OPERATIONS COMMITTEE MEETING BUSINESS PAPER

OPERATIONS COMMITTEE MEETING

BUSINESS PAPER

7.00PM TUESDAY 4 MARCH 2014

Waverley Council

PO Box 9 Bondi Junction NSW 1355 DX 12006 Bondi Junction

Tel. 9369 8000 E-mail: [email protected]

Delegations of Waverley Operations Committee Committee Delegations

On 10 December 2013, Waverley Council delegated to the Waverley Operations Committee the authority to determine any matter other than: 1. Those activities designated under S377(1) of the Local Government Act which are as follows:

(a) The appointment of a general manager, (b) The making of a rate, (c) A determination under section 549 as to the levying of a rate, (d) The making of a charge, (e) The fixing of a fee, (f) The borrowing of money, (g) The voting of money for expenditure on its works, services or operations, (h) The compulsory acquisition, purchase, sale, exchange or surrender of any land or

other property (but not including the sale of items of plant or equipment), (i) The acceptance of tenders which are required under this Act to be invited by the

council, (j) The adoption of an operational plan under section 405, (k) The adoption of a financial statement included in an annual financial report, (l) A decision to classify or reclassify public land under Division 1 of Part 2 of Chapter 6 of

the Act, (m) The fixing of an amount or rate for the carrying out by the council of work on private

land, (n) The decision to carry out work on private land for an amount that is less than the

amount or rate fixed by the council for the carrying out of any such work, (o) The review of a determination made by the council, and not by a delegate of the

council, of an application for approval or an application that may be reviewed under section 82A of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979,

(p) The power of the council to authorise the use of reasonable force for the purpose of gaining entry to premises under section 194,

(q) A decision under section 356 to contribute money or otherwise grant financial assistance to persons,

(r) A decision under section 234 to grant leave of absence to the holder of a civic office, (s) The making of an application, or the giving of a notice, to the Governor or Minister, (t) This power of delegation, (u) Any function under this or any other Act that is expressly required to be exercised by

resolution of the council.

2. The adoption of a Community Strategic Plan, Resourcing Strategy and Delivery Program as defined under Sections 402, 403, and 404 of the Local Government Act.

3. The determination of urgent matters raised in the Committee without prior notice. Committee decisions will be made by majority vote of the quorum present. The Committee’s Minutes will be confirmed at the following committee meeting in line with the provisions of Clause 266 of the Local Government Regulation 2005 which are:

(1) Each committee of a council must ensure that full and accurate minutes of the proceedings of its meetings are kept.

(2) As soon as the minutes of an earlier meeting of a committee of the council have been confirmed at a later meeting of the committee, the person presiding at the later meeting must sign the minutes of the earlier meeting.

Operations Committee Meeting Tuesday, 4 March 2014

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AGENDA

WAVERLEY OPERATIONS COMMITTEE MEETING A meeting of the WAVERLEY OPERATIONS COMMITTEE will be held at Waverley Council

Chambers, Bondi Road, Bondi Junction at:

7.00pm, Tuesday, 4 March 2014

PRAYER AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF INDIGENOUS HERITAGE

The Chair will read the following Opening Prayer and Acknowledgement of Indigenous Heritage: “God,we pray for wisdom to govern with justice and equity. That we may see clearly and speak the truth and that we work together in harmony and mutual respect. May our actions demonstrate courage and leadership so that in all our works thy will be done. Amen. Waverley Council respectfully acknowledges our Indigenous heritage and recognises the ongoing Aboriginal traditional custodianship of the land which forms our Local Government Area.”

1. Apologies/Granting of Leave of Absence

2. Declarations of Pecuniary and Non-Pecuniary Interests

3. Addresses to Council by Members of the Public

Operations Committee Meeting Tuesday, 4 March 2014

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4. Confirmation of the Minutes

OCM.1/14 Operations Committee Meeting – 4 February 2014 (A14/0063) .............. 3

5. Reports Requiring Determination

OCRD.6/14 Overnight Parking – Wellington Place Public carpark (A02/0146) ......... 11

6. Reports for Information

OCFI.5/14 Green Links (A04/1975-07) .................................................................... 13

OCFI.6/14 Bronte Public School Retaining Wall - Palmerston Avenue (A03/2211) 43

OCFI.7/14 Bronte Park Dogs Trial Update (A11/0440) ............................................ 49

Arthur Kyron General Manager

Ordinary Council Meeting 4 March 2014

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Confirmation of Minutes No. OCM. 1 /14 Subject: Operations Committee Meeting – Minutes – 4

February 2014 – Confirmation

Trim File No.: (A14/0063)

Author: Jo Reid – Governance & Integrated Planning Officer Recommendation: That the Minutes of the Operations Committee Meeting of 4 February 2014 be received and noted, and that such minutes be confirmed as a true record of the proceedings of that meeting. 1. Executive Summary The minutes of the Council meeting held on 10 December 2013 are submitted to Council for confirmation, in accordance with Section 375 of the Local Government Act 1993, which provides that Council must ensure that full and accurate minutes are kept of the proceedings of a meeting of Council and be confirmed at a subsequent meeting of Council. 2. Introduction/Background In accordance with Section 17.2(4) of Council’s Code of Meeting Practice the minutes of the Operations Committee meeting held on 4 February 2014 have been issued subject to confirmation at a subsequent meeting. 3. Discussion

Nil. 4. Conclusion

Council is required to confirm the minutes of the Operations Committee meeting held on 4 February 2014.

5. Relationship to Waverley Together 3 & Delivery Program 2013-17 The relationship to Waverley Together 3 and Delivery Program 2013-17 is as follows: Direction: G1 - Inspiring community leadership is achieved through decision making

processes that are open, transparent, corruption resistant and based on sound integrated planning.

Strategy: G1a – Develop and maintain a framework of plans and policies that ensures open and transparent operations that facilitate equitable benefit sharing and progress towards sustainability.

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Operations Committee Meeting 4 March 2014

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Deliverable: Regular reporting to Council on progress with implementation of integrated corporate plans.

6. Financial impact statement/Timeframe/Consultation Financial Impact statements, timeframes and consultation are detailed within the individual reports attached to the agenda and where amended by the minutes. 7. Attachment/s:

1. Operations Committee Meeting – Minutes – 4 February 2014.

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This is page 1 of the Minutes of the Operations Committee Meeting held on 4 February 2014

MINUTES OF THE OPERATIONS COMMITTEE MEETING OF WAVERLEY COUNCIL HELD AT WAVERLEY COUNCIL CHAMBERS ON TUESDAY 4

FEBRUARY 2014 AT 7.00PM

Present: Councillor Andrew Cusack (Chair) Lawson Ward Councillor Angela Burrill (Deputy Chair) Lawson Ward Councillor Joy Clayton Bondi Ward Councillor Dominic Wy Kanak Bondi Ward Councillor John Wakefield Bondi Ward Councillor Sally Betts (Mayor) Hunter Ward Councillor Leon Goltsman Hunter Ward Councillor Tony Kay (Deputy Mayor) Waverley Ward Councillor Bill Mouroukas Waverley Ward Councillor Ingrid Strewe Waverley Ward At the commencement of proceedings those present were as listed above with the exception of Cr Wakefield who arrived at 7.19pm.

Officers Present:

Peter Brown General Manager Mark Wood Director, Public Works & Services Peter Monks Director, Planning & Environmental Services Paul Spyve Divisional Manager – Governance and Integrated Planning Cathy Henderson Director, Community & Recreation Services

Opening Prayer and Acknowledgement of Local Indigenous Heritage

The Chair read the following Opening Prayer and Acknowledgement of Indigenous Heritage:

God, we pray for wisdom to govern with justice and equity. That we may see clearly and speak the truth and that we work together in harmony and mutual respect. May our actions demonstrate courage and leadership so that in all our works thy will be done. Amen.

Waverley Council respectfully acknowledges our Indigenous heritage and recognises the ongoing Aboriginal traditional custodianship of the land which forms our Local Government Area.

1. Apologies/Leave of Absence

Apologies were received and accepted from Cr Guttman-Jones and Cr Masselos.

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Minutes of Operations Committee Meeting 4 February 2014


2. Declarations of Pecuniary and Non-Pecuniary Interests

The Chair called for declarations of interest and none were received:

3. Address to the Committee by Members of the Public

There were no addresses to the Committee by Members of the Public.

4. Confirmation of the Minutes

There were no minutes to confirm.

5. Officers Reports Requiring Determination

OCRD.1/14 Bronte Stormwater Investigation Report (A13/0301)

Cr Wakefield was not present during the consideration and vote on this item.

