Old Wallgrove Road widening (Roberts Road to Wallgrove ... · Old Wallgrove Road [Roberts Road to M7 Interchanges] - Eastern Creek - Urban Design Report and Landscape Character &

Appendix I Urban design, landscape character and visual impact assessment

ENVIFACTORS

MONTH/YEAR (blank page)

OLD WALLGROVE ROAD [ROBERTS ROAD TO M7 INTERCHANGES] - EASTERN CREEK PREPARED FOR RMS | MARCH 2012

URBAN DESIGN REPORT AND LANDSCAPE CHARACTER & VISUAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT

2 | AECOM Design + Planning

Cover photograph: Aerial photo (source: Google Earth)

This document has been prepared solely for the benefit of RMS and is issued in confidence for the purposes only for which it is supplied. Unauthorised use of this document in any form whatsoever is prohibited. No liability is accepted by AECOM Australia Pty Ltd or any employee, contractor, or sub-consultant of this company with respect to its use by any other person. This disclaimer shall apply notwithstanding that the document may be made available to other persons for an application for permission or approval to fullfil a legal obligation.

60213616 – Concept Design: Old Wallgrove Road and Mini Link Road

Old Wallgrove Road [Roberts Road to M7 Interchanges] - Eastern Creek - Urban Design Report and Landscape Character & Visual Impact Assessment

RMS

Issue for Final Concept Design

Stephen Callaghan

28TH March 2012

Sophie Spinks and Akiko Murakami & Andrew Derkatch - graphics

P:\_60213616_Wallgrove_Road\5.CADD\5.6Graphics\120307_VIA_Wallgrove Rd.indd

Road and Maritime Services

Project:

Report Title:

Client Reference:

Revision / Version:

Approved by:

Date:

Author(s):

File Location:

Distribution:

Revision Date Approved Details of Revision

1 15.06.2011 SC Draft for comment

2 24.06.2011 SC Final submission 20% Concept

3 19.08.2011 SC Final Submission 80% Concept

4 24.11.2011 SC Issue for Final Concept Design Approval

5 07.03.2012 SC Revision to Final Concept Design



Old Wallgrove Road [Roberts Road to M7 Interchanges] - Eastern Creek| 3

TABLE OF CONTENTS

60213616 – Concept Design: Old Wallgrove Road and Mini Link Road

Old Wallgrove Road [Roberts Road to M7 Interchanges] - Eastern Creek - Urban Design Report and Landscape Character & Visual Impact Assessment

RMS

Issue for Final Concept Design

Stephen Callaghan

28TH March 2012

Sophie Spinks and Akiko Murakami & Andrew Derkatch - graphics

P:\_60213616_Wallgrove_Road\5.CADD\5.6Graphics\120307_VIA_Wallgrove Rd.indd

Road and Maritime Services

1.0 INTRODUCTION 5

2.0 METHODOLOGY 9

2.1 Methodology 10

2.2 Map of Observer Locations 11

3.0 CONTEXTUAL LANDSCAPE CHARACTER ANALYSIS 13

4.0 URBAN DESIGN 25

4.1 Urban Design Objectives and Principles 26

4.2 Erskine Park Link Road Design Review 28

4.3 Urban Design Concept 30

5.0 LANDSCAPE CHARACTER IMPACT ASSESSMENT 33

6.0 VISIBILITY OF PROPOSAL 39

7.0 VISUAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT 43

7.1 Introduction 44

7.2 Observer Location 1: Old Wallgrove Road and Robert Street Intersection 46

7.3 Observer Location 2: Road User - Old Wallgrove Road 48

7.4 Observer Location 3: Old Wallgrove Road and Eskdale Creek 50

7.5 Observer Location 4: Old Wallgrove Road, Wallgrove Road and M7 Motorway Intersection 52

7.6 Observe Location 5: Mini Link Road and Reedy Creek 54

7.7 Overall Rating 56

8.0 LANDSCAPE CHARACTER AND VISUAL IMPACT MITIGATION STRATEGY 59

9.1 LANDSCAPE IMPLEMENTATION 63

This page is left intentionally blank

1.0Introduction


Intersection of Old Wallgrove Road and Wallgrove Road


AECOM has been commissioned by the RMS to prepare a concept design for the upgrade of Old Wallgrove Road (OWR) which will form the final section of the Erskine Park Link Road (EPLR) linking through to Wallgrove Road and the M7 Motorway.

