O-Bahn City Access Project

Referral of proposed O-Bahn City Access Project - October 2015

O-Bahn City Access Project

Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999

Referral of proposed action

October 2015

Referral of proposed O-Bahn City Access Project - October 2015 Page 1 of 40

Referral of proposed action

Project title: O-Bahn City Access Project

1 Summary of proposed action

1.1 Short description The Department of Planning, Transport and Infrastructure (DPTI) plans to extend the O-Bahn track from Gilberton to Adelaide CBD, South Australia. The project consists of portions of work mainly along Hackney Road, Rundle Road and East Terrace, and through the eastern sections of the Adelaide Park Lands, namely Parks 13 (aka Rundle Park/ Kadlitpina) and 14 (aka Rymill Park/ Mullawirraburka). The project is aimed at improving bus transit times and reducing the variability of on-time running. It will also serve a dual purpose of reducing congestion at intersections currently operating at capacity. Proposed works include:

bus only lanes along Hackney Road, bus only tunnel that spans 650 m, connecting Hackney Road (just north of its intersection with Botanic

Road–North Terrace) with Grenfell Street (just east of its intersection with East Terrace), realignment of East Terrace (between Grenfell Street and Pirie Street), landscaping improvements to Parks 13 and 14, modifications to the western portion of Hackney Road Bridge to provide dedicated bus lanes, construction of a pedestrian bridge across the Torrens River adjacent to the Hackney Road Bridge, re-organisation of the car parks along the western side of Hackney Road enhancing existing cycling routes and trails

The South Australian Government has committed $160 million to this project and aims to complete construction by the second half of 2017.


1.2 Latitude and longitude Further plans and GIS files provided in Attachment A.

Coordinates: O-Bahn City Access Project

-34.92227, 138.61106 -34.92212, 138.61413 -34.92193, 138.61431 -34.92147, 138.61462 -34.92108, 138.61476 -34.92074, 138.61482 -34.92035, 138.61486 -34.91981, 138.61484 -34.91960, 138.61483 -34.91951, 138.61487 -34.91861, 138.61466 -34.91586, 138.61408 -34.91577, 138.61389 -34.91285, 138.61325 -34.91270, 138.61336 -34.91029, 138.61281 -34.91034, 138.61250 -34.90884, 138.61216 -34.90881, 138.61189 -34.90866, 138.61192 -34.90871, 138.61226 -34.90870, 138.61232 -34.90868, 138.61238 -34.90863, 138.61243 -34.90816, 138.61257 -34.90775, 138.61265 -34.90737, 138.61262 -34.90737, 138.61306 -34.90952, 138.61304 -34.91141, 138.61345 -34.91592, 138.61444 -34.91937, 138.61520 -34.92240, 138.61588 -34.92250, 138.61595 -34.92323, 138.61466 -34.92262, 138.61416 -34.92293, 138.61365 -34.92341, 138.61272 -34.92378, 138.61189 -34.92503, 138.61198 -34.92511, 138.61087 -34.92396, 138.61079 -34.92399, 138.61008 -34.92372, 138.61006 -34.92368, 138.61077 -34.92341, 138.61075 -34.92338, 138.61148 -34.92312, 138.61220 -34.92259, 138.61342 -34.92240, 138.61377 -34.92253, 138.61110


Plan of Referral area – O-Bahn City Access Project


1.3 Locality and property description The project is located immediately east of the Adelaide CBD. The project site is approximately 13.5 ha. It covers parts of the existing road corridors including,

Hackney Road between Bundeys Road and Rundle Road, Rundle Road between Dequetteville Terrace and East Terrace, and East Terrace between Grenfell Street and Pirie Street,

As well as portions of the eastern Adelaide Park Lands including, land adjacent Hackney Road (Botanic Park, Botanic Gardens, River Torrens near the Hackney Road

crossing), Park 13 (Rundle Park/ Kadlitpinna), and Park 15 (Rymill Park/ Mullawirraburka).

The project site, including the parklands, comprise of a highly modified urban environment. Parks 13 and 14 have evolved to become one of the most utilised sections of the City’s Park Land’s due to their closer proximity to higher density residential and retail precinct of the East End. Several major events are hosted in the park across the year including the Adelaide Fringe, Clipsal 500 and Tour Down Under. The current landscape incorporates formal avenues, plantations and gardens. Specifically its features include the Rymill Park lake and kiosk, a playground, BBQ facilities and a rose garden. The attached plans (Attachments A and B) indicates the general extent of land where the works will occur. A brief description of the extent of works and land to impacted is provided below. HACKNEY ROAD–DEQUETTEVILLE TERRACE WORKS The majority of works along Hackney Road are confined to the road corridor. These works consist predominately of traffic lane allocation to dedicated bus only lanes and road access reconfiguration. Adjacent the road corridor are the Adelaide Park Lands on the west (specifically Botanic Park, Botanic Gardens, and the National Wine Centre) and the suburb of Hackney on the east (mainly residential properties, a College and a range of small businesses). To minimise impacts to the Hackney community the proposed works do not extend beyond the eastern boundary of the road corridor. However, some works will encroach on the Park Lands land, specifically:

The banks of the River Torrens immediately west of the Hackney Road Bridge for the construction of the new footbridge over the Torrens.

Botanic Gardens car parking and land adjacent Hackney Road – The Botanic Gardens preferred option is to provide a tree lined shared pedestrian-bike path along Botanic Park and to improve the landscape character for users of Botanic Park and to make the Eastern entry of the Adelaide Botanic Gardens safer for pedestrians. This option requires relocation of car parking to the Gardens eastern entry (ie. removal of the car park between Plane Tree Drive and Botanic Drive). These car parks would be reconfigured as part of the discussion with Botanic Garden.

National Wine Centre (NWC) – Pumping station (for First Creek) proposed to be located near the entrance to the NWC. The Project Team has recognised that the proposed location presents the opportunity to incorporate it into an entrance upgrade for the NWC.

PARKLAND TUNNEL AND REALIGNMENT OF EAST TERRACE The proposed bus only tunnel located within the Adelaide Park Lands will span 650 m, connecting Hackney Road (just north of its intersection with Botanic Road–North Terrace) with Grenfell Street (just east of its intersection with East Terrace). The tunnel alignment sweeps in a south-westerly direction under the south-eastern corner of Park 13, under Rundle Road through the north-west section of Park 14 before portals transition the track back to ground level, connecting to Grenfell Street at the East Terrace intersection. As part of the project East Terrace is to be realigned between Grenfell Street and Pirie Street. Rundle Road is to remain open between Dequetteville Terrace and East Terrace with minor curb modification to allow for future landscaping improvements and pedestrian/ cycling paths. The former road alignment of East Terrace will be returned to the Park Land. This initiative is a collaborative approach between DPTI and Adelaide City Council, and takes on suggestions from the community and major stakeholder groups such as Adelaide Park Lands Authority.

1.4 Size of the development footprint or work area (hectares)

13.44 ha

1.5 Street address of the site

Not applicable


1.6 Lot description The proposed development will occur within the following properties: Portion of Deposited Plan 81642 Allotment 116, Crown Record Volume 6102 Folio 712 in the Hundred of

Adelaide (northern bank of River Torrens west of Hackney Road Bridge) (Title Ref: CR6102/712 Plan Parcel: D81642 A116)

Portion of Filed Plan 41835 Allotment 6, Crown Record Volume 5807 Folio 966 in the Hundred of Adelaide

(River Torrens, west of Hackney Road Bridge) (Title Ref: CR5807/966 Plan Parcel: F41835 A6)

Portion of Section 574 in Hundred Plan 105100, Crown Record Volume 6043 Folio 262 in the Hundred of

Adelaide (includes southern bank of River Torrens west of Hackney Road Bridge and Botanic Park) (Title Ref: CR6043/262, Plan Parcel: H105100 S574)

Portion of Section 640 in Hundred Plan 105100, Crown Record Volume 5756 Folio 625 in the Hundred of

Adelaide (Botanic Park car park) (Title Ref: CR5756/652, Plan Parcel: H105100 S640)

Portion of Deposited Plan 66751 Allotment 102, Crown Record Volume 5943 Folio 443 in the Hundred of

Adelaide (Botanic Gardens (Goodman Building)) (Title Ref: CR5943/443, Plan Parcel: D66751 A102)


Adelaide (Wine Centre (includes car park)) (Title Ref: CR6074/282, Plan Parcel: D86132 A200)


Adelaide (Botanic Gardens/ Wine Centre (vines)) (Title Ref: CR6074/283, Plan Parcel: D86132 A201)

Portion of Filed Plan 136306 Allotment 55, Certificate Title 5750 Folio 148 in the Hundred of Adelaide

(St Peter’s College – 55 Hackney Road, St Peters 5069) (Title Ref: CT5750/148, Plan Parcel: F136306 A55)

Portion of Deposited Plan 81642 Allotment 117, Crown Record Volume 6132 Folio 227 in the Hundred of Adelaide (Rundle Park/ Kadlitpinna) (Title Ref: CR6132/227, Plan Parcel: D81642 A117)

Portion of Deposited Plan 74256 Allotment 11, Crown Record Volume 6102 Folio 716 in the Hundred of Adelaide (Rymill Park/ Mullawirraburka) (Title Ref: CR6102/716, Plan Parcel: D74256 A11)

Portion of Deposited Plan 74256 Allotment 10, Crown Record Volume 6102 Folio 715 in the Hundred of Adelaide (Parcel of Park Land separated from Rymill Park by East Terrace) (Title Ref: CR6102/715, Plan Parcel: D74256 A10)


1.7 Local Government Area and Council contact (if known) Adelaide City Council Chief Executive Officer: Mark Goldstone 25 Pirie Street, Adelaide SA 5001(GPO Box 2252, Adelaide SA 5001) Phone: (08) 8203 7203 Email: [email protected] City of Norwood, Payneham & St Peters Chief Executive Officer: Mario Barone 175 The Parade, Norwood, SA 5067 (PO Box 204, Kent Town SA 5071) Phone: (08) 8366 4555 Email: [email protected] Town of Walkerville Cheif Executive Officer: Kiki Magro 66 Walkerville Terrace, Gilberton SA 5081 (PO Box 55, Walkerville SA 5081) Phone: (08) 8342 7100 Email: [email protected]

1.8 Time frame McConnell Dowel in conjunction with DPTI will continue to refine the concept design through the detailed design phase of the project. Subject to approvals, construction works will commence in late 2015/early 2016 with expected project completion late 2017. DPTI will also complete other early works packages such as service relocation works in last quarter of 2015. In summary, there are a number of separate and parallel processes being undertaken to ensure the project can be achieved in a timely manner including:

Ongoing collaborative work with established working groups, including councils and key stakeholders; Progression of procurement processes; Ongoing detailed design development; and Obtaining required approvals.

1.9 Alternatives to proposed

action No

X Yes, you must also complete section 2.2

1.10 Alternative time frames etc

X No

Yes

1.11 State assessment

No

X Yes The action is subject to a state environmental impact assessment as part of the Development Act application process and Department of Environment Water and Natural Resources will be consulted. Also, an internal environmental impact assessment report is required by DPTI in accordance with the Department’s Environmental Management System.