MOTION / DECISION (Burrill / Cusack) That Council: 1. Conduct a long-term water quality investigation at Bronte to provide more

comprehensive and reliable results of the main pollutants in Bronte, their potential sources and seasonal trends;

2. Continue to partner with Streamwatch to measure water quality of Bronte Creek; 3. Ensure Council staff can quickly respond to stormwater pollution incidents with a

clear protocol of action; 4. Continue to inspect businesses (through the Council’s Compliance Division) to

ensure that they are following proper environmental practices; and, 5. Implement a community engagement and education program following the results of

further study, to raise awareness of stormwater pollution. This may include tailored actions for specific target audiences such as residents, local businesses, developers, contractors, and/or industry.

6. Receive a report after 12 months of the program have been completed. OCRD.2/14 Conservation Areas Heritage Studies and Inventory Sheets (A14/0029)

Cr Wakefield was not present during the consideration and vote on this item.

MOTION (Burrill / Goltsman) That: 1. Council endorse the Yenda Avenue Urban Conservation Area Heritage Study and

the Watkins Street Urban Conservation Area Heritage Study. 2. Council place the Yenda Avenue and Watkins Street heritage studies on Council’s

website for general information.

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3. Council endorse the inventory sheets for the following Urban Conservation Areas: Botany Street, Brown Street, Busby Parade, Collingwood Avenue, Evans Street, Imperial Avenue, Palmerston Avenue, Yenda Avenue, Woodstock Street, and Watkins Street.

4. Council place the inventory sheets for the Botany Street, Brown Street, Busby

Parade, Collingwood Avenue, Evans Street, Imperial Avenue, Palmerston Avenue, Yenda Avenue, Woodstock Street, and Watkins Street Urban Conservation Areas on Council’s website for general information.

5. The inventory sheets for the Botany Street, Brown Street, Busby Parade,

Collingwood Avenue, Evans Street, Imperial Avenue, Palmerston Avenue, Yenda Avenue, Woodstock Street, and Watkins Street Urban Conservation Areas be provided to the NSW Heritage Division for incorporation into the NSW State Heritage Inventory database.

6. The recommendations of the heritage studies for the Yenda Avenue and Watkins

Street Urban Conservation Areas be considered as part of a review of the heritage controls of Waverley Development Control Plan 2012.

7. The heritage studies and inventory sheets be prepared for the Blenheim Street,

Bondi Beach, Brighton Boulevard, Charing Cross, Grafton Street, Mill Hill, and Queens Park Urban Conservation Areas, and that these be reported back to Council at a future date.

8. The Yenda Avenue Urban Conservation Area Heritage Study is received and noted

subject to the Director of Planning and Environmental Services referring back to the original Aboriginal Heritage Study document and choosing more appropriate wording for the first sentence in Clause 2.1 of the study which is headed ‘Aboriginal Occupation.’

AMENDMENT (Kanak / Strewe) That Clause 2.1 of the Yenda Avenue Urban Conservation Area Heritage Study headed ‘Aboriginal Occupation’ be amended to read:

“The arrival of the British in 1788 led to local Aboriginal people losing control of their lands and to the death of many local Aboriginals through disease and frontier battles.”

THE AMENDMENT WAS PUT AND DECLARED LOST. THE MOTION WAS THEN PUT AND DECLARED CARRIED. UNANIMOUS DECISION: That the Motion be adopted. OCRD.3/14 Bondi Junction Complete Streets Project (A12/0422-05)

MOTION / UNANIMOUS DECISION (Burrill / Cusack) That Council:

A. Endorse the Bondi Junction Complete Streets Project Report (as amended per Council minutes of September 2013 FESP committee) with the following amendments:

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Page 20 under ‘Pedestrians’ - add paragraph on how detailed street designs will incorporate universal access and age friendly design features. Add recommendation that universal access consultants to conduct access audits as part of the detailed design process;

Page 37 under ‘Public Spaces’ - add privately owned with public access urban spaces to map;

Page 37 under Public Spaces’ - add statement on cultural activity and recommendations for public events;

Page 40 under ‘Norman Lee Place’ - revise point 1 to read ‘better integrate fence, resolve entrance points and seating and planting arrangements’;

Page 42 under ‘Active Frontages’ - add statement supporting green buildings and the requirement for architectural design excellence for refurbishments and new development;

Page 51 under ‘Footpaths’ - add the following local through site links to map: Donald Place to Bronte Road6, Ebley to Botany Street and Nelson Street overpass to Woollahra;

page 55 under 'Evening Activity, Lighting and Safety' - add short term recommendation to review with an intention of relaxing parking rates and stay lengths after 5pm to encourage more people to frequent restaurants in the evening;

Page 88 under ‘Spring Street’ - add taxi bays to plan where Eastgate car park exit is currently located (due to be relocated as part of the redevelopment) so they are located as close as possible to the Eastgate pedestrian entrance;

Page 89 under ‘Spring Street’ - add short term recommendation that Detailed designs should consider access for ambulance vehicles and drop off and pick up points for the elderly; and

Page 123 - Add new chapter between Chapters 5 and 6 titled "Community Engagement". Add 2 -4 pages summarising the engagement process, feedback and photos of the pop-ups as built.

Note that the revised document will be uploaded to Council's website and distributed to Councillors post adoption.

B. Note that the Bondi Junction Complete Streets Project:

- is a high level strategic document to guide detailed designs of the public domain

- forms part of Council's vision for Bondi Junction as expressed in Waverley Together 3

C. Note that funding for construction of public domain improvements will be sourced from a combination of the capital works budget, Voluntary Planning Agreement monies and the draft Long Term Financial Plan 4.1 (due to be presented to Council in March 2014).

D. Retain the pop-ups in Spring and Gray Streets for a prolonged trial period of 24 months.

E. Note that funding for an annual budget of $10,000 will be proposed for consideration as part of the 2014/15 budget for on-going maintenance of the pop-ups and bi-annual relocation of the moveable urban lounge throughout Bondi Junction and village centres within the Local Government Area.

F. Note that funding for a budget of $30,000 will be proposed for consideration in the 2014 - 2015 capital works program for the addition of shade structures in the southern urban lounge pop-up in Spring Street. Note that the structures would be subject to approval by the Traffic Committee.

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G. Note that on 22 January 2014 the moveable urban lounge (previously located in front of Monty’s Sandwich shop in Spring Street) was relocated to in front of the coffee shop on the corner of Gray and Ann Streets, Bondi Junction.

H. Note that the pop ups are no smoking areas and should be maintained and enforced appropriately.

OCRD.4/14 Nib Waverley Library Award for Literature Update (A13/0639)

MOTION / UNANIMOUS DECISION (Mouroukas / Goltsman) That the Committee: 1. Notes the successes for the Nib Waverley Library Award for Literature in 2013 and

the benefits to Council and the Waverley community. 2. Agrees to the proposed next steps outlined in this report. 3. Notes that a report on the 2014 Nib Award will be received in February 2015. OCRD.5/14 Implications of repealing decision that residents of buildings constructed after 30 June 2002 are not eligible for parking permits (A14/0027)

MOTION / DECISION (Kay / Mouroukas) That the Committee: 1. Receive and note the contents of this report. 2. Repeal the decision that residents of major residential developments constructed

after June 2002 are not eligible for RPS permits once the new larger RPS areas have been implemented.

3. Advise residents affected by the changes.

6. Officers Reports for Information

OCFI.1/14 Investment Portfolio Report – November 2013 (A03/2211)

MOTION / UNANIMOUS DECISION (Cusack / Burrill) That the Committee: 1. Receive this report. 2. Note that all investments have been made in accordance with the requirements of

section 625 of the Local Government Act 1993 and directions from the Minister for Local Government, including Ministerial Investment Orders and Council’s Investment Policy.

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OCFI.2/14 Flag Protocol (A13/0280)

MOTION / UNANIMOUS DECISION (Clayton / Goltsman) That: 1. The Committee receive and note this report. 2. Council officers report back to Council with a list of appropriate days for the lowering

of the flag to half mast with consideration given to Anzac Day, Australia Day, Deaths in Custody, Police Officers who have died in the line of duty and any other days that maybe appropriate.

AMENDMENT (Kanak / Strewe) That Council resolve to lower the flag on 28 and 29 September in recognition of Aboriginal Deaths in Custody and Police Officers who have died in the line of duty. THE AMENDMENT WAS PUT AND DECLARED LOST. Division For the Amendment: Crs Kanak, Strewe and Wakefield. Against the Amendment: Crs Betts, Burrill, Clayton, Cusack, Goltsman, Kay and Mouroukas. THE MOTION WAS THEN PUT AND DECLARED CARRIED. UNANIMOUS DECISION: That the Motion be adopted OCFI.3/14 2013 Annual Customer Service Report (04/0456-01)

MOTION / UNANIMOUS DECISION (Goltsman / Kay) That the Committee receive and note this report. OCFI.4/14 Waverley Pavilion (Margaret Whitlam Recreation Centre) - Report on the Centre's First Year of Operation 2012-2013 (A12/0159) MOTION / UNANIMOUS DECISION (Mouroukas / Kay) That the Committee receive and note the information provided about the Annual Report for 2012-13 for the Waverley Pavilion (Margaret Whitlam Recreation Centre). THE MEETING CLOSED AT 7.53PM.

