central Hunter Ironbark – Spotted Gum – Grey Box Forest 0.006



Generally, intrusive geotechnical investigation techniques such as drilling a bore hole (BH) or excavating a test pit (TP) cause localised, temporary and minor impacts that can be mitigated. The level of impact depends more on the movement of large vehicles/trucks and the construction/modification and use of temporary access than on the number of intrusive tests.

Investigations will typically require access by a truck or four-whee-drive mounted drilling rig. Access will be via established local roads (sealed and unsealed) and existing trails where possible. In some instances the need to

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remove shrubs, saplings and other understorey vegetation maybe necessary. Also, some minor contouring of fire trails and/or tracks maybe necessary to ensure the safe movement of investigation vehicles. It is anticipated that 1.49 hectares of native vegetation will be cleared, of which all is listed as endangered ecological communities.

Figures in Appendix G1 show the location of investigation areas and primary means of access.

2.2.6 Global navigational satellite system network

A global navigational satellite system network (GNSS network or network) will be commissioned to support construction of the expressway. The network will involve the installation and operation of six base stations at strategic locations across the project.

Base stations will be located about seven kilometres apart and at elevations that optimise network performance. Figures 1, 5, 9, 13, 17 and 21 of Appendix C illustrates the location of the network and its relationship to the Hunter Expressway.

It is intended that the GNSS network will broadcast a signal that covers the entire extent of the project and will allow positions to be determined to an accuracy of ±10mm and levels to be determined to an accuracy of ±20mm. The network will have a number of construction related applications and will, to some extent, replace other surveying techniques (eg surveyors on site using theodolite). The network will also allow the implementation of GNSS machine guidance/control.

At sites 1, 2, 5 and 6 (refer to section 2.10) the facilities will comprise a shipping container (6.06m x 2.44m and a height of 2.59m) with GNSS and radio frequency antennas, placed on a hardstand (as necessary). At sites 3 and 4 (refer to section 2.10) the equipment will be mounted on existing structures which include a disused water tank and unoccupied RTA owned residential dwelling, respectively.

Access to the sites will be via existing local roads and access tracks. Minor vegetation clearing and/or trimming will be required at some of the locations to facilitate installation of the equipment and/or gain the necessary radio transmission clearances.

The process of site preparation, installation and commissioning of each base station will take about six weeks. The construction sequence will be generally as follows.

• Implementation of any required environmental controls.

• Vegetation clearance or trimming.

• Site preparation including any levelling and placement of gravel base.

• Placement of container and installation of GNSS equipment.

• Connection to power (solar or mains).

• Erection of perimeter fencing (where necessary).

• Testing and commissioning.

The GNSS network for the expressway will be installed on a temporary basis for a period of 60 months. Decommissioning of the sites will include removal of any imported material and restoration/revegetation as necessary.

2.2.7 Installing minor culverts

To divert clean water through the expressway corridor and to minimise the risk of mobilising sediment off site following clearing of the road corridor, AbiGroup will be constructing a number of minor culverts in advance of major construction. Culvert construction will include the following sequence of activities:

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• Implementing any necessary environmental controls (eg erosion and sediment controls, flagging tape and signage for no-go areas / environmentally sensitive sites).

• Stripping topsoil and stockpiling locally in designated stockpiles for reuse during restoration.

• Trenching or excavating waterway as required to allow installation of drainage system, including preparation of foundation for box culverts. Excavated material will be stockpiled for reuse as general backfilling.

• Placing a bedding layer in waterway and installing drainage structure.

• Placing and compacting select fill to cover drainage structure.

• Constructing up and downstream headwalls.

• Placing geotextile and rip-rap at the apron, and constructing a vegetated swale at the transition.

• Carrying out any remaining restoration activities and decommissioning work site.

A total of six culverts will be installed as part of the early works. Table 4 indicates the location and type of each culvert, the name of the waterway where it will be installed, and the vegetation area (in hectares) and type to be removed to accommodate the works. A figures showing the location of these sites is provided in Appendix G2.

Table 4 Location and type of waterway crossings

Chainage Culvert type Waterway name Vegetation community Clearing required (ha)

13840 RCP (600mm) Unnamed Kurri Sand Swamp

Woodland 0.1175

14280 RCBC (4x2100x1800) Unnamed Kurri Sand Swamp

Woodland 0.005


Woodland 0.0166


Woodland

Lower Hunter Spotted

Gum – Ironbark Forest 0.0173

21760 RCP (2x600mm) Unnamed Lower Hunter Spotted


23040 RCBC (3x1800x900) Unnamed tributary to

Sawyers Gully Creek

Lower Hunter Spotted



2.3 Vegetation clearing within the project footprint

All vegetation clearing required for each of the components for works detailed above will be performed by either RTA Hunter Road Services or AbiGroup. Where complete clearing of an area for either power or road related infrastructure is required, a two-stage clearing process will be implemented. Due to the scope and respective location of each component of Early Works (eg access works on generally cleared grazing

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land) it is envisaged that a two-stage clearing process will only be applicable during the Energy Australia works and AbiGroup minor culvert works. An overview of the two-stage clearing process is outlined below. Detailed requirements of the process are provided in Section 12.

Generally, two-stage clearing will involve:

• A pre-clearing survey conducted by the project ecologist to map, mark and delineate hollow-bearing trees, trees to be retained, the extent of clearing and no-go areas.

• Clearing all vegetation with the exception of marked habitat trees (stage 1).

• Leaving habitat trees untouched for a minimum period of 48 hours and performing spotlighting and stag watching (undertaken by project ecologist).

• Felling of habitat trees followed by an inspection of hollows by the project ecologist (stage 2). Any emergent fauna to be captured by the project ecologist and released to a suitable location at a suitable time (eg nocturnal animals at night). Any injured fauna cared for according to specific animal care and ethics guidelines (http://www.animalethics.org.au/reader/arrp-policies-and-guidelines) and given appropriate veterinary care.

• Relocating suitable hollows to adjacent pre-determined bushland.

Note: the need to supplement hollow-bearing trees with nesting boxes will be assessed and reported by the ecologist prior to clearing activities and following pre-clearing surveys. Where hollows cannot to be retained, nesting boxes will be provided prior to clearing. These will be located on suitable adjacent land at a ratio determined by the project ecologist during the pre-clearing survey (as a minimum at a ratio of one to one for hollows removed during clearing).

2.4 Threatened species

Condition 12 of the Director-General of National Parks and Wildlife Service conditions of concurrence required an assessment of the feasibility of translocating any individuals of threatened plant species identified within the construction corridor. The following threatened species have been recorded within the Project corridor:

• Eucalyptus parramattensis subsp. decadens.

• Grevillea parviflora subsp. parviflora.

• Tetratheca juncea.

As part of the Early Works, small areas of Kurri Sand Swamp Woodland and Lower Hunter Spotted Gum-Ironbark Forest will be cleared for Energy Australia, minor culvert works, geotechnical investigations and boundary fencing works. These two communities support individuals of Eucalyptus parramattensis subsp. decadens and Grevillea parviflora subsp. parviflora. Tetratheca juncea is supported by the Coastal Plains Smooth-barked Apple Forest community which occurs in the Sugarloaf Range. Despite site 2 of the GNSS network being located in the vicinity of this community, vegetation clearing with the potential to affected Tetratheca juncea is not anticipated as part of Early Works. A small area (about 0.1ha) of Lower Hunter Spotted Gum-Ironbark Forest will also be cleared/modified for installation of the GNSS network. Small areas of Hunter Lowland Redgum Forest, Central Hunter Ironbark Spotted Gum Grey Box Forest and Central Hunter Riparian Forest will also be cleared during geotechnical investigations and minor culvert works.

In the lead up to construction, targeted seed collection for Eucalyptus parramattensis subsp. decadens has been undertaken and material held in storage. Targeted seed collection for Grevillea parviflora subsp. parviflora will commence, due to seasonal availability, in September 2010 and continue during Early Works,

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and in the lead up to Stage 2 and Stage 3 construction. In addition, Grevillea parviflora subsp. parviflora will also be propagated from cuttings collected adjacent to the areas cleared during the Early Works. This material will be held and maintained for use in rehabilitation and landscaping within the corridor.

2.5 Aboriginal heritage

In consultation with the Aboriginal community and DECCW (formerly DEC and DECC), substantial research, salvage and recording of Aboriginal heritage has been undertaken along the Project corridor. A number of sites will be preserved and protected in-situ, others will be partially or wholly disturbed by construction of the Project. The locations of sites subject to whole or partial protection are identified in Section 12, Appendix C and Appendix G.

Consultation with the Aboriginal community and an Aboriginal cultural heritage assessment was also undertaken for the GNSS network sites. No constraints were identified by representatives of Local Aboriginal Land Councils or the Aboriginal cultural heritage assessment.

An Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Plan of Management has been prepared and is provided for information in Appendix E. Mitigation measures relevant to the Early Works have been reproduced and provided in Section 12. Similarly, mitigation measures from the GNSS network archaeological and cultural heritage assessment have also been reproduced and provided in Section 12.

2.6 Construction traffic

Minimal construction traffic is anticipated during Early Works. Some larger machinery including cranes, excavators, dozers and tub mulchers may be delivered to site on large or over-size articulated vehicles. This will tend to occur on a few occasions at the start of works and at the completion of works within an area (generally for Energy Australia, Averys Lane access works and AbiGroup culvert works only will heavy machinery be required).

Typically throughout all Early Works activities, small trucks, tippers and four-wheel-drive vehicles will be accessing works sites on a daily basis. All access to the corridor, and GNSS network sites, will be via, one or a combination of, main roads, local roads, or established access tracks/fire trails. Access via access tracks/fire trails is anticipated only in the Sugarloaf Range area. The locations of proposed accesses are shown on figures 1 to 4 in Appendix C and figures in Appendix G.

Prior to starting the Works, and after completion of the Works, the RTA, and/or AbiGroup, will prepare dilapidation surveys of the local roads that are used by construction vehicles to access the Works areas. Copies of these reports will be provided to relevant councils. Any damage resulting from construction, except that resulting from normal wear and tear, will be repaired at the RTA’s, or AbiGroup’s, cost. Alternatively, the RTA, or AbiGroup, may negotiate an alternative arrangement for road damage with the relevant council.

2.7 Construction hours

All Early Works will be undertaken during standard working hours, which are:

• 7:00am to 6:00pm Monday to Friday.

• 8:00am to 1:00pm Saturday.

• No work on Sunday’s or public holidays.

Works outside these hours that may be permitted include:

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• Any works that do not cause audible construction noise at any sensitive receiver.

• For the delivery of materials required outside these hours by the Police or other authorities for safety reasons.

• Where it is required in an emergency to avoid the loss of lives, property and/or to prevent environmental harm.

• Works as agreed by the DECCW in the conditions of an EPL for the project.

Further detail on construction hours for specific activities, such as impulsive noise generating activities, is provide in Section 12 under ‘noise and vibration’.

2.8 Compounds and stockpile sites

Early Works in general are of a minor nature and short in duration. On this basis, it is not anticipated that compound and stockpile facilities will be required for all activities.

A compound and stockpile area will be established for the property access works at Lot 17 (DP 1085485) Averys Lane. The building on this site was demolished, or will be at the time of occupation, for the Project. No additional clearing of vegetation to that required for the Project or private property access will be undertaken to establish the compound. Access to the compound will be provided direct from Averys Lane.

A number of small stockpile areas will also be established for the minor culvert works. All access to the corridor will be via, one or a combination of, main roads, local roads, or established access tracks/fire trails. Access to each culvert location is shown on figures provided in Appendix G.

At each culvert location a small material stockpile area will be required to temporarily store material excavated from culvert works.

A number of controls will be established to minimise impacts on the environment and the adjacent community, including:

• The provision of a hardstand for vehicle access and parking to minimise the likelihood of dust generation.

• Installation of sediment fences and other controls to manage stormwater.

• Orientating worker facilities and equipment to minimise the propagation noise to nearby residents, where relevant.

• Maintaining adjacent vegetation and perimeter fencing to screen the facility from nearby residents, where relevant.

A consideration of criteria for the location of construction facilities from the Minister’s CoA 129 is provided in Table 5.

Table 5 Consideration of criteria for location of construction facilities

CoA requirement Response

Averys Lane

Located more than 100 metres from a

waterway.

The site will be located about 100 metres from the nearest waterway.

Standard erosion and sediment controls, consistent with the “Blue

Book” (Managing Urban Stormwater: Soils and Construction

(Landcom, 2004)) and appropriate for the activities taking place at the

site, will be installed (see Section 12).

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CoA requirement Response

Ready access to the road network. The site has direct access off Averys Lane about 400 metres north of

the intersection with John Renshaw Drive.

The site does not cause exceedance of the

maximum native vegetation clearing limit

specified under condition 60 of this approval.

No vegetation will be removed to accommodate the construction

facility. The site is located wholly within the footprint of the

expressway and will be subject to construction during stage 2 works.

Located on relatively level land. The site is level, formally occupied by a residential building.

Separated from the nearest residences by at

least 200 metres (or at least 250 metres for a

temporary batching plant and stockpiling sites)

The site is about 160 metres from the closest residential receiver.

Impacts from the compound would be anticipated to be minor. The

site will accommodate basic worker facilities including an office/site

shed, toilet, parking facilities and some material storage. These facilities

will be orientated to minimise potential noise and visual impacts to

neighbouring residents. The site will be occupied during standard

working hours.

Above the 20 ARI flood level unless a

contingency plan to manage flooding is

prepared and implemented

The site is located above the 100 ARI flood level.

Shall not unreasonably affect the land use of

adjacent properties.

The site is located wholly within the road reserve and footprint of the

expressway. Facilities within the compound will be orientated to

minimise potential noise and visual impacts to neighbouring residents.

The site will be occupied during standard working hours.

Provide sufficient area for the storage of raw

materials to minimise, to the greatest extent

practical, the number of deliveries required

outside standard construction hours.

Large quantities of imported material are not anticipated for works

associated with this compound. Sufficient space will be made available

to accommodate materials required for the Averys Lane access road

to minimise the need and frequency of out of hours deliveries.

Shall not impact on heritage sites beyond those

already impacted by the project.

The site is located wholly within the footprint of the expressway. No

additional impacts from those required by the expressway are

anticipated.

While compound facilities will not be required for vegetation clearing associated with the Energy Australia proposal, vegetation cleared from within the corridor will be stored on-site. Vegetation cleared and mulched during the works will be placed in windrows within the Project corridor for later reuse. Windrowed mulch will be placed on high ground, away from drainage lines or areas subject to inundation.

For all other activities associated with Early Works, minimal plant and equipment will be required and activities will move rapidly along the Project corridor. On this basis, it is not anticipated that compound or stockpiling facilities will be required. Plant, equipment and material will be brought to site on an as needed basis. Where works are required at distance from public facilities, a potable toilet may be brought to site as required.

2.9 Anticipated noise and vibration levels

Background noise levels along the corridor were measured during 1994, 2003 and most recently in September and October 2009. Noise monitoring was undertaken at 18 representative locations along the Project corridor. The result for the 2009 period indicate that background noise levels range between

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32dB(A) and 48dB(A) depending on local influences, with an average between 36dBA and 40dBA. Sources influencing background noise included road traffic, rail traffic, industry (aluminium smelter), quarry, domestic activities, birds, insects and wind in trees (Atkins Acoustics 2009).

The DECCW has released the Interim Construction Noise Guide 2009 (ICNG) which is aimed, among other things, at:

• Identifying and minimising noise from construction sites.

• Applying all feasible and reasonable work practices to minimise noise impact.

• Providing flexibility in selecting site-specific feasible and reasonable work practices to minimise noise impacts.

The ICNG provides for two approaches for the assessment of construction noise, these include:

• A qualitative assessment for works of a short term nature, being less than three weeks.

• A quantitative assessment for works of medium and long term, typically greater than three weeks.

Noise and vibration impacts where assessed for each of the Early Works activities, with the exception of the GNSS network and minor culverts works. A noise and vibration management sub plan for these activities is provided in Appendix F.

Early Works, with the exception of the access road at Averys Lane, will be typically transient in nature and continue for periods of less than three weeks in any one location. Noise from boundary fencing, geotechnical investigations and minor culverts works will likely exceed the daytime management level of 10dBA above background when within distances of about 100 metres of a sensitive receiver. However, it is not anticipated that at anytime residences will be highly noise affected (ie greater than 75dBA LAeq,15min). For both boundary fencing and geotechnical investigations, it is not anticipated that works will be carried out within 100 metres of a sensitive receiver for more than one day. For minor culvert works, work at individual sites may continue for a period of up to three weeks. However, the closest residence is excess of 120 metres from the works.

Similarly, for Energy Australia works, while these works might continue for periods of up to three weeks in an area, it is not anticipated, with consideration of the distances that they will occur from sensitive receivers (ie greater than 100 metres) that any residents will be highly noise affected (ie greater than 75dBA LAeq,15min), However, particularly during tree clearing and mulching activities, residents within 800 metres that are not exposed to other forms of industrial or transport noise (eg main roads, railway) might experience noise levels above the daytime management level where no topography features or other forms of shielding are provided.

Works associated with the installation of each GNSS network site will in total occur over a period of about six weeks. During this time work intensity will be infrequent, primarily consisting of an initial period of activity where the site is prepared and equipment is delivered to site with a truck and mobile crane. This will typically occur in the first and second week of occupation. The remaining period will involve technicians visiting the site to commission the base station. With the exception of sites 3 and 4, the locations for the GNSS network equipment are some distance from residential dwellings and other noise sensitive receivers. No noise impacts from any of these sites are anticipated. At sites 3 and 4, residential dwellings are located between 100 metres and 230 metres from the sites. However, at each of these locations equipment will be mounted on, and stored adjacent to and within structures, respectively. Minimal works at these sites are anticipated. Any noise impacts would be expected to be minor, infrequent and short term in nature.

Access road works at Averys Lane are anticipated to continue for a period of about three months. During this time various activities will be carried out within distances of between 75 and 400 metres from the closest sensitive receiver. The majority of other sensitive receivers will be at distances of greater than 250 metres at the closest point and in excess of 750 metres at the furthest extent.

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Earthworks, including blasting and hammering of rock material, in the western section closest to Averys Lane will likely present the greatest potential for noise impacts. While mulching of vegetation would be anticipated to be the noisiest activity, with noise levels exceeding the highly noise affected criteria level of 75dBA LAeq,15min, it is not anticipated to continue for more than one day. However, earthworks are anticipated to continue for about 10 days with noise levels under a worst case scenario (ie no shielding from topography and all equipment operating simultaneously) ranging between 73 and 85dBA when at the closest point to a sensitive receiver.

Vibration from construction of the Averys Lane access road (excluding blasting) is anticipated to be below the criteria for low probability of adverse comment, even at the closest receiver.

Some blasting is anticipated in the western section of the works closest to Averys Lane. The blast sizes remain to be determined. However, in any event, this would be managed to avoid exceedence of structural damage criteria.

Feasible and reasonable mitigation measures to manage noise and vibration impacts, including consultation with the community and adapting work practices, have been outlined in detail in Section 12.

2.10 Location of the Works

The locations of the Early Works subject to this CEMP are outlined briefly in the following dot points. Maps representing these locations visually are shown in figures 1 to 22 in Appendix C and Appendix G1, G2 and G3.

• Energy Australia vegetation clearing and removal of redundant power infrastructure – Native vegetation clearing within the Hunter Expressway footprint for Energy Australia works will take place at, or between, the following locations:

– Chainage 9,700 to 9,800 (Figure 6).



– Chainage 17,600 (Figure 10).


– Chainage 31,850 (Figure 18).



• Freeway corridor boundary fencing – Fencing of the Hunter Expressway corridor will take place at about the following locations:

– Chainage 6,950 to 10,000 (Figures 5 to 6).


– Chainage 13,800 to 15,275 (Figure 9, Appendix G3).


– Chainage 18,750 to 23,700 (Figure 11 to 14, Appendix G3).

– Chainage 27,600 to 39,200 (Figures 16 to 22, Appendix G3).

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• Private resident property access construction off Averys Lane – This site is located in Buchanan off Averys Lane about 500 metres from the intersection of John Renshaw Drive (see Figure 7 in Appendix C). The area comprises cleared agricultural land. At Averys Lane the topography drops away steeply toward the east to a flood plain associated with Wallis Creek. Continuing east, the topography rises up to two residential properties over a distance of about 350 metres.

• Noise attenuation (property treatments) – The Works will primarily take place at Buchanan and Sawyers Gully as shown in figures 6-7 and 11-13 of Appendix C, respectively. Other individual properties at Allandale, Bishops Bridge, Branxton, Greta and Loxford will also be eligible for treatment. Properties eligible for treatment are typically within 200 to 400 metres of the Hunter Expressway corridor. However, these distances vary dependent on topography and local features.

• Geotechnical investigations – The location of geotechnical investigations within the western section between Kurri Kurri and Branxton will be determined where it is considered that insufficient geotechnical information is available to develop the detailed design, eg:

– Where there are mine workings of unconfirmed extent.

– Areas where there are endangered ecological communities that have not been previously accessed by geotechnical specialists.

– Sites of future cuttings or bridges.

Aerial photographs in Appendix G1 show the concept design alignment and landscape features along the corridor.

• Global navigational satellite system network – The network will involve the installation and operation of six base stations at strategic locations across the project. The location of the base stations are shown in figures contained in Appendix C and include:

– F3 Freeway, Newcastle Link Road interchange (Site 1).

– Land adjacent to the Daracon quarrying operation, Buttai (Site 2).

– Kurri Kurri TAFE site, Kurri Kurri (Site 3).

– Land off Majors Lane, Keinbah (Site 4).

– Mount Molly Morgan, to the south of Greta (Site 5).

– Former Branxton Coal Loader site, Branxton (Site 6).

• AbiGroup minor culvert works – Installation of culverts by AbiGroup as early works will take place at the following locations:

– Chainage 13,840 (Appendix G2).






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3 Planning

3.1 Project environmental obligations

All personnel working on the Early Works have the following general obligations:

• Avoid polluting land, air and water.

• Use pollution control equipment and keep it in proper working order.

• Preserve the natural and cultural heritage environment.

• Give notice to the RTA and relevant authorities of a non-Aboriginal or Aboriginal heritage discovery.

• Minimise the occurrence of offensive noise.

• Protect and preserve native flora and fauna.

• Be a good neighbour to surrounding land users.

• Use equipment with noise control features where available and ensure that it is properly maintained.

• Take all feasible and reasonable steps to ensure compliance with the requirements of this CEMP.

3.2 Legal and other requirements

There is a range of legislative requirements, policies, guidelines and standards that are relevant to the Early Works. These requirements have been taken into account in preparing this CEMP.

A register of legal and other requirements for the Works is contained in Appendix B. This register is maintained as a checklist.

Changes could occur to some legislation prior to completion of the Works. In that event, this CEMP will be reviewed and amended.

A list of the requirements for the Project and an indication of where they are relevant to the Early Works are included as Appendix A. The sources of these requirements are:

• The Minister for Planning Conditions of Approval (2001) and subsequent 2006, 2007 and 2010 modifications to the approval.

• The Director-General of National Parks and Wildlife conditions of concurrence - 2001.

• The Commonwealth Minister for the Environment approval (2007) and subsequent 2008 variation to conditions of approval.

A reference to where each requirement is addressed by this CEMP or other project documentation is also provided.

This CEMP is limited in extent. To ensure that relevant environmental mitigation measures and procedures are easily accessible in one document, this CEMP incorporates an Environmental Control Plan that contains information that would otherwise be provided in separate sub-plans/protocols/strategies under the conditions of approval (see Appendix A). Sub-plans/protocols/strategies required by the approval, when they will be prepared and provided for approval (where required), is detailed in the staging plan.

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Section 12 presents the Environmental Control Plan for the Early Works. The Environmental Control Plan documents the safeguards and monitoring requirements for each key environmental element, and also nominates who is responsible for implementing those controls and the frequency/timing of implementation. Where required, the Environmental Control Plan will include checklists of obligations and safeguards in relation to each element. The CEMP and the Environmental Control Plan have been prepared specifically to address the requirements of all environmental documents, commitments, obligations, approval conditions and other undertakings relevant to the Early Works.

This CEMP is applicable to all staff and sub-contractors associated with the Works.

3.3 Environmental monitoring construction

As required by the project’s CoA (31), a program to monitor the environmental performance of the Works and compliance with the CEMP has been developed. The RTA will use the electronic data management system to track compliance with the approval requirements for the Early Works. The management system identifies the source of each obligation for the project, details of the obligation and status for implementation. The management system will be used specifically to track compliance with:

• Minister’s conditions of approval.

• Commonwealth Minister’s conditions of approval.

• Director-General of National Parks and Wildlife Service conditions of concurrence.

• Additional approvals, eg modifications.

• Commitments and mitigation measures from assessment documentation (eg EIS, Representations Report, subsequent studies).

The requirements for environmental performance and compliance monitoring during construction, as prescribed in CoA 31, include:

• Applications for consents, licences and approvals, and responses from relevant authorities.

• Implementation and effectiveness of environmental controls and conditions relating to the work undertaken.

• Identification of construction impact predictions made in the EIS and any supplementary studies and details of the extent to which actual impacts reflected the predictions.

• Details and analysis of results of environmental monitoring.

• Number and details of any complaints, including summary of main areas of complaint, action taken, response given and intended strategies to reduce complaints of a similar nature.

• Any other matter relating to the compliance by the Proponent with the conditions of the approval or as requested by the Director-General.

A report that outlines the status of compliance with obligations and the requirements of the environmental monitoring construction, as detailed above, will be prepared and provided to the Director-General for Planning six months after the commencement of construction and then at six monthly intervals thereafter. Copies of the report will also be provided to DECCW (of which EPA and NPWS is a part), Land and Property Management Authority (formerly DLWC), Industry & Investment - Fisheries and relevant councils.

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3.4 Environmental aspects and impacts

Environmental aspects are actions that may result in environmental impacts. The Early Works will include actions that affect flora, fauna, noise and heritage. Table 6 rates the Works according to three attributes: likelihood (L), low to high, represents an unlikely to likely occurrence; consequence (C), low to high, represents an insignificant to significant consequence; and risk (R), low to high, if mitigation is not implemented.

Table 6 Risk assessment

Aspect Potential impact L C R

Energy Australia vegetation clearing and removal of redundant power infrastructure

• Damage to threatened species or endangered ecological communities (identified for retention) from foot traffic or light vehicles.

L L L

• Soil disturbance from vehicle movements causing erosion and reduced water quality.

L L L

Surveys: Cadastral, habitat and hollow bearing trees, weeds

• Weed dispersal. L M L

• Soil disturbance and reduced local water quality. L L L

• Damage to Aboriginal heritage items or places. L M L

• Damage to non-Aboriginal heritage material or sites. L L L

Site preparation: environmental controls, no-go areas, access, stockpile, amenities


• High noise level impact on sensitive receivers. M L M

• Soil disturbance and reduced local water quality. M L L

• Damage to threatened species or endangered ecological communities to be retained.

L H H

• Injury to protected fauna. M M M

• Dispersal of weeds (distribution and edge effects). M M M

• Damage to Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal heritage. L H M

Vegetation clearing: two-stage clearing, tree felling, tree removal, mulching, stockpiling

• Fire. L H M


• Damage to Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal heritage. L M L

Utility removal: heavy lifting, storage, waste removal • Damage to vegetation to be retained. L M M

• Dust generation from disturbed surfaces. L L L

• Weed establishment and dispersal. M M M

Work completion: stockpile management, waste removal • Discharge of leachate from mulch stockpiles. L M M

Freeway corridor boundary fencing

Surveys: Cadastral


L L L

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L L L



• Injury to protected fauna. L L L

Site preparation: environmental controls, no-go areas, access, amenities

• Disturbance of soil and reduction in local water quality. L L L

• Weed dispersal. M L M


• Injury to protected fauna. L M L

• High noise level impact on sensitive receivers. L L L

Vegetation clearing: removal and placement of understorey vegetation

• Fire L M M

• Damage to vegetation to be retained. L L M


Fencing: driven posts, straining wire, excavations

• Runoff from disturbed areas and reduction in local water quality.

M L L

• Dispersal of weeds. M L L Work completion: removal of environmental controls


L L L

Access Road – Averys Lane

Surveys: Cadastral


L L L

• Damage to Aboriginal heritage. L H M Site preparation: environmental controls, no-go areas, access, amenities, fencing

• Damage to vegetation (identified for retention). L M M

• Injury to farm stock. L M M


Vegetation clearing: tree felling, tree removal, mulching, stockpiling


L L L

• Dirty water runoff from disturbed areas and soil stockpiles and reduction in local water quality.

M M H

• Dispersal of weeds. M L L

• Generation of excessive dust. M M H

Topsoil and weed removal: excavation, stockpiling

• Disruptions to local access. M L M

• Damage to property from vibration. L H M Earthworks: cut and fill, blasting,

• High level noise disturbance at sensitive receivers. M H M

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• Contamination of ground or waterways from spillages of fuels, chemicals, other hazardous goods.

L H M

• Excessive dust generation. M M H

• Failure of erosion and sediment controls and reduction in local water quality.

M M H

excavation, drainage installation, compacting, shaping batters, stabilising disturbed areas • Disruptions to local access M L M

• High level noise impact on sensitive receivers M L M

• Run of from paving chemicals and emulsions. L M L

Paving: importing materials, compaction, spray sealing • Damage to property from vibration. L L L

Landscaping: topsoil spreading, seeding, planting tube stock

• Runoff from disturbed surfaces and reduction in local water quality.

M L L

• Discharge of leachate from mulch stockpiles. L M L Work completion: stockpile management

• Failure of ground treatments and reduction in local water quality from turbid runoff.

M L M

Noise attenuation (property treatments)

• Damage to non-Aboriginal heritage material or sites. L L L Building assessment: inspection, measurement, planning

• Accidental damage to private property. L M L

• High noise levels from operation of hand tools. L L L

• Contamination from exposure of contaminated material (eg asbestos).

M M H

• Damage to non-Aboriginal heritage material or sites. L M L

• Damage to Aboriginal heritage items or places. L L L

Façade treatment: replacement of windows, replacement of doors/door seals, acoustic fencing

• Accidental damage to private property. M L L

Geotechnical investigations


L L L


L L L

Surveys: Cadastral


• Soil disturbance and reduced local water quality. L L L

• Damage to Aboriginal heritage items or places. L M L

• Damage to non-Aboriginal heritage material or sites. L L L

Site preparation: environmental controls, no-go areas, access


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• Damage to threatened species or endangered ecological communities (identified for retention).

L L M

• Weed dispersal. M L M




• Fire L M M

Vegetation clearing: removal and placement of understorey vegetation


L L M



• Vibration impacts on buildings (non-heritage items) L L L

• Contamination or cross contamination of aquifer (s). L M M

Investigations: drilling, seismic refraction, test pitting, resistivity testing, electrical friction cone penetrometer investigation, mine void investigation.


L L L

• Dispersal of weeds. M L L Work completion: removal of environmental controls


L L L

Global navigational satellite system network

• Damage to Aboriginal heritage items or places. L M M

• Damage to non-Aboriginal heritage material or sites. L M M

• Weed dispersal. L L L

Site preparation: environmental controls, no-go areas,


M M M

• Weed dispersal. L L L

• Damage to Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal heritage. M M H

• Injury to protected fauna. L L L

• High noise level impact on sensitive receivers. M M M

• Fire L L L


M L M

Vegetation clearing: removal and trimming of branches.


• Damage to Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal heritage. M M M


Installation of equipment and commissioning: levelling surface, hardstand


M L L

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placement, positioning of GNSS network equipment.

• High noise level impact on sensitive receivers. M L L

• Dispersal of weeds. L L L Decommissioning: removal of equipment, removal of other imported material.