1.12 Component of larger action

X No

Yes

1.13 Related actions/proposals

X No

Yes

1.14 Australian Government funding

X No

Yes

1.15 Great Barrier Reef Marine Park

X No Yes


2 Detailed description of proposed action 2.1 Description of proposed action The O-Bahn corridor is the most highly patronised public transport corridor in the metropolitan area, with over 1000 bus services each weekday providing approximately 8 million passenger trips per year from the rapidly growing north-eastern suburbs. The corridor currently consists of a 12 km guided busway that provides unrestricted bus movement between Tea Tree Plaza Interchange (in Modbury) and Gilberton where the track ends and connects into the road network at Hackney Road just north of Bundeys Road. O-Bahn services then travel with general traffic for the final 4.5 kilometres along the City Ring Route via Hackney Road, through the east Park Lands and into the Central Business District (CBD). This on-road portion of the corridor has limited measures to protect public transport services from the effects of road congestion, impacting on journey times and timetable reliability. This project will eliminate the effects of road congestion via a combination of bus priority provisions that will improve bus transit times and most importantly, reduce variability of on-time running. The project can be broken into the following components:

Hackney Road works (provision of bus only lanes, Hackney Road Bridge widening works (western side only), new shared path, new pedestrian bridge over the River Torrens, new reconfigured car park between Wine centre and Goodwin Building)

The Park Lands proportion of works (including the bus only tunnel, East Terrace realignment and associated landscaping works)

Plans of the proposed project are included in Attachment B.

Landscape and urban design has been an integral component in developing the O-Bahn City Access Project’s concept design and aims to recognise not only those using the transport network but also those who live within its vicinity, Park Land users and city visitors. Detailed urban design and landscape architecture concept design reports have been drafted for the Department of Planning, Transport and Infrastructure to establish the framework and ensure the best urban design outcomes are achieved in the Park Lands, East End and adjacent Hackney Road (Botanic Gardens and River Torrens). These concept design reports are included in Attachment E. DPTI will continue to work with the Adelaide City Council and the community so that landscaping or on-ground works be conducted to replace the amenity of impacted vegetation/open space. A detailed landscaping plan is to be prepared upon selection of the final project design. The department has chosen to engage into referral process to determine whether the O-Bahn City Access project requires an approval under the EPBC Act due to the tunnel construction within the nationally heritage listed Adelaide Park Lands. The Adelaide Park Lands are the parks that surround the City of Adelaide. They measure approximately 7.6 km² in a green belt encircling the city centre. The parklands were laid out by Colonel William Light in his design for the city in 1837 and were entered in the Australian National Heritage list in 2008. The Statement of Significance prepared by the Australian Heritage Council indicates that the Adelaide Park Lands and City Layout satisfied 6 out of the 9 criteria for listing. The significance of the heritage place is protected though the values assessed against the criteria in the EPBC Act. The values are summarized as follows:

Events and Processes – The Adelaide Park Lands and City Layout forms part of the Plan designed and laid out by Colonel William Light. The Plan is also of outstanding importance because it signifies a turning point in the settlement of Australia, settled by free settlers rather than convicts.

Rarity – The Adelaide Park Lands and City Layout is rare as the most complete example of nineteenth-century colonial planning. The historical layout also remains clearly legible today.

Principal characteristics of a class or place – The Adelaide Park Lands and City Layout is an exemplar of a nineteenth-century planned urban centre. The expression of key features reflects the early theories and ideas of the Garden City movement.

Creative or Technical Achievement – The Adelaide Park Lands and City Layout is regarded throughout Australia and the world as a masterwork of urban design. This is due to the encircling park lands and the way the design responds to the topography of the land. The siting and wide streets maximised views and vistas through the city and Park Lands and from some locations to the Adelaide Hills.

Social Values – The Park Lands have outstanding social value and contribute to the character and ambience of the city. The Park Lands are utilized as a venue for recreation areas, sports grounds, gardens and public facilities.

Significant People – Colonel William Light is associated with the plan of Adelaide. The impact on the above listed heritage values of the Adelaide Park Lands by the O-Bahn City Access Project has been assessed by an independent heritage architect and the report is provided (Attachment F).


HACKNEY ROAD WORKS This portion of the project consists predominantly of road works that are required for the provision of one bus only lane in each direction that are to operate alongside two traffic lanes and a cycle lane. The bus only lanes will allow buses to continue centrally along Hackney Road separated from general traffic between the existing O-Bahn track entry/exit point at Gilberton to the new tunnel portal on Hackney Road. The inbound bus lane will commence after just south of Richmond Street and continue all the way to the tunnel entry ramp approach to the Botanic Road / North Terrace intersection. The outbound bus lane extends all the way from the tunnel exit ramp north of the Botanic Road / North Terrace intersection to the O-Bahn’s dedicated corridor entry chute on Mann Road. Provision of this lane requires modifications to the western bridge structure over the River Torrens, as well as a modification to the layout of the Bundeys Road signalised intersection. As part of the bridge modifications pedestrian access will be removed and a new separate footbridge over the River Torrens is to be provided to cater for pedestrians and cyclists. DPTI is further developing a concept design for the shared path bridge to the west of the existing River Torrens Hackney Road Bridge. The concept design has adopted a concrete structure, however a steel structure has also been considered in the concept design development. The pedestrian path along the western side of Hackney Road is also to be upgraded from a gravel path to asphalt. The new two way shared path will provide an improved link for pedestrians (particularly beneficial for prams, wheelchair access, etc) and less confident cyclists. Some modifications to the car parks along the western side of Hackney Road is required. The Botanic Gardens preferred option is to provide a tree lined shared pedestrian-bike path along Botanic Park and to improve the landscape character for users of Botanic Park and to make the Eastern entry of the Adelaide Botanic Gardens safer for pedestrians. This option requires relocation of car parking to the Gardens eastern entry (ie. removal of the car park between Plane Tree Drive and Botanic Drive). PARK LANDS WORKS The new O-Bahn City Access project design allows for a 650 m bus only tunnel between Hackney Road just north of the Botanic Road/ North Terrace/ Dequetteville Terrace intersection and the East Terrace/ Grenfell Street intersection. This will allow buses to bypass the a number of intersections including the intersection of Hackney Road with Botanic Road/ North Terrace/ Dequetteville Terrace which is currently operating at/ above capacity. The tunnel alignment sweeps in a south-westerly direction under the south-eastern corner of Rundle Park, under Rundle Road through the north-west section of Rymill Park before portals transition the track back to ground level, connecting to Grenfell Street at the East Terrace intersection. To enable the exit to Grenfell Street to operate East Terrace will be realigned between Grenfell Street and Pirie Street. The former road will be returned to the Park Lands. Proposed works also incorporate improved landscaping and modifications to existing walking and cyclist facilities to improve safety and enhance connectivity to existing cycling routes and trails.

2.2 Alternatives to taking the proposed action A number of options have been considered, but are not proposed. These include past planning studies which date back to the 1980s and more recent work that has been undertaken more recently as part of this project. Previous studies (work prior the 2015 announcement)

1980’s Planning Study

Prior to the construction of the existing O-Bahn, a planning study was undertaken to assess extending the O-Bahn track from Gilberton to the City. This study reviewed a number of alternate routes including alignments from the existing track to King William Street, Frome Road, Rundle Road and Grenfell Street. The Original 1980s planning study recommended an alignment adjacent to Hackney Road with a tunnel portal aligning to Grenfell Street (similar to the plan proposed for this project).

2009 Concept

A planning study and project was commenced in 2009 to improve the O-Bahn travel time reliability. The original proposal included the provision of bus priority lanes along Hackney road and new bus “super stops” and bus lanes on Grenfell Street. During the early stages of the project Federal Funding of the project was withdrawn in a response to the Queensland Floods and subsequent the project was cancelled. The bus lanes originally proposed as part of the 2009 Concept on Grenfell Street and Currie Street were subsequently completed.

Work associated with the 2015 announcement


Following the original announcement of the O-Bahn City Access Project, a “First Principles” analysis of the options to improve bus priority was undertaken reviewing a number of different alignments, prior to selecting the preferred alignment.

Do minimum option

To meet changing passenger demand, the ‘Do Minimum’ option considers upgrading the current services based on requirements following the closure of the Royal Adelaide Hospital (RAH), without any amendments to the road reserve or Park Lands. Approximately 270 O-Bahn buses currently use East Terrace to access Grenfell Street, east of Frome Street, and 370 buses use Frome Street to access Grenfell Street in both directions.

The ‘Do Minimum’ option takes buses currently accessing Grenfell Street via East Terrace (via Botanic Road / North Terrace) or Frome Street and diverts them via Rundle Road and East Terrace to Grenfell Street. Under the ‘Do Minimum’ Option bus movements and traffic congestion would be likely to increase on Grenfell Street, with approximately 640 buses re-routed via Rundle Street and East Terrace. This would compromise the efficiency of traffic along Rundle Road and East Terrace impacting on businesses and the local community along East Terrace.

Rundle Road Tunnel Only – 2014

The O-Bahn City Access Project was initially announced in February 2014 as a bus tunnel with a portal on Hackney Road and Rundle Road. The developed concept featured a tunnel commencing in Hackney Road just north of the Botanic Road / North Terrace / Dequetteville Terrace intersection. After passing below that intersection, the tunnel continued to run below Dequetteville Terrace and then incorporated a sharp curve to the west, returning to grade at around the midpoint of Rundle Road.

Investigations have concluded that the Rundle Road Tunnel option poses significant construction and operational risks. While this option would have provided some travel time benefits, in comparison to the current proposed concept it was unlikely to achieve significant travel time or reliability improvements. This option would have required the removal of all the Rundle Road parking without the opportunity for gains/improvements on East Terrace to offset these losses.

Realigned Rundle Road Option – February 2015

This scheme was announced in February 2015 and underwent consultation with community and key stakeholders up to Easter 2015. This option featured a bus only tunnel from Hackney Road to portals on the eastern side of Grenfell Street and realignment of Rundle Road to meet the intersection of Grenfell Street and East Terrace. This option proposed elimination of the on-street parking on Rundle Road and altered access to Rundle Street, Adelaide due to the realignment. The proposal included major redesign of East Terrace, reinstating some of the lost car parking and improvements to pedestrian and cycling amenity. Following consultation and in collaboration with Council and other key stakeholders, this option was redeveloped by the project team.

2.3 Alternative locations, time frames or activities that form part of the referred action There are no alternative locations, timeframes or activities that form part of the referred action. The project must be completed by the latter half of 2017 to meet Ministerial commitments. The project is required to improve bus transit times and most importantly reduce variability of on-time running. In addition the project will reduce demand at traffic signals currently operating at capacity.

2.4 Context, planning framework and state/local government requirements A number of key state strategic documents guide decision making in South Australia. South Australia’s Strategic Plan (SASP; Government of South Australia 2011) is the overarching plan which guides the development and implementation of other planning strategies and policy initiatives including those specifically for land use and transport, including The 30-Year Plan for Greater Adelaide, The Strategic Infrastructure Plan for South Australia and the Integrated Transport and Land Use Plan. The O-Bahn City Access project will make significant contributions to realising transport and sustainability initiatives set out in these documents as outlined below: South Australia’s Strategic Plan

South Australia’s Strategic Plan (SASP) sits alongside the seven strategic priorities identified by the South Australian Government to guide all other government initiatives to improve the lives of South Australians and ensure the future prosperity of the state. They are:

creating a vibrant city safe communities, healthy neighbourhoods an affordable place to live realising the benefits of the mining boom for all


every chance for every child growing advanced manufacturing premium food and wine from our clean environment.