............................................................. SIGNED AND CONFIRMED CHAIRPERSON 4 March 2014

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Report Requiring Determination No. OCRD.6/14 Subject: Overnight Parking – Wellington Place

Public carpark

Trim File No.: A02/0146

Author: James Lister – Parking Business Manager Recommendation: That Council approves a local survey to ascertain demand for introducing overnight paid parking at Wellington Place Carpark (46-48 Ocean Street, Bondi) and if there is viable demand, an overnight parking scheme be introduced for a 6 months trial on the basis detailed in this report. 1. Executive Summary

Council owns and operates Wellington Place Public Carpark (WPPC) at 46 – 48 Ocean Street, Bondi. The site was originally an at grade carpark, but in 2003 was developed as a Housing NSW residential aged persons block in conjunction with Council which owns 5 of the 27 units. The original DA argued there was no requirement for residential parking as tenants would be selected and approved on the basis of no car ownership. The DA was approved by Council and no car ownership included in the consent conditions but it seems Housing did not enforce that condition. Residents requesting overnight parking were advised of the consent conditions and referred to Housing. Parking in Waverley is a scarce resource and there may be demand and an opportunity for Council to provide paid overnight parking at WPPC. A survey of the surrounding area should indicate whether sufficient demand exists and if it would be viable to introduce a scheme. 2. Introduction/Background Council owns and operates Wellington Place Public Carpark (WPPC) at 46 – 48 Ocean Street, Bondi, underneath a Housing NSW residential aged persons’ block. There are 18 parking spaces underneath and 1 space for disabled parking outside adjacent to the entrance at ground level with vehicular access via Wellington Place and pedestrian access from Ocean Street (North). The carpark is free 2 hour limited parking from 8:00am to 10:00pm 7 days per week. Overnight parking is not permitted and parking is regulated by Council’s Parking Services Division. 3. Discussion To gauge market demand for overnight parking, it is recommended a survey be conducted in the surrounding area. I f there is adequate demand an overnight parking scheme could be introduced for a 6 month trial on the following basis:-

Operating hours 8.00pm – 9.00am Fee $5 per night Method of payment – pay and display parking meter Management and regulation by Council’s Parking Services Division.

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4. Conclusion Introducing a paid overnight parking scheme at WPPC may satisfy demand for such a service. If demand proves viable, a 6 month trial of the scheme will be conducted and reviewed with a further report to Council. The scheme would be advertised and promoted by Council’s Communications and Media Team. 5. Relationship to Waverley Together 3 & Delivery Program 2013-17 The relationship to Waverley Together 3 and Delivery Program 2013-17 is as follows: Direction: L9 – Parking both on street and off street is equitably accessed and

effectively managed. Strategy: L9a – Ensure fair access to parking services through regular review of

parking demand, fee structures, enforcement and facilities. Deliverable: Parking Patrols conducted in accordance with adopted program in

commercial and residential areas. 6. Financial impact statement/Timeframe/Consultation The annual budget for maintaining WPPC is $10,100 which is not recoverable. It is estimated a paid overnight parking scheme with a $5 overnight fee would produce an annual income $15,500 (GST excl) based on 15 spaces per night (an 85% occupancy rate, accepted industry standard. Revenue would be collected by Parking Services Division. The parking meter costs $8,590. However there is a surplus meter available as a result of a meter not being required due to an extension of a driveway in Porter Avenue. This meter would then be included into the new street meter project and therefore be considered a cost neutral investment.

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Report for Information No. OCFI.5/14 Subject: Green Links

Trim File No.: A04/1975-07

Author: Sascha Martin, Urban Designer, Strategic Town Planning under the Directorship of Peter Monks, Director of Planning and Environmental Services.

Recommendation That the Committee:

1. Utilise the current capital works funding for Green Links to action the following key issues / ideas raised in the community feedback:

(i) Replace worn out and missing components of Green Links walks 1, 3 and 4 including joining the existing walks to create a comprehensive network;

(ii) Install public seating / lighting / vegetation at ‘special places’ that celebrate key views along Green Links 1 and 3;

(iii) Update brochure and web page to include comprehensive maps with key landmarks, public transport and community facilities; and

(iv) Liaise with Council’s Technical Services division to improve pedestrian safety and access at locations listed in Attachment B.

2. Note that no further funding for Green Links will be budgeted for after June 2014.

3. Note that funding of $100,000 will be proposed as part of the 2014/2015 budget for on-going maintenance of Green Links routes.

4. Note that Council will not proceed with installation of Green Links 5. 1. Executive Summary

This report dated 24 February 2014 is from the Director, Planning and Environmental Services providing information regarding the outcome of the community engagement for the Green Links Project and recommending future upgrade works. The purpose of this report is to

- note that there is no further funding for Green Links post June 2014 - report on community engagement undertaken for Green Links between

Monday 6 January to Friday 7 February 2014 - to endorse the defect rectification works for Green Links 1,3 and 4 (Green

Links 2 is in excellent condition) - to endorse rebranding and promotion of the walks and incorporate special

seating and lighting along Green Links 1 and 3 - note areas for upgrading pedestrian crossing to maximise pedestrian safety - fund ongoing maintenance of Green Links 1, 2, 3 and 4

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2. Introduction/Background

2.1 Green Links Pedestrian Network

Figure 1: Map showing Green Links Walks 1, 2 3 and 4 Waverley Council is committed to increasing the number of people walking in and around the LGA. Established in 2006 the Green Links Pedestrian Network has grown to incorporate four (4) pedestrian links throughout the community, providing recreational opportunities for all local residents and visitors, that offers alternative ways to get around and experience Waverley’s parks, local centres, coastal areas and historical sites. The walks are currently denoted with footpath stencils and signage and traverse through varied topography sometimes offering a more challenging walking experience. The initiative aims to promote healthy living and encourage users to walk instead of drive to help the environment. The objectives for the Green Links Pedestrian Network are to:

Link with existing road user plans such as safer routes to schools, maintenance programs and accessible public transport services;

Promote community awareness of links in terms of use and future lane maintenance;

Improve pathways to encourage people to walk and exercise, such as continuous lighting, upgrade footpaths, signage and improved streetscape;

Develop safe and convenient crossing opportunities for pedestrians on major roads;

Realise opportunities for connections with major and local urban centres and to public transport;

Utilise pocket parks, bush care sites, old laneways and road closures in order to link major pedestrian generators around Waverley LGA. This will reduce a pedestrian’s interaction with cars and traffic;

Identify key strategic links and missing connections; and Promote walking to visitors and residents as an alternative to using cars.

Key:

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The Green Links pedestrian network and existing objectives were reviewed in December 2013. As part of the review an online survey was formulated to engage the community and gain a better understanding as to how Green Links are currently used and whether the original intention of the project is still valid. In summary, the community engagement period revealed that Green Links 1 (Centennial Parklands to Bondi Beach) and Green Links 3 (Queens Park to Bronte Park) are used mostly for recreational purposes with respondents appreciating the challenging topography these walks have to offer. Key views, vegetation corridors and car free areas to access short cuts to public transport and local shops make the walks appealing; the program could be made more attractive to tourists and residents through better promotion, as well as incorporating better lighting and distinct areas with seating. Improving intersections for pedestrian safety and access was also noted as a priority. Details of the community engagement and recommendations for the project can be found below. 3. Discussion

3.1 Community Engagement The community engagement process was undertaken between Monday 6 January to Friday 7 February 2014 and was carried out to obtain data on how the Green Links walks are used and to better understand what can be done to improve them. The survey was formulated as there was no existing data to indicate who is using the walks, how often they are being used, and for what purposes. In conjunction with Council's Communications and Engagement team an online survey was developed for the project to seek feedback from the community to employ the returned information to determine how best to spend the allocated budget. The online survey could be accessed via Council’s webpage and was distributed to registered members of the LGA precinct groups, Councillors, Council’s Key executive staff and other internal staff members. Respondents were able to provide comment via multiple choice question and answer or via written comment submitted through the online survey or by email or telephone. During the one month exhibition period 51 online surveys were received, 8 written emails (including one email from Council’s Sustainable Transport Officer and one from Council’s Recreation Planner) and 1 noted telephone conversation. In total there were 60 interactions concerning Green Links at which the majority expressed their support for the Council initiative. With 51 respondents filling out the online survey the percentage breakdown of the non-open ended answers provides useful statistical information and insight into how Green Links is being used. A summary of the breakdown follows:

• Age: 33% of respondents were 46-55, with equal weighting to respondents in the age brackets of 18-35, 56-65 and 66+ (19.3%)

• The majority of respondents are Waverley residents (76.5%) and use the walks on a weekly basis (44%)