M L L

Minor culvert works

Surveys: Cadastral


L L L

• Damage to Aboriginal heritage. L L L Site preparation: environmental controls, no-go areas, access, amenities, fencing

• Damage to vegetation (identified for retention). L M M

• Injury to protected fauna. L M L Vegetation clearing: tree felling, tree removal, mulching, stockpiling


L L L

• Dirty water runoff from disturbed areas and soil stockpiles and reduction in local water quality.

M M H

• Dispersal of weeds. M L L

• Generation of excessive dust. L L L

Topsoil and weed removal: excavation, stockpiling

• Disruptions to local access. L L L

• Damage to property from vibration. L L L

• High level noise disturbance at sensitive receivers. L M L

• Contamination of ground or waterways from spillages of fuels, chemicals, other hazardous goods.

L M M

• Excessive dust generation. L L L

• Failure of erosion and sediment controls and reduction in local water quality.

M H H

Earthworks: excavation, drainage installation, compacting, stabilising disturbed areas

• Disruptions to local access L L L

Landscaping: topsoil spreading, seeding, planting tube stock

• Runoff from disturbed surfaces and reduction in local water quality.

M M M

• Discharge of leachate from mulch stockpiles. L M L Work completion: stockpile management

• Failure of ground treatments and reduction in local water quality from turbid runoff.

M M M

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The degree of risk will determine the effort needed to manage the environmental aspect. The environmental controls in Section 12 (Environmental Control Plan) have been selected to reduce or eliminate risks, and in particular identified high risks (without mitigation) associated with possible damage to endangered ecological communities (eg KSSW etc), protected fauna and Aboriginal heritage.

While the environmental risk associated with Early Works are generally low, the Energy Australia vegetation clearing, Averys Lane property access works and minor culvert works pose a greater risk to the environment. Appendix D details the CMS/EWMS that would be developed to further minimise the risks associated with the activities.

All Early Works are considered to be of low risk and low public interest.

3.5 Objectives

As a means of guiding environmental performance during the Early Works, a number of objectives have been established. The key objectives of this CEMP are to:

• Avoid soil and water pollution.

• Continuously improve environmental performance (and implementation of environmental practices).

• Comply with applicable legal and other requirements (environmental laws, regulations, statutory requirements, obligations and ‘instruments of approval’).

• Ensure no unapproved damage is caused to Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal heritage items, material, sites or places.

• Minimise noise and vibration impacts on sensitive receivers.

• Avoid environmental incidents.

• Identify environmental training and induction needs for construction personnel and sub-contractors.

• Avoid environmental infringements and penalties.

• Minimise adverse visual impacts.

3.6 Project changes

Changes to the Early Works scope may result from ongoing design development or changed circumstances during the course of delivery. The RTA will formally seek approval from the Minister for any modifications that are not considered consistent with the Minister’s approval. Minor changes that are considered consistent with the Minister’s approved would be appropriately documented.

The Senior Environment Officer is responsible for assessing any changes, managing new impacts, carrying out consistency assessments and integrating any new statutory approval conditions/requirements into this CEMP.

Any proposed design changes or changes in scope of works should be communicated to the Senior Environment Officer. The Senior Environment Officer, or delegate, will then undertake a consistency assessment to determine if a project modification or additional impact assessment is required.

Should the consistency assessment determine that a project modification or additional impact assessment may be required the Environmental Management Representative is to be informed.

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4 Implementation and operation

4.1 Environmental management system documentation

The purpose of the system of documentation is to:

• Ensure compliance with all applicable environmental laws, obligations and approvals.

• To minimise environmental impacts.

• The structure of the environmental management system for the Early Works is shown in Figure 2 below.

Figure 2 Environmental management system structure

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4.1.1 Construction environmental management plan

This CEMP provides the system to manage and control the environmental aspects of the Early Works during pre-construction and construction. It identifies all requirements applicable to activities described in Section 2. It also provides the overall framework for the system and procedures to ensure environmental impacts are minimised and legislative and other requirements are fulfilled. The strategies defined in this CEMP have been developed with consideration of the all Project approval requirement, safeguards and mitigation measures presented in the environmental assessment and approval documents. This CEMP establishes the system for implementation, monitoring and continuous improvement to minimise the impacts of Early Works on the environment.

The CEMP and any supporting documentation will be provided to the Environmental Management Representative for certification prior to submission to Director-General for approval as required by Minister’s CoA 24.

4.1.2 Environmental management sub-plans and strategies

A number of environmental management sub-plans, protocols and strategies will support the overall Project CFEMP(s). Some of these plans have been prepared in advance of the head contractor(s) and have been provided to support this CEMP.

These documents identify requirements and processes applicable to specific impacts or aspects of the activities that form part of the Project, but also those described in Section 2.2. The sub-plans identify measures that will be implemented to avoid or minimise potential impacts or risks to the environment.

For the purposes of the Early Works, relevant mitigation measures and controls from the sub-plans identified as necessary for the activities have been incorporated in an Environmental Control Plan (ECP). This is discussed further in Section 4.1.3.

Sub-plans that have been prepared and included for information as part of the Early Works are:

• Aboriginal cultural heritage plan of management (full Project plan).

• Early Works noise and vibration management sub-plans (Early Works plan only).

These plans have been provided to relevant agencies and the DoP as part of this Early Works CEMP. Comments on measures have been considered and changes made where appropriate and have also been included in the Environmental Control Plan in Section 12.

4.1.3 Environmental control plan and sensitive area plans

This CEMP is a framework document, which is supported by the Environmental Control Plan in Section 12. The Environmental Control Plan has been prepared in accordance with specific conditions from the Minister for Planning’s approval, the Commonwealth Minister for the Environment’s controlled action approval, the Director-General of National Parks and Wildlife conditions of concurrence, the EIS and Representations Report for the Project, and with reference to the RTA’s General Specifications (G series).

The Environmental Control Plan details the management and monitoring strategies for key environmental risks associated with the Early Works. In addition, it assigns responsibility for implementing controls, with detail of the frequency/timing of implementation and checklists to facilitate the compliance of obligations and safeguards.

Sensitive area maps have been prepared to highlight known environmental constraints in or near the work area, which include:

• Flora features, including threatened species and endangered ecological communities.

• Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal heritage sites, including items, places, objects and sites.

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• Sensitive noise receivers, eg residential dwellings.

They also present key environmental controls for specific locations along the route. Controls identified on the maps include:

• Limitations on vegetation clearing.

• The need for special construction method statements for flow line crossings.

• Controls for the protection of Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal heritage.

Further details on environmental controls are provided in Section 12.

The sensitive area maps are presented in Appendix C and Appendix G, and will be updated if newer information is acquired. These maps will be used in conjunction with the Construction Method Statements (CMS) / Environmental Work Method Statements (EWMS) to help identify key risk areas and to promote ongoing communication to personnel during the Works.

4.1.4 Construction method statements / environmental work method statements

Construction method statements / EWMS are a practical management document prepared to manage and control all activities that have the potential for negative impacts on the environment. They serve a similar purpose to a safe work method statements/job safety and environment analysis (SWMS/JSEA) from an environmental perspective.

The RTA, Hunter Road Services and AbiGroup will develop CMS/EWMSs for the Early Works in consultation with the key members of the work force and project’s ecologist, archaeologist and soil conservation specialist. Each CMS/EWMS will be based on an assessment of risks for the associated activities and will include controls to be implemented to reduce the risks, responsibility for implementing the controls and a series of maps showing environmentally sensitive areas and key environmental controls.

Environmental work method statements collate only those measures from the Environmental Control Plan, or issue specific management sub-plans, that are relevant to a certain activity and/or location. They include both text and map-based elements, providing a visual aid for on-site environmental management. They are to be used in conjunction with construction planning documentation.

They will be prepared progressively throughout the delivery of the Early Works to coincide with the program. A list of proposed CMS/EWMS is provided in Appendix D. All CMS/EWMS will be certified and/or approved by the Senior Environmental Officer prior to works commencing in an area.

4.1.5 System procedures, forms and other documents

The Project’s environmental management system procedures, forms and other documents provide instructions relating to both environmental and non-environmental activities throughout the Early Works.

Project specific procedures will be developed in accordance with the requirements for the Works.

A register of relevant environmental procedures, checklists and forms is provided in Appendix D.

4.2 Sub-contract management

Environmental requirements and responsibilities are to be specified to sub-contractors in the contract documentation. As part of the selection process, consideration will also to be given to their past environmental performance. The Senior Environmental Officer, or delegate, will participate in the tender assessment and selection process where it is deemed necessary due to associated environmental risks. All sub-contractors will be required to complete a sub-contractor questionnaire (RS-Form-109 Subcontractor Questionnaire and Management Plan) or similar.

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All sub-contractors are to work in accordance with the Early Works CEMP.

All sub-contractors are required to attend project and/or site inductions where the requirements and obligations of the CEMP are communicated. A record of all sub-contractors inducted will be maintained.

A standard monitoring form will be developed that will be used to assess:

• The sub-contractor’s general work practices.

• The effectiveness of the sub-contractor’s environmental protection measures.

• The sub-contractor’s compliance with the requirements of this CEMP.

• The maintenance of environmental measures.

4.3 Public availability

The RTA will make this CEMP available for public inspection on request, as required by the Minister’s CoA 24. Confidential information, which may include the location of threatened species, Aboriginal objects or places and personnel contact details, will be removed from all documents provided or made available to the public.

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5 Resources, roles, responsibility and authority

The RTA, Hunter Road Services and AbiGroup will accept the roles, responsibilities and authorities for the environmental performance of key construction personnel, environmental specialist and sub-contractors outlined in this section. The RTA, and AbiGroup as directed by the RTA, will ensure that resources essential to establish, implement, maintain and improve the environmental management system are available.

5.1.1 Management structure

Figure 3 shows the relationship between the RTA Hunter Region, the DoP approved environmental management representative, RTA Hunter Road Services (the contractor) and other sub-contractors.

Figure 3 Management structure

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5.1.2 RTA

In the lead up to construction of the Project, the RTA, and AbiGroup at the direction of the RTA, will have the responsibility and authority for actions outlined below. In addition, the Environmental Control Plan in Section 12 outlines responsibilities relevant to each specific environmental management aspect.

The RTA will:

• Plan the environmental management of the Works.

• Carryout and facilitate internal and external consultation/communication with agencies, stakeholders and the community, and provide regular information on the status of Works.

• Ensure that all relevant licences, permits and approvals have been obtained.

• Ensure through monitoring that environmental obligations relevant to the Early Works are met and report on compliance.

• Manage all works being performed, including that of construction personnel, specialist, sub-contractors and other government authorities, within the Hunter Expressway corridor.

• Prepare construction documentation to manage works on-site.

5.1.3 Sub-contractors and other personnel

This will include RTA Hunter Road Services and AbiGroup.

The environmental responsibilities of sub-contractors, direct labour and others include (but are not limited to) the following:

• Comply with the relevant requirements of the CEMP, or other environmental management guidance as instructed by a member of the management team.

• Participate in the mandatory site induction program.

• Report any environmental incidents to the supervisors immediately or as soon as practicable if reasonable steps can be adopted to control the incident.

• Undertake remedial action as required to ensure environmental controls are maintained in good working order.

• Stop activities where there is an actual or immediate risk of harm to the environment and advise the Senior Environmental Officer.

5.1.4 Energy Australia

As part of a larger electrical services adjustment project, Energy Australia will be carrying out some vegetation clearing within the Hunter Expressway footprint. For this clearing, Energy Australia will adhere to the environmental responsibilities outlined in Section 5.1.3. For the remainder of the work outside of the Hunter Expressway footprint, Energy Australia will carry out clearing in accordance with its own approvals and construction management documentation.

5.1.5 Environmental Management Representative

The principal role of the Environmental Management Representative (EMR) is to review and certify construction and operational environmental management documentation prior to submission to the DoP for approval. They also have the responsibility for considering and advising on matters specific to the approval.

Specifically, the EMR, as outlined in Condition 21 of the Minister’s CoA, shall:

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• Have responsibility for considering and advising on matters specified in the conditions of approval and compliance with such.

• Review and approve induction and training program for all persons involved in the construction activities and monitor implementation.

• Periodically audit the environmental activities to evaluate the implementation, effectiveness and level of compliance of on-site construction activities with the CEMP and associated plans and procedures, including carrying out site inspections at least fortnightly.

• Record and provide a written report of non-conformances with the CEMP and require mitigation measures to avoid or minimise any adverse impacts on the environment or report required changes to the CEMP.

• Direct the contractor to stop work immediately where considered necessary, if in the view of the CEMR an unacceptable impact on the environment is likely to occur, or require other reasonable steps to be taken to avoid or minimise any adverse impacts.

• Review corrective and preventative actions to ensure the implementation of recommendations made from the audits and site inspections.

• Report monthly.

• Review and approve minor revisions to the CEMP and Sub Plans.

• Provide information for community consultation, liaison with regulators, and respond to customer environmental complaints as required.

• Provide reports to DoP on matters relevant to the carrying out of the EMR role as necessary including notifying DoP of any stop work notices.

• Certify the CEMP, Sub Plans, and CMS’s are in accordance with Conditions of Approval 24 and 30.

The EMR will be available during construction activity at the site and be present on-site during any critical construction activities including:

• The commencement of clearing.

• Initial disturbance near Aboriginal heritage sites.

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6 Competence, training and awareness

To ensure that this CEMP is effectively implemented, each level of management is responsible for ensuring that all personnel reporting to them are aware of the requirements of this CEMP. The Senior Environmental Officer will coordinate the environmental training in conjunction with other training and development activities (eg safety).

6.1 Environment induction

All personnel (including sub-contractors) are required to attend a compulsory site induction that includes an environmental component prior to commencement on-site. This is done to ensure all personnel involved in the Works are aware of the requirements of the CEMP and to ensure the implementation of environmental management measures.

Short-term visitors to site for purposes such as deliveries will be required to be accompanied by inducted personnel at all times.

The Senior Environmental Officer (or delegate) will conduct the environmental component of the site inductions.

The environmental component will include an overview of:

• Relevant details of the CEMP including purpose and objectives.

• Key environmental issues.

• Conditions of environmental licences, permits and approvals.

• Specific environmental management requirements and responsibilities.

• Mitigation measures for the control of environmental issues.

• Incident response and reporting requirements.

• Information relating to the location of environmental constraints.

A site specific induction/site briefing to all workers will be undertaken prior to works commencing in the vicinity of heritage items (that includes all heritage and archaeological items), and within and adjacent to endangered ecological communities.

A record of all environment inductions will be maintained and kept on-site. The Senior Environmental Officer may authorise amendments to the induction at any time. Possible reasons for changes to the induction may be project modifications, legislative changes or amendments to this CEMP or related documentation.

The Environmental Management Representative will review and approve the induction program and monitor implementation.

6.2 Tool box talks, training and awareness

Tool box talks will be one method of raising awareness and educating personnel on issues related to all aspects of construction including environmental issues. The tool box talks are used to ensure environmental awareness continues throughout the works.

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Tool box talks will include details of CMS/EWMSs for relevant personnel. Tool box talks will also be tailored to specific environmental issues relevant to upcoming works.

Training and awareness for specific environmental issues may include (but are not limited to):

• Erosion and sedimentation control.

• Spill response.

• Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal heritage.

• Threatened species and endangered ecological communities.

• Weed management.

• Dust control.

Tool box attendance is mandatory and attendees of toolbox talks are required to sign an attendance form and the records maintained (eg RS-Form-106 Record of toolbox meeting, RS-Form-106R Register of toolbox meetings).

The Environmental Management Representative will review and approve the training program and monitor implementation.

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7 Communication

7.1 Internal communication

Clear lines of communication throughout all levels and functions (eg management, staff and sub-contracted service providers), is key to minimising environmental impacts and achieving continual improvements in environmental performance.

The RTA and AbiGroup’s environmental teams will meet regularly to discuss any issues with environmental management on-site, any amendments to plans that might be required or any new / changes to construction activities.

Regular meetings may also be scheduled with the Environmental Management Representative, Senior Environmental Officer and other RTA and AbiGroup environmental support staff. The purpose of these meetings would be to communicate the environmental performance of the Early Works and to identify any issues to be addressed.

In addition, environmental persons will participate in tool box talks on at least a weekly basis. This forum will provide an opportunity for the environmental person to communicate on environmental performance, to advise on any upcoming sensitive environmental matters for future work areas and to receive feedback from on-site personnel.

Further internal communications regarding environmental issues and aspects will be through awareness training as described in Section 6.2.

The Senior Environment Officer and AbiGroup Environment Manager will be the main points of contact regarding specific environmental issues. The Senior Environment Officer has a responsibility to report on the ongoing environmental performance of the Works to the RTA, Environmental Management Representative and DoP. AbiGroup’s Environment Manager will report regularly to the RTA’s Senior Environment Officer on progress and any key environmental matters.

7.2 External communication

A community engagement strategy has been developed to provide an approach to external communications. The strategy identifies opportunities for providing information and consulting with the community and stakeholders during the construction phase of the Project, including Early Works.

The RTA recognises the diverse information and consultation needs of the community and is committed to a robust plan of engagement which is inclusive and participative in nature.

The plan defines:

• The engagement groups.

• The key messages of the project.

• The range of tools that will be used to interact with community and stakeholders.

Communication tools defined in the strategy include:

• Targeted community open days.

• Advertisements.

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• Displays.

• Door-knock.

• Letterbox drops.

• Signage.

• Website.

• Focus meetings.

• 1800 number and email address.

An enquiry and complaints management system will operate for the project 24 hours a day seven days a week.

All community inquiries and complaints related to the construction activities will be referred to the 24 hour community information line (1800 001 267). A postal address (Hunter Expressway, 47 Darby Street, Newcastle NSW 2300) and email address ([email protected]) has been provided for receipt of complaints and enquiries. The telephone number, the postal address and the email address was published in newspapers circulating in the local area prior to the commencement of construction and is provided on the Project’s website.

During works undertaken out of normal business hours, the 1800 number will be diverted to a specialist call centre that will inform the appropriate construction team member for action if required. All out of hours communications received on the 1800 number will be recorded on a stakeholder contact form.

Attempts will be made to resolve all complaints in accordance with the community engagement strategy. An initial response to complaints will be provided within 24 hours of a complaint being received. A further detailed response, including steps taken to resolve the issue(s) that lead to the complaint, will be provided within 10 days. All complaints should be closed off in the stakeholder database. At all times the stakeholder will be kept informed of when they will receive a response. As necessary, the Senior Environment Officer will apply an adaptive approach to ensure that corrective actions are applied in consultation with the appropriate construction staff to allow modifications and improvements in the management of any environmental issues resulting in community complaints.

In the event that a dispute with a public authority, arising out of the implementation of the Minister for Planning’s conditions of approval, that cannot be resolved, the matter will be referred to the Director-General.

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8 Operational control

As part of this CEMP, management measures have been developed to ensure that environmental issues arising from the Early Works are effectively managed and controlled.

8.1 Hold points

Details of key environmental approval related hold points for the Early Works are provided in Table 7 below. Further hold points may be applied in response to identified non-conformances or incidents, or at the discretion of the Senior Environment Officer in consultation with the Project Manager. Other requirements that may need to be completed prior to, during or following an activity and/or works, are detailed in the environmental control plan in Section 12.

Table 7 List of environmental hold points

No. Hold point Action required prior to hold point release

Release mechanism

MCoA reference (where applicable)

1. Early works commencement (within definition of construction)

Preparation of staging report. Submission to Director-General (4 weeks prior to construction)

CoA 5A


Preparation of compliance report. Approval of compliance report (submission one month prior to construction).

Director-General approval

CoA 8


Submission Early Works CEMP to relevant agencies (eg NPWS, Manager CPPD Central Directorate) for review and comment. Certification of Early Works CEMP and relevant sub-plans by environmental management representative. Approval of the Early Works CEMP, relevant sub-plans and nominated construction method statements (CMS).

Director-General approval

CoA 24, 30, 48, 51


Written notification to Director-General and all relevant authorities of the commencement of construction.

Notification received by D-G and relevant authorities

CoA 14

5. Early Works commencement

Completion of pre-construction environmental checklist.

Senior environmental

NA

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Action required prior to hold point Release MCoA No. Hold point release mechanism reference

(where applicable)

(within definition of construction)

officer approval

8.2 Environmental work method statements

All works must be carried out in accordance with EWMS/CMS as described in Section 4.1.4.

All personnel will be inducted in the use of EWMS/CMS and the relevant EWMS/CMS will be communicated to workers during pre-starts. Works are not to commence within an area where a EWMS/CMS is required until an approved EWMS/CMS has been issued.

Environmental works method statement will be monitored and reviewed throughout the Works. Changes may be made progressively, with the approval of the Senior Environmental Officer (or Director-General where relevant) to reflect changes in work practices or site conditions.

8.3 Incident and emergency preparedness and response

In the event of an environmental incident, the RTA’s Guidance for Environmental Incident Management Procedure (RTA Policy Guideline PN 025G) will be implemented.

This provides references to:

• Criteria for classifying of environmental incidents.

• Processes for systematically responding to and managing emergency situations.

• Processes for notification of an environmental incident.

The procedure covers the management of events such as, but not limited to:

• Spills of fuels, oils, chemicals and other hazardous materials.

• Unauthorised discharge from sediment basins or other containment devices.

• Inadequate application and subsequent failure of temporary erosion and sediment controls.

• Contamination of waterways or land.

• Accidental starting of fire.

• Potential breach of licence, permit or approval requirement.

• Potential breach of legislative requirements.

• Illegally dumped waste.

• Unplanned disturbance of acid sulphate soils (or subsequent pollution).

• Unauthorised damage or interference to threatened species, endangered ecological communities or critical habitat.

• Unauthorised damage, disturbance or destruction to Aboriginal objects or places or to heritage items.

All incidents are followed up and investigated to ensure that all agreed actions are appropriately completed and closed-out. All environmental incidents are reported in accordance with the RTA’s Guidance for

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Environmental Incident Management Procedure (which defines when DECCW is notified in accordance with Part 5.7 of the POEO Act). All records of environmental incidents are maintained by the RTA Hunter Region.

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9 Inspection, monitoring and auditing

9.1 Equipment

All environmental monitoring equipment shall be maintained and calibrated according to manufacturer’s specifications and appropriate records kept.

9.2 Environmental inspections

In addition to regular informal inspections of work sites by the environmental site personnel to ensure the correct implementation and maintenance of environmental controls, a number of formal site inspections will be carried out. The Senior Environmental Officer, or delegate, will also undertake a site inspection after any rainfall event exceeding 10mm in a 24 hour period.

9.2.1 Weekly site inspections

The Senior Environmental Officer, or delegate, will nominally undertake weekly inspections of the work sites to evaluate the effectiveness of environmental controls. A record of the inspection findings will be retained on the inspection checklist form (RTA Form no. 870 or any system or form that may subsequently replace it).

If any deficiencies in environmental controls or in the standard of environmental performance are observed, they will be recorded on the checklist form. Records will also include the nature of the deficiency, any actions required and an implementation priority.

The correction of any deficiencies identified through weekly inspections will be verified during subsequent inspections.

9.2.2 Environmental management representative inspections

The Environmental Management Representative will carry out inspections of the work sites with a representative of the RTA and/or relevant construction personnel. These inspections will occur as a minimum on a fortnightly basis, possibly more frequently at critical times, or where an activity is located in a particularly sensitive area.

The findings of the inspection will be recorded by the Environmental Management Representative and reported verbally at the time of inspection. A written report shall be sent to the Senior Environmental Officer. Copies of these reports will be retained. Any deficiencies acted upon within a nominated timeframe and compliance verified during the subsequent inspections.

9.2.3 Pre-work inspections

Prior to the commencement of works each day, an inspection will be carried out and will include a check of relevant environmental controls and resources required to ensure effective operation and maintenance. Works are not to commence unless environmental controls and resources are found to be satisfactory.

The site supervisor or foreman will undertake the inspections.

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9.3 Environmental monitoring

In addition to the environmental inspections mentioned above, monitoring will be undertaken to verify the effectiveness of environmental controls and implementation of this CEMP. The monitoring requirements for required aspects are presented in Table 8.

Monitoring results will be used to identify potential or actual problems arising from construction processes. Where monitoring methods permit, results will be obtained at the time of the assessment and analysed immediately by environment personnel. Where a non-conformance is detected or monitoring results are outside of the expected range:

• The results will be analysed in more detail with the view to determining possible causes for the non-conformance.

• A site inspection will be undertaken.

• Relevant personnel will be contacted and advised of the problem.

• An agreed action will be identified.

• Action will be implemented to rectify the problem.

Table 8 Environmental monitoring

Attribute Frequency Location

General

Environmental site inspection. Weekly. At each location where works are in progress.

Native vegetation and weeds

Impacts on threatened species, populations and endangered ecological communities and the efficacy of measures to mitigate these impacts.

Three monthly by an appropriately qualified ecologist for the duration of the Early Works.

At each location where Works impact on threatened species and endangered ecological communities.

Landscaping

Revegetation. Six monthly for a period of up to three years following planting.

Where revegetation activities are undertaken.

Aboriginal heritage

Monitor (photographic and written records) the conditions of Aboriginal sites within and those extending beyond the route alignment for (but not limited to):

• Levels of erosion.

• Revegetation.

• Impact by feral animals.

• Presence of noxious and/or pest weed species.

• Impact by bushfire hazard reduction.

Prior to construction works within any area in proximity to a site (within/beside the route alignment) and at six monthly intervals for the duration of Early Works.

AHIMS registered sites.

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Attribute Frequency Location

• Construction impact.

Non-Aboriginal heritage

Two weirs and stone wall. Prior to any geotechnical investigations in the vicinity of these structures.

Minmi Creek.

Noise and vibration

Construction noise monitored to verify compliance with requirements specified in the CNVMSP.

Monthly during clearing activities. Monthly.

Loxford. Averys Lane.

Vibration. During blasting and at the commencement of ground vibration generating activities.

Averys Lane.

Water quality

Monthly, or as required by the DECCW scheduled development works environmental protection licence.

Averys Lane. pH, TSS or turbidity (NTU), presence of oil or grease.

At least once during works, or as required by the DECCW scheduled activity – premises based environmental protection licence.

Up and down stream of minor culvert installation works

Air quality

Dust deposition. Monthly. Averys Lane.

As detailed in Section 3.3, monitoring will also be undertaken to verify legal compliance. The RTA will use the Hunter Expressway’s eTable to track compliance with the approval requirements for the Early Works. The eTable identifies the source of each obligation, details of the obligation, responsibility for implementation, timing/frequency for implementation, and the status of implementation.

9.4 Auditing and reporting

Table 5 presents both auditing and reporting requirements that are applicable to the Early Works.

Internal auditing will be undertaken on a three monthly basis throughout the Early Works and for the duration of the Project. The purpose of auditing is to verify compliance with:

• This and subsequent CEMPs.

• Approval requirements.

• Any relevant legal and other requirements (eg licenses, permits, regulations).

An audit checklist will be developed and amended as necessary to reflect changes to this CEMP, subsequent approvals and changes to Acts, regulations or guidelines.

Prior to, during and following construction, various reports will be prepared to fulfil internal RTA reporting needs and requirements under the Project approval. Table 5 below sets out the reporting requirement

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applicable to the Early Works, timing of the reporting, who is responsible for managing preparation of the reports and the intended recipient(s).

Additional reporting may be necessary as the works progress. In such a circumstance, Table 9 will be amended to reflect these changes.

Table 9 Environmental audit and reporting requirements

No. Report / audit Requirements Timing Responsibility Recipient

Environmental audits

1 Internal audit. Audit against compliance with CEMP, conditions of approval and other relevant licenses and approvals.

Every three months following commencement of construction (completed within six weeks of the end of three month period).

Senior Environment Officer.

EMR (DoP on request).

Environmental reports

1 MCoA pre-construction compliance report (CoA 8).

Environmental compliance with relevant conditions that apply prior to the commencement of construction.

1 month prior to construction.


DoP.

2 Environmental monitoring construction (CoA 31).

Reporting on environmental performance of construction works.

Six months after commencement of construction and then at six month intervals thereafter.


DoP.

3 Internal audit report (CoA 32).

Report on audit findings against compliance with CEMP, conditions of approval and other relevant licenses and approvals.

Three monthly. Senior Environment Officer.

EMR (DoP on request).

4 Monitoring results. Monitoring data recorded and potential exceedances against criteria reported.

As required. Senior Environment Officer.

RTA.

5 Environmental Management

Conformance with CEMP and relevant

Fortnightly or as otherwise

Senior Environment

Senior Environment

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No. Report / audit Requirements Timing Responsibility Recipient

Representative/s inspection report.

approval requirements. agreed. Officer. Officer.

9.5 Evaluation of compliance

Compliance reporting and checking is to be carried out in accordance with the Compliance Report.

9.6 Non-conformity, corrective and preventative actions

Any personnel can raise non-conformances, corrective and preventative actions, and improvements requests to the system or works. The processes and procedures for this are outlined in Control of Non-conformance (RFS-Q09) and Improvement (RFS-Q10), or equivalent AbiGroup system.

The Environmental Management Representative may also raise non-conformances or improvement requests using the same process.

A non-conformance is the failure or refusal to comply with the requirements of this CEMP and supporting documentation.

For each non-conformance identified a corrective / preventative action (or actions) must be implemented. In addition, any environmental management improvement request can be initiated as a result of incidents or emergencies, monitoring and measurement, audit findings or other reviews. Improvement requests may also result in the implementation of corrective / preventative actions.

Corrective / preventative actions and improvement requests will be recorded on the respective registers (Form-225R CAR register, Form-226R Improvement request register, or equivalent AbiGroup register) including detail of the class, source, a description issue, action required and date raised. The register will be updated with date of close out and any necessary notes. This register will be reviewed regularly to ensure actions are closed out as required.

Non-conforming activities may be stopped, if necessary, by the Senior Environment Officer, AbiGroup Environment Manager, Supervisors, or Delivery Manager. If there is significant risk of harm to the environment, the works will not recommence until a corrective / preventative action has been closed out. The Environmental Management Representative may also stop works in these circumstances. In all cases where a non-conformance is identified, a non-conformance report must be prepared (Form-223 Non-conformance report, or equivalent AbiGroup report).

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10 Review

Management reviews are undertaken as part of the continual improvement process. The RTA will review the CEMP and its operation at 12 monthly intervals and/or at the completion of the Works (note: where works continue for a period of greater than 12 months, the CEMP will be reviewed 12 monthly and at the completion of works). The purpose of the review is to ensure that the system is meeting the Early Works environmental requirements. The review will consider, but not be limited to:

• Comments from construction personnel, relevant public authorities and stakeholders.

• A review of the aspects and impacts.

• Environmental objectives.

• Consideration of monitoring, inspection and audit findings.

• Consideration of changes in operational needs such as resourcing.

• Effectiveness of environmental management documentation implementation and potential for improvements.

• Compliance with legal and other requirements.

• Critical non-conformance or repeated non-conformances.

• Incident reports.

• Complaints.

• Organisation changes.

• Effectiveness of training and inductions.

The outcomes of the reviews could include amendments to this CEMP and related documentation, risk assessment review, re-evaluation of the objectives as well as feeding into the main project documents.

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11 Documentation

11.1 Environmental records

The RTA, or AbiGroup where relevant, will maintain records of the following:

• Details of qualifications for individuals primarily responsible for environmental management.

• All monitoring, inspection and compliance reports/records.

• Correspondence with public authorities.

• Induction and training records.

• Reports on pollution incidents, other environmental non-conformances, complaints and follow-up action.

• Community engagement information.

• Minutes of construction environmental management plan and construction environmental management system review meetings and evidence of any action taken.

• Any records by subcontractors of monitoring against compliance limits.

11.2 Document control

The RTA, or AbiGroup where relevant, will coordinate the preparation, review and distribution, as appropriate, of the environmental documents listed above. During the Early Works, the environmental documents will be stored at RTA Hunter Region office, or AbiGroup Beresfield office at 2-4 Birraba Ave, Beresfield NSW 2322.