The plan contains 100 specific targets grouped under the six pillars of Our Community, Our Prosperity, Our Environment, Our Health, Our Education and Our Ideas (Government of South Australia 2011). Specifically, ‘Target 63’ is significant in forming the strategic rationale for the O-Bahn City Access Project through its focus on public transport. The Table below outlines the contribution of the project to Target 63 as well as additional SASP targets relevant to the project. SASP objective

SASP target Project contribution

Our prosperity

Target 39 – Competitive Business Climate: maintain Adelaide’s rating as the least costly place to set up and do business in Australia and continue to improve our position internationally.

Reduce operating costs for transport (i.e. reduced travel delay at intersections) Provide efficient and reliable movement and access to key industry and business hubs along within Adelaide, specifically the CBD.

Target 56 – Strategic infrastructure: Ensure the provision of key economic and social infrastructure accommodates population growth.

Contribute to investment in important infrastructure for South Australia.

Our community

Target 22 – Road safety: by 2020, reduce road fatalities and serious injuries by at least 30%.

Reduce vehicle crashes through grade separation of traffic streams, fewer intersections and improved transport network to minimise the risk of differing user conflicts.

Our environment

Target 59 – Greenhouse gas emissions reduction: achieve the Kyoto target by limiting the state’s greenhouse gas emissions to 108% of 1990 level during 2008–2012, as a first step towards reducing emissions by 60% (to 40% of 1990 levels) by 2050.

Lower congestion levels along the Adelaide Ring Route can reduce total greenhouse gas emissions attributed to the north–south transportation of people and goods.

Target 63 – Use of public transport: increase the use of public transport to 10% of metropolitan weekday passenger vehicle km travelled by 2018.

Improved routes for public transport, provide improved safer access, minimise travel time and contribute to improved travel time reliability.

Integrated Transport and Land Use Plan (ITLUP)

The ITLUP guides private, federal, state and local government investment in the transport system for the next 30 years, with a focus on integrating land-use, strategic infrastructure and transport investment planning. It focuses on connecting people between places of residence, work and recreation, and connecting business to markets to support economic growth. Of particular note, the ITLUP identifies the need to “Improve O-Bahn access to the Adelaide City Centre” as one of the short term priorities (ie. within the next 5 years). The Plan identifies a comprehensive suite of solutions to address the current and future transport challenges facing the state, with particular focus on:

Growing the role of public transport in servicing our city and urban and regional centres; Providing efficient connections to export/import gateways; Prioritising transport infrastructure and services to encourage mixed use development in central and inner

Adelaide; Supporting vibrant communities by encouraging active travel modes in Greater Adelaide and regional centres; Fine-tuning, maintaining and making better use of existing assets; and Developing and maintaining a planning system that ensures integrated transport and land use.

The Plan aims to support and assist an emerging trend that more people now want to live in or near the city by continuing with strategic investments into public transport that will create a lively, creative, dynamic and safe district that appeals to residents and businesses. To do this, the transport system needs to not only support medium density, vibrant communities and business growth across inner-Adelaide but to actively encourage and drive these developments.


An expanded network of trams in the inner areas and the CBD, combined with a redesigned bus network, and greater investment into our cycling and walking routes, integrated with land development, will greatly increase choice of travel. The Plan provides a strong vision to improve public transport into and within the city in line with corridor growth. It also proposes to address the problems associated with Adelaide’s Inner Ring Route around the outer-edge of the Park Lands and supports more cycling, buses and trams into the city. The Plan recognises that the bus network is the core of the public transport system carrying approximately 80% of passengers in Adelaide. Buses, through their inherent flexibility, have a unique role in the future that other public transport modes cannot meet. The Plan proposes a future public transport network that builds upon the previous and proposed investment in rail, tram and the O-Bahn bus infrastructure and services, to create an integrated network that is more stable, easy to use for all times of the day and with a focus on transit connections to major activity centres, employment and residential growth areas. The long term stability of a public transport network of high quality, high capacity and more frequently connected services is likely to influence urban development and create more sustainable transport patterns in a growing and more compact urban area. Key improvements to the public transport system within the ITLUP include:

Improved O-Bahn access into the CBD; Continued improvements to the train network, including electrification; Bringing a network of trams, called AdeLINK, back to the CBD and inner Adelaide to the northwest, east, west,

north, south and a loop in the CBD; and A redesigned and modernised bus network.

The ITLUP also highlights the need to improve the efficiency and safety of the Inner Ring Route, including intersection and mid-block upgrades. This will provide an alternative, efficient connection for traffic travelling around the central city, thereby removing traffic from the CBD, improved pedestrian amenity and connectivity, opportunities for improved cycling facilities, and improved travel times and reliability for public transport. The contribution of the O-Bahn City Access Project to the ITLUP goals and objectives are listed in the table below.

ITLUP goal ITLUP objective Project contribution

1. Healthy, safe, affordable and connected communities

Liveability Connected, vibrant, safe and attractive places throughout South Australia. A land use and transport system in Greater Adelaide that delivers connectivity, safety and choice of travel for people at a level that maintains Adelaide as one of the world’s most liveable cities while increasing densities in central Adelaide to support the knowledge and services economy. Public transport, walking and cycling become a desired choice of travel for residents, reducing reliance on the car.

The project would: Deliver more efficient and reliable public transport linkages into the City from the north-eastern suburbs.

2. A strong, diverse and growing economy

Prosperity A transport network which connects people and businesses to jobs, markets and services in a safe, reliable and timely manner. An efficient and effective freight transport system that adds to the competitiveness of South Australia.

The project would: Increase capacity on the Inner Ring Route, improving traffic flow on these roads and allowing for better use and public transport priority. Improve intersection performance for vehicles entering from the eastern suburbs into the City. Reduce vehicle conflicts by grade separation of bus/traffic streams, fewer intersections movements and improved intersection operation to minimise the risk of differing users.

3. Thriving, natural and built environment

Sustainability Significant reduction in transport emissions, including greenhouse gases and other harmful emissions.

The project would: Allow greater efficiency in bus movement, reducing ‘idle’ time at intersections which is likely to reduce Green House Gas emissions compared to the existing situation.


30-Year Plan for Greater Adelaide

An extension of the O-Bahn corridor is identified in the 30 Year Plan for Greater Adelaide as one of the key public transport investments for this major transit corridor. The O-Bahn City Access Project will contribute to encourage broader mixed use development in the city through its contribution to connecting the north-eastern region of metro Adelaide to the CBD. Key transport improvements such as the O-Bahn City Access Project and CityLINK, in combination with the recent Capital City Development Plan Amendment (DPA) are intended to unlock development potential of the CBD for mixed use, including significant residential uplift. The rezoning through the Capital City DPA has encouraged a growing residential market offering in the city, while other initiatives as part of the Vibrant City agenda will improve the attractiveness of a city based lifestyle for prospective residents. The update to the 30-Year Plan will build upon these initiatives and re-emphasise the importance of the city to meeting our population and dwelling targets. Future planned residential development along the mass transit corridors, particularly at major interchanges, will be supported by an improved performance of the O-Bahn corridor. The planned development of a higher density mixed use hub around Modbury Interchange will be facilitated by improved O-Bahn public transport services as people choose to locate in the North East Region close to the O-Bahn corridor encouraging a more compact, transit-focused city. Adelaide City Council; Smart Move Strategy

One of the key features of the Integrated Movement Strategy (released by the Adelaide City Council) is the focus on linking walking, cycling and public transport routes across the Park Lands while reducing the reliance on car travel. The Strategy summarises the importance of achieving a balanced transport network and states ‘if we only plan for cars, all we will get is a City with cars. If more people used public transport, changed to bikes and carpooled, there would be less traffic on the roads and that makes your driving experience better. It’s a logical transition…’ This is a transition that will require measured and professional implementation, and not unconsidered reaction to individual projects or policies. Car parking supply and pricing, bus services and bike lanes, traffic controls and speed limits can be better managed and targeted to achieve the objectives outlined. The Smart Move strategy aims to significantly increase the tram and bus share of total trips to the city for all trip purposes as shown below. Another key consideration is the intended day and night time use of the city tram corridors including the urban design context within which the tram network will sit. The O-Bahn City Access Project supports the Smart Move strategy by providing a faster, more reliable travel experience for O-Bahn bus services, thereby encouraging more drivers to use bus transport to access the city. Adelaide City Council Development Plan

Adelaide City Council’s Development Plan identifies areas within the City that are well suited for an increased residential population in the form of high density, medium density and mixed use precincts. The assessment of routes needs to take into account the economic and development potential within the context of the Council’s/State’s objectives for growth at the precinct level. This also includes employment, tourist and education generators of activity. Statutory Requirements

The project is within the Adelaide City Council and City of Payneham, Norwood and St Peter’s local government areas. The planning, design, construction and operation of this project will need to comply with relevant Australian and State legislation and Local Government by-laws and Development Plans. The following legislation has been identified as applicable to the project: Heritage Places Act, 1993 Aboriginal Heritage Act, 1988 Highways Act, 1926 Road Traffic Act, 1961 Adelaide Park Lands Act, 2005 Roads (Opening and Closing) Act, 1991 Crown Land Management Act, 2009 Local Government Act, 1932 & 1999 City of Adelaide Act, 1998 Development Act, 1993 Natural Resources and Management Act, 2004 Environmental Protection Act, 1993 Disability Discrimination Act, 1992 (Commonwealth) Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act, 1999 (Commonwealth)


2.5 Environmental impact assessments under Commonwealth, state or territory legislation An Environmental Impact Assessment is required under state legislation (Development Act, 1993). A preliminary Environment Impact Assessment Report was prepared internally by DPTI during the early planning phase to identify potential risks and opportunities (see Attachment D). Also, Project Impact Report that addresses key environmental issues has been prepared for public review (August, 2015). 2.6 Public consultation (including with Indigenous stakeholders) The project team has consulted with key stakeholders including government and non-government agencies, property owners, businesses and tenants adjacent or close to the proposed corridor to identify any issues related to the preferred alignment and to work toward finding ways to address these. Meetings have been held with: ACC (Adelaide City Council), APLA (Adelaide Park Lands Association), Tandanya, East End Traders, St Peter’s College, Wine Center, Synagogue-Beit Shalom, Petrol Station (Woolworths), Caravan Park, Retirement Village (Vailima Gardens), Hackney Hotel, Observatory Function Centre, Adelaide Bowling Club, Residents, Kaurna Nation Cultural Heritage Association, Ramindjeri Heritage Association. The department has undertaken a formal stakeholder and community consultation process including information sessions Rundle Mall and at the Tea Tree Gully Library and an open day in the Park Lands. These provided the opportunity for the wider community to find out more, get questions answered, and provide their feedback. The department is committed to keeping the community informed about the project’s progress. A project website has been set up with key information, including links to community engagement, FAQs, feedback form, and contact details. 2.7 A staged development or component of a larger project The O-Bahn City Access project is a stand-alone project. It is not part of a staged development or component of a larger project.


3 Description of environment & likely impacts

3.1 Matters of national environmental significance 3.1 (a) World Heritage Properties Description There are no World Heritage Properties within the vicinity of the proposed development area. The nearest World Heritage property is the Australian Fossil Mammal Site in Naracoorte, south-eastern SA (approximately 320 km south-east of Adelaide). Nature and extent of likely impact There will be no impact on World Heritage properties.