• 80% like to walk for exercise, (including dog walking) and to access local shops (73%), and enjoy the challenge of walking up steps and hills (65%)

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• 84% of respondents only use parts of the routes and their main reason for using them is because they offer convenient short cuts (57%) and are more scenic than other routes (55%)

• Green Links 3: Queens Park to Bronte Park is most commonly used (54%) closely followed by Green Links 1: Centennial Parklands to Bondi Beach via Oxford Street Mall (50%)

The main features of Green Links that stand out are vegetation (64%), views (57%) and interesting habitats (56%). 49% of respondents said more trees and vegetation along with revealing the little known linkages to public transport and bike paths (49%) would encourage them to use Green Links more often. 45% of respondent said that better promotion and ‘branding’ of Green Links would help to maximise their potential. Respondents would also like to see better maps and signs denoting connections to Green Links at local facilities such as the coastal walk, village centres, bike paths, dog off leash areas, play spaces and maps at key bus stops and train stations (37%). From the written responses received via the online survey (43), email (8) and telephone (1), the following are considered the 4 most important things to enhance Green Links:

1. Better promotion and information on the routes for tourists including better and more legible maps (30%)

2. A greater network of routes that celebrate the little known passages, and incorporate better lighting and distinctive areas with seating (24%)

3. Resolve vehicle / pedestrian conflict points by improving safety at pedestrian crossings located along Green Links 3 and 4 (16%)

4. More vegetation (14%) The feedback from the community has been tabulated and attached at Attachment A – Community Engagement report

3.2 Internal Staff Engagement An internal project control group has convened twice on Wednesday 4 December 2013 and again on Thursday 13 February 2014 to provide input and feedback on Green Links. The following positions were represented on the project control group:

- Project Officer, Maintenance and Construction - Recreation Planner, Community Services - Senior Environment Officer, Environmental Services - Coordinator Urban Design and Heritage, Strategic Town Planning - Divisional Manager, Strategic Town Planning - Urban Designer, Strategic Town Planning

Two written submissions were received from Council staff; one from Council’s Recreation Planner whom presents methods to help Green Links reach its potential in terms of recreation and fitness, and one from Council’s Sustainable Transport Officer detailing key areas where pedestrian safety and access should be improved. See Appendix A – Community Engagement report: Appendix 1iii:Tabulated comments – written submissions received via email.

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3.3 Future of Green Links 5

It is recommended that Green Links 5 (Tamarama Park to Bronte Park) not be constructed, and instead the allocated budget should be spent on enhancing Green Links 1 (Centennial Parklands to Bondi Beach) and Green Links 3 (Queens Park to Bronte Park). Green Links 5 has been mapped to pass through residential streets that do not provide good pedestrian amenity containing narrow footpath widths and a disjointed line of travel. It also runs parallel to the coastal walk that is a safer and more convenient route to take.

3.4 Proposed Works

3.41 Defects Rectification Works There are gaps in Green Links 1, 3 and 4 where stencils and markers have worn out or been removed. Rectification works should be carried out to stitch the network back together. Community feedback revealed that the stencils had more appeal than signage (29.4%) so where possible footpath stencils should replace absent signage and the stencil design reviewed and updated or redesigned accordingly.

3.42 Maximise its Potential Green Links 1 (Centennial Parklands to Bondi Beach) is a key connector; in particular to attract tourists at Bondi Beach to access Bondi Junction and the transport interchange (and visa versa). It should be expanded to include two options: one to offer a challenging walking experience as currently exists with users required to climb the steps from Forest Knoll Avenue to Francis Street and one that presents a subtle incline with greater ease of access joining Francis Street to Campbell Parade. Small interventions should be made by joining Green Links 3 (Queens Park to Bronte Park) and Green Links 4 (Bondi Junction to Waverley Park to Tamarama Park). See Figure 2.

Figure 2: Map showing proposed connecting routes including the coast walk denoted in red In order to catch the attention of more tourists and visitors to take pleasure in the Green Links walks, a holistic approach needs to be taken. This can be achieved through better

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promotion of the walks by means of updating the printed and online brochure with maps that consist of all community attractors such as the cemetery, Bronte waterfall, steep terrain with challenging parts for intensity and fitness / flatter areas for ease of access / short cuts to the beach, public transport / dog off leash areas, play spaces, heritage links and bike paths etc. The Council initiative should also be added to the Waverley sports and recreation newsletter, existing heritage trail information and urbanwalkabout.com. Where possible QR codes (quick response codes) should be included in new stencil designs and applied to new blades and markers when upgrading through routine maintenance. 3.43 Celebrating Green Links ‘Special Places’ Identify areas that lend themselves to combine feature seating and lighting that embrace Green Link’s ‘special places’. For example fun custom seating that draws on surrounding materials to truly celebrate the unique view over Bronte Beach. Vegetation could also be planted at the corner of Macpherson Street and Gardyne Street, Bronte along Green Links 3. See figure 2. Council Officers will carry out an additional review of Green Links walks 1 and 3 and locate other ‘special places’ opportunities.

Figure 2: Photograph showing view of Bronte Beach from the corner of Macpherson Street and Gardyne Street (Green Links 3) 3.64 Improving Pedestrian Safety and Access Several locations were identified by Council’s Sustainable Transport Officer and through the community feedback recognising intersections where pedestrian safety and ease of access should be improved. There are many suggestions to minimise distance needed to cross the road and ways to slow down the speed of the cars. These areas have been tabulated and will be provided to Council's Technical Services Divisions for consideration for possible inclusion in future Capital Works Budgets. See Attachment B – Locations for improved pedestrian safety and access.

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4. Conclusion The details of this report require detailed design and costing, however it is recommended that Council, in principle endorse the recommendation to upgrade Green Links with an on-going annual maintenance budget of $100,000. 5. Relationship to Waverley Together 3 & Delivery Program 2013-17 The relationship to Waverley Together 3 and Delivery Program 2013-17 is as follows:

“Direction C2a Provide a broad range of relevant, affordable and accessible facilities, spaces, programs and activities.”

“Direction C6b Encourage the arts in public places and public art in private developments.”

“Direction G2 - Our community is actively engaged in well-informed decision processes.”

“Strategy G2a - Promote and require strategic directions that are inclusive and reflect the views of the community.”

6. Financial impact statement/Timeframe/Consultation Financial Impact Green Links has an allocated capital works budget of $207,000 from for the 2013/2014 financial year. The annual maintenance budget of $100,000 will be used to upgrade footpath stencils, markers and blades. Maintain and add to streetscape planting and vegetated areas. Improve footpaths and seating and ensure online and printed brochures and maps are always up to date. The amount required was calculated in conjunction with Council’s Public Works department. Timeframe The bulk of the above works are scheduled to be built within the current financial year. 7. Attachment/s: Attachment A – Community Engagement Report Attachment B – Locations for improved pedestrian safety and access

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Contents

Green Links

Community Engagement Report

A summary of community feedback Prepared by

Waverley Council February 2012

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Feedback Summary ................................................................................... 11 Appendix 1 ................................................................................................ 13

i. Tabulated comments - online survey

ii. Tabulated comments – submissions received via telephone

iii. Tabulated comments – written submissions received via email Appendix 2 ................................................................................................ 26

- Summary Report for Green Links – Have You Say (formulated by Survey Monkey)

Feedback Summary

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The community consultation process was undertaken between Monday 6 January to

Friday 7 February 2014, a period of one month in which the community provided their

feedback via the online survey (51), email (9 in total with one email from Council’s

Sustainable Transport Officer and one from Council’s Recreation Planner) and telephone

(1). There were 61 interactions concerning Green Links at which the majority expressed

overwhelming support for the Council initiative.

With 51 respondents filling out the online survey the percentage breakdown of the non-

open ended answers provides useful statistical information and insight into how Green

Links is being used.

A summary of the breakdowns follow:

• Age: 33% of respondents were 46-55, with equal weighting to respondents in the

age brackets of 18-35, 56-65 and 66+ (19.3%)

• The majority of respondents are Waverley residents (76.5%) and use the walks

on a weekly basis (44%)

• 80% like to walk for excises, (including dog walking) and to access local shops

(73%), and enjoy the challenge of walking up steps and hills (65%)

• 84% of respondents only use parts of the routes and their main reason for using

them is because they offer convenient short cuts (57%) and are more scenic than

other routes (55%)

• Green Links 3: Queens Park to Bronte Park is most commonly used (54%)

followed by Green Links 1: Centennial Parklands to Bondi Beach via Oxford

Street Mall (50%)

The main features of Green Links that stand out are vegetation (64%), views (57%) and

interesting habitats (56%). 49% of respondents said more trees and vegetation along

with revealing the little know linkages to public transport and bike paths (49%) would

encourage them to use Green Links more often.