The RTA, and AbiGroup, will implement a document control procedure to control the flow of documents within and between the RTA, stakeholders and subcontractors.

The procedure will also ensure that documentation is:

• Developed, reviewed and approved prior to issue.

• Issued for use.

• Controlled and stored for the legally required timeframe.

• Removed from use when superseded or obsolete.

• Archived.

A register and distribution list will identify the current revision of particular documents or data.

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12 Environmental control plan

This Environmental Control Plan provides specific detail on actions that the RTA, Hunter Road Services, Energy Australia, or any other subcontractors will need to implement before, during and after undertaking the Early Works.

The requirements in the Commonwealth and NSW approvals, the environmental assessment documents, and specialist management sub-plans for cultural heritage, historic heritage, flora and fauna, and noise and vibration were considered in preparing the Environmental Control Plan.

The following tables describe each element and the Early Works that they relate to, who implements them, when they must be implemented and the status of compliance.

For the purpose of the table, the Early Works components have been numbered one to seven. Numbers correspond with each component as follows:

1. Energy Australia native vegetation clearing.

2. Freeway corridor boundary fencing.

3. Access Road – Averys Lane.

4. Noise attenuation (property treatments).

5. Geotechnical investigations.

6. Global navigational satellite system network.

7. Minor culvert installation.

12.1 General controls

ID Requirement Approval instrument reference

Relevant to components

Timing Responsibility Status

General

G1 Obtain a licence or permit for construction or use of ‘work’ for purposes including the taking and using of water, a licence for scheduled development works required by s.47 of the POEO Act, and a licence for a scheduled activity – premises based required by s.48 of the POEO Act

1, 2, 3, 5, 7 Prior to works commencing

RTA HRS AbiGroup

G2 Notify the Minister for Primary Industries 28 days prior to any planned dredging or reclamation works within water land.

1, 2, 3, 5, 7 Prior to works commencing

RTA HRS AbiGroup

G3 Undertake site inductions and environmental awareness training for all personnel appropriate to the works being performed (note: further specific environmental awareness training needs are outlined in the following sub-sections.).

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7

Prior to commencing works During works

Senior Environmental Officer AbiGroup

G4 Complete pre-construction environmental checklist. 1, 2, 3, 5, 6 Prior to works commencing

HRS

G5 Prepare and implement EWMS/CMS which clearly show, but not limited to:

• Work areas and access.

• Environmental controls (eg erosion and sediment controls, vegetation delineation/no-go areas).

• Sensitive areas (eg heritage items, noise sensitive receivers,

CoA 30 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7 Prior to commencing works

Environmental Officer AbiGroup

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Approval Relevant to ID Requirement Timing Responsibility Status instrument components reference

threatened or endangered flora, water courses).

G6 All site facilities must satisfy the following criteria:

• Be located more than 100 metres from a waterway;

• Have ready access to the road network;

• Do not cause exceedance of the maximum native vegetation clearing limit specified under condition 60 of this approval;

• Be located on relatively level land;

• Be separated from the nearest residences by at least 200 metres (or at least 250 metres for a temporary batching plant and stockpiling sites);

• Be above the 20 ARI flood level unless a contingency plan to manage flooding is prepared and implemented;

• Shall not unreasonably affect the land use of adjacent properties;

• Provide sufficient area for the storage of raw materials to minimise, to the greatest extent practical, the number of deliveries required outside standard construction hours; and

• Shall not impact on heritage sites beyond those already impacted by the project.

CoA 129 3, 6, 7 During works RTA HRS AbiGroup

G7 No earthen platforms are constructed or fill material placed in the creeks unless prior approval is granted by NSW Fisheries and the Director-General.

CoA 69 5, 7 During works RTA AbiGroup

G8 All works are to be contained within the inspected areas. If any changes are made to the proposed locations, access tracks or more

6 Prior to works RTA

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extensive vegetation clearing is required, further inspection by a qualified ecologist, an archaeologist and Aboriginal stakeholders (where necessary) is to be undertaken.

HRS

12.2 Consultation




Consultation

C1 Establish a Project internet site and provide monthly updates of work progress and consultation activities. Include on the website:

• A description of relevant approval authorities and their areas of responsibility.

• A list of environmental management reports that are publicly available and the executive summaries of those reports.

• Minutes of meetings with focus groups identified in the Community Engagement Strategy.

• Newsletters every three months.

• Contact names and phone numbers of the project communications staff.

• 24 hour toll-free complaints contact telephone number.

CoA17 1, 3, 5, 7 Prior to commencing works During works Six months after completion of works.

RTA

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C2 Establish a complaints hotline and action and record all complaints. Manage and record complaints in accordance with the community engagement strategy. An initial response is to be provided within 24 hours and a detailed response within 10 days.

CoA 11 1, 3, 5, 7 Prior to commencing works

Communications manager

C3 Advertise in relevant local newspapers the nature of the works proposed for the forthcoming three months, the areas in which these works are proposed to occur, the hours of operation and a contact telephone number.

CoA 15 1, 3, 5, 7 During works RTA

C4 Keep the local community and businesses informed (by appropriate means such as: local newsletters; leaflets; newspaper advertisements; and community noticeboards; etc.) of the progress of the project, including any traffic disruptions and controls, construction of temporary detours and work required outside the nominated working hours.

CoA 16 1, 3, 5, 7 Prior to commencing works

RTA

C5 Consult with relevant council(s) to inform them of the works, establish whether they have any plans that would be disrupted by such works and to identify any key stakeholders that should be notified.

1, 3 Prior to commencing works


C6 Consult the relevant local council regarding the use of local roads by construction vehicles and development management techniques where required.

CoA 45 3, 5, 7 Prior to commencing works


C7 Notify relevant stakeholder and community members prior to commencing works in accordance with community engagement strategy. In particular inform affected residents of the time, type and duration of noise generating works.

1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7 Prior to commencing works


C8 Use tools outlined in the Project community engagement strategy 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, Prior to Communications

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to minimise uncertainty and inform the community. 7 commencing works

manager

C9 Individually notify residents predicted to experience noise levels above the highly noise affect level of 75dB(A). Those affected will be provided with information, as a minimum, including:

• The types of activities to be undertaken.

• The timing of activities including expected start and finish.

• The location of activities.

• Details of the community information line and how to make an inquiry and/or complaint..

1, 2, 3, 7 Prior to commencing works

RTA HRS

C10 Individually notify sensitive receivers that are predicted to experience vibration levels above those presented Table 4 of the Stage 1 Early Works Construction Noise and Vibration Management Plan (vibration levels for assessment of human comfort). Those affected will be provided with information, as a minimum, including:

• Type of activity to be undertaken.



• Details of the community information line and how to make an inquiry and/or complaint.

3 Prior to commencing works

RTA HRS

C11 Provide a notice to occupants located within 500 metres of any blasting a minimum of 48 hours in advance and provide a schedule of blasting times to affected residences.

CoA 82 3 Prior to blasting

Communications Manager

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12.3 Emergency preparedness




Emergency preparedness

E1 In the event of an environmental incident, the RTA’s Guidance for Environmental Incident Management Procedure (RTA Policy Guideline PN 025G) will be implemented. All personnel will be made aware of the procedure and a copy held at each work locations.

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7

Prior to commencing works and during works

All

E2 Keep emergency spill kit at all work sites at all times and ensure all staff are made aware of its location.

1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7 Prior to commencing works and during works

All

12.4 Fire precautions




Fire precautions

F1 All personnel involved in welding, grinding, thermal or oxygen cutting, heating or other fire or spark-producing operations will be trained in fire prevention, safety and basic fire-fighting skills.

1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7 Prior to works commencing

All

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F2 During total fire ban days, all mobile plant and equipment that have the potential to discharge sparks must be fitted with spark arresters. Cutting, welding, grinding and other activities likely to start fires are not permitted in the open.

1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7 During works All

F3 Burning of vegetation, live or dead, is prohibited. CoA 116 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7 During works All

12.5 Traffic and access




Traffic and access

T1 Prepare a road dilapidation report for all non-arterial roads likely to be used by construction traffic. Provide a copy of the report to the relevant local council.

CoA 47 1, 3, 5, 7 Prior to commencing works Post works

RTA AbiGroup

T2 All road closures and diversions will be approved by the RTA’s Regional Traffic Operations Unit and managed through traffic control plans.

1, 2, 3, 5, 7 Prior to commencing works

RTA

T3 Access to the work areas will be via local roads and approved access tracks. All access points to be identified in the approved traffic control plans and EWMS/CMS.

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7

During works RTA HRS AbiGroup

T4 Exclude pedestrians from all work sites and ensure appropriate 1, 3, 5, 6, 7 During RTA

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detours are put in place. construction HRS AbiGroup

T5 Use signage in accordance with the approved traffic management plan to advise of changed conditions.

1, 2, 3, 5, 7 During construction

RTA HRS AbiGroup

T6 Maintain access to private and commercial properties at all times, or provide alternative arrangements in negotiation with property owners/occupants. Reinstate any accesses affected to an equivalent standard.

CoA 43 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7

During construction

RTA HRS AbiGroup

T7 Prevent access by construction machinery or personnel to areas of native vegetation that are to be retained.

1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7 During works RTA HRS AbiGroup

T8 Monitor the use of local roads by heavy vehicle construction traffic in consultation with relevant councils. Develop measures to minimise and/or restrict the use of local roads by heavy vehicles

CoA 46 1, 3, 7 During works RTA AbiGroup

12.6 Flora and fauna management




Vegetation clearing

FF1 Prepare threatened species and endangered ecological community identification fact sheets and induct site personnel into there

1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7 Prior to clearing

Senior environmental

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contents. officer AbiGroup

FF2 Translocation – subject to approval by DECCW in accordance with DECCW CoC 12.

1 Prior to clearing

Senior environmental officer

FF3 Where possible, seeds of locally native species shall be collected prior to the commencement of construction to provide seed stock for revegetation purposes to the satisfaction of a qualified bushland regeneration officer acceptable to the NPWS.

CoA 59 1 Prior to clearing

Senior environmental officer (bush regeneration specialist)

FF4 Notify the Manager CPPD Central Directorate in writing of any new sightings of threatened flora detected within the footprint of the activity prior to the commencement of clearing.

CoC 5 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7 Prior to clearing

RTA HRS

FF5 Undertake pre-clearing flora and fauna surveys to obtain information about the presence of threatened or endangered flora and fauna and the presence of fauna habitat with the construction site.

1, 7 Prior to clearing

Ecologist and fauna specialist

FF6 The pre-clearing fauna survey must include checks on trees and tree hollows for fauna, nests and other habitat to identify the presence or evidence of fauna. The survey must detail information on species description, locations, estimated population sizes, likely impacts, required searches and rescue procedures. All identified habitat trees must be marked in a manner which clearly identifies the trees as habitat trees.


Fauna specialist

FF7 Vegetation clearing should be targeted to occur between January and May to avoid the primary breeding and nesting periods of most

1, 7 During clearing

HRS AbiGroup

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local hollow-dwelling species, where possible.

FF8 Install durable and high visibility paraweb fencing or reflective spinning tape type fencing around the perimeter of environmentally sensitive areas (eg native vegetation, threatened flora species and communities) to be protected in order to ensure minimal disturbance to native vegetation. These environmentally sensitive areas are to be identified as environmental protection zones with signage that states “Environmental Protection Zone – No Entry Without Authorisation” (or similar) and be visible from a distance of at least 20 metres. Regularly inspect and maintain the paraweb or reflective spinning tape fencing.

1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7 Prior to clearing and during works

Project ecologist, fauna specialist

FF9 Limit clearing for turning or passing bays to the footprint of the approved or modified project. Limit clearing to the minimum needed to provide access.

1, 2, 5, 6, 7 During clearing

HRS AbiGroup

FF10 Shrubs, saplings (< 200mm at chest height) and understorey vegetation to be cut at ground level and placed adjacent to the work area within the corridor. Where appropriate, vegetation can be windrowed down slope of work area to minimise sediment runoff.

2, 5, 6, 7 During clearing

HRS AbiGroup

FF11 Where trimming of tree limbs are required, the branches removed are to be placed in adjacent areas of bushland.

6 During clearing

HRS

FF12 Do not damage or remove trees and stags with a diameter at breast height (DBH) greater than 200mm.


HRS

FF13 Implement a two stage clearing operation to remove vegetation within the clearing/construction footprint. This will include:

• Clearing all vegetation not marked during the pre-clearing survey


Fauna specialist HRS AbiGroup

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(stage 1) and undertaking stag watching and spotlighting prior to stage 2 clearing. Stockpiling of cleared vegetation should not be undertaken on-site. Vegetation is to be redistributed as planned in adjacent bushland or mulched and stored on-site (refer to vegetation management hierarchy in Waste section).

• Following a 48 hours grace period, clear all habitat trees (stage 2).

• Note: during both stages 1 and stage 2, implement fauna recovery procedure as necessary.

FF14 The fauna specialist will be on-site for all vegetation clearing and tree felling operations. The fauna specialist will work with tree clearing personnel to identify safe and practical ways to fell trees with hollows that optimises the chance of recovering the hollow intact so that it can be salvaged and relocated. Identified habitat trees will be lowered where safe and practicable.


Fauna specialist

FF15 Mechanically shake or agitate hollow-bearing trees prior to felling to encourage any remaining animals to either leave the tree or at least show themselves and possibly be removed (including the removal of the tree hollow), where possible.


Fauna specialist

FF16 If any habitat tree is found or suspected (based on fresh tree markings or scats) to contain any threatened species during the clearing operation, leave the tree in place for a minimum of 24 hours and, if possible, re-inspect prior to felling.


Fauna specialist

FF17 Systematically check all felled habitat trees for any remaining fauna. Hollows in felled habitat trees potentially supporting fauna and where there may be a risk of injury to fauna must be left on the



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ground for at least 24 hours and rechecked for the presence of fauna prior to processing/removal or placed on the edge of adjoining habitat.

FF18 Remove and relocate suitably sized hollow-bearing limbs to pre-selected adjacent bushland.



FF19 Manage felled timber and vegetation according to the following classification:

• Timber suitable for use in the RTA’s bridge maintenance program (large dimension pieces suitable for use in bridge trusses and girders) to be made available to the RTA.

• Timber suitable for commercial milling to be made available to Forests NSW.

• Timber suitable for use in re-snagging programs to be made available to DPI Fisheries or donated for other ecological rehabilitation projects.

• Small timber and shrubs suitable for use in erosion and sedimentation controls to be used within the works.

• Remaining vegetation to be mulched or chipped and placed in stockpiles for landscaping, on-site erosion and sediment control, or donation to local community groups/local restoration projects.

CoA 64 1, 3, 7 During clearing Post clearing

RTA AbiGroup

FF20 If, during the course of the works, the presence any threatened species which are likely to be significantly affected and are not recognised in the flora and fauna studies presented in the EIS, FIS, Representations Report, or subsequently endorsed studies, become

CoA 65 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7 During clearing

RTA HRS AbiGroup

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known, then the Director-General of National Parks and Wildlife will be immediately advised. No activity which places any of these species at risk shall be undertaken until advice has been received from the NPWS. All recommendations by the NPWS shall be complied with prior to any works likely to affect any threatened species.

FF21 Prepare a record detailing the findings of the survey and relocation efforts. This should include details of:

• Any live animals that are sighted, captured, released, injured, shocked or killed as a result of clearing operations and fauna rescue.

• Tree species being used for breeding or roosting by fauna, including tree locations, sizes, heights and depths of hollows.

1, 3, 7 During clearing Post-clearing

Project ecologist

FF22 Undertake a post clearing survey and record the extent of native vegetation clearing against LHCCREMS vegetation and September/October 2009 vegetation mapping data.

MCoA 60 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7 Post clearing Project ecologist

Fauna recovery/rescue

FF23 Keep on-site at all times the contact details of the fauna specialist, veterinary care and local animal welfare groups (eg WIRES, the Native Animal Trust Fund).

1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7 At all times HRS AbiGroup

FF24 Identify capture and release areas for fauna found in areas to be cleared prior to clearing.


Fauna specialist

FF25 Keep equipment for fauna rescue in the site office where available and/or in the site vehicle used by rescue personnel.

1, 7 At all times Fauna specialist

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FF26 Fauna rescue personnel to be on-site during all clearing operations. 1, 7 During clearing

Fauna specialist

FF27 Relocate all uninjured animals that are rescued to suitable predetermined locations within adjoining bushland. Release collected animals immediately or hold for the shortest time possible (preferably less than 24 hours). Release nocturnal animals at dusk. If an animal is reluctant to move away, then it shouldn’t be release and a fauna welfare group contacted.


Fauna specialist

FF28 Animals kept for any purpose to be secured in a cloth bag, stored with an appropriate material (woollen cloth) for warmth and placed in an appropriate non-sealed container until its release (preferably within 24 hours of capture) or for transport to an approved carer. Species such as reptiles known for their ability to escape poorly secured cloth bags, and possums and particularly Koalas, should be placed within double lined canvas bags.


Fauna specialist

FF29 If the fauna specialist is not present when an injured or juvenile animal is found, implement the following steps:

• Cover animal with a towel or blanket to minimise stress and place in an appropriate bag as above.

• Move animal to designated holding area.

• Contact project ecologist.

• If the project ecologist cannot be contacted, contact the local animal welfare group or veterinarian immediately.

1, 2, 3, 5, 7 During clearing

HRS AbiGroup

FF30 Record any animals that are captured, injured or escape during tree felling operations. Records are to be kept of each animal’s details


Fauna specialist

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including, sex, weight, size and condition. Post-clearing

Replacement habitat requirements

FF31 Report on the design and final location of nesting boxes and salvaged trees containing hollows to DECCW (NPWS)

CoC 10 1, 7 Prior to clearing


FF32 Identify sites for nest box and tree hollow placement adjacent to the clearing/construction footprint. The type and number of nesting boxes will be based on the outcomes of the pre-clearing inspection, but be located in mature bushland containing low tree hollow densities. Install artificial retreats (ie nesting boxes) prior to clearing activities.


Project ecologist

FF33 Any tree hollow roosts for bats in the areas to be cleared are to be relocated. If this is not possible, then an artificial bat roost shall be provided in adjacent vegetation prior to clearing.

CoA 58 1, 7 Prior to clearing During clearing

Fauna specialist

FF34 Key habitat features, including coarse woody debris (wood greater than 100 mm in diameter and longer than 0.5 m) and bush rock, must be relocated to adjacent recipient sites prior to the commencement of clearing activities, where appropriate.


Fauna specialist

FF35 Any ground cover features removed from site such as logs and rocks are to be relocated to adjacent bushland.

6 Prior to clearing

HRS AbiGroup

FF36 Should hollow bearing limbs in the work area require removal, a suitably qualified fauna specialist will check the hollows for

6 During clearing

Fauna specialist

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occupation and relocate any animals where required.

FF37 Construct nesting boxes from rot-resistant timbers and ensure joints are properly sealed. Nesting boxes are to be sized for the target species surveyed in the area.


Fauna specialist.

FF38 Install nesting boxes at a ratio determined during pre-clearing inspections in mature bushland containing low densities of tree hollows. Mount nesting boxes on trunk or main branches and allow for tree expansion during growth.


Project ecologist HRS AbiGroup

FF39 Following stage 2 clearing cut hollow-bearing limbs from trees using chainsaws and take to predetermined locations within adjacent bushland for tree attachment if safe to do so. Tree hollows should have entrance diameters ranging from 30mm to a maximum of 300mm and have cavities that are suitable for target species.



FF40 Cut primary limbs and stags which are too large for tree attachment (ie main stem hollows, fire scars at the base of trees and fissures or cracks in branches on the main stem) into sections and use to create ground habitat.

1, 7 During clearing Post clearing


FF41 Seal nesting boxes (to prevent occupation by non-target fauna) and open to coincide with stage 1 clearing activities, where deemed necessary by the ecologist.


Fauna specialist

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12.7 Weeds and soils management




Weeds and soil management

W1 Provide training to personnel and sub-contractors (through the site induction) regarding the location and spread of weeds and the management of machinery.

1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7 Prior to works RTA HRS AbiGroup

W2 Clean and inspect all vehicles, equipment and machinery entering the construction corridor, or GNSS networks sites, to ensure they are not carrying any plant material or soil contaminated with weeds. Where relevant, sub-contractors to complete “sub-contractor ‘weed-free’ declaration” (RFS-Form-416), or similar.

1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7 Prior to works RTA HRS AbiGroup

W3 Identify potential source populations of weed species adjacent to the highway reserve and control as appropriate. Areas of high weed infestation should be clearing marked.

1, 2, 3, 5, 7 Prior to works Post works

RTA AbiGroup

W4 Undertake chemical weed control with herbicides registered for treatment of each specific weed, and in accordance with manufacturer’s directions only.

1, 3, 7 Prior to and during works

RTA AbiGroup

W5 Minimise soil disturbance in weed infested areas. 3, 5, 7 During works HRS AbiGroup

W6 Disposal of contaminated topsoil and weed debris off-site (top 100mm of material) at an appropriately licensed facility. On-site use of soil containing weed seed should be restricted to fill buried to a depth where seeds or other propagules will not be able to emerge (nominally a depth of 0.5 metres or greater).

3, 5, 7 During work HRS

AbiGroup

W7 Strip and store topsoil and leaf mulch not contaminated with CoA 59 3, 5, 7 During works HRS

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weeds. Ensure it is only used in appropriate locations (ie area from which it was collected).

AbiGroup

W8 Avoid the use of topsoil from cleared agricultural areas or other defined weedy sites for revegetation works within or adjacent to areas of native vegetation unless intensively managed to prevent weed establishment (eg sterilised or treated).

CoA 63 3, 5, 7 During works Project ecologist HRS AbiGroup

W9 Stockpile weed infested topsoil separately from other stockpiles. 3, 5, 7 During works HRS AbiGroup

W10 Rehabilitate disturbed areas as soon as practical after work finishes. 3, 5, 6, 7 During works HRS AbiGroup

W11 Manage noxious weeds (if present) in consultation with relevant local council.

1, 3, 5, 7 During works HRS AbiGroup

12.8 Aboriginal heritage




Aboriginal heritage

A1 The RTA will ensure that any proposals to modify the mitigation measures and/or collection methodology contained within the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Plan of Management (ACHPM) are firstly discussed with and have the written endorsement of, the Aboriginal stakeholders for the project and the DEC (now


RTA

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DECCW), prior to modifications being implemented.

A2 In conjunction with the Aboriginal stakeholders and in consultation with the DEC (now DECCW), prepare an Aboriginal heritage awareness training package to be delivered as part of the site induction for all contractor(s) and maintenance personnel involved in construction. The training package shall be completed no less than two (2) months prior to start of construction works under Consent #2562. The training package will include, but not be restricted to:

• Information on the cultural significance of the project area to the Aboriginal stakeholders and the Aboriginal community

• Advice on the mechanisms put in place to avoid damage to sites or places within the area of works that are not covered by this Consent

• The legislative framework covering Aboriginal heritage in NSW, and actions to be taken should objects be uncovered during construction.

The Aboriginal Heritage Awareness Training records must be audited for compliance by the RTA appointed EMR.

1, 2, 3, 5, 7 Prior to works RTA AbiGroup

A3 Ensure that all contractor(s) and/or maintenance personnel involved in the construction undergo Aboriginal heritage awareness training as part of their specific on-site induction prior to commencing work on the subject lands. Maintain a record demonstrating participation in and completion of this training.

1, 2, 3, 5, 7 Prior to works RTA AbiGroup

A4 Install temporary or permanent fencing to protect Aboriginal heritage sites to be retained, within and adjacent to the project

1, 2, 3, 5, 7 Prior to works Project archaeologist

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corridor, from direct or indirect impact during construction if works are likely to occur within 50 metres of the site. Fencing is to be installed in the presence of a qualified and appropriately experienced archaeologist and Aboriginal stakeholders a minimum of two weeks prior to the commencement of ground disturbing works (see Appendix C). The specific fencing requirements, include any necessary buffers, are outlined in Appendix 4 to 8 of the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Plan of Management and the following measures. Each fenced-off area shall have a clearly visible sign erected on the fence stating that it is an environmental protection zone or similar, and all contractor/s and/or maintenance personnel involved in the works on the subject lands shall be made aware that these areas are off-limits to construction works. Sites subject to either full or partial protection include:

• Seahampton 2 Grinding Groove Site (#38-4-0393) chainage

• Minmi Creek Stone Arrangements 1, 2 and 3 (#38-4-0819 and #38-4-0820) chainage

• Aboriginal Pathway Stockrington Road chainage

• Area of High Cultural Heritage Value on Blue Gum Creek chainage

• Blue Gum Creek Grinding Grooves (b) (#38-4-0236) chainage

• Blue Gum Creek Grinding Grooves (a) (#38-4-0235) chainage

• Blue Gum Creek 5 Grinding Grooves (#38-4-0817) chainage

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• Wallis Creek RTA 6 (#38-4-0822) chainage


• Wallis Creek RTA 3 Grinding Grooves (#38-4-0816) chainage .


• Anvil Creek RTA 3 (#37-6-1368) chainage

• Redhouse Creek 1 (#37-6-1603) chainage 1.

• Black Creek RTA 1 (#37-6-1339) chainage

• Black Creek RTA 2 (#37-6-1339) chainage

All fencing and signage (or any other controls deemed necessary by the archaeologist, or DECCW) will be maintained throughout the duration of the Works until such time as the controls subject to the Project are implemented. Specific management requirements should be confirmed by reference to Appendix 4 to 8 of the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Plan of Management.

1 Redhouse Creek is located on the Branxton interchange to the New England Highway connection and the chainage is taken from the centreline of the Hunter Expressway.

A5 At Minmi Creek Stone Arrangements 1, 2 and 3 (#38-4-0819 and #38-4-0820) chainage install permanent fencing to prevent accidental damage. The fence will be installed with at least a buffer of five metres either side of Minmi Creek in the vicinity of the stone arrangements, and a buffer of 25 metres upstream and buffer 30

5 Prior to Works

Project archaeologist

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metres downstream. The fencing is not to span Minmi Creek. The fenced-off area shall have a clearly visible sign erected on the fence stating that it is an environmental protection zone and that no disturbance is permitted.

A6 At the Aboriginal Pathway Stockrington Road chainage to 1415 temporarily fence the expressway corridor. The fenced-off area shall have a clearly visible sign erected on the fence stating that it is an environmental protection zone and that no disturbance is permitted (note: non-widening upgrades of access tracks will be permitted). Ground disturbance within the corridor is to be limited to that required for the expressway footprint. Ground disturbance and vegetation clearing other than that required for the expressway footprint is not permitted (eg compounds, stockpiles, parking etc).

5 Prior to Works


A7 At the area of High Cultural Heritage Value on Blue Gum Creek chainage temporarily fence the expressway corridor. The fenced-off area shall have a clearly visible sign erected on the fence stating that it is an environmental protection zone and that no disturbance is permitted (note: necessary upgrades to access tracks will be permitted). Ground disturbance within the corridor is to be limited to that required for the expressway footprint. Ground disturbance and vegetation clearing other than that required for the expressway footprint is not permitted (eg compounds, stockpiles, parking etc).

5 Prior to Works


A8 At Wallis Creek RTA 6 (#38-4-0822) chainage install temporary or permanent fencing to protect the area of the site outside of road corridor from direct or indirect impact during

2, 3, 5 Prior to Works


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construction prior to Works taking place within 50 metres. The fenced-off area shall have a clearly visible sign erected on the fence stating that it is an environmental protection zone and that no disturbance is permitted.

A9 At Wallis Creek RTA 2 (#38-4-0815) chainage install temporary or permanent fencing to protect the area of the site outside of road corridor from direct or indirect impact during construction prior to Works taking place within 50 metres. The fenced-off area shall have a clearly visible sign erected on the fence stating that it is an environmental protection zone and that no disturbance is permitted. Construct sediment controls down slope of work area where there is a risk of off-site mobilisation of sediments.



A10 At Anvil Creek RTA 3 (#37-6-1368) chainage install temporary or permanent fencing to protect the area of the site outside of road corridor from direct or indirect impact during construction prior to Works taking place within 50 metres. The fenced-off area shall have a clearly visible sign erected on the fence stating that it is an environmental protection zone and that no disturbance is permitted. Disturbance of the ground surface within the corridor other than that for installation of each boundary fence post is not permitted.



A11 At Redhouse Creek 1 (#37-6-1603) chainage install temporary or permanent fencing to protect the area of the site outside of road corridor from direct or indirect impact during construction prior to Works taking place within 50 metres. The



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fenced-off area shall have a clearly visible sign erected on the fence stating that it is an environmental protection zone and that no disturbance is permitted. Disturbance of the ground surface within the corridor other than that for installation of each boundary fence post is not permitted.

A12 At Black Creek RTA 2 (#37-6-1339) chainage install temporary or permanent fencing to protect the area of the site outside of road corridor from direct or indirect impact during construction prior to Works taking place within 50 metres. The fenced-off area shall have a clearly visible sign erected on the fence stating that it is an environmental protection zone and that no disturbance is permitted. Disturbance of the ground surface within the corridor other than that for installation of each boundary fence post is not permitted.



A13 If during the course of construction the RTA or its contractor becomes aware of any previously unknown Aboriginal archaeological material, all work likely to affect the material (site) shall cease immediately and RTA, EMR, DECCW, relevant Aboriginal stakeholders and project archaeologist will be consulted to determine an appropriate course of action prior to the recommencement of work at that site.

CoA 104 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7

During works All

A14 If during the course of construction the RTA or its contractor becomes aware of any human/possibly human skeletal material, all work likely to affect the site(s) shall cease immediately and DECC (now DECCW), the NSW Police Department and the relevant Aboriginal stakeholders will be consulted to determine an

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7

During works All

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appropriate course of action prior to the recommencement of work at that site.

12.9 Non-Aboriginal heritage




Non-Aboriginal heritage

H1 Provide Historical Heritage Awareness induction training for all workers. The training package should include:

• The nature and location of the items within the road corridor.

• The nature and location of the items in the immediate vicinity of the project.

• The historical heritage values and significance of the items.

• The nature of the management strategies for the items within the road corridor.

• Procedures if in the event that previously unknown historical heritage items and/or artefacts are uncovered by vegetation clearance/construction.

• Information related to the relevant legislation for the protection of historical heritage items and the penalties that may arise if items are disturbed/destroyed.


RTA HRS AbiGroup

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Keep records to demonstrate that all relevant personnel and contractors have participated in and completed this training.

H2 If any previously unknown historical archaeological material or heritage items are discovered, all work in the area of the item(s) shall cease immediately and Heritage Branch, DoP and a qualified heritage consultant will be consulted, in accordance with Section 146 of the Heritage Act 1977 (NSW) and Project Approval Condition 104., to determine an appropriate course of action prior to the recommencement of work at that site.

CoA 104 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7

During works All

H3 The following items are to be conserved in-situ and protected during construction where Works occur within 50 metres:

• Weir 1.

• Weir 2.

• Stone Wall.

• Fan Shaft.

• Brick and stone culverts associated with the Main Northern Railway.

• Burrenjim Dam.

• Richmond Vale Railway Tunnel 134.

• Jewboy Bushrangers Cave.

Protection of the items to be provided by:

• Mapping the location of items on construction drawings and plans used by site workers and site planners.

• Fencing off the extent of the item using high visibility para-

5 Prior to construction

RTA Hunter Road Services

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webbing or similar barricades.

• Providing appropriate signage and noting that the item/s is a historical heritage item and is protected by the provisions of the Heritage Act, 1977 and that any potential impact is an offence.

• Briefing works on the location of heritage items and heritage significance in site inductions. Workers will be made aware of the provisions of Section 139/146 provisions of the Heritage Act, 1977.

Note: Burrenjim Dam and Jewboy Bushrangers Cave are items which have natural settings and of a nature which would not require fencing to ensure their protection. The Fan Shaft will be buried in the formation of the freeway.