3.1 (b) National Heritage Places Description The proposed project will require works to be undertaken within the National Heritage Listed Adelaide Park Lands and City Layout (November 2008, National Heritage Listing under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Act). Encroachment into the Park Lands was assessed as an impact at variance with the principles of the heritage listing. The concept design (Attachment B) shows the portions of the Park Lands the works will impact and includes –

the banks of the River Torrens immediately west of the existing Hackney Road Bridge – new pedestrian bridge the Park Lands along the west side of hackney road (Botanic Park/ Botanic Gardens) – provision of dedicated bus

only lanes, formalisation of shared path and pedestrian bridge over Hackney Road Park 13: Rundle Park/ Kadlitpina – bus only tunnel Park 14: Rymill Park/ Mullawirraburka – bus only tunnel and road realignment of East Terrace.

The most notable changes will be seen in Park 13 and Park 14 as a result of the road realignment and new tunnel. While there is not an easement in place that covers this parcel of land, it represents a historical connection with a previous transport orientated use of the land. The proposed changes follow similar alignments to that of previous transport corridors in; the new tunnel aligns with the remnant embankment of the c1908 Kensington Gardens tramway and the realignment of East Terrace being similar to the original alignment which was altered in the 1960s. The north tunnel portal will be located within Hackney Road. The O-Bahn City Access project does not fundamentally alter the layout of Hackney Road, nor in turn the definition of the outer edge of the Park Lands in this locality. While minor kerb realignments of parking areas and the entry to Plane Tree Drive are proposed, this has no discernible impact on the National Heritage values of the Park Lands layout. Similarly, the formalisation of a new shared path is in general accord with the existing park lands layout, and footpath setout. The exception to this is the minor deviation to accommodate the new pedestrian / cycle bridge over the River Torrens, however such variances are again not considered to have any adverse impacts on the Park Lands layout (Attachment F). Furthermore, all curb realignments and necessary road widening into the Park Lands will be administered via Roads (Opening and Closing) Act 1991 in conjunction with the Adelaide Park Lands Act 2005. Nature and extent of likely impact On 7 November 2008, the Adelaide Park Lands and City Layout were given National Heritage status. The listing recognises the 1837 Adelaide Park Lands and City Layout as a technical masterwork which went on to influence the planning of other towns in Australia and overseas. The criteria and values identified during the nomination of the Adelaide Park Lands and City Layout form the basis for assessing the nature and extent of likely impact. A heritage architect has been engaged by the Department to undertake a preliminary assessment of the impact of the proposed work to National Heritage values of Adelaide Park Land and City Layout (refer to Attachment F for the Report). In their view, the proposed works are in principle consistent with the National Heritage values that contributed to the Adelaide Park Lands and City Layout listing, specifically;

the city grid layout, park lands layout, views and vistas, and aesthetic qualities/ landscape/ use.

The project team appreciates that the project remains in the early stages of design development. Heritage architects will continue to be engaged at various stages of the planning and design process to ensure that further design development maintains the environmental, cultural, recreational and social heritage status of the Park Lands. The criteria and values identified during the nomination of the Adelaide Park Lands and City Layout and the project impacts are described below: Criterion A: Events, Processes (natural or cultural history) This criterion highlights the importance of the cultural history associated with the physical expression of the 1837 Adelaide Plan designed and laid out by Colonel William Light. It has endured as a recognisable historical layout for over 170 years and is of importance because it signifies a turning point in the settlement of Australia. The Adelaide Plan was highly influential as a model for planning other towns in Australia and overseas. The Adelaide Park Lands are also significant for the longevity of its protection and conservation over time. The proposed works will not impact on the events and processes leading to or reflected in the historical layout. Works will not alter the historical layout per se.


Criterion B: Rarity Criterion B is focussed on the Adelaide Park Lands and City Layout as a rare, and the most complete, example of nineteenth century colonial planning where planning and survey were undertaken prior to settlement. The historical layout as conceived in the 1837 Adelaide Plan remains clearly legible today with Adelaide being the only Australian capital city to be completely enclosed by Park Lands. They are also the most extensive and substantially intact nineteenth century park lands in Australia. The proposed works do not adversely impact on the 1837 Adelaide Plan or its status as the most complete example of nineteenth century colonial planning. The historical layout of the Park Lands will remain. Works will not diminish or impact on the extent and integrity of the encircling Park Lands. Criterion D: Principal characteristics of a class of places Criterion D discusses the Adelaide Park Lands and City Layout as an exemplar of a nineteenth century planned urban centre and demonstrates the principal characteristics of a nineteenth century city including a defined boundary, streets in a grid pattern, wide streets, public squares, spacious rectangular blocks and expansive public open space for commons and public domains. The expression of these features with their generous open space reflects the early theories and ideas of the Garden City movement, which incorporates an urban area set in publicly accessible open space with plantings, gardens, designed areas and open bushland. The proposed works maintain the characteristic of a planned nineteenth century city. The department is working with Adelaide City Council and will continue to engage with the community to ensure landscape and urban design provides the best balance of landscaping and open space opportunities. Criterion F: Creative or technical achievement Criterion F identifies that the Adelaide Park Lands and City Layout is regarded throughout Australia and the world as a masterwork of urban design. Elements of the Adelaide Plan that contribute to the design excellence are the use of the encircling Park Lands to define the boundary of the development of the city and to provide for health, public access, sport, recreation and public institutional domains, thereby meeting both economic and social requirements. Designing the city layout to respond to the topography was highly innovative for its time with the northern sections of the city located and angled to take advantage of the rising ground while retaining the Torrens River as a feature within the Park Lands. The judicious sitting and wide streets maximised views and vistas through the city and Park Lands and from some locations to the Adelaide Hills. The formal organization, delineation and dedication of the Park Lands space was a pioneering technical achievement of William Light in the Adelaide Plan and the creativity of the city and park land design is clearly legible in the contemporary landscape viewed from the air or from the Adelaide Hills. The proposal has no adverse impact on the creative or technical achievement values of the heritage listing. The project offers the opportunity to heighten the formality of the Park Lands and enhance public access and use of Park Land areas, reinforcing the economic and social contribution of the Adelaide Park Lands. As highlighted in Attachment F roadways through the Park Lands were not specifically intrinsic to Light’s City Grid and Park Lands layout. Rather, the primary driver for their setout, location and alignment appears to have been based on need/ demand, with many of the City’s major streets simply being extended through to connect with outer lying areas as the City has grown/ evolved. The realignment of East Terrace is considered consistent with the historic trend of transport corridors through the Park Lands. For the most part, the proposed works will be contained within the existing ground plane, and the extent of possible visual intrusion is unlikely to impact on the National Heritage values associated with the views and vistas associated with the City Grid layout. Criterion G: Social value Criterion G is focussed on the outstanding social value of the Adelaide Park Lands to South Australians who see it as fundamental to the character and ambience of the city. The Park Lands recreation areas, sports grounds, gardens and public facilities provide venues for individual and group activities and events, meetings and passive and active recreation. The Park Lands also have significant social value due to the range of important civic, public, and cultural assets and institutions within it. The current layout of Park 13 and 14 are the product of multiple phases of re-landscaping the most significant works undertaken by Council in the 1960s, with the provision of recreational spaces being the primarily focus. The proposal will maintain the Park Land social value as a venue for individual and group activities, events, meetings and passive and active recreation. The proposed changes are consistent with the historic pattern of use and offer the opportunity to enhance the recreation areas, gardens and public facilities in these parks.


Criterion H: Significant people Colonel William Light is most famously associated with the Plan of Adelaide. He bore the ultimate responsibility, as recorded in his surviving publications and letters. The project has no impact on Colonel William Light’s association with the Adelaide Park Lands and City Layout. 3.1 (c) Wetlands of International Importance (declared Ramsar wetlands) Description There are no Ramsar Wetlands of International Significance within the vicinity of the proposed project. The nearest Ramsar site is the Coorong, and Lakes Alexandrina and Albert Wetland Ramsar Site near the mouth of the River Murray, approximately 70 kilometres south-east of Adelaide. Nature and extent of likely impact There will be no impact on any Ramsar Wetlands of International Significance. 3.1 (d) Listed threatened species and ecological communities


Description An EPBC Act Protected Matters Search Tool identified that the following threatened species may occur, or may have potential habitat, within the general vicinity (within 1km boundary) of the project area: Table 1: Listed threatened species and ecological communities

Species Common name Status

Threatened Ecological Community

Grey Box (Eucalyptus microcarpa) Grassy Woodlands and Derived Native Grasslands of South-eastern Australia

Endangered

Threatened Species (Bird) Botaurus poiciloptilus Australasian Bittern Endangered

Threatened Species (Bird) Pedionomus torquatus Plains-wanderer Vulnerable

Threatened Species (Bird) Rostratula australis Australian Painted Snipe Endangered

Threatened Species (mammal)

Pteropus poliocephalus Grey-headed Flying-fox Vulnerable

Threatened Species (Plant) Caladenia tensa Greencomb Spider-orchid Rigid Spider-orchid

Endangered

Threatened Species (Plant) Prasophyllum pruinosum Plum Leek-orchid Endangered

Threatened Species (Plant) Thelymitra matthewsii Spiral Sun-orchid Vulnerable

Grey Box (Eucalyptus microcarpa) Grassy Woodlands and Derived Native Grasslands of South-eastern Australia A vegetation survey of the project area was undertaken in December 2014. This survey, combined with desktop reviews of existing park management plans indicate that the Grey Box (Eucalyptus microcarpa) Grassy Woodlands and derived Native Grasslands of South-eastern Australia Ecological Community is not present in the project area and no remnant vegetation associations were identified as being located in or adjacent to the project area. Landscaped park land and garden beds with planted native and exotic species were identified. Plantings are not remnant and in general, species are not native to the region or State. Australasian Bittern (Botaurus poiciloptilus) In Australia, the Australasian Bittern occurs in terrestrial wetlands and, rarely, estuarine habitats, mainly in the temperate southeast and southwest. It favours wetlands with tall dense vegetation, where it forages in still, shallow water up to 0.3 m deep, often at the edges of pools or waterways, or from platforms or mats of vegetation over deep water. It favours permanent and seasonal freshwater habitats, particularly those dominated by sedges, rushes and/or reeds (e.g. Phragmites, Cyperus, Eleocharis, Juncus, Typha, Baumea, Bolboschoenus) or cutting grass (Gahnia) growing over muddy or peaty substrate. In South Australia, the Australasian Bittern is confined to the southeast, ranging north to the Murray River corridor and west to far southern Eyre Peninsula, and Kangaroo Island. It is most numerous in the swamps in the southeast of the state, notably Bool Lagoon (DSEWPaC 2012). This species has not been recorded in the project area previously and there is no available habitat that would make its presence likely. The main impact to this species caused by the project would be activities that reduced reed bed habitats and frog populations downstream. Pollution problems associated with the project are considered no higher than other issues across the metropolitan landscape. The project is not likely to have significant impacts on this species. Plains-wanderer (Pedionomus torquatus) The Plains-wanderer is a small ground-dwelling bird that is found in the low-land native grasslands of the Riverina region of Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia. Since European settlement the species has declined greatly in numbers and distribution. The main threat to this species is the clearing and modification of native grasslands for agriculture which has left little suitable areas for habitation. South Australia is one state where the species was once considered common, but is now endangered and effectively extinct in the south-east of the state. Its diet consists of a mixture of seeds, invertebrates (insects and spiders) and leaves. This species has not been recorded in the project area previously and there is no available habitat that would make its