To assist with the development of the preferred route and concept design, this Landscape Character and Visual Impact Assessment report has been prepared to inform the design direction, avoid / minimise impacts and set strategies to mitigate those impacts. The intent is to improve the physical design outcome through an integrated engineering and urban design response that is contextually sensitive.

1.1 INTRODUCTION

Figure 1.1.1: Aerial Photo showing Old Wallgrove Road and surrounding Employment Lands

Through this contextual analysis of landscape character (natural/built/community) and views, urban design objectives and principles have been established to direct the concept design throughout the project.

Project Overview

The extent of design work includes the upgrade of approximately 1.5Km of Old Wallgrove Road, the construction of a new 0.5Km long Mini Link Road (MLR) and the upgrade of Wallgove Road where it intersects with Old Wallgrove Road and MLR (approximately 0.6Km).

Implementation will be undertaken in two stages; initially a dual 2 lane carriageway with median will be built along Old Wallgrove Road and MLR. Ultimately, OWR will be expanded to 3 lanes with a reduced median in each direction.

Additional turning lanes will be added along Wallgrove Road between OWR and MLR requiring the widening of two road bridges under which Eskdale Creek and Reedy Creek flow. A combined cycle/pedestrian path will run along the northern side of Old Wallgrove Road linking it into a broader regional cycle network. A footway only is proposed on the southern side of OWR.

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2.0Methodology


2.1 METHODOLOGY

The assessment is undertaken in accordance with the RMS Environmental Impact Assessment Guidance Note – Guidelines for Landscape Character and Visual Impact Assessment (hereafter the RMS Guideline).

Previously stated in Section 1, this Landscape Character and Visual Impact Assessment Report is to be read in conjunction with the Familiarisation Report (2nd May 2011), the Strategic Concept Design comments and issues Plans (1st June 2011) and the Review of Environmental Factors (REF).

The structure of this report is outlined below:

a. Contextual / Landscape Character Analysis

b. Urban Design Objectives and Principles

c. Urban Design Concept

d. Landscape Character Impact Assessment

e. Visibility of Proposal

f. Visual Impact Assessment

g. Landscape Character and Visual Impact Mitigation Strategy

Observer Locations

The project site sits within the Eastern Creek Precinct (Release Area 3) of SEPP 59 - Central Western Sydney Economic and Employment Area. The land is zoned for Employment however, it is only partially developed with large tracts of land lying vacant or being used for rural pursuits including cattle grazing.

The existing `big box’ developments present blank facades that are screened with vegetation along Old Wallgrove Road, a designated sub-arterial road. Physical access and street address to these developments tend to face side roads including Roberts Road, Southbridge Street (south) and the future Mini Link Road. As such, the Old Wallgrove Road upgrade will predominantly be experienced via vehicle, bicycle or on foot rather than from a workplace window, save glimpses near road intersections. It is assumed that future developments along Old Wallgrove Road will be of a similar nature in terms of scale, setbacks, access and street address. Conversely, developments along Mini Link Road will potentially be accessible from and address this road.

Given that substantial areas of land adjacent to Old Wallgrove Road and the proposed Mini Link Road are currently undeveloped, the visual catchment to and from the road is much larger than would be anticipated post precinct development. In selecting observer locations, both the existing and projected precinct development have been considered.

Final observation locations were confirmed after a review of the site and surrounding area by car and on foot. The chosen locations are representative, publicly accessible places which capture the potential for views to, from and within the proposed road upgrades. These are primarily along the road corridor from which the sensitivity and magnitude of the change can be measured (refer Figure 2.2.1 Map of Observer Locations).

Observer Locations that have not been included in this report were either deemed not significant due to very low observer numbers, or the proposed development site being substantially obscured from view by landform, trees or by other factors.


2.2 MAP OF OBSERVER LOCATIONS

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Upgraded section of Old Wallgrove Road, Wallgrove Road and the proposed Mini Link Road

Observer Location 1: Old Wallgrove Road and Robert Street Intersection

Observer Location 2: Road User - Old Wallgrove Road.