H4 Sites within the road corridor to be conserved in-situ to be registered on the RTA’s Section 170 Heritage Register.

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7 During works Post works

RTA

H5 The following items are located in the vicinity of the project corridor:

• Old Timber Church.

• Old Shop on Camp Road.

• Greta Army Camp’s Firing Range Stop Butt.

• Richmond Vale Railway’s Rail Tunnel (also recorded as Railway Tunnel 139).

• Ruin of Farmstead – “Invertay” - the ruined remains of a house and related features.

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7 Prior to works During works

RTA HRS AbiGroup

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These items are to be protected by:

• Mapping the location of items on construction drawings and plans used by site workers and site planners.

• Briefing works on the location of heritage items and heritage significance in site inductions. Workers will be made aware of the provisions of Section 139/146 provisions of the Heritage Act, 1977.

H6 The expressway boundary in the vicinity of the “Invertay” farmstead is to be temporarily or permanently fenced. Disturbance of elements outside of the corridor is to be avoided. Signage on fencing is to be provided which notes that the item/s is a historical heritage item and is protected by the provisions of the Heritage Act. The following items form part of the “Invertay” farmstead within the corridor and no further management is required:

• Dairy slab and associated features.

• Concrete slab – remains of cattle crush.

• Residue of farm out-buildings.

• Remains of yards or piggery.

• Avenue of trees and associated features.

2, 5, 7 Prior to works RTA AbiGroup

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12.10 Soil and water quality




Soil and water quality

S1 Prior to works, a baseline water quality sampling exercise would be undertaken to establish water quality sampling lines upstream and downstream of the construction corridor.

Reps Report 1, 2, 3, 5, 7 Prior to construction

RTA

S2 Undertake site inductions and environmental awareness training for all personnel. Train personnel in sound erosion and sedimentation control management.

1, 2, 3, 5, 7 Prior to works RTA senior environmental officer AbiGroup

S3 The project soil conservation specialist will inspect the work areas, assess drainage and riparian conditions, note areas where disturbance cannot occur and prepare erosion and sediment control plans for the Work areas where necessary.

1, 2, 3, 5, 7 Prior to works Soil conservation specialist

S4 Implement erosion and sedimentation control measures to stabilise and contain exposed or unconsolidated surfaces that are consistent with Managing Urban Stormwater: Soils and Construction (Landcom, 2004). Any substantial changes that might alter the effectiveness of the controls are to be endorsed by the project soil conservation specialist.

3, 5, 6, 7 Prior to works During works

HRS AbiGroup

S5 Regularly maintain and check erosion and sedimentation controls and clear on a regular basis to ensure they work effectively at all times (ie greater than 60% capacity).


S6 Erosion control devices will be inspected following major rainfall events (ie >10mm in 24hr period). Sediment removed from these

3, 5, 7 During works HRS AbiGroup

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devices will be assessed, and if suitable, combined with stockpiled project spoil for reuse / disposal.

S7 Sweep and remove any material transported onto pavement surfaces at the end of the working day.

1, 2, 3, 5, 7 During works All

S8 Minimise the area of soil exposed during the works wherever feasible and reasonable and restore disturbed areas progressively as activities are completed. Keep as much grass/small shrub cover as possible on soil surface during clearing to minimise topsoil runoff.


S9 Design, establish, maintain and decommission stockpiles to ensure all materials are adequately contained and not mobilised through wind or water (eg covers, sediment fences and diversion drains). Stockpiling must only occur in designated areas away from drainage lines, steep slopes, flood prone areas and heavily trafficked areas. Stockpiles must be located on cleared land only.

1, 3, 7 During works HRS AbiGroup

S10 Typical vehicles and equipment used during the Stage 1 Early Works will include four wheel drive utility vehicles, tipper trucks, excavators, mulchers, chainsaws, brush cutters and other miscellaneous hand tools. Mobile vehicles and plant such as four wheel drive vehicles and trucks driven to site each day are to be refuelled at established facilities (eg services station). Plant (eg mulchers, excavators) which might remain on site during the works may require refuelling about every three to four days depending on use. Hand tools such as chainsaws and brush cutters may require refuelling multiple times per day. Where refuelling is


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required on site, the following management strategies are to be implemented:

• Refuel on the level ground at least 20 metres from drainage lines, waterways and/or environmentally sensitive areas.

• Refuelling should always take place within the designated refuelling area with appropriate bunding/or absorbent material.

• Never refuel in vegetated areas (even roadside grasses).

• Never leave the refuelling activity unattended.

• Know where your spill kit is kept and ensure you know how to use it. Keep a spill kit on the refuelling truck.

• Refuel hand tools within lined trays of site vehicles wherever possible.

S11 Use bunded areas for storage of oils, chemicals, toxic substances, flammable and combustible liquids, and for potentially hazardous and contaminating activities (eg. handling and pouring hazardous materials and liquids etc.)

3, 7 During works HRS AbiGroup

S12 Should major repairs or servicing of the equipment be required, take it off site and service in an appropriate and controlled area.


S13 Do not undertake vehicle wash downs on-site. 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7 During works All

S14 Manage all actual and potential acid sulfate soils that may be disturbed during Works in accordance with the RTA’s Guidelines for the Management of Acid Sulfate Materials: Acid Sulfate Soils, Acid Sulfate Rock and Monosulfidic Black Ooze.

5, 7 During works RTA HRS AbiGroup

S15 Maintain erosion and sediment control structures until ground 3, 5, 7 Post works HRS

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surfaces are stabilised or revegetation has provided groundcover to at least 70% of the exposed surface.

AbiGroup

12.11 Noise and vibration




Noise and vibration

N1 Undertake site inductions and noise and vibration awareness training appropriate to the works being performed. Personnel are to be made aware of best practice noise management practices and the location of sensitive receivers.

1, 2, 3, 5, 7 Prior to commencing works

RTA HRS AbiGroup

N2 Undertaken dilapidation surveys for all buildings located within 200 metres of the construction area prior to the commencement of blasting or major vibration inducing construction activities.

CoA 80 3 Prior to commencing works

RTA

N3 For any section of the project where blasting is proposed, undertake a series of initial trials at reduced scale prior to commencement of the proposed blasting to determine site-specific blast response characteristics and to define allowable blast sizes to meet the Guideline entitled Technical Basis for Guidelines to Minimise Annoyance due to Blasting Overpressure and Ground Vibration prepared by the Australian and New Zealand Environment and Conservation Council (ANZECC).

CoA 81 3 Prior to blasting

HRS

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N4 All construction activities associated with the works are to be restricted to the hours of:

• 7:00 am to 6:00 pm (Monday to Friday).

• 8:00 am to 1:00 pm (Saturday).

• No time on Sundays and public holidays.

Schedule activities resulting in impulsive or tonal noise emission (such as rock breaking, rock hammering, sheet piling, pile driving) to occur between 8:00 am to 12:00 pm, Monday to Saturday and 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm Monday to Friday. Where these activities are conducted for more than 3 continuous hours a minimum one-hour respite period must be provided.

CoA 73 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7

During works RTA HRS Sub-contractors AbiGroup

N5 Works outside these hours that may be permitted include:

• Any works that do not cause audible construction noise at any sensitive receiver.

• For the delivery of materials required outside these hours by the Police or other authorities for safety reasons.

• Where it is required in an emergency to avoid the loss of lives, property and/or to prevent environmental harm.


CoA 74 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7


N6 Implement where feasible and reasonable best practice innovative noise mitigation measures including:

• Maximising the offset distance between noisy plant items and nearby noise sensitive receivers.

CoA 70 1, 3, 5, 6, 7 During works HRS Sub-contractors AbiGroup

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• Avoiding noisy plant working simultaneously close together and adjacent to sensitive receivers.

• Minimising consecutive night-time works in the same locality.

• Orienting equipment away from sensitive areas.

• Carrying out loading and unloading away from noise sensitive areas.

• Selecting site access points and roads as far as possible away from sensitive receivers.

N7 Turn off equipment during break and down times of more than 30 minutes.

1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7 During works HRS Sub-contractors AbiGroup

N8 Reduction of operating speed of plant and where practical switch off idle plant when not in active use.

1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7 During works HRS Sub-contractors AbiGroup

N9 Do not use public address systems in the work areas. 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7 During works HRS Sub-contractors AbiGroup

N10 Ensure that vibration resulting from construction is limited to:

• German Standard DIN 4150 and British Standard BS 7385: Part 2 – 1993 for structural damage vibration.

• British Standard BS 6472 and Australian Standard AS 2670 for human exposure to vibration.

Where there is an inconsistency between these standards, the more stringent standard shall apply.

CoA 79 3 During works HRS

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N11 Airblast overpressure generated by blasting associated with the project will not exceed: Airblast Overpressure (dB (Lin Peak))

Allowable Exceedance

115 5% of total number of blasts over a 12 month period

120 Never when measured at the most affected residence or other sensitive receiver.

3 During blasting

HRS

N12 Ground vibration generated by blasting associated with the project will not exceed the following criteria Peak Particle Velocity (mms-1)




3 During blasting

HRS

N13 If a situation arises where minimum safe limits presented in the measure above are likely to be exceeded, and an alternative to the methodology is not available, advice from a specialist structural engineer will be sought.

3 During blasting

RTA HRS

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87


N14 Blasting shall only be undertaken between the hours of 10:00 am and 3 pm (Monday to Friday) and 10:00 am to 1:00 pm (Saturday) unless otherwise agreed by the DECCW in the conditions of an EPL for the project.


N15 Limit blasts to one single detonation in any one day, unless otherwise agreed by the EPA through the Construction Noise and Vibration Management Sub Plan Process.


N16 Should blasting be required during the Averys Lane works, monitor preliminary blasts at the closest residential dwelling/s to ensure compliance with airblast overpressure and ground vibration goals.

3 During blasting

HRS

N17 Monitor construction noise and/or vibration levels for boundary fencing, Energy Australia works, geotechnical investigations, GNSS networks installation activities and minor culvert works in response to complaints, request by DECCW or request by other regulatory authority

1, 2, 5, 6, 7 During works RTA HRS AbiGroup

N18 Monitor construction noise from Averys Lane works on a monthly basis against those predicted in Section 7.4 of the CNVMSP. Where monitoring identifies noise levels exceeding those predicted an adaptive management approach will be taken where feasible and reasonable. This might include an adjustment to the program for carrying out works, replacement of equipment, or temporary attenuation.

3 During works RTA HRS

N19 Construction noise levels shall be monitored to verify compliance with the requirements specified in the NVMSP (Construction). The Proponent shall implement any additional mitigation measures as required by the Director-General following consultation with the

CoA 75 1, 2, 3, 5 During works RTA

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EPA should monitoring indicate exceedance.

12.12 Air quality




Air quality

Q1 Undertake dust monitoring in accordance with the monitoring schedule (Section 9.3)

SREF 1, 3 Prior to works RTA

Q2 Minimise the area disturbed at any one time. 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7 During works HRS AbiGroup

Q3 Maintain roads, disturbed areas, stockpiles and handling areas in a condition that minimises windblown, traffic generated or equipment generated dust. This could be done by activities such as:

• Watering

• Road sweeping

• Removal of accumulated materials from environmental controls.

1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7 During works HRS AbiGroup

Q4 Cease dust generating activities where wind speeds reach a velocity that visually mobilises dust particulates and implement appropriate measures to control dispersion.

1, 3, 7 During works HRS Sub-contractors AbiGroup

Q5 Restore disturbed areas progressively where possible. Monitor all restored sites until stable.

1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7 During works HRS Sub-contractors

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RTA AbiGroup

Q6 Construction vehicles using public roads shall be maintained and covered to prevent any loss of load, whether in the form of dust, liquid, soils. Construction vehicles shall be maintained in such a manner that they would not track mud, dirt or other material onto any street which is opened and accessible to the public. In the event of any spillage, remove the spilt material within 24 hours.

CoA 115 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7

During works HRS Sub-contractors RTA AbiGroup

Q7 Maintain equipment and plant in good working order in accordance with manufactures specifications and turn off equipment, plant and construction vehicles when not in use.

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7

During works HRS Sub-contractors AbiGroup

Q8 No burning or incinerating permitted on site unless approved by EPA (DECCW).

CoA 116 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7


12.13 Waste




Waste

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WA1 Ensure contractors are made aware of the conservation values within the site and that no construction material/rubbish may be stored or disposed of in any exclusion zones.

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7

Prior to works RTA HRS AbiGroup

WA2 Adopt the resource management hierarchy principles of the Waste Avoidance and Resource Recovery Act 2001(WARR Act) as follows:

• Avoid unnecessary resource consumption as a priority.

• Avoidance is followed by resource recovery (including reuse of materials, reprocessing, recycling, and energy recovery).

• Disposal is undertaken as a last resort.

CoA 125 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7


WA3 All waste will be treated in accordance with the RTA Waste Minimisation & Management Guidelines (RTA 1998).

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7


WA4 Clean and treated spoil shall be reused or recycled where possible and cost effective in preference to any imported fill.

CoA 123 3, 5, 7 During works HRS AbiGroup

WA5 Test, classify and appropriately dispose of any excess spoil at a suitable licensed facility. See RFS-EFS-21 Waste Disposal Requirements.

CoA 125 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7


WA6 Any waste material that is unable to be reused, reprocessed or recycled shall be disposed at a landfill licensed by the EPA to receive that type of waste.

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7


WA7 Spread slurry from geotechnical boreholes as thinly as practicable 5 During works RTA

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within work area or remove from site for disposal. AbiGroup

WA8 Asbestos found during works to be removed by qualified asbestos removal specialists only.

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7


WA8 Obtain receipts of disposal of wastes and make available on request.

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7


12.14 Contaminated land




Contaminated land

CL1 Notify the RTA Senior Environmental Officer, and AbiGroup Environment Manager, of any suspected or potentially contaminated ground exposed during works.

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7

During works HRS Sub-contractors AbiGroup

CL2 If contaminated ground is discovered, surface water must be diverted away from the contaminated area. Surface water runoff contaminated by exposure to the contaminated ground must be contained, assess and treated appropriately prior to disposal.

CoA 91 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7

During works HRS Sub-contractors RTA AbiGroup

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12.15 Landscaping




Landscaping

L1 All landscaping works shall be monitored and maintained (including weed control) by a suitably qualified landscape specialist for a period of not less than three years.

CoA 62 CoA 98

3, 7 Post works RTA AbiGroup

L2 Implement required remediation measure(s) to maintain landscaping works. Maintain all landscaping within the road reserve for the life of the project.

CoA 99 3, 7 Post works RTA AbiGroup

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Hunter Expressway CEMP document register

1

Appendix A Project requirements


2

Table 1 Minister for Planning Conditions of Approval (2001) requirements relevant to this CEMP (as updated by 2006, 2007 and 2010 modifications)

CoA No.

Requirement Applicability (yes / no / other)

Reference / status

1 The proposal shall be carried out in accordance with: i. The original request for approval of the proposal, including:

* Proposed Highway Link -F3 Freeway to Branxton, Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) (Connell Wagner, June 1995); * Proposed Highway Link -F3 Freeway to Branxton, Fauna Impact Statement (FIS) (Connell Wagner, January 1997) and accompanying documentation, Flora and Fauna Report (Mount King Ecological Surveys, 1995), Fauna Survey Greta Deviation (Connell Wagner, 1996) and Herpetofauna Survey (Richard Wells, 1995); * Additional Flora and Fauna Assessment (AFFA) (Connell Wagner, May 2001), to supplement the original FIS; * Representations Report (three volumes) (RTA, October 2001); * Supplementary Review of Environmental Factors for the Allandale to Illalong Section Comparison of Options (SREF) (Connell Wagner, August 2000); * Kurri Sand Swamp Woodland Recovery Assessment (Biosis Research, August 2001), a report commissioned jointly by the RTA and NPWS; * Additional Environmental and Engineering Assessment (Connell Wagner, May 2001); and * Compensatory Habitat Proposal and Candidate Areas -Stage 2 Report (Connell Wagner, September 2001);

ii. The staged construction modification request (MOD-1 0-1-2006-i), including: * Correspondence from the RTA to the Department, dated 20 December 2005, accompanied by F3 Freeway to Branxton Link -Modification to Permit Staged Construction (Acacia Environmental Planning Pty Ltd, September 2005);

iii. The alignment and ancillary infrastructure modification request (07_0033 Mod 1), including: * Correspondence from the RTA to the Department, dated 12 March 2007; * F3 Freeway to Branxton Link: Modification to the Approved Project Environmental Assessment (Acacia Environmental Planning Pty Ltd, March 2007); * F3 Freeway to Branxton Link: Threatened Species Assessment for Proposed Design Changes (Biosis

To the extent relevant to the work.

Early Works CEMP


3

CoA No.


Reference / status

Research, January 2007); * Noise Assessment: National Network, F3 to Branxton Link (Atkins Acoustics, February 2007); * Socioeconomic Analysis of the Proposed Tuckers Lane to Black Creek Modification (Centre for International Economics, January 2005); and * F3 Freeway to Branxton Link: Submissions Report (Stuart J Hill Pty Ltd, June 2007);

iv. Modification request (07_0033 Mod 2), including: * Hunter Expressway Proposed modification to the project approval (Bowditch Group, February 2010)

v. The conditions of this approval.

2 This approval relates to the construction of the proposal in its entirety*. [*The environmental evaluation of staging the proposal has not been undertaken, and therefore any staging will require separate assessment in accordance with the EP&A Act.]

Staged construction of the proposal is not proposed.

Section 1 and Section 2

3 In the event of an inconsistency between: i. the conditions of this approval and any document listed from condition 1i to 1iv inclusive, the conditions of this approval shall prevail to the extent of the inconsistency; and ii. any document listed from condition 1i to 1iv inclusive, and any other document listed from condition 1i to 1iv inclusive, the most recent document shall prevail to the extent of the inconsistency.

Yes Noted

4 These conditions do not relieve the Proponent of the obligation to obtain all other approvals and licences from all relevant authorities required under any other Act. Without affecting the generality of the foregoing, the Proponent shall comply with the terms and conditions of such approvals and licences.

Yes Section 12 and Appendix B (legal requirements)

5 It shall be the ultimate responsibility of the Proponent to ensure compliance with all conditions of approval granted by the Minister.

Yes Appendix A

5A The Proponent may elect to construct the proposal in stages provided that these are consistent with the Conditions of Approval. Where stages are proposed, the Proponent must submit a Staging Report to the Director-General at least four weeks before construction work commences (or within any other time agreed to by the Director-General). The Staging Report shall: i) describe the construction stages; and ii) identify how the conditions of approval relating to construction would be addressed in each construction stage.

Yes Section 8.1


4

CoA No.


Reference / status

Note: In no way does the above condition permit the staged commissioning and operation of the proposal, as prohibited in condition 2 of this approval.

6 The Proponent shall comply with, or ensure compliance with, all requirements of the Director-General in respect of the implementation of any measures arising from the conditions of this approval.

Yes Section 12

7 The Proponent shall bring to the attention of the Director-General any matter that may require further investigation and the issuing of instructions from the Director-General. The Proponent shall ensure that these instructions are implemented to the satisfaction of the Director-General within such time that the Director-General may specify.

Yes NA

8 At least one month prior to commencement of construction (or within such period as otherwise agreed by the Director-General), the Proponent shall submit for approval of the Director-General a compliance report detailing compliance with all relevant conditions that apply prior to commencement of construction and shall address:

i. the dates of submissions of the various studies and/or requirements of various relevant conditions, and their approval and terms of approval; and

ii. action taken or proposed to implement the recommendations made in terms of approvals and/or studies.

Yes Section 8.1

9 At least one month prior to commissioning of the proposal (or discrete sections of the proposal as agreed by the Director-General), the Proponent shall submit for approval of the Director-General a compliance report detailing compliance with all relevant conditions that apply prior to commencement of operation and shall address:

i. the dates of submissions of the various studies and/or requirements of various relevant conditions, and their approval and terms of approval; and

ii. action taken or proposed to implement the recommendations made in terms of approvals and/or studies. The Period of one month referred to in this condition may be altered as agreed by the Director-General.

Yes Section 8.1

10 The Proponent shall endeavour, as far as possible, to resolve any dispute with relevant public authorities arising out of the implementation of the conditions of this approval. Should this not be possible, the matter shall be referred to the Director-General and, if the matter cannot be resolved, then to the Minister for resolution. The Minister’s determination of the disagreement shall be final and binding on all parties.

Yes Section 7.2

11 Prior to the commencement of construction, the Proponent shall institute, publicise and list with a telephone company a 24 hour toll-free complaints contact telephone number, which would enable any member of the general public to reach a person who can arrange appropriate response action to the complaint.

Yes Section 7.2 and Section 12


5

CoA No.


Reference / status

12 The Proponent shall record details of all complaints received during construction and ensure that an initial response to the complaint is provided within 24 hours and a detailed response within 10 days. Information on all complaints received shall be made available on request to the Director-General and all relevant government agencies.


13 The Proponent shall nominate an appropriate person(s) to receive, log, track and respond to complaints within the specified timeframe. The name and contact details of this person(s) shall be provided to the relevant Council(s) and the Director-General upon appointment or upon any changes to that appointment.


14 The Proponent shall notify the Director-General and all relevant authorities in writing of the project commencement both in terms of construction and operation (ie commissioning).


Section 8.1

15 Prior to the commencement of construction and then at three-monthly intervals, the Proponent shall advertise in relevant local newspapers the nature of the works proposed for the forthcoming three months, the areas in which these works are proposed to occur, the hours of operation and a contact telephone number.


16 The Proponent shall ensure that the local community and businesses are kept informed (by appropriate means such as: local newsletters; leaflets; newspaper advertisements; and community noticeboards; etc.) of the progress of the project, including any traffic disruptions and controls, construction of temporary detours and work required outside the nominated working hours, prior to such works being undertaken.


17 The Proponent shall establish a project internet site prior to the commencement of construction and maintain the internet site until 6 months after commencement of operation of the project. The internet site shall contain monthly updates of work progress and consultation activities, including but not be limited to:

i. a description of relevant approval authorities and their areas of responsibility; ii. a list of environmental management reports that are publicly available and the executive summaries of those

reports; iii. minutes of meetings with focus groups identified in the Community Engagement Strategy; iv. newsletters every three months; v. contact names and phone numbers of the project communications staff; and vi. 24 hour toll-free complaints contact telephone number.

Updates of work progress and construction activities shall be provided more frequently where significant changes in the noise impacts are expected.


Section 7.2 and Section 12


6

CoA No.


Reference / status

18 The Proponent shall prepare and implement a Community Engagement Strategy for the project. This Strategy shall be designed to provide mechanisms to facilitate communication between the Proponent, the Contractor, the Environmental Management Representative, Council and local community (broader and local stakeholders) on the detailed design, progress and the related environmental management of the project. The Strategy shall include, but not necessarily limited to:

a) identification of stakeholders to be consulted as part of the Strategy, including affected and adjoining landowners; b) procedures and mechanisms for the regular distribution of information to stakeholders on the progress of the project, detailed design and matters associated with environmental management; c) procedures and mechanisms through which stakeholders can discuss or provide feedback to the Proponent and/or Environmental Management Representative in relation to the environmental management, detailed design and delivery of the project; d) the formation of community-based forums (focus groups) that focus on key design, environmental management and construction issues for the project. The Strategy shall provide detail on the structure, scope, objectives and frequency of the community-based forums; e) procedures and mechanisms through which the Proponent can respond to any enquires or feedback from stakeholders in relation to the environmental management, detailed design and delivery of the project; and f) procedures and mechanisms that would be implemented to resolve any issues/disputes that may arise between parties on the matters relating to environmental management and the delivery of the project. This may include the use of an appropriately qualified and experienced independent mediator.

Key issues that should be addressed in the Community Engagement Strategy should include (but not necessarily be limited to):

i. traffic management (including property access); ii. community infrastructure; iii. property acquisition; iv. business impacts; v. landscaping/urban design matters; vi. heritage; vii. construction activities; and viii. noise and vibration mitigation and management.


Section 7.2


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The Proponent shall maintain and implement the Strategy throughout construction. The Strategy shall be approved by the Director General prior to the commencement of construction unless otherwise agreed by the Director General.

19 The Proponent shall employ a Environmental Management Representative (EMR) who demonstrates compliance with AS/NZS ISO 14012:1996 Guidelines for Environmental Auditing: Qualification criteria for environmental auditors.

Yes Section 5.1.5

20 The EMR shall be available during construction activity at the site and be present on-site during any critical construction activities as defined in the Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP).

Yes Section 5.1.5

21 The EMR shall: i. have responsibility for considering and advising on matters specified in the conditions of approval and

compliance with such; ii. review and approve induction and training program for all persons involved in the construction activities and

monitor implementation; iii. periodically audit the environmental activities to evaluate the implementation, effectiveness and level of

compliance of on-site construction activities with the CEMP and associated plans and procedures, including carrying out site inspections at least fortnightly;

iv. record and provide a written report of non-conformances with the CEMP and require mitigation measures to avoid or minimise any adverse impacts on the environment or report required changes to the CEMP;

v. direct the contractor to stop work immediately where considered necessary, if in the view of the EMR an unacceptable impact on the environment is likely to occur, or require other reasonable steps to be taken to avoid or minimise any adverse impacts;

vi. review corrective and preventative actions to ensure the implementation of recommendations made from the audits and site inspections;

vii. report monthly; viii. review and approve minor revisions to the CEMP and Sub Plans; ix. provide information for community consultation, liaison with regulators, and respond to customer

environmental complaints as required; x. provide reports to DUAP on matters relevant to the carrying out of the EMR role as necessary including

notifying DUAP of any stop work notices; and xi. certify the CEMP, Sub Plans, and CMS's in accordance with Condition 24 and 30.

Yes Section 5.1.5


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22 The EMR shall be approved by the Director-General prior to the commencement of construction. Yes NA

23 The Proponent shall ensure the appointment of construction and/or operation head contractors that have an Environmental Management System prepared in accordance with the AS/NZS ISO 14000 series or BS7750-1994 certified by an accredited certifier and/or have a proven environmental management performance record.


Section 4

24 Prior to the commencement of construction, or as otherwise agreed by the Director General, the proponent shall prepare and implement a Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) in consultation with the DECCW, NSW I&I, relevant Councils, and all relevant utility/service providers. The CEMP shall outline the environmental management practices and procedures that are to be followed during construction and shall be prepared in accordance with the Guideline for the Preparation of Environmental Management Plans (DIPNR 2004). The CEMP shall include, but not necessarily be limited to:

i. a description of all relevant activities to be undertaken during construction of the project including an indication of stages of construction, where relevant;

ii. statutory and other obligations that the Proponent is required to fulfil during construction, including all approvals, consultations and agreements required from authorities and other stakeholders , and key legislation and policies;

iii. define the role, responsibility, authority, accountability and reporting of personnel relevant to compliance with the CEMP (including the EMR);

iv. the Sub Plans required under this Approval; v. include a matrix of Construction Method Statements (CMS) required to construct the project, including an

assessment of the predicted level of environmental and public risk and potential level of public interest associated with each CMS and indicative timeframes for completion;

vi. details of how the environmental performance of the construction works will be monitored, and what actions will be taken to address identified adverse environmental impacts; and

vii. complaints handling procedures during construction. The CEMP for the project (or any stage of the project) shall be approved by the Director-General prior to the commencement of any construction work associated with the project (or stage as relevant). Construction works shall not commence until written approval has been received from the Director General. The CEMP shall be certified by the EMR as being in accordance with the Conditions of Approval and all undertakings


Section 4


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made in the EIS and Representations Report prior to seeking approval of the Director-General,

25 Deleted by modified approval 29 June 2010.





30 The Proponent shall prepare Construction Method Statements (CMS) identified in the CEMP required by Condition 24. CMSs must be certified by the EMR as being in accordance with the Conditions of Approval and all undertakings made in the EIS, Representations Report and the CEMP. Each CMS shall include, but not be limited to:

i. construction activities and processes associated with the relevant construction site(s), including staging and timing of the proposed works;

ii. specific hours of operation for all key elements including off-site movements; iii. cover specific environmental management objectives and strategies for the environmental system elements

and include, but not be limited to: noise and vibration; air quality; water quality; erosion and sedimentation; access and traffic; property acquisition and/or adjustments; heritage and archaeology; flora and fauna, groundwater; acid sulfate soils, spoil stockpiling and disposal; waste/resource management; weed management; flooding and stormwater control; geotechnical issues; visual screening, landscaping and rehabilitation; hazards and risks; energy use, resource use and recycling; and utilities; and

iv. address, but not be limited to: a. identification of the statutory and other obligations which the Proponent is required to fulfil during

project construction, including all approvals and consultations/agreements required from other authorities and stakeholders, and key legislation and policies which control the Proponent’s construction of the project;

b. measures to avoid and/or control the occurrence of environmental impacts; c. measures (where practicable and cost effective) to provide positive environmental offsets to


Section 4.1.4


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unavoidable environmental impacts; d. definition of the role, responsibility, authority, accountability and reporting of personnel relevant to

compliance with the CMS; e. site specific environmental management techniques and processes for all construction processes

which are important for the quality of the environment in respect of permanent and/or temporary works;

f. site specific monitoring, inspection and test plans for all activities and environmental qualities which are important to the environmental management of the project, including performance criteria, tests, and protocols (eg. frequency and location);

g. locational details of important elements such as temporary noise barriers; portable offices and amenities; truck, plant and materials storage; access locations; provision of site hoardings etc;

h. environmental management instructions for all complex environmental control processes which do not follow common practice or where the absence of such instructions could be potentially detrimental to the environment;

i. steps the Proponent intends to take to ensure that all Plans and Sub Plans are being complied with; j. consultation requirements with relevant government agencies; and, k. community consultation and notification strategy (including local community, businesses, relevant

government agencies, and all relevant Councils), and complaint handling procedures. Specific requirements of the main environmental system elements referred to in (iii) shall be as required under the conditions of this approval and/or as required under any licence or approval. All CMS shall be made publicly available.

31 The Proponent shall submit to the Director-General reports in respect of the environmental performance of the construction works and compliance with the CEMP, all relevant CMSs and any other relevant conditions of this approval. The reports shall be prepared six months after the start of construction and thereafter at six monthly intervals or at other such periods as requested by the Director-General to ensure adequate environmental performance over the duration of the construction works. The report(s) shall include, but not be limited to, information on:

i. applications for consents, licences and approvals, and responses from relevant authorities; ii. implementation and effectiveness of environmental controls and conditions relating to the work undertaken; iii. identification of construction impact predictions made in the EIS and any supplementary studies and details of


Section 9.4


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the extent to which actual impacts reflected the predictions; iv. details and analysis of results of environmental monitoring; v. number and details of any complaints, including summary of main areas of complaint, action taken, response

given and intended strategies to reduce complaints of a similar nature; and vi. any other matter relating to the compliance by the Proponent with the conditions of this approval or as

requested by the Director-General. The report(s) shall be provided to the EPA, DLWC, NPWS, NSW Fisheries, and relevant Councils, and any other relevant government agency nominated by the Director-General. The [6 monthly environmental performance] report(s) shall also be made publicly available.

32 The Proponent shall ensure that it has an internal audit system and that internal audits are undertaken and certified by the EMR every three (3) months to ensure compliance with the EMP, the conditions of approval and all other relevant licences and approvals. Each audit must be completed within 6 weeks of the end of the 3 month period and be made available to the Director-General upon request.

Yes Section 9.4

33 Prior to the commencement of operation, the Proponent shall incorporate the project into its existing environmental management systems.

No NA

34 Deleted by modification approval 29 June 2010.





39 An Environmental Impact Audit Report shall be prepared: i. by an independent person at the Proponent’s expense; ii. submitted to the Director-General, the EPA, NPWS, and, upon request by the Director-General, to any other

relevant government authority; iii. within 2 months after the first 12 months of operation of the proposal and thereafter at 2 and 5 years after

the start of operation, or at any time as requested by the Director-General within the first 10 years of

No NA


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operation.