presence likely. Australian Painted Snipe (Rostratula australis) The Australian Painted Snipe (Rostratula australis) is a wading bird that is usually found in shallow, freshwater or brackish wetlands. It is a cryptic species that nests among tall vegetation near water and feeds on invertebrates along the water’s edge and mudflats. It has a scattered distribution throughout Australia but the most important areas for the species are within wetlands where it is known to occur and breed (DEH, 2011). This species has not been recorded in the project area previously and there is no available habitat that would make its presence likely. Grey-headed Flying-fox (Pteropus poliocephalus) The Grey-headed Flying-fox is Australia's only endemic flying-fox and occurs in the coastal belt from Rockhampton in central Queensland to Melbourne in Victoria and sometimes ranges into South Australia (DoE 2012). A Grey-headed Flying-fox camp has been situated in Botanic Park, Adelaide, over the past 2 years with approximately 700 animals recorded. This camp is located some distance from the main O-Bahn construction activities and is unlikely to be impacted by the proposed works. Furthermore, there is unlikely to be any significant impact on individual flying-foxes when they leave the camp at night to feed in surrounding areas as they are already habituated to city traffic, activity and lighting (pers. comm. P Copley DEWNR 2013). Greencomb Spider-orchid/ Rigid Spider-orchid (Caladenia tensa) Historically, the Greencomb Spider-orchid was widespread on aeolian sand deposits surrounding, and including, the Little Desert in western Victoria and south-east South Australia. In South Australia the species exists in east and south-east where it is considered widespread, but uncommon. This species has not been recorded in the project area previously. Plum Leek-orchid (Prasophyllum pruinosum) The Plum Leek-orchid is endemic to South Australia. The species is known to exist in eight geographically isolated and distinct locations, which extend from the Barossa Valley through Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges Region to Belair National Park. Threats include urban development and agriculture, grazing, fire management and weed invasion. There is no longer any suitable habitat for this species in the area and the project is not likely to cause impacts on current populations and/or recovery actions. Spiral Sun-orchid (Thelymitra matthewsii) The Spiral Sun-orchid is currently known to exist in Victoria, South Australia and New Zealand. Throughout its range the species is rare and of sporadic distribution. In South Australia, the species is known to occur on Kangaroo Island, south west of Keith and south of Meningie. There is no longer any suitable habitat for this species in the area and the project is not likely to cause impacts on current populations and/or recovery actions.


Nature and extent of likely impact It is considered that construction activities and vegetation removals required for the project will have no impact on threatened species or ecological communities. Given the anthropogenic vegetation and highly urbanised environment adjacent to a major transport corridor, habitat value is considered low. The following tables (Tables 2, 3 and 4) outline the Department of the Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities significant impact criteria for threatened species and ecological communities, applied to each of the threatened species and ecological communities that were listed in the EPBC Act Protected Matters Report. Table 2: Significant impact criteria for critically endangered and endangered ecological communities

Criteria Grey Box (Eucalyptus microcarpa) Grassy Woodlands and Derived Native Grasslands of South-eastern Australia

Reduce the extent of an ecological community No

Fragment or increase fragmentation of an ecological community, for example by clearing vegetation for roads or transmission lines

No

Adversely affect habitat critical to the survival of an ecological community No

Modify or destroy abiotic (non-living) factors (such as water, nutrients, or soil) necessary for an ecological community’s survival, including reduction of groundwater levels, or substantial alteration of surface water drainage patterns

No

Cause a substantial change in the species composition of an occurrence of an ecological community, including causing a decline or loss of functionally important species, for example through regular burning or flora or fauna harvesting

No

Cause a substantial reduction in the quality or integrity of an occurrence of an ecological community, including but not limited to: - assisting invasive species, that are harmful to the listed ecological community, to become established, - causing regular mobilisation of fertilisers, herbicides or other chemicals or pollutants into the ecological community which kill or inhibit the growth of species in the ecological community

No

Interfere with the recovery of an ecological community No

The Grey Box (Eucalyptus microcarpa) Grassy Woodlands and derived Native Grasslands of South-eastern Australia Ecological Community is not present in the project area and no remnant vegetation associations were identified located in or adjacent to the project area. Table 3: Significant impact criteria for critically endangered and endangered species

Criteria Botaurus poiciloptilus

Prasophyllum pruinosum

Rostratula australis

Caladenia tensa

Lead to a long-term decrease in the size of a population No No No No

Reduce the area of occupancy of the species No No No No

Fragment an existing population into two or more populations

No No No No

Adversely affect habitat critical to the survival of a species No No No No

Disrupt the breeding cycle of a population No No No No

Modify, destroy, remove, isolate or decrease the availability or quality of habitat to the extent that the species is likely to decline

No No No No

Result in invasive species that are harmful to a critically endangered or endangered species becoming established in the endangered or critically endangered species’ habitat

No No No No


Introduce disease that may cause the species to decline No No No No

Interfere with the recovery of the species No No No No

Table 4: Significant impact criteria for vulnerable species

Criteria Pedionomus torquatus

Thelymitra matthewsii

Pteropus poliocephalus

Lead to a long-term decrease in the size of an important population of a species

No No No

Reduce the area of occupancy of an important population No No No

Fragment an existing important population into two or more populations No No No

Adversely affect critical habitat to the survival of a species No No No

Disrupt the breeding cycle of an important population No No No

Modify, destroy, remove, isolate or decrease the availability or quality of habitat to the extent that the species is likely to decline

No No No

Result in invasive species that are harmful to a vulnerable species becoming established in the vulnerable species’ habitat

No No No

Introduce disease that may cause the species to decline No No No

Interfere substantially with the recovery of the species No No No

3.1 (e) Listed migratory species


Description The EPBC Protected Matters Search Tool identified that the following migratory species may occur, or may have potential habitat, within the general vicinity (within 1km boundary) of the project area: Table 5: Listed migratory species

Species Common name Status

Marine Apus pacificus Fork-tailed Swift

Terrestrial Haliaeetus leucogaster White-bellied Sea-Eagle

Terrestrial Merops ornatus Rainbow Bee-eater

Terrestrial Myiagra cyanoleuca Satin Flycatcher

Wetland Ardea alba Great Egret, White Egret

Wetland Adrea ibis Cattle Egret

Wetland Gallinago hardwickii Latham’s Snipe, Japanese Snipe

Wetland Pandion cristatus Eastern Osprey

Wetland Rostratula benghalensis (sensu lato) Painted Snipe Endangered

Fork-tailed Swift (Apus pacificus) The Fork-tailed Swift is a migratory bird species that is listed under the China-Australia Migratory Bird Agreement (CAMBA), the Japan-Australia Migratory Bird Agreement (JAMBA) and Republic of Korea Migratory Bird Agreement (ROKAMBA). This species spends its winters in Australia (from WA to SA), arriving in early October. It is an aerial species and inhabits open country from semi-deserts to coasts and islands (Pizzey, 1980). White-bellied Sea Eagle (Haliaeetus leucogaster) The White-belied Sea Eagle is a large bird of prey that is commonly found in the coastal and near coastal areas of Australia. Its distribution also includes New Guinea, China, Indonesia and India. These eagles spend much of their time soaring over waterways and adjacent land and can also often be seen perched on trees. Their diet consists mostly of aquatic animals but will also consume mammals and other birds (Australian Museum, 2007). Rainbow Bee-eater (Merops ornatus) The Rainbow Bee-eater is found throughout the mainland of Australia and is widespread, except in desert areas. This species breeds throughout most of its range (although southern birds move north to breed) and is found in open forests, woodlands, shrublands and cleared areas, usually near water. Their diet consists mostly of insects, mainly bees and wasps (Australian Museum, 2007). Satin Flycatcher (Myiagra cyanoleuca) The Satin Flycatcher is found along the east coast of Australia from far northern Queensland to Tasmania, including south-eastern South Australia. The Satin Flycatcher is a migratory species that moves north in autumn to spend winter in northern Australia and New Guinea and returns south in spring to breed and spend summer in the south east of Australia. They inhabit heavily vegetated gullies in eucalypt-dominated forests and taller woodlands, and on migration, occur in coastal forests, woodlands, mangroves and drier woodlands and open forests. Their diet consists mostly of inserts and some seeds. Great Egret, White Egret (Ardea alba) Eastern Great Egrets are widespread across Australia. The species is typically found in shallow waters has been reported in a wide range of wetland habitats (inland/ coastal, freshwater/ saline, permanent/ ephemeral, open/ vegetated, large/ small, natural/ artificial). The species migrates seasonally, mostly to and from breeding colonies, and towards the coast in the dry season. Their diet is diverse and consists of fish, insects, crustaceans, molluscs, frogs, lizards, snakes and small birds and mammals. Cattle Egret (Adrea ibis) The Cattle Egret is a relatively new colonist of Australia from Asia. Since its first documented natural occurrence in the Northern Territory in 1948 it has colonised much of the country including parts of South Australia. It typically inhabits tropical and temperate grasslands, wooded lands and terrestrial wetlands. It is commonly associated with the habitats of farm animals, particularly cattle fields and other farm areas that contain livestock. In Australia, the bird migrates from breeding colonies in south-east Queensland and north-east NSW to spend winter in either south-east Australia or New Zealand. During breeding


season their diet consists mostly of grasshoppers, however they are known to consume other insects including cicadas, centipedes, spiders, cattle ticks, frogs (including cane toads), lizards (particularly skinks) and small mammals. Latham’s Snipe, Japanese Snipe (Gallinago hardwickii) Latham’s Snipe is the largest snipe found in Australia that is a non-breeding migrant to south-east Australia. Breeding occurs in Japan and the east Asia mainland. Their preferred habitat is freshwater wetlands and they can also be found amongst dense vegetation along the coast. They feed on seed, plant material, worms, spiders and insects, molluscs, isopods and centipedes (Australian Museum, 2007). Eastern Osprey (Pandion cristatus) The Eastern Osprey is considered to be moderately common in Australia, and occurs in low numbers in South Australia. They are mostly found in coastal areas but occasionally travel inland along major rivers. Adult birds tend to reside around breeding territories, but will range more freely in non-breeding periods during which they will return to breeding sites intermittently. Young birds tend to migrate more from their natal territories, but many return to breed. Their diet consists mainly of fish (especially mullet where available) and making up a smaller portion of their diet are molluscs, crustaceans, insects, reptiles, birds and mammals. Painted Snipe (Rostratula benghalensis (sensu lato)) The Painted Snipe is not a true snipe as it is less agile and occurs in a scattered distribution pattern along the east coast from the north of Queensland to the Eyre Peninsula in South Australia. This species inhabits inland and coastal shallow freshwater wetlands and feeds on invertebrates and plant materials such as seeds (Australian Museum, 2007). None of the above species have been recorded in the project area. Nature and extent of likely impact The anthropogenic vegetation and highly urbanised environment of the project area supports no significant habitat for wildlife. Existing vegetation size, density, floristic combination and proximity to other vegetation links/corridors is not considered sufficient to provide suitable habitat for native fauna species except as a temporary roosting and feeding site for common bird species. As such, it is not anticipated that the proposed O-Bahn City Access Project will impact significantly upon any of the migratory species. None of these species have been observed previously in the area and it is extremely unlikely that they will be impacted by either construction or operation of the project. Table 6: Significant impact criteria for migratory species

Criteria

Apus pacificus

Haliaeetus leucogaster

Merops ornatus

Myia

gra

cyano

leu

ca

Ard

ea a

lba

Ad

rea ib

is

Gallinago hardw

ickii

Pa

ndion

cristatu

s

Rostratula benghalensis (sensu lato)

Substantially modify, (including by fragmenting, altering fire regimes, altering nutrient cycles or altering hydrological cycles) destroy or isolate an area of important habitat for migratory species

no no no no no no no no no

Result in an invasive species that is harmful to the migratory species becoming established in an area of important habitat for the migratory species


Seriously disrupt the lifecycle (breeding, feeding, migrating or resting behaviour) of an ecologically significant proportion of the population of a migratory species



3.1 (f) Commonwealth marine area Description The proposed project is not located within or near a Commonwealth marine area. The closest Commonwealth marine area is three nautical miles from the coast and the coast is approximately 10 kilometres from the project area. Nature and extent of likely impact There will be no impacts in a Commonwealth marine area. 3.1 (g) Commonwealth land Description The proposed project is not located within or near Commonwealth land. Nature and extent of likely impact There will be no impacts to Commonwealth land.