45% of respondent said that better promotion and ‘branding’ of Green Links would help

maximise their potential. Respondents would also like to see better maps and signs

denoting connections to Green Links at local facilities such as the coastal walk, village

centres, bike paths, dog off leash areas, play spaces and maps at key bus stops and

train stations (37%).

From the written responses received by via the online survey (43), email (9) and

telephone (1), the following are the 4 most important things to enhance Green Links:

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5. Better promotion and information on the routes for tourist including better and

more legible maps (30%)

6. A greater network of routes that celebrate the little know passages, and

incorporate better lighting and special fun areas with seating (24%)

7. Safer pedestrian crossings and pedestrian refuge islands especially along

Macpherson Street in Bronte (16%)

8. More vegetation (14%)

In summary, respondents are generally fit and able and enjoy the more challenging

topography that capitalizes on the views, vegetation corridors and car free areas. Better

promotion of the program with more legible maps that encompass recreational and

community activity and appeals to tourists and residents alike could be improved. It is

also noted that the Green Links network could be extended to include more little known

passages that provide short cuts to services and public transport as well as creating a

safer pedestrian environment by way of more pedestrian crossings particularly in the

Bronte area.

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Appendix 1i: Tabulated comments - online survey

Q: Why do you use Green Links?- Other

No Comment

1 Transport. I use them when they happen to coincide with where I'm going by

bicycle or on foot.

2 I like walking

3 I don't really use them - but notice them on my way. Nice idea for tourists and

people out of a walk. Is a great suggestion to get people out walking instead of

driving

4 They just happen to be part of the route that I walk. I do not change my route to

use a Green Link. Please note, I think you will find a lot of regular walkers in

Waverley are people walking their dogs. That was not listed as an option

above. When I walk for 'fun' rather than to commute or get to the shops, it is

usually to walk my dog.

5 they are routes that i need to walk to get between work, sites i have to visit for

work and the transport interchange.

6 Because they are on my way

7 I live at the bottom of Wellington Street so I often walk to Bondi Beach via

Francis St & Lamrock Ave. Otherwise I prefer to walk up the steep hill in

Wellington St to Bondi Rd as a good work out. I don't like using the busy

streets in the vicinity of Old South Head Rd.

Q: Are there any features of the routes that stand out for you, or that you

enjoy?

- Other

No Comment

1 Stencils

2 Shade from vegetation esp trees of course. Sounds of birds and other life.

Meeting other people along the way. Less traffic, or perhaps only better

behaved traffic, and less traffic noise.

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3 Often more quiet away from traffic. Interesting short cuts.

4 no cars!

Q: What things would encourage you to use Green Links more often?

- Other

No Comment

1 More fun, special seats. Value the quiet and different plants above all.

2 More pedestrian crossings. There are not enough pedestrian crossings in

Waverley. This makes it less likely that I will walk or allow my children to walk

to destinations. These are important issues for walkers including the elderly

and parents of young children.

3 Information on what the green links is and where it goes is not obviously

available - website explanation is not enough.

4 Interesting, attractive and engaging educational signage on the natural,

environmental and cultural heritage of key areas - especially biodiversity.

5 less signage and no stencils that preach green wash messages

6 more public lighting, some areas just are lighting by the houses and some times

is not enough.

7 none of the green links is in my area- Hunter ward.

8 increased network of linkages - especially where there are existing night soil

lanes which could be identified for pedestrian access, and/or where easements

over private land could give more direct access, and/or where logical through

site links could be established in the development process

Q: Please provide any other feedback that you feel might be useful to us in the

space below.

No Comment

1 This project may need to consider the users of the 'greenlinks'. There are two

types of users, the local community getting from A to B, trips to shops etc, or

going for a run or walk on weekends. The other are the tourists who arrive at

Bondi Junction. This arrival experience is very confused due to a poor layout of

the train and bus station at BJ. The greenlinks project should consider tourists

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and include some sort of 'destination' or attraction along the way, such as

cafes, restaurants or historic buildings etc. This could be linked all the way from

BJ back into the coast walk and then include a bus out from Bronte or North

Bondi / Diamond Bay back to BJ. Is the greenlinks project just about providing

the odd walking route for locals? Or is it about linking the whole of Waverley

through a comprehensive trail and circuit of attractions, recreation and cultural

highlights?? Waverley Council need to think 'big picture' and not simply about

putting up more signage clutter directing people to walk certain ways. We need

to give them a reason to walk that way...and start to ask questions such as,

What is at the destination? How do I get back once I get there? Why not just

drive or get a bus or cab? Can we have lunch along the way or go swimming?

Google maps phone app will direct me to the beach, why use greenlinks? Is

there a free greenlinks phone app? Reconsider the name of greenlinks. Call it

Waverley Walks or Bondi Feet etc etc.

2 People may not associate the name "Green Links" immediately with a walking

route. On name alone i would assume the network would have more to do with

ecological connections.

3 Could green links combine with heritage aspects of the LGA to point out

interesting sites? Maybe more shady rest spots with a seat and a bubbler

4 It's a great initiative. Well done Waverley. Please let's have more, even

greener, routes!

5 Knowing walking distances is important. Seeing that the paths are cared for and

that impediments such as broken steps and the like are fixed is important.

6 More maintenance needed of Bronte park green link. steps hard to negotiate for

older people - need more railings alongside paths up steps. Also need more

attention to planting, especially along steps and ramp and walkway going down

into Bronte park from Bronte road.

7 Sometimes you can be on a green link, but then end up off course as the route

is not always obvious. There needs to be a green links signpost with directions

at least at every corner.

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8 Green links is a great initiative. For it to be better consideration needs to be

given to footpath width (generally too narrow or obstructed).Priority at

intersection is typically low or absent, more effort needs to be put into road

crossings that make it easier and faster for pedestrians to cross, rather than

maximizing vehicle flows (which is the status quo). Pedestrian light phasing

(where lights are provided) are typically short and infrequent. They also operate

on demand (e.g. have to press a button), whereas motor vehicles get automatic

allocation of light phases in many instances. Signage to destinations is also a

good idea.

9 Above all, we all need to know where these green links are and what they are.

There's been hardly any promotion at all.

10 Please provide more pedestrian crossings as Waverley is not pedestrian

friendly due to not enough safe places to cross the road. Pedestrian cossings

are needed in the following locations - 1) on Birrell St east of the intersection

(roundabout) with Murray St, 2) on Hewlett St near the corner of Alfred St, 3) on

Hewlett St near the corner of Murray. These are all popular 'lines of desire' for

walkers but crossing the road is difficult and dangerous in these locations.

Please put pedestrian refuges and zebra crossings in these locations. We live

a beautiful area and should be able to walk safely to our regular location

attractions, eg beach, shops, school without being terrified whilst attempting to

cross the road.

11 despite walking in the area i have never understood where any of the green

links led to or what the signage on the footpath meant. footpath signage is the

only information i have seen and on its own it seems a complete waste of

money

12 I have given up using a car unless absolutely necessary. I regularly walk to and

from work between Randwick (near Centennial Park) and Bronte Beach. I also

walk to Bondi Junction and Bondi Beach when walking part of the way to work.

Until I started walking I need not realise how difficult and dangerous it can be

crossing local roads - especially during peak hour. I am not sure how a program

like Green Links can assist with this. As some one who knows the local area

well - I don't use the Green Links signs etc, but I do see others using them. I

think safe well lit foot paths is the most important thing for me - also pedestrian

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islands where practical - especially in areas where pedestrians on the Green

Link need to cross busy roads - but there is no crossing or traffic lights. Thanks

13 I often walk the coastal walk to Bronte or Coogee with friends visiting the area.

I urge Waverley Council to re-introduce the shuttle bus service. The return trip

to Bondi, which involves catching a bus to Bondi Junction and then another bus

to Bondi Beach is inconvenient. Such a beautiful part of the coast deserves a

shuttle service as provided in the Blue Mountains from Katoomba Station to

Echo Point and the Sky-Way/Scenic Railway.

14 The CBD of Bondi Junction requires a lot more greening. Hanging gardens and

planting of trees. The recent addition of a seating area in Spring St is a scar on

the environment and anathema to any conceived idea of greening. Why was a

garden area not planted? Greening of our suburbs enhances public amenity

and helps decrease crime. Please green the CBD. Use some imagination but

NO MORE CONCRETE!!!

15 Please replace the two missing signs re Bicentennial Coastal Cliff Walk in

Clark Reserve

16 The most important thing for these 'green links' is that local fauna is linked, so

we do not end up with disconnected pockets and resultant 'death by a thousand

cuts' ...... Not so much people IMO.

17 I find the signage which Waverley council seems obsessed with like a form of

graffiti. The council just seems to be putting up more and more signs. I have

lived in Murray st for more than 20 years. And the number of signs around

Bronte gully and Bronte beach has increased exponentially. The stencils on the

footpath that advertise saving energy are just so condescending it is

embarrassing.