40 The Environmental Impact Audit Report shall: i. assess the key impact predictions made in the EIS and any supplementary studies including, but not limited to,

noise impacts at affected locations along the corridor, traffic projections both for the new road and roads where redistribution of traffic was assessed, and impacts on flora and fauna and Aboriginal cultural heritage;

ii. detail the extent to which actual impacts reflect the predictions; iii. provide details on actual versus predicted impact for all key impact issues identified in the €IS or as updated in

the Representations Report; iv. assess the suitability of implemented mitigation measures and safeguards, and recommend any additional

measures that are required to be taken as a result of i to iii above: v. discuss results of consultation with the local community in terms of feedback/complaints on the construction

and operation phases of the project and any issues of concern raised; and vi. assess compliance with the CEMP.

No NA

41 The Proponent shall comply with all reasonable requirements of the Director-General, EPA, NPWS, and other relevant authorities with respect to any reasonable measure arising from, or recommendations in, the (EIAR) report.

No NA

42 The (EIA) Report shall be made publicly available. No NA

43 The Proponent shall ensure that existing access to properties fronting the highway are maintained throughout the construction period. The Proponent shall ensure that any access way affected by the proposal is reinstated to an equivalent standard or that adequate compensation is negotiated with the relevant landowner(s).

Yes Section 12

44 The Proponent shall consult on a regular basis with all affected landowners regarding any practical and cost effective measures to minimise impacts which may be implemented prior to the commencement of construction or within such time as agreed with the relevant landowner.

Yes Section 12

45 The Proponent shall consult with all relevant Councils to develop management techniques for construction traffic on local roads, prior to commencement of construction. Note: Nothing in Condition of Approval No. 45 shall be taken as restricting the Proponent from negotiating an alternative payment for damage to local roads with all relevant Councils, subject to the agreement of the Council.


Section 12

46 The Proponent shall monitor the use of local roads by construction heavy vehicle traffic in consultation with all relevant Yes Section 12


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Councils and shall consult with the Councils to develop measures to minimise and/or restrict the use of local roads by [construction] heavy vehicle traffic if so required.

47 A road dilapidation report shall be prepared for all non-arterial roads likely to be used by construction traffic prior to commencement of construction and after construction is complete. A copy of the report shall be provided to all relevant Councils. Any damage resulting from the construction of the project, aside from that resulting from normal wear and tear, shall be repaired at the cost of the Proponent. Note: Nothing in Condition of Approval No. 47 shall be taken as restricting the Proponent from negotiating an alternative payment for damage to local roads with all relevant Councils, subject to the agreement of the Council.

Yes Section 12

48 The Proponent shall implement the conditions contained in Section 9 of the ‘Concurrence Report for the Proposed F3 to Branxton Highway Link’ (NPWS 2001).


Section 12 and Table 2 Appendix A

49 The comprehensive compensation habitat package required by NPWS’s Concurrence Condition No. 13 shall be finalised prior to commencement of construction, and be prepared to the satisfaction of the Director-General and the Director-General of National Parks and Wildlife.

Yes Complete (see pre-construction compliance report)

50 The Proponent shall achieve at least a 2:1 ratio2 in its compensatory habitat package for the endangered Kurri Sand Swamp Woodland and at least a 2:1 ratio for all other vegetated areas affected by clearing and edge effects3. [2 Two hectares of Kurri Sand Swamp Woodland must be re-created or reserved for every hectare directly and indirectly impacted (including that which is cleared or degraded respectively by edge effects) as a result of the proposal.] [3 The allowance for edge effects shall be calculated in accordance with Bali, R (2000) Discussion paper – Compensating for Edge Effects prepared by Biosis Research for the RTA.]


51 The Proponent shall prepare, in consultation with the Department and NPWS, a detailed Flora and Fauna Management Sub Plan. The Sub Plan shall be prepared prior to construction and shall be consistent with NPWS Concurrence Condition No. 15 regarding EMPs. The Sub Plan shall include but not be limited to:

i. all those matters identified in the NPWS’s Concurrence Condition No. 15; ii. strategies for seed collection and revegetation;


Section 4.1.2 and Section 12


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iii. a fauna risk assessment to identify: a. which fauna species need to be targeted for measures to ensure safe transverse crossing of the

roadway; b. mitigation measures to be implemented; c. the likely effectiveness of proposed mitigation measures ie design and location; and d. further mitigation strategies.

iv. identification of measures proposed to be taken to protect vegetated areas outside the direct impact zone, control impacts due to spillage, spread of debris and refuse, and movement and storage of materials and equipment.

52 The Proponent shall update the Additional Flora and Fauna Assessment Report (AFFAR) (Connell Wagner, May 2001) prior to construction and to the satisfaction of the Director-General and the NPWS4. The updated report shall:

i. document additional surveys undertaken for previously identified (ie. the FIS and the AFFAR) and any newly listed threatened species, populations and ecological communities;

ii. identify which of these listings and their habitat are likely to be affected by the proposal where this has not already been described; and

iii. provide details of appropriate mitigation measures to be implemented. [4This report accompanied the Representations Report and addressed threatened species, populations and ecological communities listed on the TSC Act since the preparation of the FIS.]


53 In addressing NPWS’s Condition of Concurrence No. 3, the Proponent shall employ an independent road design specialist and independent qualified ecologist to review and report on the detailed design of the proposal prior to construction. The aim of the review is to establish whether additional measures can be incorporated in the detailed design, to reduce the direct and/or indirect impacts on threatened species, populations and ecological communities and their habitats, and to improve the effectiveness of proposed mitigation measures. The review and report shall include, but not be limited to:

i. an investigation to demonstrate that the proposed multi-function fauna overpass5 is an effective and appropriate design; and



15

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ii. identification of measures to further reduce the amount of clearing of native vegetation. The Proponent shall submit the report to the NPWS and the Director-General, and comply with all reasonable requirements of the Director-General and the NPWS and other relevant authorities with respect to any reasonable measure arising from, or recommendations in, the report. Note: the documentation submitted in support of the modification request referred to under condition 1iii has satisfied the requirements of condition 53 of this approval, with the outcomes of the independent review reflected in the approval of that modification request. [5Currently proposed to include a corridor for a gas pipeline, extension of Stockrington Road over the proposal, and a fauna overpass.]

54 Deleted by modification approval 19 August 2007. - -

55 The Proponent shall provide opportunities to facilitate the safe transverse crossing of Squirrel Gliders in the area of Allandale where a Squirrel Glider has been recorded.

No NA

56 Additional opportunities for the safe transverse crossing for Squirrel Gliders shall be provided at any new locations where Squirrel Gliders are found (see NPWS Concurrence Condition 6 and Condition of Approval No. 52) unless it can be demonstrated, to the satisfaction of the Director-General and NPWS, that these cannot be achieved.

No NA

57 The Proponent shall, prior to construction, employ a qualified ecologist approved by the NPWS, to identify and clearly mark all remnant patches of native vegetation, threatened flora species and communities adjacent to the areas proposed to be cleared in order to ensure minimal disturbance to native vegetation, and undertake pre-clearance surveys to search, trap, and release fauna that may be impacted by construction activities. In addition, the qualified ecologist shall be responsible for ensuring NPWS’s Conditions of Concurrence Nos. 8 & 9 are met.

Yes Section 12

58 Any tree hollow roosts for bats in the areas to be cleared are to be relocated. If this is not possible, then an artificial bat roost shall be provided in adjacent vegetation prior to clearing.

Yes Section 12

59 Where possible, seeds of locally native species shall be collected prior to the commencement of construction to provide seed stock for revegetation purposes to the satisfaction of a qualified bushland regeneration officer acceptable to the NPWS. Topsoil and leaf mulch shall be stripped and stored for placement back in the vegetation zone from where it was removed subject to Condition of Approval No. 63.

Yes Section 12


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60 Unless otherwise approved in writing by the DECC and the Director-General, the Proponent shall not clear any more than 182 hectares of native vegetation as part of the proposal. Clearing of native vegetation shall be undertaken generally consistent with the documents referred to under condition 1iii of this approval.

Yes Noted

61 Deleted by modification approval 19 August 2007. - -

62 The Proponent shall monitor and maintain all proposed vegetation rehabilitation for a minimum of three years and undertake measures to control weeds.

Yes Section 12

63 Weed infested topsoil, as identified by a qualified ecologist, shall not be used in the rehabilitation works unless it is sterilised or treated in an appropriate manner.

Yes Section 12

64 Cleared vegetation must be reused or recycled to the greatest extent practicable. Reuse option including removing millable logs, recovering fence posts, mulching and chipping unusable vegetation waste for on-site use. All reasonable measures to use any surplus vegetation shall be undertaken including donation to community groups, distribution to the local community, etc.

Yes Section 12

65 If, during the course of construction, the Proponent becomes aware of the presence of any threatened species which are likely to be significantly affected and are not recognised in the flora and fauna studies presented in the EIS, FIS or Representations Report, then the Proponent shall immediately advise the Director-General of National Parks and Wildlife. No activity which places any of these species at risk shall be undertaken until advice has been received from the NPWS. All recommendations by the NPWS shall be complied with prior to any works likely to affect any threatened species.

Yes Section 12

66 All mitigation measures generally identified in Sections 2.4.3 through 2.4.14 of the Representations Report must be implemented.


Section 12

67 Prior to the commencement of operation ofthe project, the Proponent shall prepare a fauna monitoring program to assess the effectiveness of all road crossing ameliorative measures. The monitoring program shall be carried out for a minimum of three years after operation and include a report on an assessment of the following matters:

i. the levels of fauna underpass use by native fauna; ii. the extent of road kills and rehabilitation of injured fauna; iii. the adequacy of exclusion fencing and glider crossing points, with particular reference to design and placement

and need for additional measures; and

No NA


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iv. degree and nature of wildlife utilisation of any contiguous roadside wildlife corridors established. The Proponent shall submit the report to Director-General, and comply with all reasonable requirements of the Director-General with respect to any reasonable measure arising from, or recommendations in, the report.

68 The Proponent shall consult NSW Fisheries in relation to: the construction of temporary platforms for the construction of the piles and piers in the creeks; and the design and timing of bridge construction.

No NA

69 The Proponent shall ensure that no earthen platforms are constructed or fill material placed in the creeks unless prior approval is granted by NSW Fisheries and the Director-General.

Yes Section 12

70 The Proponent shall where reasonable and feasible apply best practice innovative noise mitigation measures including: i. maximising the offset distance between noisy plant items and nearby noise sensitive receivers; ii. avoiding noisy plant working simultaneously close together and adjacent to sensitive receivers; iii. minimising consecutive night time works in the same locality; iv. orienting equipment away from sensitive areas; v. carrying out loading and unloading away from noise sensitive areas; and vi. selecting site access points and roads as far as possible away from sensitive receivers.

Yes Section 12

71 A detailed Construction Noise and Vibration Management Sub Plan (NVMSP Construction) shall be prepared. The Construction Noise and Vibration Management Sub Plan shall include, but not be limited to:

i. identification of all potentially affected noise sensitive receivers; ii. an assessment of current background noise levels at the identified noise sensitive receivers; iii. identification of appropriate construction noise objectives; iv. identification of all significant noise and vibration generating activities, duration and times of operation; v. potential noise and vibration impacts from each activity and any likely cumulative noise impacts from

concurrent activities; vi. details of all reasonable and feasible noise mitigation measures that will be implemented to achieve the

adopted construction noise objectives; vii. the need for respite periods; viii. construction timetabling to minimise noise impacts;


Section 4.1.2, Section 12 and Appendix F


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CoA No.


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ix. noise and vibration monitoring, reporting and response procedures; x. complaints handling and monitoring system; xi. a pro-active and reactive strategy for dealing with complaints; xii. site contact person to follow-up complaints; xiii. procedures for notifying residents of construction activities likely to affect their noise and vibration amenity; xiv. contingency plans to be implemented in the event of non-compliances and/or noise complaints

The Construction Noise and Vibration management Sub plan shall be submitted to the EPA when applying for an Environment Protection Licence for the construction phase.


73 Construction activities associated with the project shall only be undertaken during the following hours: a) 7:00 am to 6:00 pm, Mondays to Fridays, inclusive; b) 8:00 am to 1:00 pm on Saturdays; and c) at no time on Sundays or public holidays.

Activities resulting in impulsive or tonal noise emission (such as rock breaking, rock hammering, sheet piling, pile driving) shall be limited to 8:00 am to 12:00 pm, Monday to Saturday and 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm Monday to Friday. The Proponent shall not undertake such activities for more than 3 continuous hours and must provide a minimum one-hour respite period

Yes Section 12

74 Construction outside the hours stipulated in condition 73 of this approval is permitted in the following circumstances: a) any works that do not cause audible construction noise at any sensitive receiver; or b) for the delivery of materials required outside these hours by the Police or other authorities for safety reasons; or c) where it is required in an emergency to avoid the loss of lives, property and/or to prevent environmental harm; or d) works as agreed by the DECCW in the conditions of an EPL for the project.

Yes Section 12

75 Construction noise levels shall be monitored to verify compliance with the requirements specified in the NVMSP (Construction). The Proponent shall implement any additional mitigation measures as required by the Director-General

To the extent relevant to the

Section 9.3, Section 12 and


19

CoA No.


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following consultation with the EPA should monitoring indicate exceedance. work. Appendix F

76 In order to minimise noise impacts during construction, the Proponent shall erect noise mitigation measures prior to the commencement of construction.


Section 12

77 Should blasting be required, the Proponent shall prepare a Blast Management Strategy in consultation with the EPA and incorporate this Strategy into the Construction Noise and Vibration Management Sub Plan. The Strategy shall be prepared with an aim to demonstrate that all blasting and associated activities will be undertaken in a manner that will not generate unacceptable noise and vibration impacts at residences or other noise sensitive receivers. Issues to be considered in the Strategy shall include, but not necessarily be limited to:

i. details of blasting to be performed, including location, method and justification of the need to blast; ii. identification of any potentially affected noise and vibration sensitive sites including heritage buildings and

utilities; iii. establishment of appropriate criteria for blast overpressure and ground vibration levels at each category of

noise sensitive site; iv. determination of potential noise and vibration impacts from blasting and appropriate best management

practices; v. community consultation procedures.

Reference shall be made to the Guideline entitled “Technical Basis for Guidelines to Minimise Annoyance due to Blasting Overpressure and Ground Vibration” prepared by the Australian and New Zealand Environment and Conservation Council (ANZECC). The plan shall be submitted to EPA when applying for an Environment Protection Licence for the construction phase.


Section 12 and Appendix F

78 Blasts shall be limited to one single detonation in any one day, unless otherwise agreed by the DECCW in the conditions of an EPL for the project

Yes Section 12 and Appendix F

79 The Proponent shall ensure that vibration resulting from construction of the project is limited to: i. German Standard DIN 4150 and British Standard BS 7385: Part 2 – 1993 for structural damage vibration; and ii. British Standard BS 6472 and Australian Standard AS 2670 for human exposure to vibration.



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80 Dilapidation surveys shall be undertaken for all buildings located within 200 metres of the road construction area prior to the commencement of blasting or major vibration inducing construction activities. The Proponent shall be responsible for rectifying any damages occurring as a result of the construction with the cost to be borne by the Proponent.


81 For any section of the project where blasting is proposed, the Proponent shall undertake a series of initial trials at reduced scale prior to commencement of the proposed blasting to determine site-specific blast response characteristics and to define allowable blast sizes to meet the Guideline entitled Technical Basis for Guidelines to Minimise Annoyance due to Blasting Overpressure and Ground Vibration prepared by the Australian and New Zealand Environment and Conservation Council (ANZECC).


82 The Proponent shall provide a minimum of 48 hours notice to occupants located within 500 metres of any blasting and provide a schedule of blasting times to affected residences.


83 Blasting shall only be undertaken between the hours of 10:00 am and 3 pm (Monday to Friday) and 10:00 am to 1:00 pm (Saturday) unless otherwise agreed by the DECCW in the conditions of an EPL for the project


84 A detailed Operational Noise Management Sub Plan (NMSP Operation) shall be prepared in consultation with the EPA. The NMSP Operation shall include, but not be limited to:

i. details of noise mitigation measures to be implemented for the operation stage sufficient to address the technical requirements of the NSW Government’s guideline – Environmental Criteria for Road Traffic Noise;

ii. location, type and timing of erection of any permanent noise barriers; iii. specific physical and managerial measures for controlling noise and vibration; iv. predicted road traffic noise levels immediately after opening and with all proposed noise mitigation measures

in place, at the noise sensitive receiver locations identified in the Representations Report; v. a methodology and procedures for assessing compliance with the predicted road traffic noise levels

immediately after opening; and vi. the urban design issues relating to noise control measures.

With respect to Condition of Approval No. 84 (iii), the Proponent shall consider the use of a range of structural and non-structural measures including speed controls and the use of open graded asphalt.

No NA

85 Monitoring of operational noise shall be undertaken in accordance with the NMSP (Operation). The Proponent shall, No NA


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CoA No.


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in consultation with the EPA, assess the adequacy of the traffic noise mitigation measures after one year of operation with regard to the EPA guideline Environmental Criteria for Road Traffic Noise. Should the assessment indicate a clear trend in traffic noise levels which are higher than the predictions made and exceed EPA noise criteria, the Proponent shall consider further mitigation measures including but not limited to inclusion of noise barriers, insulation of buildings, and total acquisition of properties.

86 Notwithstanding the above, the Proponent shall, as a minimum, comply with the noise assessment criteria described in Section 9 of the Additional Environmental and Engineering Assessment report (Connell Wagner, May 2001).

No NA

87 A detailed Soil and Water Management Sub Plan shall be prepared in consultation with the DLWC, NSW Fisheries, and relevant Councils. The Sub Plan shall be prepared in accordance with the Department of Housing’s guideline Managing Urban Stormwater - Soils and Construction and where appropriate, DLWC’s Constructed Wetlands Manual. The Sub Plan shall be prepared prior to construction or operation. The section of the Soil and Water Management Sub Plan dealing with construction impacts shall be submitted to the EPA when applying for an Environment Protection Licence for the construction phase.


Section 12

88 The Soil and Water Management Sub Plan shall contain, but not be limited to: i. management of stormwater from the development on the quality of surface and groundwater; ii. details of short and long term measures to be employed to minimise soil erosion and the discharge of

sediment to land and/or waters including the locations of suitably sized sedimentation basins; iii. management of the impacts of the development on watercourse crossings including Wallis/Surveyors Creeks,

South Maitland Railway/Swamp Creek, Bishops Creek, and Black Creek; iv. management of the impacts of Wallis/Surveyors Creeks, South Maitland Railway/Swamp Creek, Bishops Creek,

and Black Creek on the development; v. identification of all potential sources of water pollution and a detailed description of the remedial action to be

taken or management systems to be implemented to minimise discharges of these pollutants from all sources within the subject site;

vi. detailed description of water quality monitoring to be undertaken during the pre-construction, construction and operation stages of the proposal including identification of locations where monitoring would be carried out;

vii. contingency plans for fuel and other spills; and viii. a program for reporting on the effectiveness of the sediment and erosion control system against performance


Section12


22

CoA No.


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goals

89 The Soil and Water Management Sub Plan shall also incorporate detailed erosion and sedimentation controls including a strategy to manage the extent of exposed ground surface during construction and progressive site rehabilitation requirements (in accordance with Conditions of Approval Nos. 97 and 114). The Sub Plan shall be prepared to the satisfaction of DLWC and in consultation with the EPA and NSW Fisheries and sufficient to address the technical requirements for obtaining relevant EPA approvals/licences.


Section 12 and Appendix B (legal requirements)

90 The DLWC, or other appropriately qualified soil conservationist, shall be consulted on a regular basis to undertake inspections of temporary and permanent erosion and sedimentation control devices to ensure that the most appropriate controls are being implemented and that they are being maintained in an efficient condition at all times and meet the requirements of any relevant approval/licence condition(s).


Section 12

91 All water collected during construction which is likely to be contaminated, shall be tested, treated, handled and disposed of so that it does not pollute waters.

Yes Section 12

92 Sediment basin(s) must be designed (stability, location, type, and size), constructed, operated and maintained in accordance with the guideline Managing Urban Stormwater - Soils and Construction, 3rd edition, 1998, or its latest edition, produced by the NSW Department of Housing unless otherwise approved by the EPA.

No NA

93 The Soil and Water Management Sub Plan shall identify mitigation measures proposed to be taken to address any: i. afflux impacts from the roadway or structures associated with the proposal eg. the proposed Wallis/Surveyors

Creek crossing and impacts upstream in the Buchanan area; and ii. adverse impacts from the proposal as a result of losses to the Hunter River floodplain storage areas for flood

events above and including the 1% Annual Exceedence Probability Event eg. the Wentworth and Dagworth Swamps.

No NA


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CoA No.


Reference / status

94 All stormwater drainage, erosion, sedimentation and water pollution control systems and facilities of the proposal shall be located, designed, constructed operated and maintained to meet the requirements of the relevant authorities including the EPA and the DLWC. All facilities including wetland filters, grass filter strips, gross pollutant traps and sedimentation basins shall be inspected regularly and maintained in a functional condition for the life of the project. Construction stage water quality structures shall be maintained for a minimum of six months after commissioning of the proposal or until revegetation has provided groundcover to at least 70% of the exposed surface.

Yes Section 12

95 The Proponent shall provide appropriate detention systems for containment of spills and materials arising from accidents that are consistent with the Proponent’s Code of Practice for Water Management – Road Development and Management in consultation with the EPA.

No NA

96 The Proponent shall identify the most appropriate measures to safeguard and/or mitigate impacts on the groundwater, or impacts arising from any groundwater dewatering operations, in consultation with the DLWC, prior to the commencement of construction. Measures may include:

i. evaluation of aquifer characteristics including conductivity and salinity; ii. identification of suitable sites for the disposal of saline groundwater from dewatering activities; and iii. installation of monitoring bores

No NA

97 The Proponent shall prepare a detailed Landscape Management Sub Plan in consultation with the relevant Councils, all affected landowners and the relevant groups as established by the Community Engagement Strategy. The Sub Plan shall include, but not be limited to the following:

i. sections and perspective sketches; ii. methodology of landscaping works; iii. location and identification of existing and proposed vegetation including use of indigenous species; iv. location of mounds, bunds, structures or other proposed treatments, finishes of exposed surfaces (including

paved areas), measures to preserve biodiversity, colours and specifications, staging of works, methodology of landscaping;

v. progressive landscape strategies incorporating other environmental controls such as erosion and sedimentation controls, dust mitigation, drainage, noise mitigation;

vi. lighting;


Section 12


24

CoA No.


Reference / status

vii. monitoring and maintenance procedures; and viii. landscape strategies incorporating other environmental controls such as erosion and sedimentation controls,

noise mitigation measures, drainage structures and lighting.

98 All landscaping works shall be monitored and maintained by a suitably qualified landscape specialist at the Proponent’s expense for a period of not less than three years.


Section 12

99 The Proponent shall implement any required remediation measure(s) to maintain landscaping works. Any landscaping within the road reserve shall be maintained by the Proponent for the life of the project.

Yes Section 12

100 The Proponent shall, prior to the commencement of construction, undertake a program of test excavations at the recorded sites and the Potential Archaeological Deposits (PADs) identified along the route, and any other additional locations as determined by the NPWS and the Aboriginal community groups (ie. Mindaribba Local Aboriginal Land Council, Awabakal Local Aboriginal Land Council, Wonnarua Nation Aboriginal Corporation and the Lower Hunter Tribal Council) along the highway route in order to identify significant and sensitive sites. This shall include but not be restricted to an investigation of the following for each location:

i. the geomorphological context of the landscape being investigated; ii. the landscape history and level of disturbance; iii. the presence of intact archaeological material; iv. the nature of and significance of intact archaeological material to include an assessment of the material

recovered and its landscape and geomorpohological context; and v. appropriate management options and mitigation measures including requirements for more detailed salvage.

Yes Completed (see pre-construction compliance report

101 The Proponent shall prepare a detailed research program, which is to be undertaken 12 months prior to commencement of works, to support the work to be undertaken for the testing referred to in Condition of Approval No. 100 to the satisfaction of the NPWS.

Yes Completed (see pre-construction compliance report)

102 The Proponent shall undertake a salvage program as required by the NPWS and the local Aboriginal community groups.



25

CoA No.


Reference / status

103 The Proponent shall identify, in consultation with the local Aboriginal community groups and the NPWS, management zones across the proposal for the ongoing management of sites along the route corridor. Each management zone shall:

i. incorporate a set of management objectives which is reflective of its relative importance for conserving Aboriginal heritage values identified through the testing process; and

ii. strategies for the avoidance of sites and areas of high sensitivity.


Appendix E

104 If during the course of construction the Proponent becomes aware of any heritage items or archaeological material, all work likely to affect the site(s) shall cease immediately and the relevant authorities, including NPWS, NSW Heritage Office and the local Aboriginal community groups shall be consulted to determine an appropriate course of action prior to the recommencement of work at that site. Appropriate supporting documentation would need to accompany any application for required permit/consent(s).

Yes Section 12

105 The Proponent shall prepare a cultural heritage strategy for the construction works to ensure that: i. all workers are aware of the Aboriginal heritage values within each construction area; ii. areas in sensitive management zones are appropriately fenced to avoid damage, particularly from inadvertent

machinery movement; and iii. all works cease immediately upon the discovery of any ‘unknown’ Aboriginal site and NPWS and relevant local

Aboriginal community groups are contacted.

Yes Section 12 and Appendix E

106 The Proponent shall prepare a cultural heritage strategy for management, post construction, to include but not be limited to:

i. the introduction of permanent fencing; ii. revegetation of areas of high archaeological significance; and iii. an assessment of the changes in accessibility to sites and strategies to reduce the impact of these changes,

prepared in consultation with the local Aboriginal community groups and the NPWS.

No NA

107 The Proponent shall fully fund the proposed works and mitigation strategies outlined in the above conditions. No NA

108 Documentation, in the form of Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Assessments, is required from each of the known Aboriginal community groups. The published NPWS Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Standards and Guidelines outlines the critical components for these assessments including the Aboriginal community’s understanding of the proposed project and:

i. the cultural heritage values they ascribe to the landscape and the significance to the community (sensitivity



26

CoA No.


Reference / status

mapping); ii. the impact to their culture as a result of works associated with the proposal; and iii. management options and recommendations considered necessary by the community to mitigate against

impacts or loss

109 Documentation from local Aboriginal community groups detailing the significance of Sugarloaf Range, their understanding of the implications of the impact of the proposed Highway Link to Branxton and:

i. the cultural heritage values they ascribe to the Sugarloaf Range landscape and its significance to the community (sensitivity mapping);

ii. the impact to their culture as a result of works associated with the Sugarloaf Range landscape; and iii. management options and recommendations considered necessary by the community to mitigate against

impacts or loss. The above may be included in the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Assessments or documented separately in the form of a specific report or letter from each of the Aboriginal community groups


110 Prior to the commencement of construction, the Proponent shall prepare in consultation with the Aboriginal community groups, a Cultural Heritage Plan of Management for approval by the Director-General and in agreement with the Director-General of National Parks and Wildlife. The Plan shall encapsulate strategies, methods and outcomes for Aboriginal cultural heritage values.

Yes Section 4.1.2, section 12 and Appendix E

111 The Cultural Heritage Plan of Management shall: i. identify the Aboriginal cultural and archaeological variables and criteria; ii. assess those areas already being considered for their compensatory habitat values, to determine their value for

Aboriginal cultural heritage; iii. consider the issues raised by the Aboriginal communities during the consultation process; and iv. identify areas (other than those identified in (ii) above) for consideration as off-sets, consistent with the

outcomes of the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Plan of Management.

Yes Section 4.1.2, section 12 and Appendix E

112 The Proponent must notify the Director-General of National Parks and Wildlife in writing of any proposed variations to the alignment, design or construction of the activity not considered in the current proposal. The NPWS must be given the opportunity to inspect the final route and any variations can then only proceed if approval in writing is given by the

Yes Section 12


27

CoA No.


Reference / status

Director-General of National Parks and Wildlife. The NPWS must be allowed a minimum of fifteen working days to consider any variation and to provide advice on the appropriate measures required to mitigate any impacts.

113 The Proponent shall implement the mitigation measures identified in Section 8.5 of the EIS in order to protect the non-indigenous cultural heritage items potentially affected by the proposal.


Section 12

114 A specific Construction Air Quality Sub Plan shall be prepared in consultation with the EPA. The Sub Plan shall provide details of all dust control measures to be implemented during the construction stage, sufficient to address the technical requirements for any EPA approvals/licences. The Sub Plan shall include, but not be limited to:

i. pro-active measures to reduce dust from stockpiles and cleared areas and other exposed surfaces; and ii. progressive revegetation strategy for exposed surfaces in accordance with Conditions of Approval Nos. 89

and 97.


Section 12

115 Where there is a risk of losing material, construction vehicles using public roads shall be maintained and covered to prevent any loss of load, whether in the form of dust, liquid, soils. Construction vehicles shall be maintained in such a manner that they would not track mud, dirt or other material onto any street which is opened and accessible to the public. In the event of any spillage, the Proponent is required to remove the spilt material within 24 hours.

Yes Section 12

116 In accordance with the Protection of Environment Operations (Control of Burning) Regulation 2000, no open burning or incineration shall be permitted on site unless otherwise approved by the EPA.

Yes Section 12

117 The Proponent shall prepare and implement a Hazards and Risk Management Sub Plan. This Sub Plan shall include, but not be limited to the following:

i. details of the hazards and risks associated with the proposal; and ii. pro-active and reactive mitigation measures including contingency plans to be implemented in the event of a

pollution incident.


Section 12

118 The Proponent shall prepare and implement an On-Site Refuelling Protocol to manage on-site refuelling of vehicles during the construction. The Protocol shall include, but not necessarily be limited to:

i. a decision-making algorithm to determine whether on-site or off-site refuelling is appropriate in a given situation;


Section 12


28

CoA No.


Reference / status

ii. arrangements for the transport of diesel to the refuelling site, including vehicle types, volumes, movement times and routes where relevant;

iii. procedures for refuelling to address the potential for spills, collisions with refuelling vehicles or other hazardous incidents; and

iv. procedures to be followed in the event of a diesel spill, including containment and clean-up measures The On-Site Refuelling Protocol shall be submitted for the approval of the Director-General prior to the commencement of any refuelling activity, or within such period otherwise agreed by the Director-General.

Should the Proponent decide not to undertake any on-site refuelling activity during construction, the Proponent may satisfy this condition by certifying in writing, to the Director-General, that such refuelling activities will not be conducted.


120 The Proponent shall prepare and implement an Emergency Plan to manage emergency events that may arise. The Plan shall include, but not necessarily be limited to:

i. identification of emergencies that may arise in relation to the proposal and associated infrastructure; ii. procedures to be followed to address potential emergencies and minimise the impacts of emergencies on

surrounding land uses; iii. monitoring and communication systems installed to indicate an emergency; iv. details of fire safety measures where relevant; v. procedures for the notification of relevant emergency services, authorities and affected receptors of an

emergency situation; and vi. a system to investigate and address the cause(s) of any emergency to prevent recurrence

The Emergency Plan shall be submitted for the approval of the Director-General prior to the commencement of operation of the proposal, or within such period otherwise agreed by the Director-General.

No NA

121 The Proponent shall prepare and implement a Security and Crime Management Strategy to prevent unauthorised public ingress or access, and to minimise the potential for crime in the vicinity of proposal (eg vandalism, loitering, illegal dumping etc). The Strategy shall be generally in accordance with the principles outlined in the joint Department and Police Service publication Crime Prevention and the Assessment of Development Applications, and be developed in consultation with the NSW Police Service and relevant councils. The Strategy shall include, but not necessarily be

No NA


29

CoA No.