3.1 (h) The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Description The proposed project is not located within or near the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. Nature and extent of likely impact There will be no impacts to the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. 3.1 (i) A water resource, in relation to coal seam gas development and large coal mining development Description The proposed project is not a coal seam gas development or a large coal mining development. Nature and extent of likely impact There will be no impacts to water resources the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.

3.2 Nuclear actions, actions taken by the Commonwealth (or Commonwealth agency), actions taken in a Commonwealth marine area, actions taken on Commonwealth land, or actions taken in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park 3.2 (a) Is the proposed action a nuclear action? X No

Yes (provide details below)

If yes, nature & extent of likely impact on the whole environment

3.2 (b) Is the proposed action to be taken by the Commonwealth or a Commonwealth agency?

X No


If yes, nature & extent of likely impact on the whole environment

3.2 (c) Is the proposed action to be taken in a Commonwealth marine area?

X No


If yes, nature & extent of likely impact on the whole environment (in addition to 3.1(f))

3.2 (d) Is the proposed action to be taken on Commonwealth land?

X No


If yes, nature & extent of likely impact on the whole environment (in addition to 3.1(g))

3.2 (e) Is the proposed action to be taken in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park?

X No


If yes, nature & extent of likely impact on the whole environment (in addition to 3.1(h))


3.3 Other important features of the environment 3.3 (a) Flora and fauna FLORA A number of regulated and significant trees and other amenity plantings will require removal or major pruning to accommodate the proposed works (refer to Attachment D for details). There is no native vegetation in the project site. All tree removals will be subject to relevant approvals. A landscape design will be prepared and will include planting of trees to provide an offset for the removals and to enhance the amenity of the project area. Landscaping within the project area has generally changed and evolved over time. According to the Adelaide City Council State of the Environment Report (ACC, 2005) most of the vegetation in this area was cleared during settlement. Over time landscape designers have replanted the area with formal avenues, plantations and gardens. The following provides a description of the current vegetation: Hackney Road The majority of vegetation in the project area comprises of: street trees, areas of shrubs, amenity garden beds and some large mature trees some of which meet Development Act (DAC) Regulated and Significant size criteria. There are no trees within the project footprint which are individually listed on the Significant Tree Register within Adelaide City Council (ACC) Development Plan, however the following vegetation is stated of conservation importance within ‘Community Land Management Plan Chapter 11’, by ACC in 2013, and ‘Adelaide Park Land and Squares Cultural Assessment Study’, by David Jones in 2007 and ‘Botanic Gardens of Adelaide - Master Plan Report’, by Taylor Cullity Lethean in 2006):

River Torrens revegetation and biodiversity plantings, A Carob tree planted between 1880’s – 1910s near Bundeys Rd, Plane Trees which line the southern side of Plane Tree Drive and were planted in 1874, Botanic Park which dates back to 1874.

Other vegetation in the project area that may have high community value is the Meidiland roses in the Hackney Road median and the single row of Vines which separates Hackney Road from adjacent car parking. Transplanting the vines to a suitable location maybe considered as opposed to removing them. The majority of vegetation impacts will occur in the road median and an area of Parkland near the Wine Centre. Vegetation consists of street trees, low shrubs and ground covers within amenity garden beds. The amenity value of these plants can be replaced within 2-10 years. Clearing on both banks of the Torrens for the construction of the bridge. This area is significantly degraded already implying that impacts to flora will not be significant in this region, but may still occur. Park Lands (Park 13 and 14) The vegetation in the project area comprises of occasional areas of shrubs and garden beds, street trees and large mature trees some of which meet Development Act (DAC) Regulated and Significant size criteria. No trees within the project area are individually listed on the Significant Tree Register within Adelaide City Council Development Plan, however the following vegetation is stated of conservation importance within the ‘Community Land Management Plan Chapter 14’, by ACC in 2013, and ‘Adelaide Park Land and Squares Cultural Assessment Study’, by David Jones in 2007):

White Cedar Avenues dating back to the mid 1870s, Camphor Laurel circle planting by the Lions Club dating back to the mid 1990s, Moreton Bay Fig dating from 1880s, Peace and Friendship – Two garden Memorial stones dating from 1980 and 1996.

Other vegetation in the project area that may have high community value includes large Elm Trees (Ulmus procera) which line Rundle Road and exist in the Park Land and any large tree within the Park Land. Vegetation impacts will generally occur through Rymill Park and along the south eastern corner of Rundle Park. In addition to this an area of parkland south of Grenfell Street and west of East Terrace will also impacted as a result of the realignment of East Terrace. The majority of vegetation is large mature trees and two sections of low shrubs. FAUNA


The project site is located in a highly urbanised area and as such fauna species are limited. The River Torrens and Park Land do however provide habitat to a number of bird spices and some small mammals and as such indirect impacts caused by the removal of vegetation are possible and must be managed. Hackney Road There will be a requirement to clear some vegetation on both banks of the Torrens for the construction of the bridge. This area is significantly degraded already implying that impacts to fauna will not be significant in this region, but may still occur. Care needs to be taken to minimise impacts to the riparian system as there are a variety of threatened freshwater fish species utilising the Torrens. Park Lands (Park 13 and 14) Indirect impacts will be caused by the removal of vegetation. The removal of a significant number of habitat hollows may impact on the local fauna community. These may provide breeding sites for state rated fauna species both recorded on site, or in close proximity to the site, including the Rare rated Common Brushtail Possum. Numbers of possums are generally high in the Adelaide Park Lands and therefore the loss of some hollows is not likely to be significant for the metropolitan population. To minimise impacts hollows discovered during the tree removal works can be stored and incorporate into the landscape design as fauna habitat. The Vulnerable Yellow-tailed Black-Cockatoo, Rare rated Crested Shrike Tit and Australasian Darter and the Grey Currawong (rated at the subspecies level) have also been recorded in the area. Removal of large numbers of mature trees will impact on habitat availability for these species, however impacts are considered to be minor. 3.3 (b) Hydrology, including water flows The project area falls within the Torrens Catchment area. The River Torrens originates in the Adelaide Hills near Mount Pleasant, flows across the Adelaide Plains and empties into the Gulf St. Vincent at Henley Beach South. The River Torrens within the Adelaide City Council is classified as part of the Adelaide Park Lands (ACC, 2005). The project footprint and in particular the tunnel, will intercept the First Creek crossing and will be constructed adjacent to the Botanic creek, both which feed into the River Torrens. Groundwater is of varying depths throughout the site, and as shallow as 2-3 m in some areas. The groundwater level ranges from 2.7 m to 4.3 m in the Botanic Garden wetland region and stands around 6.8m just to the west of the National Wine Centre. A search of Water Connect (11/12/14) showed that the SWL in 1984 at the intersection of Botanic Road and Dequetteville Terrace was 5.8 m. Just south of Bartels Road within the Park Land, the SWL was shown to be 1.7 m in 1992. To the east of Dequetteville Terrace, the SWL was 9.1 m and to the west of East Terrace was 10.7 m in 1934. Further investigations and ground water monitoring within the project footprint are currently underway. Preliminary results confirm historical data and report ground water levels to vary between 2-9 m bgl SWL, indicating a significant need for groundwater management is required during construction and operational stage of the tunnel. The estimated increase in non-permeable surface area is approximately 0.6 ha which is not expected to have a significant impact on the volume of stormwater runoff to the River Torrens or challenge the capacity of existing stormwater infrastructure. The existing stormwater along Hackney Road runs directly into the River Torrens. There is a potential that minor realignment and extension of stormwater drainage infrastructure is required. New tunnel and realigned East terrace will require development of stormwater infrastructure. A new bridge is to be constructed on the western side of the existing bridge over the River Torrens. This will add a 14.4m of footprint width-wise from the edge of the existing bridge. The construction is likely to involve the clearing of topsoil, construction of abutments on the river banks and directional boring for the pile construction. Bridge design will address surface water requirements. Stormwater designs will consider and incorporate elements to address Water Sensitive Urban Design principles. This includes consideration to issues such as flooding and maintaining stream ecology within and downstream of the project site. Any diversion of stormwater runoff from the proposed development is subject to the Water Allocation Plan for the Western Mount Lofty Ranges Water Resources Protection Area (WAP). The project must comply with the Natural Resources Management Act 2004 which is administered partly by the Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges Natural Resources Management Board (AMLRNRMB) in this project area and the Environmental Protection Act 1993 which requires DPTI to take all ‘reasonable and practicable’ measures to prevent or minimize any resulting harm’ from conducting an activity that pollutes or might pollute, the environment. The Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges Natural Resources Management Board is responsible for managing water quality in the Torrens River catchment, while the Adelaide City Council is responsible for managing the aesthetic quality of the Torrens Lake between Hackney Road Bridge and the Torrens Weir, in accordance with the Environment Protection (Water Quality) Policy under the Environmental Protection Act 1993 to specifically address water quality issues.


Water Quality Risk Assessment and a Water Affecting Activity Permit Risk assessment will be completed in accordance with DPTI’s ‘Water Affecting Activities Permit Best Practice Operating Procedure’, which has been approved by AMLRNRMB. The Water Quality Risk Assessment will address ground water impacts and will inform a need for a licence for taking of water from an aquifer (NRMA) and a recharge licence (EPA). The contractor will also maintain Earthworks Drainage licence. 3.3 (c) Soil and Vegetation characteristics In keeping with the floodplain character, most soils along the River Torrens were originally alluvial in nature, grading towards solonized brown soils further away from the river. These soils have since been modified to varying degrees. Drainage of these soils is rapid, but they can be temporarily waterlogged from surface flooding. They are likely to be fertile with abundant silt deposits (ACC 2007). Recent geotechnical investigations indicate that depth of fill range is between 0.15 m and 5 m bgl, deepest in areas of First and Botanic Creek. The natural layers comprise of sands clays and gravels- alluvial deposits of the River Torrens up to 15 m bgl. Below are Hindmarsh Clay layers, inferred sands of the Pt Willunga Formation and further bellow black clays of the inferred Chinaman Gully Formation. In recent years there have been a number of projects that have required works within the Adelaide Park Lands. Works in the West End, Adelaide Oval, Adelaide Oval Footbridge, and the Britannia Roundabout have all indicated a presence of contaminated soil. There are two reasons for these elevated levels:

1. the historic use of Park Land as dumping grounds, and 2. naturally occurring hydrocarbons due to the extended presence of vegetation.