18 I use Route 1 often as most direct way to Interchange for public transport and

more recently for riding a bike as it's a shared path. The road/footpath markings

by and large have become indistinct as they seem to be poorly maintained.

Examples are around corner of York Road and Oxford Street, nothing visible till

you get to Bondi around Flood Street. Other local councils have adopted a Blue

Line on the footpath to disignate a shared Bike/Pedestrian path. Something

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along these lines would help identify the 'green links' route more readily. As I

now use a bike to get to work in the City or Mascot, I am very aware of the

general poor signage and routes for bike riders. I realise that reserving road

space for bike lanes is a challenge, but just trying to follow The Waverley Bike

Route from Bondi Junction to Rose Bay and back on Sunday with my son was

more a treasure hunt as the route is very poorly marked.

19 The stencils are interesting, but I always feel intimidated by the information on

the number of calories used! [Maybe that is council's intention!]

20 The Council is having excellent bush rehabilitation work done at the north-west

end of Bronte Gully. This work should be extended along that slope to Bay

View St. The same terracing and wood chip coverage technique should be

done at the western end of Tamarama Gully.

21 Heritage trails were researched some years ago by Sue Tracey, media

assistant to the Mayor, Paul Pearce, in approx 2001 or 2 with a view to

producing self-guided historic walking tour leaflets. This information should be

incorporated into Green Links - it is in CD format and should be found! Please

contact Sue for further information (Cr Strewe will know how to find her). There

are some plaques on footpaths and on walls around BJ & Charing Cross which

should all be included in general information about Greenlinks.

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Appendix 1ii: Tabulated comments – submissions received via telephone

Q: Are there any features of the routes that stand out for you, or that you enjoy?

- Other

Comment

1

Telephone

Conversation

noted at

3:00pm on

4/2/2014

Judges Lane stencils have worn off

Nothing attractive / no attractor

No one goes there

Mural on wall works well

(received from owner of the Waverley Newsagent on Bronte

Road)

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Appendix 1iii: Tabulated comments – written submissions received via email

Note: authors names have been removed to protect identities

No Comment

1 I wanted to touch base about the maps council puts out that includes the

coastal walks and Greenlinks. Last year the new Bronte link was not included,

could have been we were using old stock, and the Greenlink to Bondi Beach

finishes short of the beach on the enlarged map and could be confusing for

visitors and non English speakers ie which road do you enter on, and would it

be possible to add a road link from North Bondi up to the Cliff Walk, indicate

how one leaves the beach and gets onto the Cliff Walk?

This has been on my mind for quite a while.

2 Prior to joining the Council in 2012 I was not aware of what "Green Links"

meant. I had seen the signs and the stencils on the footpath but the words

"Green Link" were not explanatory that it was a guided walk. It was also

unclear to me that there was any differentiation between the stencils across

Waverley, ie. that they were designating specific routes. I thought they were all

the same thing and had little idea what they were, except thought they were

visual pollution.

Since joining Council and being made aware of what Green Links is I have

looked at the signage and until seeing the map on the survey today, was not

aware of where the trails actually were. I imagined from the street stencils that

it was all one walking trail around the whole of Waverley. However I had not

gone out of my way to look at the maps in Bondi Junction as I find the design of

the map very poor and very unappealing due to the extreme green colour of

the back ground. The location of the map in Bondi Junction is also not an

obvious place to look for walking trails. When I was campaigning in the Mall I

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found many tourists looking at the map trying to work out where the various

shops were. It seemed strange that there wasn't a proper map and directory to

find what you are looking for in Bondi Junction Mall. Eg. Tourists look for type

of store (not by name) haberdashery, shoe shops, etc.

Physical signage is also a poor substitute now when many locals and tourists

have smart phones with GPS maps. An app that gave the directions, showed

the map and offered history and local offers from retailers & cafés would be

preferable going into the future. Being able to locate toilets, seats, views, and

regular places to stop would also make it more appealing. The stencils and

street signs are visual pollution and it would be far nicer if there were less signs

and they just promoted the app. If the app was built as a commercial operation

it would also be promoted by the participating retailers and cafés and therefore

less public space signage would be needed.

The current signage is also strange in that if you were going to carry your

surfboard you would be unlikely to walk for 20 minutes to get to the beach. The

image of the backpacker (or is it a hiker?) would lead this group to believe that

this is the only route for them and could discourage other potential walkers

from going this way as the expectation would be that it would lead them to

hostels.

Looking at the routes on the map it strikes me that they are not visually the

most direct way to get to the destinations. I suggest that there should be

different options depending on what you want. Eg. If you want to surf, or get to

the beach you want the most direct route. If you want to take the scenic route

through parks and quiet streets then this should be identified as a leisurely

walk which is not destination based. The current maps seem confusing as they

are to specific destinations and often go round the houses for no apparent

reason. There is no identification for historical, interest or other reasons that

you might go this way.

I have never seen any promotion of Green Links other than on the Council

website. I have never heard any member of the public or tourist mention them

either before or during my time on Council. It seems to me that they have little

cut through at the moment and a significant amount of time, money and effort

have gone into this in the past for little community benefit.

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3 A revisit is good. It was the maps specifically I thought that could do with an

overhaul.

4 I often walk part or all of the way to work (Dangar & King Strs) at Randwick - so

I am aware of the Green Links and certainly walk on part of these routes. I

don't use the signs etc as I don't need them. I have seen others using them

especially around the beach. I have completed a survey.

My written suggestions were to do with accessibility - maintaining footpaths and

good lighting at night.

Secondly - where practical providing pedestrian refuge islands at road

crossings where there are no traffic lights or pedestrian crossings. Until I

started walking to work during peak hours I didn't realise how difficult it can be

to cross roads. For example walking up Macpherson Str and crossing at Arden

Street (cross street) is always tricky - but I would rather walk up Macpherson

on the LHS when heading west. As it can be really tricky crossing Evans street

as you can see east bound cars turning in to rat run across Bronte. At the

Macpherson & Arden intersection I basically wait until some one crosses the

road up at Lugar and Macpherson - that stopping of the cars actually slows

down the traffic and I can get a gap to avoid the east bound cars that turn

south from Macpherson into Arden. Also I have found the easiest way to cross

at the Leichardt street round-about is to be on the LHS of Macpherson - as

fewer cars go down into the lower part of Leichardt. Then I finally cross

Macpherson at the pedestrian cross near St Caths.

I didn't write all the detail above about walking up Macpherson - so if you think

it is useful and wish to pass it on to some one please feel free.

5 I recently completed the Have Your Say survey about green Links. I wasn't

able to include these photos of the lane way which runs between Castlefield St

and Imperial Ave. This is not an official green link but serves as one for local

walkers. It's an example of the difference that 1 metre of planting can make in a

lane way. The planting round the garage entrance was suggested by residents

and councillors opposed by the developer (as being a security risk) but

eventually implemented. It makes walking up the lane a pleasure and no doubt

enhances the amenity for all surrounding buildings. I would suggest that all

developers be encouraged to include this sort of peripheral planting, both on

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green links and on other lane ways in Waverley.

6 AND WHAT A WONDERFUL INITIATIVE

H o w e v e r…..

Appalled to see a huge crane over the top of Tamarama Gully…

HOW COULD COUNCIL LET THIS HAPPEN !!!!!!

THEN WASTE MONEY ON OTHER FAR LESS EFFECTIVE INITIATIVES….

DON’T A L O T OF PEOPLE WALK THROUGH THE GULLY !!!!!

This old girl could hardly get out of the bushcare in the Gully - in such pain…

Then hospital, etc., and am still unable to even get over there….

But A P P A L L E D THAT YOU’RE TALLKING ABOUT GREEN LINKS

AND CONCRETING OVER A MOST IMPORTANT PART OF IT !!!!

WHICH THE OWNER WAS READY, WILLING AND ABLE TO HAND OVER

TO COUNCIL

FOR $2M……CONFIRMED IN PUBLIC AT A COUPLE OF THE RALLIES….

D I s g u s t e d …

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7 Submitted by Council’s Sustainable Transport Officer

While we have not undertaken a detailed investigation of all the GreenLinks,

we have observed issues in a number of locations and have also received

feedback from the public with their concerns. Our comments follow:

I. Issues as the safety and effective use of the infrastructure on the Green

Links route - in particular when roads need crossing many of which are

not pedestrian friendly. The GreenLinks project hasn't provided

improvements to this infrastructure. In particular this include:

Roundabouts - there are general issues with roundabouts as they tend to

increase the flow of traffic, making crossing more difficult, and there is usually

no priority for pedestrians. Specific roundabout issues include:

Macpherson/Albion - traffic volume is often far too high and constant for safe

crossing; refuge too small - can be very difficult to cross, particularly for slower

pedestrians, and very long waiting periods

Macpherson.Leichhardt - quieter cross road but there is no pram kerb or

refuge

Birrell / Murray - busy roundabout at peak hour- no refuge and difficult to

cross unless motorist takes pity

Crossing roads at intersections - often the roads are curved outwards,

increasing traffic flow and increasing the distance pedestrians need to travel to

cross the road. While pedestrians often have legal priority at these

intersections, pedestrians rarely take the priority for safety reasons and

motorists rarely offer it. This type of infrastructure only reinforces this

behaviour. Improvements that can be provided includes pedestrian refuges,

tightening street exit, readjusting crossing location. An example:

Birrell St / Dickson St (south side) - at peak hour crossing point is blocked

usually with two lanes of cars and single lane behind. While pedestrians can

cross between stationary cars, this can be quite unsafe.