Observer Location 3: Old Wallgrove Road and Eskdale Creek

Observer Location 4: Old Wallgrove Road and Wallgrove Road intersection

Mini Link Road and Reedy Creek

Figure 2.2.1: Map of Observer Locations and surrounding locality (source: Google Maps)

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Contextual Landscape Character Analysis 3.0


3.1 CONTEXTUAL LANDSCAPE CHARACTER ANALYSIS

The following contextual and landscape character analysis has been prepared based on site investigations and a review of the Employment Lands Precinct Plan (SEPP 59 - Central Western Sydney Economic and Employment Area (Eastern Creek Precinct) prepared for and endorsed by Blacktown City Council (December 2005). Reference should also be made to the Familiarisation and Issues Report (AECOM; 2nd May 2011)

To convey our observations, a series of plan overlays have been prepared with a brief description to highlight the key characteristics of the following categories;

» Location and Road Network

» Topography and Hydrology

» Flora and Fauna

» Views and Vistas

» Landuse, Infrastructure and Heritage

» Landscape Character

Figure 3.1.1: Context Map (Source: Employment Lands Precinct Plan. Eastern Creek Precinct - SEPP 59 Report: Blacktown City Council 2005)

Location and Road Network

The project site is located at Eastern Creek within the City of Blacktown, approximately 35Km west of the Sydney CBD. Eastern Creek is strategically located in terms of its direct links into two of Sydney’s major regional transport corridors, the M4 and M7 Motorways. The M4 links the site east to Sydney’s CBD and west to the Blue Mountains while the M7 links the site into Sydney’s orbital motorway network, north to the M2 and south to the M5.

Currently, Old Wallgrove Road is a heavily trafficed (freight trucks and cars) dual single lane carriageway with grass verges and no kerb and guttering. Categorised as a

sub-arterial road, the proposed upgrade to Old Wallgrove Road and new MLR will form the final section of Erskine Park Link Road (EPLR) under construction linking through to Wallgrove Road and the M7 motorway.

Traffic lights will be introduced at each intersection along the widened road whose ultimate configuration will be a dual 3 lane carriageway including a median. The MLR will be a dual 2 lane carriageway also with a median.

A shared cycle / pedestrian path is designed on the northern side of the EPLR with the intention to eventually connect to the broader regional cycle network within Western Sydney Region Parklands.

Introduction Blacktown City CouncilIntroduction Blacktown City Council

Figure 1 – Regional Context

SEPP 59 – Eastern Creek Precinct Plan (Stage 3) 1-3Dated: 14 December 2005 SEPP 59 – Eastern Creek Precinct Plan (Stage 3) 1-3Dated: 14 December 2005

Blacktown Local Government area

SEPP 59 - Employment Lands

M4 + M7 Motorway

Old Wallgrove Road upgrade

M4

M7

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Old Wallgrove Road / Wallgrove Road / M7 Interchange | 15

TO M4 + MINCHINBURY

TO ERSKINE PARK

SYDNEY WEST SUBSTATION

Figure 3.1.1: Context Map (Source: Employment Lands Precinct Plan. Eastern Creek Precinct - SEPP 59 Report: Blacktown City Council 2005) Figure 3.1.2: Topography and Hydrology Mapping (Aerial photo source: google earth)

Topography and Hydrology

The precinct is a series of undulating hills and valleys with localised steep cutting batters associated with remnant vegetation along ridgelines. Specifically, these cutting batters occur at the highest point of the project site where Old Wallgrove Road intersects with Roberts Road. The topography then falls towards the west (interface with EPLR) and east (to Eskdale Creek) establishing an overall height difference of 26.5m from east to west. Road gradients range between 4.65% and 1.15% along Old Wallgrove Road. In the vicinity of the proposed Mini Link Road which sits adjacent to Reedy Creek the topography subtly undulates between 59m and 55m.

Old Wallgrove Road roughly follows the ridgeline between 3 drainage catchments including;

» Substation Catchment to the west (small portion only)

which drains to Ropes Creek

» Eastern Creek Tributary Catchment to the north which drains into Eskdale Creek

» Reedy Creek Catchment to the south which drains into Reedy Creek

Old Wallgrove Road predominantly drains towards Eskdale Creek while the proposed Mini Link Road will drain towards Reedy Creek. Both creeks flow east into Eastern Creek which forms part of the greater Hawkesbury-Nepean river system.

A series of drainage basins (dry sediment basins & wetlands) have been constructed adjacent to the riparian corridors and between Wallgrove Road and the M7 Motorway.

Currently, a number of road culverts convey Eskdale Creek beneath Quarry Road and Wallgrove Road and surface drainage under Old Wallgrove Road towards Eskdale Creek.