In addition to historical dumping in the Park Lands, an old tramway exists through Park 14 (Rymill Park/ Murlawirrapurka), running from the top of Rundle Road to the embankment adjacent to the Rymill Park Lake, this poses an increased chance of encountering contamination within this former corridor. Recent, in situ contamination investigations have classified fill and natural layers within the project footprint in accordance with SA EPA Waste Derived Fill Guidelines and the National Environmental Protection Measure. The fill material across the site is currently classified as exceeding Low Level Contaminated Waste based on Benzo(a)payrene and total PAH concentrations across the site. The natural soil is classified as Waste Fill. This is in line with past project results for the Park Lands, where the most contaminated soil was in the upper levels and the degree of contamination reduced as the depth increases. For vegetation characteristics of the project area refer section 3.3 (a) above. 3.3 (d) Outstanding natural features With the exception of the Adelaide Park Lands themselves, there are no outstanding natural features such as caves, ocean cliffs, etc. within the project area. 3.3 (e) Remnant native vegetation There is no remnant native vegetation. Refer section 3.3 (a) above for vegetation. 3.3 (f) Gradient (or depth range if action is to be taken in a marine area) N/A 3.3 (g) Current state of the environment The project area comprises of a highly modified urban environment that has experienced complete landscape change during the initial years of colonial settlement, and subsequent modifications with road upgrades and other developments in the area. Park Land and streetscape revegetation strategies have focused on restoring the tree layer, minimal shrubbery and an anthropogenic manicured grass layer (lawn) to facilitate an open space system for recreational purposes and amenity value. Revegetation attempts include mostly non-indigenous species. Pre-European vegetation associations are either non-existent or extremely reduced in habitat quality and viability. There are some Environmental and Declared weeds that have been identified in within or in close proximity to the project site. Based on the proposed alignment some of these will be impacted. 3.3 (h) Commonwealth Heritage Places or other places recognised as having heritage values The following places of identified National, state and local heritage value are located within and surrounding the immediate area affected by the proposed O-Bahn City Access project:


Heritage Item Status Adelaide Park Lands and City Layout National Heritage Place Hackney Bridge (former New Company Bridge), ID 14261 (eastern portion only) State Heritage Place Bicentennial Conservatory, Adelaide Botanic Gardens, ID 20996 State Heritage Place Former Municipal Tramway Trust (MTT) Hackney Tram (later bus) Depot, including Goodman Building and Tram Barn (now the Plant Biodiversity Centre), Adelaide Botanic Gardens, ID 12349

State Heritage Place

National Wine Centre of Australia Administration Building [‘Yarrabee House], (former Lunatic Asylum Medical Officer’s Residence) and Front Fence, ID 13642


Stone Wall, Adelaide Botanic Gardens Botanic Road, Adelaide, ID 17067 State Heritage Place Royal Hotel, 2 North Terrace Kent Town, ID 13116 State Heritage Place Former Romilly House, 1 North Terrace, Hackney, ID 14260 State Heritage Place Former Kent Town Brewery and Malthouse, Rundle St Kent Town, ID 10268


Marshall and Brougham Offices (former Dwelling), 12 Dequetteville Terrace Kent Town, ID 14111


Botanic Bar (former Botanic Hotel), 309 North Terrace, Adelaide, ID 10847 State Heritage Place Office, East End Market Buildings, 6-9A East Terrace, Adelaide, ID 13921 State Heritage Place PJ O’Brien (former East End Market Hotel), 10-12 (ka 14) East Terrace, Adelaide, ID 13922


Office, East End Market Buildings, 14-16 East Terrace, Adelaide, ID 13924 State Heritage Place Stag Hotel, 299 Rundle Street, Adelaide, ID 13380 State Heritage Place 26-36 East Terrace, Former Adelaide Fruit and Produce Exchange Facades and Shops, ID 11722


Tandanya (former Adelaide Electric Supply Company Power Station, 243- 253 Grenfell Street, Adelaide, IS 10984


Adelaide Electric Supply Company Converter Station, 48-51 East Terrace, Adelaide, ID 10985


Former Municipal Tramways Trust (MTT) No.1 Converter Station, 52-60 East Terrace, Adelaide, ID 10986


Carriageway entrance gates, Hackney Road, Botanic Park Local Heritage Place St Peter’s College, Hackney Local Heritage Place Various dwellings to Hackney Road Local Heritage Place Former Offices, 17-20 East Terrace / 300 Rundle Street, Adelaide Local Heritage Place War Horse Memorial Trough and Obelisk, corner of East Terrace and Botanic Park, Rundle Park Adelaide.

Local Heritage Place

Any potential impacts associated with the proposed O-Bahn City Access project will primarily be limited to those associated with the National heritage listed Adelaide Park Land and City Layout. While the proposed works are to be undertaken in close proximity to a large number of State and Local heritage places (as outlined above), the work neither physically impacts on these heritage places, nor fundamentally impacts on the setting of these places. National Heritage Places The proposed project will require works to be undertaken within the National Heritage Listed Adelaide Park Lands and City Layout. Encroachment into the Adelaide Park Lands will be required. Refer section 3.1 (b) above for details. State Heritage Places There are a number of State Heritage places within the vicinity of the proposed works. While the proposed works do not physically impact on any of these places, any development which in the opinion of the relevant authority materially affects the context within which the State Heritage place is situated is referred to the Minister administering the Heritage Places Act 1993 for assessment of the potential impacts on the heritage values of the affected places. The Hackney Road Bridge is the only state heritage listed site located within the project footprint. The bridge is located at Hackney Road’s crossing point of the River. Two bridges cross over the River Torrens at this location: one accommodating the city inward bound lanes (eastern bridge); and one accommodating the outward bound lanes (western bridge). The State Heritage listing applies to the eastern bridge only. No physical works are proposed to the State Heritage listed Hackney Bridge by the O-Bahn City Access project. Nonetheless construction works are proposed in close proximity to the structure and these will need to be assessed and managed appropriately to ensure they do not have an adverse effect on the heritage structure.


Similarly, while the rest of the heritage places will not be directly impacted by the project, it is acknowledged that they are located in close proximity to the project footprint and construction works (particularly in relation to vibration) will need to be managed to avoid damage. Of particular concern due to their proximity to construction works are:

National Wine Centre of Australia Administration Building (Yarrabee House) and Front Fence Former Romilly House Royal Hotel

Local Heritage Places Under the Development Act, roadworks are not considered development, with the exception of such works within the Adelaide Park Lands. Potential impacts of the proposed works on Local heritage places are accordingly limited to either those affecting Local heritage places within the Park Land, namely;

- Carriageway entrance gates, Hackney Road, Botanic Park - War Horse Memorial Trough and Obelisk, corner of East Terrace and Botanic Park, Rundle Park Adelaide.

These are listed as local heritage items of ‘City Significance’ in the Adelaide City Council Development Plan. The project does not propose any physical works to the Carriage Entrance Gates, nor any works that would adversely impact on their setting or ongoing use. Proposed works indicated some encroachment on the memorial, specifically the plaque. Current concepts suggest the plaque may need to be relocated, however it should be noted that these concepts are somewhat indicative and impacts to the memorial may be able to be designed-out through further design development. While impacts on the other sites do not require consideration under the Development Act, it should be noted that these other sites are not impacted by the proposed works. Further assessments may be required to ascertain the level of management required to ensure that the construction does not have an adverse effect on the Heritage Structures. Other Places of significances While not a listed site of heritage value, the Value House located in the north-eastern corner of Park 13 and in close proximity to the project site (within 30 m) is considered to be of cultural and historic significance. Erected in the 1870s, it is the last remaining building from the former Kent Town Waterworks, which occupied the north-western corner of Park 13.

3.3 (i) Indigenous heritage values It is recognised and acknowledged that the Adelaide Park lands may be important to Aboriginal groups from the perspective of history and past traditions. The Adelaide Park lands have been the subject of numerous cultural heritage investigations and reports over time and the significance of areas within the Park Lands to Aboriginal people is well documented. It is recognised and acknowledged that the project may be important to Aboriginal groups from the perspective of history and past traditions. The Department has engaged an archaeologist (EBS Environments) to undertake an Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Impact Assessment including a heritage survey and risk assessment (attachment G). In addition, parts of the project site were surveyed previously by Australian Cultural Heritage Management (ACHM) in November 2009 from the end of the existing O-Bahn track on Park Terrace, to the intersection of Hackney Rd/ Dequetteville Terrace and North Terrace/ Botanic Rd. No archaeological sites were identified within the project area during either survey, but it was determined that there is a high likelihood of revealing sub surface archaeological deposits during earthworks near the River Torrens. DPTI has sought a Section 23 authorisation under the Aboriginal Heritage Act 1988. The contractor for the project will be inducted to DPTI’s Cultural Heritage Guidelines and will be required to follow the ‘stop work’ provisions (in Master Specification Part 155 and Aboriginal Heritage Survey report for the project) if sites are discovered during construction. Native Title has been extinguished over the whole land proposed to be used for the Project. 3.3 (j) Other important or unique values of the environment As outlined in the criteria and values of Adelaide Park Lands National Heritage Listing...”the Adelaide Park Lands has outstanding value to South Australians who see it as fundamental to the character and ambience of the city” (Gazette Cat. No S23808). The open space, aesthetic qualities, recreational opportunities and environmental landscapes of the Park Lands are thus highly valued by the community.


These values have been reiterated by the community who have expressed their concerns regarding the project’s impact specifically to Park 14. Detailed urban design and landscape architecture concept design reports have been drafted for the Department of Planning, Transport and Infrastructure to establish the framework and ensure the best urban design outcomes are achieved in the Park Lands, East End and adjacent Hackney Road (Botanic Gardens and River Torrens). The conceptual design developed by TCL (Attachment E) reflects curatorial selection of plant species communicating nature and intent of Botanic Park. Likewise conceptual design developed by WAX (Attachment E) reflects recreational use of the Rymill and Rundle Parks. The O-Bahn City Access Project will result in both landscape and urban design changes for the Park Lands and surrounding urban areas. Landscaping will be installed to remediate and enhance areas impacted by construction. The project also has the opportunity to contribute to the Park Lands and surrounding area in consultation with the community and the Adelaide City Council to enhance event spaces and the vibrancy of the East End precinct. DPTI will continue to working with Adelaide City Council to ensure landscape and urban design for the Park Lands (specifically Parks 13 and 14) provides the best balance of landscaping and open space opportunities. 3.3 (k) Tenure of the action area (eg freehold, leasehold) Land within the Adelaide Park Land is defined by a Plan logged with Government Registry office (GRO). The Adelaide Park Land is under care, control and management of the Adelaide City Council. Proposed project and associated infrastructure will be under the care, control and management of the Department for Planning, Transport and Infrastructure. The Surveyor General as stipulated by the Adelaide Park Lands Act 2005 is responsible for amendments to the Adelaide Parkland Plan only with the concurrence of the Adelaide City Council and the Minister for Environment. The project team has engaged with the Surveyor General and will follow advice if the creation of an easement is required. 3.3 (l) Existing land/marine uses of area The existing land uses within or adjacent to the project area include:

Commercial premises Residential properties Social & recreational

o Retail o Restaurants, Cafes, Bars o Australian National Wine Centre o Adelaide Park Lands, specifically Botanic Park, Botanic Gardens, Rundle Park/ , Rymill Park/

Aesthetic, community use o Adelaide Park Lands, specifically Botanic Park, Botanic Gardens, Rundle Park/ , Rymill Park/

Car parking 3.3 (m) Any proposed land/marine uses of area Land use within the project area will remain unchanged.


4 Environmental outcomes Refer to attachment H for the Project Impact Report which includes details on environmental outcomes for the project.