II. Issues with pedestrian access in the proximity of the GreenLinks -

residents can become frustrated with the GreenLinks routes as a single routes

when there is such poor pedestrian access in the area generally. For example:

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Birrell St GreenLinks route - residents have expressed frustration that there is

no crossing facility east of Dickson St and on neighbouring busy peak time

roads such Murray and Hewlett Streets

Birrell St GreenLinks routes follows the south side of Birrell St, but there are

significant issues with crossing roads like Park St as no refuges ect which are

on the north side and clearly on desire line for many residents walking

to and from Waverley Park.

8 Submitted by Council’s Recreation Planner

I am really interested to hear what you received back from the consultation. In

addition, I think there is a great opportunity to enhance the 'healthy living'

element of the walks/green links. There are a number of health campaigns that

we could potentially associate it with (e.g. 10,000 steps a day, Shape Up) or we

could promote our own. This would depend on the direction of the project

though, as currently the main focus appears to be around environment.

I didn't fill out the 'have your say', but some feedback from my end is that I think

the initiative is great and those I talk to about it also agree. Potential work on

promotion would be beneficial. From a 'recreation' view point, creating

opportunities for the links to become a loop provide avenues to promote

walking for more than just getting from A to B (e.g. lunch time walks, take the

children for a walk, etc).

I would question if 'Green Links' had enough brand identity for people to

understand it was a walking path to a destination.

I'd also like to think about how we can increase motivation for people to do the

links (answering 'can I do it?', 'do I want to do it?'). It might be worth showing

sites such as playgrounds, with significant sites such as the cemetery, Bronte

waterfall, etc. I believe the details around calories burnt, time to get to

destination, and 0 emissions currently used are great.

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Appendix 2i: Summary Report for Green Links – Have You Say (formulated by

Survey Monkey)

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38


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Attachment B – Locations for improved pedestrian safety and access

Number (corresponds with Map on next page)

Location Recommendation

1 Birrell Street There is no crossing facility east of Dickson St and on neighbouring busy peak time roads such Murray and Hewlett Streets Birrell St GreenLinks routes follows the south side of Birrell St, but there are significant issues with crossing roads like Park St as no refuges ect which are on the north side and clearly on desire line for many residents walking to and from Waverley Park

2 Birrell St east of the intersection (roundabout) with Murray Slow traffic, improve conditions for pedestrians crossing

3 Hewlett Streets east of the intersection (roundabout) with Murray Street Slow traffic, improve conditions for pedestrians crossing

5 Hewlett Streets near the corner of Alfred Slow traffic, improve conditions for pedestrians crossing

4 Bronte Road, Gardyne Street and Evans Street Slow traffic, improve conditions for pedestrians crossing

6 Macpherson Street and Albion Street Slow traffic, improve conditions for pedestrians crossing

7 Macpherson and Arden Street Slow traffic, improve conditions for pedestrians crossing

8 Macpherson Street and Leichhardt Street Slow traffic, improve conditions for pedestrians crossing

General design considerations: Intersections should be designed first and foremost to maximise pedestrian safety and access. Pedestrian crossings should be a priority over vehicles. Design considerations to include: traffic slowing measures / zebra crossings / refuge islands tightening street exit / readjusting crossing location / implementing aligned pram ramps / formalise desire lines

Key:

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1

Figure 1: locations to improve pedestrian safety and access denoted in red

2

3 4

5

6 7

8

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Report for Information No. OCFI.6/14 Subject: Bronte Public School Retaining Wall -

Palmerston Avenue


Author: Leisa Simmons, Special Projects Co-ordinator Recommendation That the Operations Committee:

1. Receive and note this report

2. Note that the civic pride project for the Bronte Public School Retaining Wall on Palmerston Avenue will proceed as set out in this report.

1. Executive Summary In summary:

The Bronte Public School retaining wall on Palmerston Avenue has been a target for graffiti tagging.

Consultation has occurred with the School, nearby residents and the Bronte Precinct in 2013 and early 2014.

Consultations shows general support for treatment of the wall including planting and one or more visual arts elements, so long as these are in keeping with the quiet residential ambience of the streetscape and consultation continues as the project progresses.


Following a suggestion from a local resident, at its meeting of 11 December 2012 Council resolved to:

1. Investigate whether a Civic Pride Project, or an alternative more simple initiative, would be supported by the Bronte Public School, Bronte Precinct Committee and local residents for a mural or other appropriate measures or treatments, such as planting, on the outside of the long school wall at the eastern end of Palmerston Avenue to address the occurrence of graffiti.

2. Receive a brief report of any agreed outcomes, and if a mural is being proposed,

the matter be referred to the Waverley Public Art Committee. The wall at the eastern end of Palmerston Avenue is approximately 5 m x 75 m and acts as a retainer for Bronte Public School's land and buildings. The wall faces south, is constructed from grey concrete and is blackened by sugar sap from the surrounding native trees. Large graffiti tags and pieces have been cleaned from the wall using chemicals and high pressure hosing, or painted out in light coloured paint, leaving the wall an unsightly patchwork of black and white, with some ghost tags still visible.

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A concrete path that appears to have regular, low volume pedestrian traffic runs along the wall. At the time of initial site visits, it was interrupted by an electricity kiosk. This was reported to Council's technical services division as an access issue, and the Public Works Division subsequently diverted the footpath around the kiosk. A 'Dial before you Dig' report indicates that phone cables run beneath the ground immediately beneath the wall. This would not prevent planting with shallow rooted plants, but would require that any digging undertaken is done carefully by professionals. The wall is adjacent to a tiny park created by closure of Palmerston Avenue to the busy Murray Street. The park contains a toddler's rocking horse, several mature native trees, and other low growing plantings. A seat is situated on the Murray Street side of the Park looking towards Bronte Gully. The Park is reportedly well used by parents walking their kids to school as a 'stop off' reward for toddler siblings. Council's Parks team planted a new hedge along the Murray street border in March 2013 to improve the barrier between the park and the road, increasing safety for small children and their parents. The Palmerston Avenue streetscape is dominated by mature native street trees predominantly Paper Barks. At its western end, the school retaining wall is terraced and densely planted with a mix of native grasses and other clumping species such as Dietes. The two households opposite provide care for this beautiful garden. Parts of the wall at this end are curtained by a bright green vine (probably Boston Ivy). The overall ambience is of a quiet bush garden. Council would have to obtain approval from the School which owns the wall prior to implementing any improvements. The School joined with Council in the design and planting of a garden in the Hewlett Street Road closure in 2009. The School Principal has advised that the School would be interested in working with Council again on any civic pride activity planned for the area, and was very supportive in helping to promote the consultation in December 2013. Consultation with Local Residents Consultation with local residents about their preferences for treatment of the wall was undertaken in December 2013. A short survey was printed on a flyer dropped into 100 letter boxes around the circumference of the school. Copies were also posted on notice boards at the school, and the school published the flyer and survey in its newsletter. Residents were invited to complete the survey on line, to phone in their response, or return their survey to a stall held on site 3.00-5.00 pm on Sunday 8 December. Respondents were invited to tick one or more boxes against: No action; clean the wall; paint a mural on the wall; plant native grasses along the wall; use a mix of treatments; and/ or to share their own ideas. A total of 34 responses were received, 15 online, one over the phone and 18 returned to the stall. More than 70% of respondents provided their contact details and expressed interest in participating in any community activity planned for the site. The majority of respondents (85%) supported the painting of a mural on the wall and made suggestions including: artists to contract, to use the mural to create a 'gateway' to Palmerston Avenue, to use the mural to create a visual 'extension' to the small park, to incorporate tactile elements that would appeal to the young children who use the rocking horse in the park, to involve children from the school in the creation of a mural, to seek the involvement of local youths by conducting a mural competition. A small number of respondents (11%) strongly opposed the painting of a mural on the wall, expressing concern that a mural would look 'tacky' and would attract graffiti.