Reference / status

limited to: i. details of security arrangements to prevent unauthorised access, including physical exclusion measures,

detection devices and management mechanisms; ii. procedures for addressing security issues, should they arise; iii. specific design features intended to discourage the incidence of crime at and in the immediate vicinity of

relevant components of the proposal and associated infrastructure (eg. fencing on overpasses); iv. lighting considerations, including light intensity, direction and hours of operation at and in the immediate

vicinity of the proposal, with the aim of minimising areas that may encourage crime; v. policies and procedures for the management and removal of graffiti, amelioration of vandalism, should it occur

at or on any component of the of relevant components of the proposal; and vi. policies and procedures for the management and removal of illegal or inappropriate bill-posting and illegally

dumped materials, should it occur at or on any component of relevant components of the proposal. Note: This condition only applies to "relevant" components of the proposal. That is, this condition only applies to those components that may be subject to security or crime issues. The Security and Crime Management Strategy shall be submitted for the approval of the Director-General prior to the commencement of construction or within such period otherwise agreed by the Director-General.

122 The Proponent shall prepare a Spoil Management Sub Plan. The Sub Plan shall identify how spoil would be handled, stockpiled, reused and disposed. The Sub Plan shall be prepared:

i. in consultation with the EPA and the relevant Councils; ii. prior to construction; and iii. for all relevant sites.


Section 12

123 All clean and/or treated spoil shall be reused or recycled where possible and cost effective to do so. The Proponent shall ensure that spoil generated from construction activities is maximised in preference to any import of fill.

Yes Section 12

124 A detailed Waste Management and Reuse Sub Plan shall be prepared. The Sub Plan shall address the management of wastes during construction in accordance with Government's Waste Reduction and Purchasing Policy. It shall be prepared prior to construction, and shall identify requirements for:

i. waste avoidance; ii. reduction;


Section 12


30

CoA No.


Reference / status

iii. reuse; and iv. recycling;

and details of requirements for: v. handling. vi. stockpiling; vii. disposal of wastes: specifically contaminated soil or water, concrete, demolition material, cleared vegetation,

oils, grease, lubricants, sanitary wastes, timber, glass, metal, etc. viii. implementation of energy conservation best practice; and ix. identifying any site for final disposal of any material and any remedial works required at the disposal site before

accepting the material.

125 Any waste material that is unable to be reused, reprocessed or recycled shall be disposed at a landfill licensed by the EPA to receive that type of waste. The Sub Plan shall be framed using the waste minimisation hierarchy principles of avoid-reduce-reuse-recycle-dispose. This shall also include the demand for water.

Yes Section 12

126 A detailed Utility Services Sub Plan shall be prepared in consultation with the relevant service providers (eg. TransGrid, Agility Services, Telstra). The Sub Plan shall identify the services potentially affected by construction activities and discuss requirements for diversion, protection and/or support. The Sub Plan shall be prepared in consultation with the relevant service provider(s).

No NA

127 The Proponent shall identify utilities and services potentially affected by construction to determine requirements for diversion, protection and/or support. Alterations to services shall be determined by negotiation with the service providers. The Proponent in consultation with service providers shall ensure that potential disruption to services resulting from the activity are minimised and advised to customers.

Yes Noted

128 The Proponent shall ensure that disruption to services resulting from the proposal are minimised and shall be responsible for advising local residents and businesses affected prior to any disruption of services..

Yes Noted

129 The sites for ancillary facilities associated with the construction of the project shall satisfy the following criteria, unless otherwise approved by the Director-General:

a) be located more than 100 metres from a waterway; b) have ready access to the road network; c) do not cause exceedance of the maximum native vegetation clearing limit specified under condition 60 of this

Yes Section 12


31

CoA No.


Reference / status

approval; d) be located on relatively level land; e) be separated from the nearest residences by at least 200 metres (or at least 250 metres for a temporary batching plant and stockpiling sites); f) be above the 20 ARI flood level unless a contingency plan to manage flooding is prepared and implemented; g) shall not unreasonably affect the land use of adjacent properties; h) provide sufficient area for the storage of raw materials to minimise, to the greatest extent practical, the number of deliveries required outside standard construction hours; and i) shall not impact on heritage sites beyond those already impacted by the project.

Ancillary sites that do not meet the above criteria should be assessed against these criteria, with advice provided to the Director General demonstrating how environmental impacts will be satisfactorily managed. The location of ancillary facilities shall be identified within the Construction Environmental Management Plan.

Table 2 Director-General’s Conditions of Concurrence (2001) requirements relevant to this CEMP

CoC No.

Requirement Applicability (yes / no / partial)

Reference / status

1 The RTA will ensure that the activity is constructed as presented in section 7 of the Representations Report - Proposed Highway link F3 Freeway to Branxton (September 2001) and its Appendices, as received by the NPWS on 17th September 2001 and modified by: • Correspondence from the RTA received on 25th September 2001 in reply to outstanding threatened species issues

raised by the NPWS and the DUAP;

• The RTA’s Compensatory Habitat Proposal and Candidate Areas – Stage 2 Report received on 27th September 2001;

and

The extent relevant to the work.

As amended, see Table 1 in Appendix A


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• These conditions of concurrence.

2 The RTA must notify the Manager, Conservation Programs and Planning Division (CPPD), NPWS Central Directorate in writing of any proposed variations to the alignment, design or construction of the activity not considered in the EIS/FIS/Representations Report or the subsequent amending documentation noted above, which may impact on threatened species, populations or endangered ecological communities, before the commencement of clearing for construction. The NPWS must be given the opportunity to inspect the final route and any such variations can then only proceed if approved in writing by the Manager, CPPD, Central Directorate. The NPWS must be allowed a minimum of fifteen working days to consider these variations and to provide advice on the appropriate measures required to mitigate their impact.


3 The RTA should give consideration to modifying or refining the design and alignment of the activity in consultation with the Manager CPPD Central Direcorate prior to construction to further reduce the direct and/or indirect impacts on threatened species, populations and endangered ecological communities or to improve the effectiveness of ameliorative measures. This could include the re-design of interchanges/intersections; fauna under- and overpasses; tunnels; median widths, bridgeworks; batters or similar modifications to reduce the footprint of the activity (see section 2.3 of this report).


4 Without further environmental assessment, no clearing for ancillary infrastructure or associated works including permanent or temporary detention or sediment control basins; materials stores; access roads; utility corridors; works areas; depots or any other activity or development (as defined by the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979) shall be carried out, or be allowed to be carried out, within areas shown as habitat for endangered ecological communities or threatened species in any of the documents (see section 2 of this Concurrence Report) received by the NPWS in assessing the concurrence proposal.


5 The RTA must employ a qualified botanist to carry out further targeted surveys for the threatened flora species:

• Tetratheca juncea; and

• Cryptostylis hunteriana.

These must be undertaken prior to construction in appropriate habitat and during the flowering period for these species. The results of these surveys must be provided to the Manager CPPD Central Directorate for review and approval. The RTA must also notify the Manager CPPD Central Directorate in writing of any new sightings of



33

CoC No.


Reference / status

threatened flora detected within the footprint of the activity prior to the commencement of clearing.

6 The RTA must employ a qualified zoologist/ecologist to conduct further targeted surveys within the study area, as defined by the FIS, in all suitable habitats and under conditions conducive to the detection of the following threatened fauna species:

• Squirrel Glider;

• Koala;

• Powerful Owl;

• Masked Owl;

• Green and Golden Bell Frog;

• Grey-headed Flying Fox; and

• Regent Honeyeater.

These must be undertaken prior to construction and the results must be provided to the Manager CPPD Central Directorate for review and approval. The RTA must also notify the Manager CPPD Central Directorate in writing of any new sightings of threatened fauna within the footprint of the activity prior to the commencement of clearing.


7 The RTA must undertake a survey of the extent of weed infestation within, and adjacent to, the construction footprint and prepare a Weed Management Strategy (WMS) to control weeds during the construction and operational phases of the activity. The WMS will form part of the construction and operational EMPs for the activity. It will prioritise areas along the route for the weed control and identify target species, as well as the appropriate removal and disposal methods for managing these weeds.


8 The RTA must implement all measures for the mitigation of impacts on threatened species, populations and endangered ecological communities as described in section 5 of the FIS, section 8 of the Representations Report and the conditions of this Concurrence Report. This must include mitigatory measures required for any threatened species identified in the additional survey work outlined in conditions 5 and 6 above. Any subsequent changes to the mitigatory measures must be agreed to in writing by the Manager CPPD Central Directorate.


Completed (see pre-construction compliance report)

9 Prior to construction, and in consultation with the Manager CPPD Central Directorate, the RTA must engage an To the extent Completed (see


34

CoC No.


Reference / status

appropriately qualified and experienced rehabilitation ecologist to provide advice and assist in the design, construction and monitoring of mitigation measures for this activity. This condition has been previously stipulated by NPWS in relation to a number of Pacific Highway upgrade projects and consequently the RTA should be able to call upon the expertise gained from these projects.

relevant to the work.

pre-construction compliance report)

10 The RTA must provide the Manager CPPD Central Directorate with the final design, location and construction details of the mitigation measures for this activity as outlined in section 5 of the FIS and section 8.2 of the Representations Report and amended by these concurrence conditions, including:

• fauna over- and underpasses;

• fauna exclusion fencing;

• nest boxes;

• salvaged trees containing hollows;

• glider and refuge poles; and

• any features associated with these mitigatory structures to encourage their use by fauna.

The final design, location and construction of these mitigatory measures should be subject to any refinements arising from the outcomes of current research studies including the Pacific Highway fauna underpass studies being undertake for the RTA by AMBS and the Koala Research and Monitoring Survey (AMBS) and should be detailed in the construction EMP for the activity.


Section 9.4 and Section 12

11 The RTA must ensure that appropriate fauna shelter and refuge structures are installed in all bridges and culverts nominated as incorporating provisions for fauna movement in sections 5.1.3 and 8.2 of the Representations Report. These structures are to be installed at varying heights to maximise their potential use by fauna. The RTA must also ensure that that these structures are not prone to inundation during flooding. The maximum area possible beneath bridges is to be vegetated with appropriate locally endemic species to encourage fauna use (at least 70% of the area beneath the bridge excluding the width of the creek bed). The RTA must provide the Manager CPPD Central Directorate with detailed specifications in relation to these fauna refuge and movement structures as part of the construction EMP for this activity.

No NA

12 The RTA must assess the feasibility of translocation for any individuals of the following, or any other, threatened Yes Completed (see


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Reference / status

species identified within the construction area which would otherwise be destroyed:

• Grevillea parviflora subsp. parviflora; and

• Persoonia pauciflora.

A report detailing the findings of this assessment and any proposed actions is to be provided to the Manager, CPPD Central Directorate. Any translocations must be undertaken in consultation with, and with the written approval of, the Manager, CPPD Central Directorate and must be the subject of a formal translocation proposal. Translocation proposals must be submitted to the Manager, CPPD Central Directorate and demonstrate that relevant issues from the following documents have been considered:

• NPWS’s Draft circular on the translocation of threatened flora;

• NPWS’s Interim policy for the translocation of threatened fauna in NSW; and

• Guidelines for the translocation of threatened plants in Australia a report by the Australian Network for Plant Conservation.

Translocated species should be established in suitable, but secure, areas as close as possible to their point of origin.

pre-construction compliance report)

13 The RTA must formally negotiate a comprehensive compensatory habitat package with the Manager CPPD Central Directorate at least 12 months prior to the commencement of clearing for construction of the activity. This compensatory habitat package must be agreed to in writing by the Manager CPPD Central Directorate before clearing for construction can commence. It is to include the acquisition and transfer of lands to the NPWS, as well as adequate funding for the rehabilitation and management of these lands for conservation in accordance with the criteria set out in section 2.5 of this report. It must also include funds for the revegetation of cleared land, where sufficient intact habitat cannot be purchased to meet the requirements of the compensatory habitat package. The basis for negotiating this compensatory habitat package is detailed in section 2 of this Concurrence Report.


14 The RTA will contribute $100,000 (in 2001 dollars) towards the costs incurred by the NPWS in the development, and subsequent implementation, of recovery plans for threatened species, populations and endangered ecological communities significantly affected by this proposal including:

• Kurri Sand Swamp Woodland;

• Eucalyptus parramattensis subsp. decadens;



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Reference / status

• Grevillea parviflora subsp. parviflora; and

• Persoonia pauciflora.

15 The RTA must provide all construction and operational EMPs to the Manager CPPD Central Directorate for review and comment. This should occur 2 months before the commencement of clearing of threatened species, populations and endangered ecological communities for a construction EMP and at least 6 months before the activity becomes operational for an operational EMP. The written approval of the Manager CPPD Central Directorate must be obtained on any matters relating to the management of threatened species, populations and endangered ecological communities prior to finalisation of these EMPs. Matters to be addressed in these EMPs include, but are not limited to, those detailed in section 9 of the EIS. These EMPs must incorporate the most current advice on ‘best practice’ management of native flora and fauna and must specifically address:

• the requirement for minimal clearing and disturbance of native vegetation which provides habitat for threatened species and populations;

• procedures for clearing which will identify threatened species and their habitat and prevent construction activities from adversely impacting on them including: specific methods for undertaking comprehensive pre-clearing surveys in the footprint of the activity for evidence of threatened species or their habitat; provisions for visual identification of threatened species and/or their habitat; fencing and buffers of sufficient width to provide protection for threatened species and/or their habitat; and protocols for minimising impacts on these species and their habitat during construction (eg accommodation of threatened species that breed, roost or hibernate in habitat proposed for clearing);

• the management of fauna that are displaced or injured during clearing;

• the retention of hollow-bearing trees;

• procedures for the felling of hollow-bearing trees that must be removed to minimise the impacts on native fauna generally and threatened species, in particular, which may use those hollows;

• the management of construction activities in the vicinity of habitat trees or trees to be retained as likely crossing points for arboreal mammals; and

• the feasibility of a staged approach to clearing and construction in areas identified as containing threatened species or where the footprint of the activity crosses wildlife corridors.

They should also include the following matters:


This CEMP, and specifically Section 8.1 and Section 12


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Reference / status

• the outcomes of feasibility studies relating to the translocation of threatened flora;

• a Weed Management Strategy, as referred to in concurrence condition 7;

• a Landscape Master Plan which demonstrates a commitment to propagate a representative selection of native plant species impacted by construction, particularly those that are important as habitat (eg feed or roost trees) for threatened fauna, using appropriate methods (seed, cuttings etc.);

• propagation trials for native flora species to be used in compensatory plantings and rehabilitation/revegetation works;

• details of treatments for fauna mitigation structures (for example design, materials to be used, dimensions, extent of areas to be revegetated and species to be used, and the nature of any associated structures to encourage fauna usage);

• monitoring programs for the construction and operational phases of the activity to assess any impacts on threatened species, populations and endangered ecological communities and the efficacy of measures to mitigate these impacts. The monitoring is to be undertaken by an appropriately qualified ecologist engaged by the RTA and annual written reports are to be submitted to the Manager CPPD Central Directorate for review and comment for a period of 5 years following the commencement of operation; and

• details and timeframes of associated habitat restoration and enhancement projects.

Table 3 Commonwealth Minister for the Department of Energy and Water Resources approval decision (2007) requirements relevant to this CEMP (as updated by 2008 modification)

CMAD No.


Reference / status

1 The person taking the action must submit a Remnant Vegetation Offset Plan (RVOP) to the Department for approval. The

RVOP must address the following requirement:

(a) The acquisition of land containing:

– A minimum of 280 ha of vegetation identified as the listed New South Wales ecological community Kurri Sand Swamp Woodland which contains individuals of the listed flora species Eucalyptus parramattensis ssp. Decadens and Grevillea parviflora ssp; and



38

CMAD No.


Reference / status

– 180 ha of occupied habitat for Tetratheca juncea.

(b) The land must be located within 100km of the proposed road;

(c) The land must provide some linkage between existing conservation reserves, and/or be adjacent to existing

conservation reserves;

(d) The land must be transferred to the NSW Department of Environment and Climate Change to be reserved under

the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 (NSW) and managed for conservation in accordance with that statute;

(e) Timeframes for the completion of all actions outlined in the RVOP, including the acquisition of land to be used as the

offset; and

(f) A map delineating the extent of the proposed conservation reserve and where it is in relation to items 1. (b) and 1.

(c).

The RVOP must be submitted for approval by the Department by 2 August 2009.

The approved RVOP must be implemented.

2 The person taking the action may only clear 182 ha of native vegetation. A report verifying compliance with the condition must be submitted to the Department within 3 months of the completion of construction.

Yes Noted

3 If the person taking the action wishes to carry out any activity other than in accordance with the Remnant Vegetation Offset Plan (paragraph 1) approved by the Department, the person taking the action must submit for the Department’s approval a request for revision of the plan. If the Department approves the revised plan so submitted, the person taking the action must implement that plan instead of the plan as originally approved.

Yes Noted

4 If the Minister believes that it is necessary or desirable for the better protection of relevant listed threatened species and ecological communities, the Minister may request that the person taking the action make specified revisions to the plan approved pursuant to paragraph 1 up until the transfer of land, as described under paragraph 1(d) has been completed. The person taking the action must comply with any such requests. If the Minister approves a revised plan pursuant to this condition, the person taking the action must implement that plan or map instead of the plan as originally approved or the map as originally provided.

Yes Noted


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CMAD No.


Reference / status

5 If, at any time after 5 years from the date of this approval, the Minister notifies the person taking the action in writing that the Minister is not satisfied that there has been commencement of construction of the F3 to Branxton Freeway, the F3 to Branxton Freeway must not thereafter be commenced.

Yes Noted

Hunter Expressway

CEMP legal and other requirements register

1

1

Appendix B Register of legal and other requirements

Hunter Expressway


2

2

Act Activity / aspect Requirement Reference Part 3A applicability

General

Environmental Planning and Assessment Act, 1979

All Comply with the terms Minister for Planning’s approval (and associated DECCW concurrence) for the project. Obtain the Minister’s approval for any project modifications that are not consistent with the planning approval.

Consider the ongoing environmental impact of elements to which Part 5 of the EP&A Act applies.

S75W

S111

Yes

N/A

Water

Fisheries Management Act 1994

Dredging or reclamation

Provide the Minister for Primary Industries 28 days notice of planned dredging or reclamation work.

S199 Yes

Fisheries Management Act 1994

Mangroves, seagrasses and marine vegetation

Do not harm any mangroves, seagrasses or other marine vegetation on public water land protected by the regulations without a permit.

S205 No

Water Management Act 2000 With the exception of controlled activity approvals, the Water Management Act 2000 (WM Act) only applies in relation to those water sources covered by operational water sharing plans – these areas cover most of the State's major regulated river systems.

Water access and use. Do not take water from a water source (a lake, river or estuary or place where water occurs naturally on or below the surface of the ground, and includes coastal waters) without an access licence.

Do not use of water on land (unless supplied by a water utility, irrigation corporation etc or in accordance with basic landholder rights) without a water use approval.

S56 S60A S89 S91A

Section 75U EP&A Act exemptions do not apply to this project

The RTA does not require an access licence or water use approval in relation to water required for road construction and maintenance. Water Management (General) Regulation 2004 (Cl.18 and 38).

Water Management Act 2000

Water management works

Do not construct/use a water supply work, drainage work or flood work without the appropriate approval.

S90 S91B

Section 75U EP&A Act exemptions do not apply to

Hunter Expressway


3


S91C S91D

this project.

Consultation with NSW Office of Water regarding application to RTA activities is recommended.

Some exemptions may be relevant to RTA activities in certain circumstances (see in particular the list of excluded works at schedule 1 of the Regulation).

Water Management Act 2000

Waterfront land. Do not deposit material, excavate, or remove material within a watercourse bank, shore or bed, or on land 40 metres inland, or interfere with the likely flow of water to such a body, without a controlled activity approval.

S91 No Public authorities are exempt from the need to obtain a controlled activity approval. Water Management (General) Regulation 2004 (cl.39A)

Surface water

Obtain a licence or permit for construction or use of ‘work’ for purposes including the taking and using of water

S21B Yes

Groundwater

Obtain a licence where interference with groundwater is likely to occur.

S112 S121A

S112 does not apply to the Crown (incl RTA)

Water Act 1912 Note that this Act is being progressively repealed by the Water Management Act 2000 (WM Act).

With the exception of controlled activity approvals, the WM Act only applies in relation to those water sources covered by operational water sharing plans – these areas cover

Floodplains Obtain an approval for controlled works. These include works which occur on a designated floodplain, which can prevent land from being flooded or which can affect water flow to or from a river or lake.

S180 An exemption in relation to roads potentially applies – see clause 4 of the Water (Part 8-General) Regulation 1995.

Hunter Expressway


4


most of the State's major regulated river systems.

Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997

Water pollution Do not cause water pollution (other than to a sewer), except in accordance with the conditions of any EPA licence.

S120 S122

Yes

Noise


Plant maintenance and operation

Do not operate plant if it emits noise caused by poor maintenance or operation.

S139 Yes


Materials management Do not cause noise by failing to properly and efficiently deal with materials.

S140 Yes

Protection of the Environment Operations (Noise Control) Regulation 2008

Marine vessels – offensive noise and noise control equipment

As owner or captain, do not allow a vessel to be used on navigable waters so as to emit offensive noise. Do not use a vessel on navigable waters if its noise control equipment is defective.

cl. 30-31 cl. 32

NA

Contaminated material


Land pollution Do not cause or permit land pollution other than under authority of a licence or regulation. (However it is not a land pollution offence to place virgin excavated natural material or lawful pesticides and fertilisers on land, or by placing matter on land that has been notified to the DECCW/EPA as an unlicensed landfill and which is operated in accordance with the regulations.)

S142A – S142E Yes

Contaminated Land Management Act 1997

Reporting contamination

Notify the DECCW/EPA if • Contaminants exceed thresholds contained in

guidelines or the regulations where contamination has entered or will foreseeably enter neighbouring land, the atmosphere, groundwater or surface water.

• Contaminants in soil are equal to or exceed guideline

S60 Yes

Hunter Expressway


5


levels with respect to the current or approved use of the land.

• Contamination meets other criteria that may be prescribed by the regulations.

Biodiversity

Noxious Weeds Act 1993 Weed control As a public authority occupier of land, control noxious weeds on the land as required under the control category or categories specified in relation to the weeds concerned.

Notify relevant control authority within 3 days of becoming aware that a notifiable weed (W1 weed) is on land. (or ought reasonably to have known). Must not scatter or cause to scatter notifiable weed material.

S13 S16 S30

Yes

Do not harm any animal that is of a threatened species population or ecological community, or its habitat except in accordance with a planning approval.

Part 8A

Yes

Do not harm critical habitat except as in accordance with a planning approval.

S98 Yes

National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974

Native fauna

Do not harm native fauna (other than listed unprotected fauna) except in accordance with a planning approval or licence.

S120 Yes

Native Vegetation Act 2003 Flora and native vegetation conservation

Only clear native vegetation in accordance with a planning approval or property vegetation plan.

S12 Yes


Flora and native vegetation conservation

Do not pick protected native plants without a licence. S117 S131

Yes

Flora and fauna conservation

Do not kill, injure or take a member of a listed threatened species without a permit.

Part 13 Yes Environment Protection Biodiversity Conservation Act, 1999 (Commonwealth) Comply with the terms of the EPBC Act approval for the

project. Yes

Hunter Expressway


6


Waste


Littering Do not litter in a public place or an open private place. Do not litter from a vehicle. Only deposit advertising material in receptacles provided for mail or newspapers or under the door of the premises. Do not deposit advertising material on or in vehicles.

Part 5.6A Yes

Do not undertake a scheduled waste activity unless in accordance with an environmental protection licence. A licence must be obtained when construction and demolition wastes are applied to land under certain circumstances. This includes the reincorporation of crushed road base material back into roads and the placing of excess fill material onto properties. A licence is not required if the material: Is VENM. Does not exceed 200 tonnes in the Sydney, Newcastle and Wollongong areas, or 20,000 tonnes outside these areas. Is covered by a “general exemption”. Current exempted materials are ENM, recycled aggregates and raw mulch. These exemptions are conditional and require some chemical testing of materials before they are placed onto land. A licence must be obtained if more than 2,500 tonnes (or cubic metres) is stored on a stockpile site at any one time, or more than 30,000 tonnes of waste is received per year from off site.

Part 3.2 Schedule 1

Yes

Only transport waste to a facility that can lawfully accept the waste.

S143 Yes


Waste and transportation

Do not dispose of waste in a manner that harms or is likely to harm the environment.

S115 Yes

Hunter Expressway


7


Comply with general requirements for the transport of waste. For example, any vehicle used by the person to transport waste must be kept in a clean condition and be maintained so as to prevent spillage of waste. For some wastes only licensed transporters can be used.

Regulation cl.49

Yes Protection of the Environment Operations (Waste) Regulation 2005

Waste and transportation

Comply with record keeping requirements in relation to the transport of certain types of waste.

Regulation Part 3

Yes

Heritage

Do not undertake an activity that will affect a place, building, work, relic, moveable object or precinct which is subject to an Interim Heritage Order or is listed on the State Heritage Register without approval from the Heritage Council.

S56-57 Section 75U EP&A Act exemptions do not apply to this project

Do not disturb or excavate land with knowledge or reasonable cause to suspect that the disturbance or excavation will or is likely to result in a relic being discovered, exposed, moved, damaged or destroyed; or Do not disturb or excavate land on where a relic has been discovered or exposed.

S139 Section 75U EP&A Act exemptions do not apply to this project

Heritage Act 1977 Heritage

Notify the heritage Council on discovery of a relic S146 Yes

Do not excavate or disturb land for the purpose of discovering an Aboriginal object without a permit.

S87 Yes Section 75U EP&A Act exemptions do not apply to this project.

Do not destroy, deface or damage an Aboriginal object or Aboriginal place without consent.

S90 Yes Section 75U EP&A Act exemptions do not apply to this project.


Aboriginal places and objects

Notify the NPWS within reasonable time of becoming aware of the location or discovery of certain Aboriginal

S91 Yes

Hunter Expressway


8


objects.

Report any discovery of Aboriginal remains to the Federal Minister for the Environment and Heritage.

S20 Yes Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Heritage Protection Act 1984 (Commonwealth)

Protection of areas and objects

Comply with the provisions of any declaration in relation to a significant Aboriginal area or object.

S22 Yes

General


Harming the environment

Do not risk harming the environment by wilfully or negligently: • disposing of waste unlawfully. • causing any substance to leak, spill or otherwise escape

(whether or not from a container); or • emitting an ozone depleting substance

S115 S116 S117

Yes


Control equipment Properly and efficiently maintain and operate any installed pollution control equipment (including monitoring devices).

S167 Yes


Notification of pollution incidents

Notify the DECCW/EPA or the local council of pollution incidents where material harm to the environment is caused or threatened.

S148 Yes


Site licensing Do not carry out or allow an activity listed in Schedule 1, or carry out work to enable such an activity, unless the premises are licensed by the DECCW/EPA. This applies to: • road construction: meaning the construction, widening

or re-routing of roads if it results in the existence of 4 or more traffic lanes (other than bicycle lanes or lanes used for entry or exit) for 1 kilometres of their length in the metropolitan area, or 5 kilometres in length in any other area, where the road is classified, or proposed to be classified, as a freeway or tollway under the Roads Act 1993.

S47 S48

Yes

Environmentally Hazardous Hazards and risks Obtain a licence to undertake prescribed activities S28 Yes

Hunter Expressway


9


Chemicals Act, 1985 involving environmentally hazardous chemicals or declared chemical wastes.

Dangerous Goods (Road and Rail Transport) Act 2008

Hazards and risks Ensure that dangerous goods are transported in a safe manner.

S9 Yes

Pesticides Act 1999 Hazards and risks Use pesticides in an environmentally sensitive manner. Do not use an unregistered pesticide without a permit. Read the label or permit for the pesticide. Use registered pesticides in accordance with instructions on the label. Do not use any restricted pesticide unless authorised by a certificate of competency or a pesticide control order under the Act. Compliance with pesticide codes of practice is required.

S12 S13 S14 S15 S17

Yes

National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting Act, 2007 and Regulations 2008

Greenhouse gas emissions

Accounting and reporting of greenhouse gases produced and energy consumed during construction. Applicability dependent on thresholds.

- Yes

Hunter Expressway CEMP sensitive area maps

Appendix C Sensitive area maps

Norman

Text Box

Sensitive area maps have been removed because they show confidential information about the location of Aboriginal heritage sites


1

1

Appendix D Document register


2

Environmental Management Documentation

Purpose Document number

Document title Certification requirement

Approval requirement

Construction environmental management plan

Description of works

Environmental aspects and risk assessment

Objectives

System structure

Roles and responsibilities

Training and awareness

Communication

Inspection, monitoring, auditing and reporting

Corrective action

Management review

Environmental controls

Legal requirements, commitments, obligations, approval conditions and other undertakings relevant to the Early Works

Stage 1 early works construction environmental management plan

Environmental management representative

RTA project manager Director-General DoP

Aboriginal cultural heritage plan of management



Sub-plans and strategies Objectives

Roles and responsibilities

Legal and other Historic heritage management plan RTA project manager


3





requirements

Training

Monitoring, auditing

and reporting

Environmental controls

Early works noise and vibration management sub-plan



Compliance report Compliance status

Auditing

Recording and reporting

Hunter Expressway stage one early works pre-construction compliance report



Staging report (construction)

Outline the stages of construction

Hunter Expressway construction staging report



RTA Policy Guideline PN 025G

Guidance for Environmental Incident Management Procedure

Appendix B register of legal and other requirements

Register of legal and other requirements


RS-Form-109 Subcontractor Questionnaire and Management Plan


RS-Form-106 Record of toolbox meeting Senior environmental officer

RS-Form-106R Register of toolbox meetings Senior environmental officer

Registers, forms, procedures, checklists*

Operational control, monitoring, auditing and reporting

RFS-EFS-21 Waste disposal requirements Senior environmental


4





officer

RFS-form-407 Waste register Senior environmental officer

RTA Form no. 870 Environmental inspection report Senior environmental officer

RFS-Form-401 Environmental site inspection checklist


RTA Form no. 624 Environmental incident report Senior environmental officer

RFS-Q09 Control of non-conformance Senior environmental officer

RFS-Form-223 Non-conformance report Senior environmental officer

RFS-Form-223R Non-conformance register Senior environmental officer

RFS-Form-225 Corrective action request Senior environmental officer

RFS-Form-225R Corrective action request register Senior environmental officer

RFS-Q10 Improvement Senior environmental officer

RFS-Form-226 Improvement request Senior environmental officer

RFS-Form-226R Improvement request register Senior environmental officer


5





RFS-Form-416 Sub-contractor ‘weed-free’ declaration


Clearing Senior environmental officer Environmental management representative

RTA project manager

Geotechnical investigations Senior environmental officer Environmental management representative

RTA project manager

Boundary fencing Senior environmental officer Environmental management representative

RTA project manager

Temporary access tracks across flow lines

Senior environmental officer Environmental management representative

RTA project manager

Avery’s Lane culvert construction Senior environmental officer Environmental management representative

RTA project manager

Construction methods statements / Environmental work method statements#

Environmental work practices Risks Environmental controls

Blasting Senior environmental officer

RTA project manager


6






Clearing - AbiGroup Senior environmental officer Environmental management representative

RTA project manager

Pipe culvert installation - AbiGroup Senior environmental officer Environmental management representative

RTA project manager

Box culvert installation - AbiGroup Senior environmental officer Environmental management representative

RTA project manager

Open drain construction - AbiGroup


RTA project manager

Geotechnical investigations - AbiGroup


RTA project manager

* Also see other registers, forms, checklists, procedures and environmental fact sheets on the Regional Fleet Services online management system.


7

# The following table represents a matrix of CMS to address the requirements of the Minister’s condition of approval 27 v.