5 Measures to avoid or reduce impacts The proposed O-Bahn City Access project provides a technical and operational solution that balances a range of issues and constraints including minimising impact on the National Heritage Listed Adelaide Park Lands and City Layout. The project team understands that the project remains in a very early stage of design development and further design development will be undertaken by the contractor. Heritage architects will continue to be engaged at various stages of the planning and design process to ensure that further design development maintains the environmental, cultural, recreational and social heritage status of the Park Lands. In addition the department is working with Adelaide City Council and will continue to engage with the community to ensure landscape and urban design provides the best balance of landscaping and open space opportunities. DPTI has engaged a landscape and urban designer to prepare plans for the Park Land. The construction contractor will be required to provide a Construction Environment Management Plan (CEMP) which will address environmental issues. A range of environmental management, mitigation and monitoring measures will be implemented prior, during and after the construction and operation of the proposed project. Work to date includes various investigations that have been prepared in house and externally. These will be used to better inform the project team of the project constraints, risks and opportunities and direct the more detailed design development. Work includes

o noise and vibration modelling, o air quality modelling, o vegetation survey, o geotechnical, groundwater and contamination investigations, o non-aboriginal and aboriginal cultural heritage assessments o landscape and urban design

Examples of management and mitigation measures include:

The establishment of an overall management system that will incorporate Construction Environmental Management Plans and monitoring requirements (i.e. for water quality, noise, air quality, weeds etc).

Detailed environmental management measures to be implemented during construction will include: o the protection of vegetation in accordance with the principles of AS4970 Protection of Trees on development

sites o identification and implementation of a Contractor Activity Zone o implementation of dust suppression procedures o minimisation of noise and vibration from heavy vehicle movements where practicable o staged clearing and progressive rehabilitation of vegetation o work areas will be inspected regularly to check for any trapped fauna, which will be relocated to suitable

habitat where practicable o all employees will undergo a site induction and education program that details standard operating procedures

to protect site environmental features o implementation of a weed management plan to control the introduction of weed species to the project area

and to manage and eradicate any outbreaks as well as the prevention of potential spreading of weed species through the movement of soil and excavation.

o rubbish collection points and recycling areas will be enclosed and maintained to prevent the attraction of pest species (and ultimately feral predator species)

o drainage and erosion control measures will be implemented to ensure the protection of water quality in key habitat areas, such as the River Torrens

o undertaking regular environmental reviews and/or audits to ensure mitigation and management measures to minimise environmental impacts meet requirements.


6 Conclusion on the likelihood of significant impacts

6.1 Do you THINK your proposed action is a controlled action?

X No, complete section 6.2

Yes, complete section 6.3

6.2 Proposed action IS NOT a controlled action. Six criteria were identified during the nomination of the Adelaide Park Lands and City Layout. Values, specific to the site were then assigned to each of those criteria and the project was assessed against these. As discussed in Section 3.1 (b), it is considered that the O-Bahn City Access Project will not have a significant impact on the natural or cultural history of the Park Lands, the Adelaide Park Lands and City Layout Plan or the social value of the Adelaide Park Lands and as such, is not a controlled action.

6.3 Proposed action IS a controlled action Matters likely to be impacted

World Heritage values (sections 12 and 15A)

National Heritage places (sections 15B and 15C)

Wetlands of international importance (sections 16 and 17B)

Listed threatened species and communities (sections 18 and 18A)

Listed migratory species (sections 20 and 20A)

Protection of the environment from nuclear actions (sections 21 and 22A)

Commonwealth marine environment (sections 23 and 24A)

Great Barrier Reef Marine Park (sections 24B and 24C)

A water resource, in relation to coal seam gas development and large coal mining development (sections 24D and 24E)

Protection of the environment from actions involving Commonwealth land (sections 26 and 27A)

Protection of the environment from Commonwealth actions (section 28)

Commonwealth Heritage places overseas (sections 27B and 27C)


7 Environmental record of the responsible party Yes No 7.1 Does the party taking the action have a satisfactory record of responsible

environmental management?

X

Provide details McConnell Dowell Constructions (Aust) Pty Ltd has been selected by DPTI as the preferred contractor to design and build the O-Bahn City Access Project. The strength of McConnell Dowell’s commitment to environmental protection and the implementation of our environmental management framework through the integrated management system have allowed us to deliver our projects without any environmental prosecutions or sanctions. This record of compliance is one that we are extremely proud of and something that we are determined to maintain.

7.2 Has either (a) the party proposing to take the action, or (b) if a permit has been applied for in relation to the action, the person making the application - ever been subject to any proceedings under a Commonwealth, State or Territory law for the protection of the environment or the conservation and sustainable use of natural resources? If yes, provide details

Environmental Penalty Infringement Notices

In August 2013 an Infringement Notice was received from Department of Environment and Heritage Protection at the QCLNG Export Pipeline project in Queensland. The notice related to an identified environmental incident that involved the release of storm water from site. McConnell Dowell as part of the MCJV (McConnell Dowell CCC Joint Venture) received a fine of $2,200 for the incident, with our joint venture partner also receiving the same penalty.

In January 2014 an Infringement Notice was received from Department of Environment and Heritage Protection at the APLNG project in Queensland in relation to contaminant released direct to water after a major rain event. Two 4” water transfer pumps were inundated at a waterway during heavy rainfall event. Each pump had a 15L diesel fuel reservoir, and some percentage of this was lost to waterway. Subsequently a new procedure was implemented to ensure removal of pumps from low lying adjacent waterway zones prior to forecast rain events.

Notwithstanding these recent incidents McConnell Dowell has an excellent record in terms of environmental compliance with environmental legislation and permit and approval conditions. We have worked on environmentally challenging project all States where the environmental requirements through project approvals have been strict and have required significant management. Environmental Statutory Enforcement Notices

Incident Date Location Environmental

Improvement Notice Corrective Action

Dec 12 QLD In relation to erosion and sediment control measures following a rain event

Further information was provided to the regulator and no further action was required. Notice withdrawn

Feb 13 QLD In relation to erosion and sediment control measures following an intense rainfall event


Feb 13 QLD In relation to erosion and sediment control measures following an intense rainfall event


X


7.3 If the party taking the action is a corporation, will the action be taken in accordance with the corporation’s environmental policy and planning framework?

X

If yes, provide details of environmental policy and planning framework

McConnell Dowell will lead by example in ensuring that statutory and contractual requirements are met and positive environmental performance is maximised. To achieve this, the McConnell Dowell Board has developed an Environmental Policy that directs the level of commitment to positive environmental performance for the project.

The Policy makes the following key commitments:

Demonstrated environmental leadership;

Eliminating or minimising significant environmental impacts;

Working together with clients to achieve shared goals;

Continuous improvement in environmental outcomes; and

Compliance with applicable environmental legislation and project specific requirements

McConnell Dowell operates an ISO 14001 accredited Environmental Management System (EMS) that forms part of the integrated MacDow Management System (MMS). The MMS provides the framework for managers to implement specified corporate standards and practices in a consistent manner. It defines the application of work practices, processes, and systems for engineering / design, acquisition of materials, equipment and services, construction, and other services related to tendering and project execution.

McConnell Dowell is required to develop a Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) which forms part of the overarching Project Execution Plan (PEP) for the delivery of the Project. The CEMP provides a system and set of procedures to ensure that McConnell Dowell establishes and maintains sound and effective controls to manage potential environmental impacts throughout the Project, and wherever practicable, realise opportunities for enhanced environmental outcomes.

Effective environmental management needs to be proactive rather than reactive. The CEMP is therefore based upon a risk management approach to identify and assess environmental risk associated with each element of the project and to implement appropriate mitigation strategies to minimise the subsequent risk.

7.4 Has the party taking the action previously referred an action under the EPBC Act, or been responsible for undertaking an action referred under the EPBC Act?

X

Provide name of proposal and EPBC reference number (if known) McConnell Dowell Constructors Australia – Adelaide SA Riverbank Precinct Pedestrian Bridge Construction (EPBC referral number 2013/6723). Proposed action referred, but deemed ‘Not a Controlled Action’.


8 Information sources and attachments (For the information provided above)

8.1 References Commonwealth of Australia Gazette, 2007. Cat. No. S23808. Department of Environment, Species Profile and Threats Database, http://www.environment.gov.au/cgi-bin/sprat/public/sprat.pl Water Connect, https://www.waterconnect.sa.gov.au/Pages/Home.aspx Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources, EnvMaps, http://egismaps.env.sa.gov.au/Geocortex/Essentials/Web/Viewer.aspx?Site=EnvMaps Department of Environment, Protected Matters Search Tool, http://www.environment.gov.au/epbc/protected-matters-search-tool

8.2 Reliability and date of information The information collated for section 3 of the referral is considered to be reliable, up to date and with no uncertainties. The information has been collated from recent date database searches, websites and onsite surveys and reports over the past 12 - 18 months.


8.3 Attachments

attached Title of attachment(s)

You must attach

figures, maps or aerial photographs showing the project locality (section 1)

Attachment B, Visualisation and plans Attachment A, GIS data supply guidelines GIS file delineating the boundary of the

referral area (section 1)

figures, maps or aerial photographs showing the location of the project in respect to any matters of national environmental significance or important features of the environments (section 3)

Attachment F, Non-Aboriginal Heritage Report

If relevant, attach

copies of any state or local government approvals and consent conditions (section 2.5)

copies of any completed assessments to meet state or local government approvals and outcomes of public consultations, if available (section 2.6)

copies of any flora and fauna investigations and surveys (section 3)

Attachment D, Vegetation survey

technical reports relevant to the assessment of impacts on protected matters that support the arguments and conclusions in the referral (section 3 and 4)

Attachment F, Non-Aboriginal Heritage Assessment

report(s) on any public consultations undertaken, including with Indigenous stakeholders (section 3)


REFERRAL CHECKLIST HAVE YOU:

Completed all required sections of the referral form?

Included accurate coordinates (to allow the location of the proposed action to be mapped)?

Provided a map showing the location and approximate boundaries of the project area?

Provided a map/plan showing the location of the action in relation to any matters of NES?

Provided a digital file (preferably ArcGIS shapefile, refer to guidelines at Attachment A) delineating the boundaries of the referral area?

Provided complete contact details and signed the form?

Provided copies of any documents referenced in the referral form?

Ensured that all attachments are less than three megabytes (3mb)?

Sent the referral to the Department (electronic and hard copy preferred)?


Attachment A Geographic Information System (GIS) data supply guidelines Includes:

- Plan showing boundary area and points - List of latitude and longitude of boundary points - GIS shape files

Attachment B Concept plans (June 2015) Includes:

- Visualisation, refer http://www.infrastructure.sa.gov.au/public_transport_projects/o-bahn_city_access - Hackney Road plan - Rundle Road plan

Attachment C Preliminary Environmental Impact Assessment Report

Attachment D Vegetation survey Includes:

- Independent Arborist Report, Treevolution

Attachment E Landscape and Urban Design Reports Includes:

- Hackney Road (TCL Report) - Park Lands (WAX Report)

Attachment F Non-Aboriginal Heritage Impact Assessment (DASH Report) Includes:

- Non-Aboriginal Heritage Impact Assessment Report, DASH Architects

Attachment G

Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Impact Assessment Includes:

- Cultural Heritage Impact Assessment Report, EBS Heritage

Attachment H Project Impact Report (DPTI) Includes:

- The O-Bahn City Access Project Impact Report, August 2015

Documents

O-Bahn City Access Project