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No strong opposition was expressed to the proposition to plant a garden along the wall and 56% of respondents approved this proposal. A number of respondents made reference to the attractiveness of the existing vine at the western end of the wall. Half of the respondents (50%) expressed their support for a mixed solution including planting and a mural or murals. Consultation with Bronte Precinct An officer made a presentation to the Bronte Precinct meeting of 10 February 2014 about the results of the December consultation and sought feedback on the mixed treatment the results suggest, including:

Cleaning the wall to indicate care and guardianship Planting a garden along the wall to make access more difficult for graffitists Painting one or more murals on the wall to provide some wall cover, and strengthen

the message that people care about the wall and will act to protect it from vandalism. The presentation included some draft visual images developed by a student Landscape Architect undertaking work experience placement with Council's RCP Division. The draft concept designs were based on the following assessments of appropriate plantings and murals for this site - Interventions should:

Be in keeping with the 'quiet bush garden' ambience of the residential streetscape Be implemented as a civic pride project involving the school and local residents with

the flexibility to grow and evolve in consultation with the local community Be effective in deterring graffiti on the wall Aim for an outcome that integrates existing features including plantings, new plants

and other wall cover, including murals Enhance the value of the little park as a 'stopping off' point for parents with toddlers Be implemented within a budget consistent with the quiet residential location, and

with a plan to ensure sustainable long term maintenance. The Bronte Precinct meeting confirmed a preference for soft images and colours consistent with those of the whole residential streetscape, and consistent with the role of the wall as a border for a primary school, with passing pedestrian traffic including many young children. The meeting also requested that more detailed proposals for painted murals are brought back to local residents and the Precinct prior to implementation. 3. Discussion

The consultation undertaken indicates that there is generally support among residents for treatment of the wall to deter graffiti including planting and one or more visual arts elements so long as these are in keeping with the quiet residential ambience of the streetscape, and consultation with residents continues as the project progresses. The consultations have also revealed that many residents are already involved in caring for their local environment, and that others are willing to join in with activities that Council might arrange. Through its Civic Pride Program, Council has successfully implemented streetscape improvement programs in partnership with residents at the O'Donnel Street Reserve and laneway, St James Reserve, Cox Avenue, and the corner of Blake St and Military Road. Some of these involved graffiti prevention components and all involved ongoing consultation and engagement with local residents. A 'civic pride' process that acknowledges, supports and builds upon the contributions already being made by locals seems to be an appropriate approach for this site.

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4. Conclusion

Next steps will be:

Develop a planting plan in consultation with Council's Parks Division and residents who are already engaged in caring for the terraced garden and other plantings in Palmerston Avenue;

Seek formal approval from Bronte Public School, the owner of the wall, to implement graffiti prevention strategies including cleaning and painting one or more murals on the wall, and seek a contribution from the school in the form of repairs to areas where the mortar is cracked and broken;

Refer the proposal for a mural or murals to Council's Public Art Committee, along with the results of consultations included in this report;

Report the results of the consultations back to residents and establish mechanisms that enable regular exchange between residents, the Precinct Committee, and Council as the Project progresses.

It's expected that the planting will be completed by June 2014, but the mural is likely to take longer.

5. Relationship to Waverley Together 3 & Delivery Program 2013-17

The relationship to Waverley Together 3 and Delivery Program 2013-17 is as follows: Directions: C2 The community is welcoming and inclusive and people feel they are connected and belong L3 Waverley's public places and spaces look and feel good Strategy: C2b Encourage and foster community pride through community groups and volunteering initiatives such as the 'Civic Pride' program L3a Ensure that public places are clean and well-maintained Deliverable: C2b Programs which encourage volunteering including civic pride and bushcare that enhance community cohesion L3a Community awareness of and engagement with strategies to prevent/ manage graffiti. 6. Financial impact statement/Timeframe/Consultation

The Project can be completed from existing Civic Pride and Community Safety budgets. It is anticipated that the planting component can be completed by June 2014. The visual arts component may take longer depending on the level of interest in the project from artists, and the community response to visual arts proposals. 7. Attachment 1: Images Palmerston Avenue and Bronte Public School Retaining

Wall

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Attachment 1: Images Palmerston Avenue and Bronte Public School Retaining Wall

Palmerston Avenue Road Closure View from Murray Street Bronte

Palmerston Avenue Terraced Garden Palmerston Ave Retaining Wall - Subject Site

Palmerston Avenue Staircase Palmerston Ave view across the park to retaining wall

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Mural Ideas shared with Bronte Precinct

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Report for Information No. OCFI.7/14

Subject: Bronte Park Dogs Trial Update


Author: Cathy Henderson, Director Community & Recreation Services

Recommendation

That Operations Committee receive and note this report.

1. Executive Summary

The February 2014 Council meeting approved changes to the Bronte Park dog trial,including allowing dogs into Bronte Creek. A question was raised about whetherallowing dogs in the Bronte Creek would also allow them into the pond. This reportclarifies that the changes as endorsed by Council do allow dogs into both the pondand the creek.


At its meeting of 18 February 2014 Council resolved to make changes to the dogexercise zones in the 12 month trial of dog exercise zones in Bronte Park.

The resolution included a decision to:

" A 2. Expand the time restricted dog off leash area to the north and to the west, so as to allow dogs access to the lower level of the Bronte Creek, as shown in the attached draft plan."

B. Endorse the attached draft plan to apply for the remainder of the trial of dog exercise zones in Bronte Park."

The background to the Mayoral minute on 18 February 2014 included the text:

"Accordingly, I am proposing that for the remainder of the Bronte Park dog exercise trial Council: ...

- allow dogs to use the lower section of the Bronte Creek waterway. Due to this being a stormwater channel, owners would be allowing their dogs to be in the waterway at their own risk."

At the meeting there was some discussion between Councillors about whether allowing dogs into Bronte Creek also meant they were allowed into Bronte Pond. Unfortunately, relevant officers at the meeting did not know what the term "Bronte Pond" referred to, and could not clarify this on the spot.

3. Discussion

Subsequent to the 18 February Council meeting, officers attended the site andinvestigated what the term "pond" referred to. It was realised that this geographicalarea had in fact been included as part of the expanded off leash zone in the plan

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which was endorsed by Council that night. This can be seen on the plan considered on 18 February (and attached here).

The clear intent of the Mayoral Minute, as endorsed by Council, was to allow dogs access to the lower level of Bronte Creek. In practice, it is actually very difficult for dogs to access Bronte Creek without going through the pond.

For the above reasons it is concluded that the 18 February Council decision did have the effect of extending the off leash area to the area known as the pond.

Officers are implementing the Council resolution on this basis.

4. Conclusion

The 18 February 2014 resolution of Council to change the trial of dog zones atBronte is being implemented. This includes time restricted off leash dog access toboth the Creek and the Pond. At the time of writing, it was expected that temporarysignage would be in place by 1 March 2014, in line with the Council resolution.

5. Relationship to Waverley Together 3 & Delivery Program 2013-17

The relationship to Waverley Together 3 and Delivery Program 2013-17 is asfollows:

Direction: C7 Health and quality of life are improved through a range of recreation and leisure activities

Strategies: C7a Retain, protect and improve the quality, flexibility and useability of parks, reserves and other green spaces to meet recreational needs, whilst considering and ameliorating any negative environmental impacts

C7c Provide and support a broad range of facilities and activities to improve the physical and mental health of community members.

6. Financial impact statement/Timeframe/Consultation

• There are minor additional costs associated with the adjustment of signagearising from the 18 February 2014 Council resolution.

• It's expected that temporary signage will be in place and the changes to thetrial will be in effect from 1 March 2014.

• Community feedback is welcome on the Bronte Park trial of dog exercisezones.

7. Attachment: Bronte Park Plan of Dog Exercise Zones, as endorsed by Council 18February 2014.

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PENALTIES APPLY UNDER THE COMPANION

ANIMALS ACT

Time Restricted Dogs Off Leash Zone3pm to 10am Otherwise dogs on leash at all times.

Dogs ProhibitedKeep dogs away from: • Beach• Ocean Pool Area• Train AreaKeep Dogs 10 metres from:• Playground • BBQs (unless travelling on path).

Dogs Permitted on Leash on Paths

Dogs on Leash Zone at all times.

Council Rangers Ph. 0414 884 391

more detail:www.waverley.nsw.gov.au/dogs

Remember Bronte Park is a shared public space. Dog

owners should ensure dogs are under control at all times.

Revised 18.02.2014

N

S

W E

Bronte Road

Bronte Road

Bayview Street

Bronte Beach

Bronte SLSC

Bronte House

Bayvie

w Stre

et

Mur

ray S

t

Hewlett Street

Playground

Bushcare

BBQ

BBQ

Train

Bronte Park - Dog Walking and Exercise

Kiosk

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CathyH

Typewritten Text

Endorsed by Council 18 February 2014

CathyH

Typewritten Text

OPERATIONS COMMITTEE MEETING BUSINESS PAPER

Documents

Transcript of OPERATIONS COMMITTEE MEETING BUSINESS PAPER