CMS Predicted level of risk Predicted level of public interest Anticipated completion date of CMS

Clearing Moderate Low Late June 2010

Geotechnical investigations Low Low July 2010

Boundary fencing Low Low July 2010

Temporary access tracks across flow lines

Low Low Late June 2010

Avery’s Lane culvert construction Moderate Moderate August 2010

Blasting Low Moderate August 2010

Clearing - AbiGroup Moderate Low February 2010

Pipe culvert installation - AbiGroup Moderate Low February 2010

Box culvert installation - AbiGroup Moderate Low February 2010

Open drain construction - AbiGroup Moderate Low February 2010

Geotechnical investigations - AbiGroup Low Low February 2010

Appendix E Aboriginal cultural heritage plan of management

Appendix F Early works construction noise and vibration management plan

June 2010

Stage one early works construction

noise and vibration management plan

Hunter Expressway

o

Document control

File name HEx EW CNVMP RevC 100629.doc

Report name Stage one early works construction noise and vibration management plan

Document version Revision C

Prepared by: Andrew Grainger

Environmental management specialist

Date: 29 June 2010

Reviewed by: David Ledlin

RTA

Date: 29 June 2010

Revisions Rev Date Description Prepared Reviewed Approved

1 First draft. C Fokkema (Atkins Acoustics)

D Ledlin / A Grainger

2 Second draft. C Fokkema (Atkins Acoustics)

D Ledlin / A Grainger

3 Draft – formatting and minor edits.

A Grainger D Ledlin

A 03/02/10 Issued for agency consultation. A Grainger D Ledlin A 16/02/10 Minor edits and re-issue for

agency consultation. A Grainger D Ledlin

B 10/06/10 Minor edits to address DoP comments.

A Grainger D Ledlin

C 29/06/10 Minor edits to address modified conditions of approval.

A Grainger D Ledlin

Controlled copy issue Copy No. Issued to Version

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Contacts NOTE: PERSONAL CONTACT INFORMATION HAS BEEN REMOVED

Contents

1 Introduction 1 1.1 Construction Environmental Management Plan 1 1.2 Background 1

1.2.1 Hunter Expressway Environmental Assessment 1 1.2.2 Construction noise issues 2 1.2.3 Construction vibration issues 2

1.3 Document structure 2 2 Purpose and objectives 3 2.1 Purpose 3 2.2 Objectives 3 2.3 Targets 3 3 Environmental requirements 4 3.1 Project environmental obligations 4 3.2 Relevant guidelines 5 3.3 Consultation and communication 6 4 Responsibilities and resources 7 4.1 Responsibilities 7 4.2 Resources 7 5 The works 8 5.1 Freeway boundary fencing 8 5.2 Energy Australia 9 5.3 Geotechnical investigations 9 5.4 Averys Lane 9 6 Construction noise and vibration criteria for NSW 12 6.1 Construction Noise and Assessment Objectives 12

6.1.1 Construction Noise Management Levels (less than three (3) weeks) 12 6.2 Vibration assessment objectives 15

6.2.1 Perception 15 6.2.2 Human Comfort and Disturbance 16 6.2.3 Building contents 16 6.2.4 Structural damage 16

6.3 Blast assessment goals 17 6.3.1 Timing and frequency of blasting 17 6.3.2 Air-blast overpressure 17 6.3.3 Ground vibration 17 6.3.4 Blast project assessment goals 17

7 Construction noise assessment 19 7.1 Noise receivers 19

7.1.1 Freeway boundary fencing 19 7.1.2 Energy Australia 19 7.1.3 Geotechnical investigations 19 7.1.4 Averys Lane 19

7.2 Existing noise environment 20 7.2.1 Fencing, Energy Australia and geotechnical 20 7.2.2 Averys Lane 20

7.3 Construction noise sources 21 7.3.1 Freeway boundary fencing 21 7.3.2 Energy Australia 21 7.3.3 Geotechnical investigations 22 7.3.4 Averys Lane 23

7.4 Noise assessment 24 7.5 Monitoring criteria 26

8 Construction vibration and blasting assessment 27 8.1 Vibration Levels from Construction Equipment 27 8.2 Blast Assessment 27

8.2.1 Air-blast Overpressure Prediction Model 27 8.2.2 Ground Vibration Prediction Model 28

8.3 Monitoring criteria 30 9 Review 31 10 Environmental management measures 32 10.1 General approach 32 11 Inspection, surveillance and monitoring 33 11.1 Inspections and surveillance 33 11.2 Monitoring, non-conformances and complaints 33 11.3 Auditing and records 34 12 Environmental control plan 35 Appendix 1 Noise monitoring locations and results 41

Hunter Expressway Stage one early works construction environmental management plan

1

1 Introduction

1.1 Construction Environmental Management Plan

This Construction Noise and Vibration Management Sub Plan (CNVMSP) is for early works associated with the construction of the Hunter Expressway from the F3 Freeway to Branxton. The ‘Early Works’ will comprise a number of components including:

• Freeway boundary fencing.

• Energy Australia works.

• Geotechnical investigations.

• Averys Lane access road.

• Noise attenuation (property treatments).

This Plan provides a system and procedures to ensure the RTA and its contractor/s engaged by the RTA to undertake the work and establish and maintain best-practice controls to manage potential noise and vibration issues associated with early works construction activities.

The RTA and its contractor/s will ensure that controls are properly implemented and monitored to assess their effectiveness. Changes to the controls will be made if they are not achieving their objectives.

The Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) of which this sub plan forms a part, has been prepared to satisfy the requirements of the Conditions of Approval issued by the then Department of Urban Affairs and Planning (November 2001) for the Hunter Expressway.

1.2 Background

1.2.1 Hunter Expressway Environmental Assessment

The Hunter Expressway is an activity that was assessed and determined under Part 5 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (the EP&A Act). It is within the Cessnock, Lake Macquarie, Maitland and Singleton local government areas. In June 1995, Connell Wagner (1995) finalised the environmental impact statement (EIS) for the RTA. Following introduction of the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 (TSC Act) and consideration of impacts on threatened fauna, Connell Wagner (2001) finalised a fauna impact statement in January 1997 (the FIS). The RTA commissioned additional studies, including two reviews of environmental factors on detailed route selection between Allandale and Greta in 1998 and 2000.

The then Director-General of the National Parks and Wildlife granted concurrence subject to 15 conditions on 3 October 2001. The then Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning approved the Hunter Expressway on 7 November 2001, subject to 129 conditions. On 1 August 2005, the Minister’s approval became a project approval under Part 3A of the EP&A Act in accordance with the transitional provisions. At the request of the RTA, the Minister modified the approval on 31 July 2006 to permit staged construction (but not opening). The approval was again modified on 19 August 2007 to reflect changes to the alignment of the project at the Sugarloaf Range, changes to the configuration of the Kurri Kurri interchange and adjustments to the alignment and configuration of the project between Tuckers Lane and Black Creek. The inclusion of road-related ancillary infrastructure, including boundary fencing and water quality controls was also recognised as part of the modification. On 28 June 2010, the approval was further modified to reflect a more contemporary approach to construction management practices. Changes included methods for engaging community and


2

other relevant stakeholders, and the structure, content and implementation of construction environmental management documentation.

On 2 August 2007, the Hunter Expressway (inclusive of all modifications) was approved under the Commonwealth Environment Protection Biodiversity Conservation Act, 1999 (EPBC Act), subject to a number of conditions.

1.2.2 Construction noise issues

Construction noise is likely to include:

• Noise from the operation of single or multiple plant, including dozers, excavators, rock hammers, tub grinders, rollers and graders.

• Noise from truck movements both within the project area and on local roads.

• Noise from hand operated tools and machinery including brushcutters, chainsaws and the like.

• Noise from reversing alarms, although these are likely to be limited in their use.

The early works are relatively minor in both extent/duration and in noise generating capacity. Whilst sensitive receivers may occasionally be located in close vicinity to the activities, these impacts are likely to be short in duration at any one location as works progress. Mitigation strategies have been developed to ameliorate any impacts that might occur from the Early Works and are detailed in Section 12.

1.2.3 Construction vibration issues

Construction vibration is expected to be limited and unlikely to cause impacts to sensitive receivers, including heritage-listed items. Vibration is possible from:

• Vibratory rollers.

• Hydraulic rock hammers fitted to excavators.

• Blasting activities (potentially required for Avery’s Lane works).

Where vibration generating plant and equipment is required, distance separation, site management and other mitigation measures have been developed and included in Section 12 this CNVMSP to manage and address any potential vibration impacts.

1.3 Document structure

The proposed Early Works are limited in extent and duration. To ensure that the needed environmental safeguards and procedures are easily accessible, this CNVMSP incorporates an Environmental Control Plan that contains information in an easy to understand format consistent with the CEMP.

Section 12 presents the environmental control plan for the works. The Environmental Control Plan documents the safeguards and monitoring requirements for each key environmental element, and also nominates who is responsible for implementing those controls and the frequency/timing of implementation. Where required, the Environmental Control Plan will include checklists of obligations and safeguards in relation to each element. The CNVMSP and the Environmental Control Plan have been prepared specifically to address the requirements of all environmental documents, commitments, obligations, approval conditions and other undertakings for the Early Works.


3

2 Purpose and objectives

2.1 Purpose

The purpose of this CNVMSP is to provide a practical guide to minimising adverse impacts arising from noise and vibration generated from the Early Works construction phase through:

• Identification of potentially affected noise sensitive receivers.

• Assessment of current background noise levels.

• Development appropriate construction noise and vibration objectives.

• Identification of significant noise and vibration generating activities, duration and time of operation.

• Assessment of potential impacts from individual and cumulative activities.

• Detailing of reasonable and feasible mitigation measures that could be implemented to meet the noise and vibration objectives.

• Assessment of the need for respite periods.

• Scheduling of activities to minimise noise and vibration impacts.

• Review of requirements for noise and vibration monitoring, reporting and response procedures.

• Development of a complaints handling and monitoring system including identification of a site contact person to follow-up complaints.

• Procedures for notifying residents of construction activities likely to affect their noise and vibration amenity.

• Contingency plans to be implemented in event of non-compliance/complaints.

2.2 Objectives

The main objective of this CNVMSP is to manage impacts associated with the works on the local community and the built environment from noise and vibration generated from the Works. Specific objectives are:

• To minimise adverse impacts upon sensitive receivers from noise and vibration generated by the works.

• To manage impacts if they occur through a systematic analysis of mitigation strategies.

2.3 Targets

Targets have been established for the management of noise and vibration impacts during the Works to:

• To minimise community noise and vibration complaints.

• To comply with Conditions of Approval - DUAP (November 2001 and subsequent revisions in 2006, 2007 and 2010).

• To ensure that that construction activities are limited to standard hours of construction.

• To ensure that blasting activities are only undertaken at designated times.


4

3 Environmental requirements

3.1 Project environmental obligations

Conditions of Approval were issued by the then Department of Urban Affairs and Planning (November 2001) for the Hunter Expressway. Condition 71 of the approval requires the preparation of a Construction Noise and Vibration Management Sub Plan. While Conditions 72-83 provide additional requirements for construction / blasting hours, criteria, vibration and blasting as follows:

Construction hours 73. Construction activities associated with the project shall only be undertaken during the following

hours:

a) 7:00 am to 6:00 pm, Mondays to Fridays, inclusive;

b) 8:00 am to 1:00 pm on Saturdays; and

c) at no time on Sundays or public holidays.

Activities resulting in impulsive or tonal noise emission (such as rock breaking, rock hammering, sheet piling, pile driving) shall be limited to 8:00 am to 12:00 pm, Monday to Saturday and 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm Monday to Friday. The Proponent shall not undertake such activities for more than 3 continuous hours and must provide a minimum one-hour respite period

74. Construction outside the hours stipulated in condition 73 of this approval is permitted in the following circumstances:

a) Any works that do not cause audible construction noise at any sensitive receiver; or

b) For the delivery of materials required outside these hours by the Police or other authorities for safety reasons; or

c) Where it is required in an emergency to avoid the loss of lives, property and/or to prevent environmental harm; or

d) Works as agreed by the DECCW in the conditions of an EPL for the project.

Construction noise criteria 75. Construction noise levels shall be monitored to verify compliance with the requirements specified in

the NVMSP (Construction). The Proponent shall implement any additional mitigation measures as required by the Director-General following consultation with the EPA should monitoring indicate exceedance.

76. In order to minimise noise impacts during construction, the Proponent shall erect noise mitigation measures prior to the commencement of construction.

Vibration and blasting 77. Should blasting be required, the Proponent shall prepare a Blast Management Strategy in consultation

with the EPA and incorporate this Strategy into the Construction Noise and Vibration Management Sub Plan. The Strategy shall be prepared with an aim to demonstrate that all blasting and associated activities will be undertaken in a manner that will not generate unacceptable noise and vibration impacts at residences or other noise sensitive receivers. Issues to be considered in the Strategy shall include, but not necessarily be limited to:


5

i. details of blasting to be performed, including location, method and justification of the need to blast;

ii. identification of any potentially affected noise and vibration sensitive sites including heritage buildings and utilities;

iii. establishment of appropriate criteria for blast overpressure and ground vibration levels at each category of noise sensitive site;

iv. determination of potential noise and vibration impacts from blasting and appropriate best management practices;

v. community consultation procedures.

Reference shall be made to the Guideline entitled “Technical Basis for Guidelines to Minimise Annoyance due to Blasting Overpressure and Ground Vibration” prepared by the Australian and New Zealand Environment and Conservation Council (ANZECC).

The plan shall be submitted to EPA when applying for an Environment Protection Licence for the construction phase.

78. Blasts shall be limited to one single detonation in any one day, unless otherwise agreed by the DECCW in the conditions of an EPL for the project

79. The Proponent shall ensure that vibration resulting from construction of the project is limited to:

i. German Standard DIN 4150 and British Standard BS 7385: Part 2 – 1993 for structural damage vibration; and

ii. British Standard BS 6472 and Australian Standard AS 2670 for human exposure to vibration.


80. Dilapidation surveys shall be undertaken for all buildings located within 200 metres of the road construction area prior to the commencement of blasting or major vibration inducing construction activities. The Proponent shall be responsible for rectifying any damages occurring as a result of the construction with the cost to be borne by the Proponent.

81. For any section of the project where blasting is proposed, the Proponent shall undertake a series of initial trials at reduced scale prior to commencement of the proposed blasting to determine site-specific blast response characteristics and to define allowable blast sizes to meet the Guideline entitled Technical Basis for Guidelines to Minimise Annoyance due to Blasting Overpressure and Ground Vibration prepared by the Australian and New Zealand Environment and Conservation Council (ANZECC).

82. The Proponent shall provide a minimum of 48 hours notice to occupants located within 500 metres of any blasting and provide a schedule of blasting times to affected residences.

83 Blasting shall only be undertaken between the hours of 10:00 am and 3 pm (Monday to Friday) and 10:00 am to 1:00 pm (Saturday) unless otherwise agreed by the DECCW in the conditions of an EPL for the project.

3.2 Relevant guidelines

The CNVMSP was prepared with consideration of:

• DECC, Interim Construction Noise Guideline (2009).

• DECC, Assessing Vibration: a technical guideline (2006).


6

• ANZECC, “Technical Basis for Guidelines to Minimise Annoyance due to Blasting Overpressure and Ground Vibration” (1990).

• Australian Standard AS 2670.2-1990.

• German Standard DIN4150 Part 3 (1986).

• British Standard BS7385 -1993 - Part 2.

3.3 Consultation and communication

Communication and consultation will occur with:

• The wider community.

• Residents/businesses whose property and/or access might been directly affected.

• Residents/businesses who are impacted by construction noise and vibration.

• The owners of properties who will receive noise mitigation.

• Government agencies including DECC, relevant councils and DoP.

• Noise consultants.

• Site personnel and sub-contractors.

A Community Engagement Strategy (CES) has been developed which provides the basis for communication and consultation on the Project. The CES provides for a 24/7 community information line to receive inquiries, complaints and any other matters relating to the Works. The CES also makes provisions for a project website, newsletters, letterbox drops, and other forms of communication to keep the community up to date with the status of the works. Further information can be found in Section 7.2 of the CEMP.


7

4 Responsibilities and resources

4.1 Responsibilities

Hunter Road Services and the RTA will accept the roles, responsibilities and authorities for the environmental performance of key construction personnel, environmental specialists and subcontractors involved with the Works.

An organisational structure and broader responsibilities for the works has been provided in the Section 5 of the Early Works CEMP. The RTA and Hunter Road Services will also detail appropriate personnel for the responsibilities relevant to noise and vibration management for the works that are detailed throughout this management plan and these responsibilities will be documented and communicated as part of site induction and training. In addition, the Environmental Control Plan in Section 12 outlines responsibilities relevant to managing noise and vibration impacts.

4.2 Resources

The resources required to implement the control measures and obligations identified in the environmental documents are detailed in the Section 12. Hunter Road Services will be responsible for ensuring sufficient resources are allocated to install, inspect, maintain, repair and remove all required environmental controls throughout the Works period. The following resources are likely to be required during the Works:

• General labour to install and maintain controls during construction activities and following storm/wet weather events.

• Mobile plant and equipment.

• Hand and power tools.

• Specialist equipment including noise and vibration monitoring equipment.


8

5 The works

The Early Works comprise five (5) key activities prior to the main works associated with the construction of the Hunter Expressway. The main components addressed in this CNVMSP are:

• Freeway Boundary Fencing.

• Energy Australia Works.

• Geotechnical Investigations.

• Averys Lane Access Road.

• Noise Attenuation (Property Treatments).

With the exception of geotechnical investigations, the locations of these activities are shown in Appendix C – Sensitive Area Maps, of the Early Work CEMP.

Noise attenuation, which includes individual property treatments, has not been considered further in this CNVMSP due to the minor and localised nature of this type of work.

5.1 Freeway boundary fencing

As a component of the Early Works for the construction of the Hunter Expressway some minor clearing and boundary fencing are required. A number of individual activities associated with the works include:

• One-off delivery of concrete post for each ‘work area’.

• Survey and pegging out of fence alignment.

• Minor vegetation clearing.

• Laying out of concrete post along alignment;

• Auguring and driving of intermediate posts.

• Auguring and concreting corner and strainer posts.

• Running and straining of wire.

It is envisaged that the works will typically be conducted with three (3) personnel during daytime hours. Subject to ground conditions, progress is envisaged at a rate of between two to three hundred metres (200-300) metres per day.

Typically boundary fencing activities will be more than two hundred (200) metres away from residential dwellings. However, there are some locations where works may occur within 25 to 100 metres from a single residential dwelling, but this will be infrequent and short in duration. Locations where works may be in close proximity (between 25-100 metres) to residential dwellings include:

• Buchanan (Ch 9800).

• Loxford (Ch 16600).

• Sawyers Gully (Ch 21750 and 23300).

• Greta (Ch 31800).


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5.2 Energy Australia

Vegetation clearing and removal of redundant power infrastructure within the proposed expressway footprint will comprise a number of key activities, including:

• Survey and identification of vegetation to be protected.

• Installation of environmental controls (exclusion fences, erosion and sediment control, protected cultural areas).

• Installation of habitat rehabilitation measures (e.g. nesting boxes).

• Removal of vegetation.

• Removal of redundant power lines and poles.

It is envisaged that the works will typically be conducted with between six to ten (6-10) personnel during daytime hours. Subject to ground conditions, vegetation density and degree of redundant infrastructure, progress is envisaged at a rate of between fifty to two hundred metres (50-200) metres per day.

Typically activities associated with vegetation clearing, removal of redundant infrastructure and relocation of some Energy Australia services will generally be more than two hundred (200) metres away from residential dwellings. Locations where these activities will occur in close (less than 200 metres) proximity to resident dwellings include:

• Loxford (Ch 15000).

5.3 Geotechnical investigations

Activities associated with the geotechnical investigations as part of the Early Works for the Hunter Expressway may include:

• Bore Holes – bore typically 150mm in diameter and extend a few metres below either the concept design level or at bridges and viaducts, the bottom of piles or piers. Typically utilise solid flight auger mounted on large rigid 4wd truck.

• Test Pits – typically in order of 5m2 and up to 5m deep and excavated with 4wd backhoe or excavator.

• Seismic refraction Surveys – required in steep or soft ground areas with shot holes typically dug with hand auger. Typically a 100g charge is utilised in 150mm hole up to one (1) metre deep. Rubber blasting mats utilised to minimise fly rock and contain soils. Typical disturbance area of 1m2 per hole. Holes filled and levelled following investigations.

• Electrical Friction Cone Penetrometer Tests – undertaken where there are potentially soft soils where fill is proposed using truck mounted equipment.

• Mine Void Investigation – required in areas that are likely to contain mine voids would be explored utilising percussive drilling typically on 4wd vehicle.

These activities are typically undertaken over short durations. Mine Void Investigations may be conducted for up to two (2) days per drilling site. Other activities associated with the geotechnical investigations are typically completed within a single day per site.

5.4 Averys Lane

As a component of the Early Works for the construction of the Hunter Expressway and to accommodate the final alignment of the new roadway, an existing access off John Renshaw Drive to 257 Averys Lane and Lot 10 Averys Lane, Buchanan will be cut restricting access. Accordingly, it is proposed to construct a new


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alternative access for these properties to Averys Lane. A number of activities will be associated with the works and include:

• Site establishment.

• Fencing.

• Clearing.

• Drilling and blasting.

• General earthworks.

• Drainage culverts.

• Paving and finishing surface.

• Site cleanup.

It is anticipated that the Works will take about three (3) months to complete.

A review of site plans and alignment for the new access indicates that the closest existing residential dwellings are located about 75-400 metres from the Works (Figure 1) at the nearest point. The distance from the closest residences will vary from between 75-390 metres as the works move along the length of the new access road.


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Figure 1 Proposed Access Road and Receiver Locations


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6 Construction noise and vibration criteria for NSW

The Department of Environment and Climate Change (DECC) recommends management levels and goals when assessing construction noise and vibration in the Interim Construction Noise Guideline (ICNG), Assessing Vibration: a technical guideline and ANZECC, Technical Basis for Guidelines to Minimise Annoyance due to Blasting Overpressure and Ground Vibration.

6.1 Construction Noise and Assessment Objectives

The DECC Interim Construction Noise Guideline (ICNG, July 2009) provides guidelines for the assessment and management of construction noise. The ICNG focuses on applying a range of work practices to minimise construction noise impacts rather than focusing on achieving numeric noise levels.

The main objectives of the ICNG are to:

• Identify and minimise noise from construction works.

• Focus on applying all ‘feasible’ and ‘reasonable’ work practices to minimise construction noise impacts.

• Encourage construction during the recommended standard hours only (Table 1), unless approval is given for works that cannot be undertaken during these hours.

• Reduce time spent dealing with complaints at the project implementation stage.

• Provide flexibility in selecting site-specific feasible and reasonable work practices to minimise noise impacts.

The ICNG provides two (2) approaches for the assessment and control of construction noise. Specifically, quantitative assessment that is generally applied to medium and long term projects, and the qualitative assessment utilised for short-term works (< 3 weeks) such as infrastructure maintenance.

6.1.1 Construction Noise Management Levels (less than three (3) weeks)

Construction noise assessment goals presented in the ICNG are referenced to noise management levels for residential, sensitive land uses and commercial/ industrial premises.

Residential Premises Table 1 sets out management levels for noise at residences and how they are to be applied. Restrictions to the hours of construction may apply to activities that generate noise at residences above the ‘highly noise affected’ noise management level.

In Table 1 the rating background level (RBL) is used when determining the management level. The RBL is the overall single-figure background noise level measured in each relevant assessment period (during or outside the recommended standard hours). The term RBL is described in detail in the NSW Industrial Noise Policy (EPA, 2000).

As a guide, the difference between the internal noise level and the external noise level is typically 10dB with windows open for adequate ventilation.


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Table 1 Noise at residences using quantitative assessment

Time of day Management Level

LAeq (15 min) *

How to apply

Noise affected RBL + 10 dB

The noise affected level represents the point above which there may be some community reaction to noise.

• Where the predicted or measured LAeq (15 min) is greater than the noise affected level, the proponent should apply all feasible and reasonable work practices to meet the noise affected level.

• The proponent should also inform all potentially impacted residents of the nature of works to be carried out, the expected noise levels and duration, as well as contact details.

Recommended standard hours: Monday to Friday 7 am to 6 pm Saturday 8 am to 1 pm No work on Sundays or public holidays

Highly noise Affected 75 dB(A)

The highly noise affected level represents the point above which there may be strong community reaction to noise.

• Where noise is above this level, the relevant authority (consent, determining or regulatory) may require respite periods by restricting the hours that the very noisy activities can occur, taking into account:

– times identified by the community when they are less sensitive to noise (such as before and after school for works near schools, or mid-morning or mid-afternoon for works near residences

– if the community is prepared to accept a longer period of construction in exchange for restrictions on construction times.

Outside recommended standard hours

Noise affected RBL + 5 dB

• A strong justification would typically be required for works outside the recommended standard hours.

• The proponent should apply all feasible and reasonable work practices to meet the noise affected level.

• Where all feasible and reasonable practices have been applied and noise is more than 5 dB(A) above the noise affected level, the proponent should negotiate with the community.

* Noise levels apply at the property boundary that is most exposed to construction noise, and at a height of 1.5m above ground level. If the

property boundary is more than 30m from the residence, the location for measuring or predicting noise levels is at the most noise-affected

point within 30 m of the residence. Noise levels may be higher at upper floors of the noise affected residence.

Other Land Uses Other sensitive land uses, such as schools, typically find noise from construction to be disruptive when the properties are being used (such as during school times). Table 2 presents management levels for noise at other sensitive land uses based on the principle that the characteristic activities for each of these land uses should not be unduly disturbed. The proponent should consult with noise sensitive land use occupants likely to be affected by noise from the works to schedule the project’s work hours to achieve a reasonable noise outcome.


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Internal noise levels are assessed at the centre of the occupied room. External noise levels are assessed at the most affected point within 50m of the area boundary. Where internal noise levels cannot be measured, external noise levels may be used. A conservative estimate of the difference between internal and external noise levels is 10dB for buildings other than residences. Some buildings may achieve greater performance, such as where windows are fixed (that is, cannot be opened). The management levels in Table 1 & 2 are 5dB above the corresponding road traffic noise levels in the Environmental Criteria for Road Traffic Noise (EPA 1999) (and the ‘maximum’ levels in the NSW Industrial Noise Policy (EPA 2000) for commercial and industrial uses) to account for the variable and short-term nature of construction noise.

Table 2 Noise at sensitive land uses (other than residences) using quantitative assessment

Land use Noise assessment location Noise management level (LAeq,15min)

Classrooms at schools and other educational institutions

Hospitals and operating theatres

Places of worship

Internal 45

Active recreation areas1 External 65

Passive recreation areas2 External 60

Community centres Dependent on intended use Maximum internal levels recommended in AS2107 for specific use

Industrial premises External 75

Office, retail outlets External 70

Other noise sensitive businesses Investigation to determine suitable noise levels on project-by-project basis

Notes:

1. Active recreation areas are characterised by sporting activities and activities which generate their own noise or focus for participants,

making them less sensitive to external noise intrusion.

2. Passive recreation areas are characterised by contemplative activities that generate little noise and where benefits are compromised by

external noise intrusion (eg. reading, meditation).

Where the LAeq,15min construction noise levels exceed the noise affected level during standard construction hours, the following measures apply:

• All feasible and reasonable work practices applied to achieve the noise affected level.

• Potentially impacted residents informed of the nature of works to be carried out, expected noise levels and duration, and contact details.

Where construction noise levels exceed the highly noise affected level (75dB(A) LAeq,15min), the relevant authority may restrict working hours of very noisy activities, taking into account:

• Times identified by the community when they are less sensitive to noise (eg. before and after school for work near school, mid-morning or mid-afternoon for work near residences).


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• If the community is prepared to accept a longer period of construction in exchange for restriction on construction times.

6.2 Vibration assessment objectives

As part of preparation of the new access at Averys Lane, compaction will be required and rock may be encountered, accordingly vibratory rollers and or small explosive charges may be required with the following typical sequence:

• Small explosive charges to break up rock.

• Rock hammering to remove rock material.

• Vibratory rolling during earthworks to compact formation.

The effect of vibration on humans and structures is normally considered and evaluated in terms of human response and structural damage.

6.2.1 Perception

For comparison of vibration in terms of human response, Table 3 presents a summary of levels referenced to degrees of perception.

Table 3 Human Perception of Vibration

Vibration levels

mm/sec

Likely perception

0.15 Perception Threshold

0.35 Barely Noticeable

1.0 Noticeable

2.2 Easily Noticeable

6.0 Strongly Noticeable

14.0 Very Strongly Noticeable

Ref: German Standard DIN 4150 (1986)

Figure 2 shows human response to vibration levels of varying duration. It can be seen that short duration vibration levels are less perceptible than those with long transient and continuous levels. Figure 2 also shows consistency with the data presented in Table 2.


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Figure 2 Human response to vibration

6.2.2 Human Comfort and Disturbance

The DECC, Assessing Vibration: a technical guideline and Australian Standard AS 2670.2-1990 recommend goals for assessing potential disturbance to the occupants of buildings. Table 4 presents a summary of vibration levels (mm/s) for the assessment of human comfort.

Table 4 Vibration levels for assessment of human comfort

Recommended Vibration Dose Values for Intermittent Vibration (m/s1.75)

Type of occupancy

Daytime Night-time

Critical Areas 0.10 – 0.20 0.10 – 0.20

Residences 0.20 – 0.40 0.13 – 0.26

Offices, Schools, Educational Institutions and Places of Worship

0.40 – 0.80 0.40 – 0.80

Workshops 0.80 – 1.60 0.80 – 1.60

6.2.3 Building contents

The threshold for visible movement of susceptible building contents (eg. plants, hanging pictures, etc.) is about 0.5mm/s. Audible rattling of loose objects (eg. crockery) generally does not occur until levels of about 0.9mm/s.

6.2.4 Structural damage

German Standard DIN4150 Part 3 (1986) provides guidelines for evaluating the effects of vibration on structures. The values recommended in the standard are summarised in Table 5. The values are the maximum vibration levels measured in any direction at the building foundation. These are limits up to which damage due to vibration effects has not been identified for the referenced class of building.


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Table 5 Safety limits for structural damage

Vibration level (mm/s) Type of structure

<10Hz 10Hz to 50Hz 50Hz to 100Hz

Commercial/industrial buildings or buildings with similar design

20 20 to 40 40 to 50

Dwellings and buildings of similar design and/or use

5 5 to 15 15 to 20

Structures of great intrinsic value (eg. buildings under preservation)

3 3 to 8 8 to 10

6.3 Blast assessment goals

Guidelines documented in the ANZECC "Technical Basis for Guidelines to Minimise Annoyance due to Blasting Overpressure and Ground Vibration" and ENCM Chapter 154 have been used to establish goals for assessing blast air-blast overpressure and ground vibration.

At this stage the likely requirement for blasting to assist with construction have not been established. Albeit the following conservative blast assessment parameters have been adopted for predicting and assessing blast impacts.

6.3.1 Timing and frequency of blasting

As required by the conditions of approval (83) blasting will take place between 10:00am – 3:00pm Monday to Friday and 10:00am – 1:00pm Saturday. The conditions of approval (78) also limits blasting to no more than one per day.

6.3.2 Air-blast overpressure

The DECC/ANZECC recommends a level 115dBLin for the assessment of air-blast overpressure at residential dwellings and commercial premises. The DECC normally allows this level to be exceeded by up to 5% of the total blasts over a period of 12 months, with a maximum limit of 120dBLin.

6.3.3 Ground vibration

The DECC/ANZECC ground vibration goal for residential and commercial premises is 5mm/sec (peak particle velocity). The DECC normally allow this level to be exceeded by up to 5% of the total number of blasts over a period of 12 months with a maximum limit of 10mm/s.

6.3.4 Blast project assessment goals

From the DECC/ANZECC recommendations, Table 6 provides a summary of the recommended blast assessment goals.


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Table 6 Assessment goals for blasting

Air-blast Overpressure

dBLin

Ground Vibration PPV

mm/s

Assessment location

Recommended Maximum Allowable*

Recommended Maximum

Allowable*

Residential/Commercial Buildings 115 120 5 10

* Maximum allowable level for up to 5% of the total number of blasts

For assessment of air-blast overpressure the DECC/ANZECC recommends measurement at any sensitive receiver at least three point five (3.5) metres from building or structure, and ground vibration measured at any point on the noise sensitive site at least the longest dimension of the foundations of a building or structure away from the building or structure.


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7 Construction noise assessment

7.1 Noise receivers

7.1.1 Freeway boundary fencing

A review of the schedule for fencing for the Early Works has identified that activities will generally be conducted in rural areas with isolated residential properties generally greater than 50m from the proposed activities. Some Works will be required in the vicinity of built up areas and townships where residential receivers and other potentially sensitive land uses are within 25-200m of the proposed activities (see Section 5.1).


A review of the schedule for vegetation clearing and Energy Australia works within the expressway footprint for the Early Works has identified that activities will generally be conducted in rural areas with isolated residential properties generally greater than 50m from the proposed activities. Some Works will be required in the vicinity of built up areas and townships where residential receivers and other potentially sensitive land uses are within 50-200m of the proposed activities (see Section 5.2).


At this stage it is unknown where additional geotechnical investigations would be required, however it is anticipated that activities would generally be conducted in rural and forested areas with isolated residential properties generally greater than 100m from the proposed activities. Considering that the location of residential receivers is not known, a range of reference distances has been considered in Section 7.4.

7.1.4 Averys Lane

Site inspections, review of site plans and aerial photographic information have identified about 10 residences located within 400 metres of the proposed activities that range from 75m to 390m to the closest point of the proposed Works. A summary of the referenced residential receivers and range of distance from envisaged activities is presented in Table 7 and Figure 1.

Table 7 Residential receivers

Receiver Distance (m)

R1 300-540

R2 370-670

R3 240-780

R4 290-760

R5 150-620

R6 85-590

R7 80-530

R8 260-550

R9 75-565


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Receiver Distance (m)

R10 390-780

7.2 Existing noise environment

7.2.1 Fencing, Energy Australia and geotechnical

As a component of the operational noise assessment for the Hunter Expressway, ambient noise monitoring was conducted at eighteen reference measurement locations along the proposed route during September / October 2009. The measurement locations incorporated a range of receiver areas including rural areas with ambient noise levels controlled by natural elements, rural areas exposed to local and or link roads, and fringes of built up areas and townships.

The measurement locations represent a broad range ambient noise levels and receivers likely to be potentially impacted by Early Works construction activities. The measurements confirmed daytime background LA90 noise levels ranging from 32 to 48dB(A) with average background noise levels of 36-40dB(A) across the study area (Appendix 1).

7.2.2 Averys Lane

Existing ambient noise levels were measured at two (2) reference locations in the vicinity of the Averys Lane construction activities in order to develop construction noise management levels in accordance with the ICNG.

The reference locations selected for the measurements were:

• Location 1 244-246 Averys Lane, Buchanan (R3).

• Location 2 263 John Renshaw Drive, Buchanan (R10).

Noise levels were measured and recorded from 25 September 2009 to 6 October 2009. The instrumentation selected for the measurements consisted of two (2) RTA Technology Environmental Noise Loggers. The reference level of each instrument was checked prior to and after the measurements with a NATA calibrated Bruel & Kjaer Sound Level Calibrator Type 4230, Serial No. 623590, with no significant drift recorded. The sound logging meters were set to A-weighting, fast response and fifteen (15) minute sampling periods.

The results of the noise monitoring confirmed daytime background LA90 noise levels of:

• Location 1 35-42dB(A) (RBL 35dB(A))

• Location 2 42-50dB(A) (RBL 46dB(A))

Considering the range of measured background noise levels, procedures contained in Section 3.1 and location of referenced receivers, noise management levels (noise levels at which point feasible and reasonable work practices will be implemented – as outlined in Section 12) recommended for daytime construction activities are summarised in Table 8.

Table 8 Construction noise management level – day

Reference Location Noise Management Level

(LAeq,15min)

R1 50

R2 50


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Reference Location Noise Management Level

(LAeq,15min)

R3 45

R4 45

R5 45

R6 45

R7 45

R8 45

R9 45

R10 55

7.3 Construction noise sources

A range of plant and equipment will be required to undertake the activities associated with the Early Works.

This section of the report provides a summary of the envisaged activities and equipment.

7.3.1 Freeway boundary fencing

Typical plant and equipment utilised for the freeway boundary fencing will include:

• Tractor with auger and ramming attachment.

• 4WD for transport.

• Brush cutter.

• Chain saw.

• Miscellaneous hand tools.

Activities identified with the potential to result in the highest noise risk are associated with vegetation clearing (where required). Table 9 provides a summary of typical items of plant utilised for the Works and sound pressure levels.

Table 9 Typical Plant and Equipment – Boundary Fencing (dB(A) re: 20 × 10-6 Pa)

Plant description Number of items Sound pressure level

LAeq @ 7m

Tractor with auger 1 82

Brushcutter 1 65

Chainsaw 1 85

Total 87


Typical plant and equipment utilised for the Energy Australia works will include:

• Excavator.

• Tub grinder / mulcher.


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• Truck/crane.

• Chainsaws.

• Brushcutters.

• Miscellaneous hand tools.

Activities identified with the potential to result in the highest noise risk will be associated with vegetation clearing (where required). Table 10 provides a summary of typical items of plant that could be utilised for vegetation clearing and the respective sound pressure levels.

Table 10 Typical Plant and Equipment – Energy Australia dB(A) re: 20 × 10-6 Pa


LAeq @ 7m

Vegetation clearing

Tub grinder 1 93

Brushcutter 1 65

Chainsaw 1 85

Excavator 1 82

Total 94


Typical plant and equipment utilised for the investigations will include:

• Bore Holes – auger mounted on rigid 4wd truck.

• Test Pits – 4wd backhoe or excavator.

• Seismic Refraction Surveys – 4wd vehicle and small excavator.

• Electrical Friction Cone Penetrometer Tests – medium sized truck.

• Mine Void Investigations – percussion drill mounted on 4wd vehicle.

Table 11 provides a summary of typical items of plant that could be utilised for geotechnical investigations and the respective sound pressure levels.

Table 11 Typical Plant and Equipment – Geotechnical Investigations dB(A) re: 20 × 10-6 Pa


LAeq @ 7m

Bore holes

Truck with auger 1 82

Total 82

Test pits

Excavator or Backhoe 1 82

Total 82


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LAeq @ 7m

Seismic refraction surveys

4wd vehicle 1 78

Small excavator 1 79

Total 82

Electrical friction cone penetrometer tests

Truck 1 80

Total 80

Mine void investigations

4wd vehicle with percussion drill 1 84

Total 84

7.3.4 Averys Lane

Typical plant and equipment utilised for the Averys Lane access road construction will include:

• Trucks.

• Dozer.

• Excavator and rock hammer attachment.

• Chipper.

• Rollers.

• Grader.

• Watercart.

Table 12 provides a summary of typical items of plant for each component of the access road construction works and the respective sound pressure levels.

Table 12 Typical Plant and Equipment – Averys Lane dB(A) re: 20 × 10-6 Pa

Item Plant description Number of items Sound pressure level

LAeq @ 7m

Clearing

Dozer Tracked 1 91

Excavator 25t 1 82

Timber Shredder Truck mounted 1 93

Water Cart 1 80

Total 95

Drill and Blast

Drill Rig truck mounted 1 90


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Item Plant description Number of items Sound pressure level

LAeq @ 7m

Truck 1 80

Total 90

General earthworks

Excavator + hammer 25t 1 90

Dump Truck Off road 1 85

Grader 1 83

Total 92

Drainage culverts

Crane Truck mounted 1 83

Concrete Vibrators 1 83

Concrete Truck 1 85

Total 89

Pavement

Truck 1 80

Grader 1 83

Water Cart 1 80

Roller 1 83

Total 88

Seal

Bitumen Sprayer Truck mounted 1 83

Truck 1 80

Total 85

Site cleanup

Excavator 25t 1 82

Truck 1 80

Total 84

7.4 Noise assessment

A construction noise assessment for fencing, vegetation clearing, and geotechnical investigations has been undertaken to predict the construction noise levels at sensitive receivers. Considering the short duration and transient nature of the activities, this assessment considered a range of nominal offset distances (as shown in Table 13) in order to predict a range of noise exposure levels. The predicted levels do not account for reductions from site shielding and intervening topography and are considered conservative.


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Table 13 Predicted noise levels from boundary fencing, vegetation clearing and geotechnical investigations LAeq dB(A) re: 20 × 10-6 Pa

Distance from construction activity Construction activity

25m 50m 100m 200m 400m 800m 1600m

Boundary fencing

Fencing & Clearing 76 70 64 58 52 46 41

Energy Australia clearing and adjustments

Vegetation Clearing 83 77 71 65 59 53 47

Geotechnical investigations

Bore Holes 71 65 59 53 47 41 35

Test 71 65 59 53 47 41 35

Seismic Refraction Surveys 71 65 59 53 47 41 35

Electrical Friction Cone Penetrometer Tests

69 64 58 52 46 40 34

Mine Void Investigations 73 68 62 56 50 44 38

Table 13 shows that at times noise levels are predicted to exceed the highly noise affected level 75dBA. Two properties, one at Buchanan (Ch 9800) and the other at Sawyers Gully (Ch 21750), are located about 20-30 metres from the closest point of fencing activities. At times, both of these properties may experience noise levels above 75dBA during vegetation clearing.

In relation to Avery’s Lane, a range of noise levels from the activities have been predicted taking into account typically closest and farthest locations of equipment in order to establish a range of noise exposure levels. The predicted levels are outlined in Table 14 and do not account for reductions from site shielding and intervening topography and are considered conservative.

Table 14 Predicted Noise Levels from Averys Lane LAeq dB(A) re: 20 × 10-6 Pa

Predicted Range of Noise Levels dB(A) Construction activity

R1 R2 R3 R4 R5 R6 R7 R8 R9 R10

Clearing 73-78 71-77 70-80

70-79

72-84

72-87

73-88

73-80

73-88

70-76

Drill and Blast 68-73 66-72 65-75

65-74

67-79

67-82

68-83

68-75

68-83

65-71

General Earthworks 70-75 68-74 67-77

67-76

69-81

69-84

66-81

70-77

70-85

67-73

Drainage Culverts 67-72 65-71 64-74

64-73

66-78

66-81

67-82

67-74

67-82

64-70

Pavement 66-71 64-70 63-73

63-72

65-77

65-80

66-81

66-73

66-81

63-69

Seal 63-68 61-67 60-70

60-69

62-74

62-77

63-78

63-70

63-78

60-66


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Predicted Range of Noise Levels dB(A) Construction activity

R1 R2 R3 R4 R5 R6 R7 R8 R9 R10

Cleanup 62-67 60-66 59-69

59-68

61-73

61-76

62-77

62-69

62-77

59-65

With respect to sources with particularly high noise levels such as the dozer, timber tub grinding machine and drill rig, their use is anticipated to be short (<10 days). Table 14 shows clearing at Avery’s Lane, specifically mulching of cleared vegetation, presents the greatest risk of noise levels above the highly noise affected level of 75dBA for adjacent receivers. Section 12 includes a number of mitigation measures that will be implemented to minimise the likelihood of noise levels that would highly affect the community, eg positioning static equipment to minimise the propagation of noise. Where some activities are anticipated to have a high impact on the community based on the location in which they occur (eg rock breaking, rock hammering and similar activities) additional measures will be implemented, including:

• Limiting the working hours to take place between 0800 – 1200 and 1400 – 1700 Monday to Friday and 0800 – 1200 on Saturday.

• Introducing respite periods where these activities are undertaken for a continuous three hour period and are audible to noise sensitive receivers.

The above levels (presented Tables 13 & 14) represent the continuous and simultaneous operation of plant / equipment and are considered unlikely during normal construction. During construction processes with items of plant utilised one at a time and intermittently at various positions the LAeq,15min noise levels would be expected to be 3-5dB(A) lower. Where shielding by natural topography is provided, noise from the activities could be 5-15dB(A) lower.

7.5 Monitoring criteria

Noise levels will be measured against those predicted in Table 13 and Table 14. Where noise levels exceed those predicted and/or are in excess of 75dBA at a sensitive receiver, additional feasible and reasonable mitigation measure will be implemented. These mitigation measures might include (see N1 and N11 in Section 12):

• Individual notifications for sensitive receivers.

• Adjustments to the construction program.

• Replacement of excessively noisy equipment.

• Temporary noise attenuation.


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8 Construction vibration and blasting assessment

8.1 Vibration Levels from Construction Equipment

Taking into account typical distance separation to residential dwellings and low potential for generation of ground vibration from plant and equipment associated with boundary fencing, Energy Australia clearing works and geotechnical investigations, impacts associated from ground vibration were considered low risk and have not been assessed further in section 8.

However, during the envisaged range of excavation and construction activities associated with Averys Lane, it will be necessary to use plant and equipment that will generate ground vibration. The main source of ground vibration identified will be associated with vibratory rollers, rock hammers and dozer. To evaluate the likely effects of the construction activities, the following vibration levels (Table 15) have been considered.

Table 15 Typical Plant Vibration Levels (mm/s)

Vibration levels (mm/s) Plant description

@ 5m @ 20m @ 40m

Vibratory Roller - 4 2.5

Rock-hammer (large) 5 0.5 0.3

Dozer 2 0.2 0.02

Ground vibration from vibratory roller could range up to 4mm/sec at a distance of twenty (20) metres, and in the order of 2-3mm/sec at forty (40) metres, whilst ground vibration from rock hammer and dozer would be significantly lower. The predicted ground vibration levels at the distances anticipated on site are within the criteria for human disturbance and structural damage (as detailed in Section 6.2).

8.2 Blast Assessment

Blasting may be required to remove rock outcrops. Blast holes will be drilled and filled with an explosive charge and detonated with the aid of primers and detonators. Impacts associated with blasting normally relate to air blast overpressure and ground vibration.

8.2.1 Air-blast Overpressure Prediction Model

Air-blast overpressure is a function of maximum instantaneous explosive charge and the distance between the receiver and blast location. Figure 3 presents as summary of MIC blast design data used to predict air-blast overpressure.


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Figure 3 Air-blast Overpressure v Distance

The predicted MIC’s in Table 16 are based on the DECC 115dBLin goal.

Table 16 Predicted air-blast overpressure MIC’s

Receiver Distance (m) Lower MIC range (kg)

60 <0.5

80 <0.5

180 4

300 10

500 >10

Residence

800 >10

Assessment The results in Table 16 show that the DECC/ANZECC air-blast overpressure goal (115dBLin) will be satisfied with the employment of controlled MIC’s. Initial blasts should be monitored. Recorded data should be compiled to confirm maximum charge weights and compliance with the DECC/ANZECC air-blast overpressure limits. The site data would be used to optimise further blasts if required. Prediction model indicates that where residences are located within 150m of blasting, MIC values should be below 1kg.

8.2.2 Ground Vibration Prediction Model

Ground vibration is a function of maximum instantaneous charge, the distance between receiver and blast location, rock type and ground condition. The predictive formula adopted for peak particle velocity (PPV)

Predicted Air-blast Over-pressure Level (dBLin)

90

100

110

120

130

0 60 80 100 120 140 160 180 200 300 400 500 600 700 800

Distance (m)

Air-

blas

t Ove

r-pr

essu

re L

evel

(dB

Lin)

0.5kg MIC 1kg MIC 2kg MIC 4kg MIC 10kg MIC


29

assessment has been based on the site law data provided in Australian Standard AS2187: Part 2 (1993). Figure 4 provides the predicted PPV v distance vibration levels for heavily confined blast conditions.

Figure 4 Ground vibration v distance

Table 17 presents the range of calculated MIC’s required to satisfy the 5mm/sec vibration limits.

Table 17 Predicted ground vibration (average rock) MIC’s

Receiver Distance (m) Lower MIC range (kg)

60 <4

80 <8

180 <40

300 60

500 >60

Residence

800 >60

Assessment The results in Table 17 show the DECC/ANZECC ground vibration goal (5mm/sec) are satisfied with employment of controlled MIC’s. Initial blasts will be smaller and monitored to confirm maximum charge weights to ensure compliance with DECC/ANZECC vibration limits and optimise future blasts.

It should be noted that that the air-blast overpressure limit is more stringent and is the controlling limit for blast sizes.

Predicted Ground Vibration (PPV - mm/s)

0.1

1.0

10.0

0 60 80 100 120 140 160 180 200 300 400 500 600 700 800

Distance from Blast to Receiver (m)

Gro

und

Vibr

atio

n (P

PV -

mm

/s)

4kg MIC 8kg MIC 15kg MIC 30kg MIC 60kg MIC


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8.3 Monitoring criteria

Vibration during Early Works construction is anticipated to be of an intermittent nature. Monitoring will be carried out against safe limits for structural damage criteria presented in Table 5 and Table 6 for vibration generating and blasting activities, respectively. If a situation arises where minimum safe limits presented in Table 5 and Table 6 are likely to be exceeded, and an alternative to the methodology is not available, advice from a specialist structural engineer will be sought (see N20).

Where a sensitive receiver is predicted to experience vibration levels above those presented in Table 4 (vibration levels for assessment of human comfort) an individual notification which advises of the nature and duration of the activity will be provided (see N2).


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9 Review

Environmental aspects are actions that may result in environmental impacts. The Works will include actions that have the potential to generate varying degrees of noise impacts. Table 18 rates the Works according to three attributes: likelihood (L), low to high, represents an unlikely to likely occurrence; consequence (C), low to high, represents an insignificant to significant consequence; and risk (R) if mitigation is not implemented.

Table 18 Risk Assessment

Aspect Potential impact L C R

Energy Australia vegetation clearing and removal of redundant power infrastructure

• Noise from vegetation clearing M M M

• Noise from light vehicles L L L

• Noise from auguring L L L

Freeway boundary fencing: Vegetation clearing, auguring, ramming posts, straining wire

• Noise from ramming posts M L M

• Noise from vegetation clearing, tub grinder H M H Energy Australia: Vegetation clearing

• Noise from cranage and loading of trucks L L L

• Noise from light vehicles L L L

• Noise from auger L L L

Geotechnical Investigations

• Percussion Drill M L M

• Noise from vegetation clearing H M H

• Noise from dozer H M H

• Vibration from vibratory roller for compaction L M M

• Noise from hydraulic Rock breaker H M H

• Vibration from blasting H H H

Averys Lane: Vegetation clearing, blasting, earthworks and road formation, paving

• Noise from bitumen spraying M L M

The degree of risk will determine the effort needed to manage the environmental aspect. The environmental controls in Section 12 have been selected to reduce or eliminate risks, and in particular identified high risks (without mitigation) associated with blasting. Where practical and feasible, engineering noise controls and work practices will be considered to minimise noise impacts. Impacts from potential blasting activities could be managed with appropriate MIC values.


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10 Environmental management measures

10.1 General approach

A range of environmental requirements and control measures are identified in the environmental documents, including the Conditions of Approval and RTA documents. Specific measures and procedures have been identified to address each of the requirements and are included in the Environmental Control Plan in Section 12. Matching actions with requirements and assigning responsibility for each action will help ensure that each obligation is satisfied.

The timing of implementing control measures will be critical to ensuring that environmental requirements are met within the required timeframe and that controls are effective in achieving their purpose. Environmental controls will be routinely maintained. Daily inspections of work areas by supervisory personnel and weekly (minimum) inspections by RTA and/or Hunter Road Services will identify maintenance requirements before they reach a critical stage. Section 11 provides more information on inspections relevant to noise and vibration issues.


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11 Inspection, surveillance and monitoring

11.1 Inspections and surveillance

Surveillance of work activities and subcontractors during the Works will be undertaken on a day-to-day basis, with on-going or additional inspections undertaken as required. The activities of subcontractors will also be monitored. In addition, the following inspections will take place:

• The Site Foremen will undertaken daily checks of plant and machinery to ensure they are not generating excessive noise.

• The RTA’s Senior Environmental Officer and the Environmental Management Representative will be involved in regular surveillance inspections with Works personnel to assess compliance, review the effectiveness of the NVMSP and identify issues and/or improvements.

• Inspections may be conducted by external stakeholders (such as the DECCW) to assess specific sites or work activities.

Completed inspection reports will be collated and retained by RTA Hunter Region and will be available to public authorities.

11.2 Monitoring, non-conformances and complaints

Monitoring Due to the generally short duration of the boundary fencing, Energy Australia and possible geotechnical investigations, it is not proposed to conduct scheduled noise or vibration monitoring. Where complaints are received, the source of the noise and/or vibration complaint will be identified and an adaptive management approach will be taken where feasible and reasonable. This might include an adjustment to the program or timetabling for carrying out works, replacement of equipment, or temporary attenuation. Noise and/or vibration monitoring will be considered in response to receipt of repeated complaints. Following audits, control measures will be reviewed should additional ameliorative measures be required.

For access road works at Avery’s Lane, noise monitoring will be carried out on a monthly basis against predicted noise levels detailed in Section 7.4. Where monitoring identifies noise levels exceeding those predicted in Section 7.4, an adaptive management approach as discussed above will also be taken.

Should blasting be required during the Averys Lane works, preliminary blasts will be monitored at the closest residential dwelling/s to ensure compliance with airblast overpressure and ground vibration goals.

Non-conformances Non-conformances in general will be dealt with and documented in accordance with Section 9.6 of the Early Works CEMP.

Complaints Complaints will be recorded in accordance with the Community Engagement Strategy (CES). Information to be recorded will include location of complainant, time/s of occurrence of alleged noise impacts, perceived source of noise, prevailing weather conditions and similar details that could be utilised to assist in the investigations of the noise complaint. All resident complaints will be responded to in a timely manner and action taken recorded in accordance with the CES.


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11.3 Auditing and records

The results of all noise and/or vibration complaints and monitoring will be held onsite and maintained by the RTA.

Internal audits will be undertaken on a three monthly basis in accordance with Section 9.4 of the Early Works CEMP.


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12 Environmental control plan

This CNVMSP provides specific detail on actions that the RTA, Hunter Road Services or its subcontractor/s will need to implement before, during and after undertaking the Early Works. The requirements outlined in Conditions of Approval issued by Department of Urban Affairs and Planning (November 2001) for the Hunter Expressway including Conditions 71-83 were considered in preparing the Environmental Control Plan.

Table 19 provides specific details and procedures in order to address noise and vibration impacts associated with the Early Works.


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Table 19 Noise and vibration mitigation measures

ID Requirement Resources needed When to implement

Who implements

CoA reference Status

N1 Individually notify residents predicted to experience noise levels above the highly noise affect level of 75dB(A). Those affected will be provided with information, as a minimum, including:

• The types of activities to be undertaken.




Work schedule Before construction RTA

N2 Individually notify sensitive receivers that are predicted to experience vibration levels above those presented Table 4 (vibration levels for assessment of human comfort). Those affected will be provided with information, as a minimum, including:

• Type of activity to be undertaken.




Communication material

Before construction RTA

N3 Undertake site inductions and noise and vibration awareness training appropriate to the works being performed. Personnel are to be made aware of best practice noise management practices and the location of sensitive receivers.

Plans Before construction RTA

N4 Siting of fixed plant and equipment shall be in order to Plans During construction Hunter Road CoA Condition 70


37


Who implements


maximise distance separation and natural shielding to residential dwellings.

Services

N5 Orientate plant and equipment away from sensitive receivers. Plans During construction Hunter Road Services

CoA Condition 70

N6 Operate and maintain all mobile plant and equipment efficiently and in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications.

Maintenance resources

During construction Hunter Road Services

N7 Turn off equipment during break and down times of more than 30 minutes.


N8 Reduction of operating speed of plant and where practical switch off idle plant when not in active use.


N9 Avoid noisy plant operating simultaneously. During construction Hunter Road Services

CoA Condition 70

N10 Monitor construction noise and/or vibration levels for boundary fencing, Energy Australia works and geotechnical investigations in response to complaints, request by DECCW or request by other regulatory authority

Noise / vibration monitoring equipment, suitably experienced person.

During construction RTA

N11 Monitor construction noise from Avery’s Lane works on a monthly basis against those predicted in Section 7.4 of the CNVMSP. Where monitoring identifies noise levels exceeding those predicted an adaptive management approach will be taken where feasible and reasonable. This might include an adjustment to the program for carrying out works, replacement of equipment, or temporary attenuation.

Noise monitoring equipment, suitably experience person

During Construction RTA

N12 Do not use public address systems in the work areas. During construction Hunter Road Services

N13 Activities associated with the project, other than blasting, will During construction RTA CoA Condition 73


38


Who implements


take place only between 0700 to 1800 Mondays to Fridays (inclusive) and 0800 – 1300 on Saturdays. No activities associated with the project will take place on Sundays or public holidays. Undertaken activities resulting in impulsive or tonal noise emission (such as rock breaking, rock hammering, sheet piling, pile driving) between 8:00 am to 12:00 pm, Monday to Saturday and 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm Monday to Friday. Where activities continue for more than 3 continuous hours a minimum one-hour respite period will be provided. Works outside these hours that may be permitted include:

• Any works that do not cause audible construction noise at any sensitive receiver; or

• For the delivery of materials required outside these hours by the Police or other authorities for safety reasons; or

• Where it is required in an emergency to avoid the loss of lives, property and/or to prevent environmental harm; or


and 74

N14 Blasting activities associated with the project will take place only between 1000 to 1500 Monday to Fridays (inclusive) and 1000 to 1300 on Saturdays.

During construction RTA CoA Condition 83

N15 Should blasting be required during the Averys Lane works, monitor preliminary blasts at the closest residential dwelling/s to ensure compliance with airblast overpressure and ground vibration goals.

Monitoring equipment, suitably experienced person



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Who implements


N16 Vibration caused by construction and received at any structure outside the activity is to be limited to German Standard DIN 4150 Part 3 Structural Vibration in Buildings (Table 5 of this CNVMSP) and British Standard BS 6472 - Guide to Evaluate Human Exposure to Vibration in Buildings (1Hz to 80 Hz) for low probability of adverse comment (Table 4 of this CNVMSP); unless, otherwise approved by this CNVMSP:


N17 Airblast overpressure generated by blasting associated with the project will not exceed: Airblast Overpressure (dB (Lin Peak))





N18 Ground vibration generated by blasting associated with the project will not exceed the following criteria Peak Particle Velocity (mms-1)



10 Never



40


Who implements


when measured at the most affected residence or other sensitive receiver.

N19 If a situation arises where minimum safe limits presented in N19 are likely to be exceeded, and an alternative to the methodology is not available, advice from a specialist structural engineer will be sought.

Specialist structural engineer


N20 Undertake dilapidation surveys for all buildings located within 200 metres of the construction area prior to the commencement of blasting or major vibration inducing construction activities.

Specialist structural engineer

Before blasting RTA CoA Condition 80

N21 Blasting trials will be undertaken if blasting is to be used with results used to determine site-specific blast designs enabling the performance criteria specified in the CNVMSP to be satisfied.

Blasting specialist Before work begins RTA CoA Condition 81

N22 Sensitive receivers located within 500 metres of a blast location will be notified at least 48 hours before a blast. Advice will be provided to the receiver including a schedule of blast time(s) and a telephone number and contact name.

Communication material, work program



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Appendix 1

Noise monitoring locations and results

Monitoring location Date of monitoring Noise source

A1 2657 New England Highway, Branxton

17 Sep – 25 Sep 2009 Traffic on New England Highway, natural environment

A2 2490 New England Highway, Branxton

9 Sep – 17 Sep 2009 Road traffic on New England Highway, domestic activities, dogs

A3 62 Fleet Street, Branxton

9 Sep – 17 Sep 2009 Distant traffic (New England Highway), domestic activities, occasional noise from adjacent business activities and rail

A4A 4 Railway Street, Branxton

9 Sep – 17 Sep 2009 Birds, breeze in trees, rail activities

A5 2 Usher Street, Illalong 9 Sep – 17 Sep 2009 Natural environment, distant train noise, occasional local traffic, birds, dogs

A6 1044 Lovedale Road, Allandale

9 Sep – 17 Sep 2009 Trucks on access to quarry, local traffic on Lovedale Road, natural elements, dogs

A7 84 Bakers Lane, Sawyers Gully

25 Sep – 7 Oct 2009 Natural elements, dogs, birds occasional distant industrial noise

A8 14 Horton Road, Loxford

17 Sep – 25 Sep 2009 Controlled by smelter noise, occasional local traffic, birds

A9 Kurri Kurri TAFE – Cottage V (Accommodation)

17 Sep – 25 Sep 2009 Smelter noise, birds, internal traffic within TAFE premises

A10 Kurri Kurri TAFE – Administration

17 Sep – 25 Sep 2009 Smelter noise, birds, internal traffic within TAFE premises

A11 18 Acacia Street, Kurri Kurri

17 Sep – 25 Sep 2009 Smelter audible, distant traffic, birds, breeze in trees

A12 ‘Frogella’ 21 Brooks Street, Kurri Kurri

17 Sep – 25 Sep 2009 Local traffic, birds, domestic activities

A13 77 Clift Street, Heddon Greta

25 Sep – 7 Oct 2009 Distant local traffic, birds, breeze in trees

A14 14 Anvil Street, Stanford Merthyr

25 Sep – 7 Oct 2009 Birds, local traffic, breeze in trees, domestic activities, dogs

A15 (R3) 244-246 Averys Lane, Buchanan

25 Sep – 7 Oct 2009 Breeze in trees, insects, dogs, transmission line ‘buzz’, occasional aircraft

A16 (R10) 263 John Renshaw Drive, Buchanan

25 Sep – 7 Oct 2009 Road traffic on John Renshaw Drive

A17A 348 John Renshaw Drive, Buchanan

25 Sept – 7 Oct 2009 Road traffic on John Renshaw Drive, breeze in trees, domestic activities, dogs

A18 48 Fifth Street, 25 Sep – 7 Oct 2009 Distant F3 traffic, local domestic activities,


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Monitoring location Date of monitoring Noise source

Seahampton dogs, breeze in trees, birds

* “A” references in this table are “R” references in the Construction Works and Blasting Noise and Vibration Assessment (2009)

Rating Background LA90 Noise Level

Day1 Evening2 Night3 Monitoring location

2003 2009 2003 2009 2003 2009

A1 43 47 43 46 29 36

A2 44 46 44 45 33 36

A3 41 42 40 42 37 39

A4 35 – 36 – 32 –

A4A – 36 – 37 – 36

A5 33 36 37 39 31 36

A6 32 33 33 40 28 38

A7 32 34 32 34 31 27

A8 40 43 40 44 39 46

A9 36 35 32 35 31 33

A10 37 38 34 38 34 38

A11 36 35 36 33 32 35

A12 37 37 39 41 32 36

A13 36 39 34 38 30 35

A14 36 39 39 37 31 36

A15 (R3) 43 35 39 36 33 32

A16 (R10) 45 46 44 41 33 32

A17 44 – 39 – 30 –

A17A – 43 – 39 – 31

A18 38 39 39 39 37 37 Notes 1 Daytime is from 7:00am – 6:00pm.

2 Evening is from 6:00pm – 10:00pm.

3 Night-time is from 10:00pm – 7:00am.

* “A” references in this table are “R” references in the Construction Works and Blasting Noise and Vibration Assessment (2009)


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Ambient noise monitoring locations

A1

A2

A3

A4A

A5

A6

A7

A8

A9, A10

A11

A12 A13

A14

R15 (R3)

R16 (R10)

A17A

R18

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