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Steep cutting batter

Drainage Catchment Boundary

Riparian Corridor

Existing Drainage Basins

Existing Culverts

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16 | AECOM Design + Planning Old Wallgrove Road / Wallgrove Road / M7 Interchange | 16

Flora and Fauna

Remnant vegetation of endangered ecological communities occur adjacent to the proposed road upgrade including;

» Cumberland Plain Woodland along the ridge on the southern side of Old Wallgrove Road

» River Flat Eucalypt Forest along Reedy Creek

These planting communities are supported by two soil types, most commonly the Blacktown soil landscape which occurs on undulating slopes laid over Wianamatta Group Shale, the second is South Creek soil landscape that is associated with Quaternary alluvial deposits along creeks laid over bedrock.

Beyond the vegetated areas along ridgelines and creeks the landscape is a blanket of open grass with scattered trees having been cleared In the past for agricultural pursuits.

No street tree planting currently exists along Old Wallgrove Road or any of the adjoining streets. However, screen and amenity plantings have been planted within development parcels to address the streetscape. An Australian native palette has predominantly been used.

A mature grove of casuarinas line Eskdale Creek, which provides habitat for the regionally significant Cumberland Plain Land Snail.

Remnant Cumberland Plain Woodland

River Flat Eucalypt. Forest - Riparian Corridor

Casuarina Grove - Riparian Corridor

Drainage Basin Planting (existing)

Scattered Trees in Grass

Screen / Amenity Planting (within developments)

Cumberland Plain Land Snail

Figure 3.1.3: Flora and Fauna Mapping (Aerial photo source: google earth)

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Views and Vistas

The variation in topography provides great viewing opportunities both in and out of the precinct. Distant views towards the Blue Mountains in the west and Western Sydney Parklands to the east can be appreciated from the project high points.

More immediately, views are dominated by the road pavement, “big box” commercial development facades, grazing cattle in open fields, riparian corridor vegetation, remnant ridgeline vegetation, steep cutting batters, transmission lines and powerlines both along the road corridor and stancions in the distance.

The existing travel experience along Old Walgrove Road is seen as a series of open, enclosed and filtered views. Gradually, as urban infill occurs, “big box” commercial development will replace the open fields and enclose the views along the road corridor length. As such, the urban design of the road corridor is of paramount importance to the final road experience.

The ridgeline containing remnant vegetation is of high scenic quality establishing a visually important profile / backdrop when viewed from other areas within the locality. So too is the backdrop of riparian vegetation along Eskdale and Reedy Creek.

The east/west orientation of Old Wallgrove Road will influence road users experience and comfort as they may have to drive into morning or afternoon sun.

Elevated Viewpoint

Road Corridor Visual Catchment

Landscape Backdrop

Cutting batter

Commercial ‘big box’ Development

Major Power Lines and Stancions

Street Power Line and Poles

Street Lighting Poles

Open Views

Endeavour Energy transmission lines

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Figure 3.1.4: Views and Vistas Mapping (Aerial photo source: google earth)

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18 | AECOM Design + Planning Old Wallgrove Road / Wallgrove Road / M7 Interchange | 18

Riparian Corridor (Setback Requirement Supply)

Future Employment Lands (Indicative Building Envelopes)

Road Bridges (existing)

Road Bridges to be widened

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Landuse and Infrastructure

The surrounding landuse is zoned Employment Lands. However, much of the area remains undeveloped at this stage. Light industrial, warehouse and transport depot developments are envisaged for the precinct.

Development limitations are placed around the riparian corridor zones of Eskdale Creek and Reedy Creek (SEPP 34) with an objective to maintain flows, enhance biodiversity, ecological health and water quality.

A series of road bridges traverse Eskdale Creek and Reedy Creek along Wallgrove Road and the M7 Motorway. To accommodate the proposed concept design, two road bridges on Wallgrove Road will need to be widened.

Figure 3.1.5: Landuse and Infrastructure Mapping (Aerial photo source: google earth)

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Landscape Character

The proposed Old Wallgrove Road upgrade runs through a rolling, rural / industrial fringe landscape, that climbs 26.5m in elevation as it traverses 1.5Km from the vegetated Eskdale Creek corridor in the east, through grasslands and scattered`big box’ commercial developments, to the steep cutting batters of the western ridgeline containing remnant Cumberland Plain Woodland of high scenic value.

The proposed 0.5Km Mini Link Road is nestled within a landscape bowl adjacent to Reedy Creek containing remnant River Flat Eucalypt Forest, light industrial development and vacant grassland.

Land use is currently subject to a range of activities including:

» Commercial and light industrial uses including distribution centres (Coles Meyer, UEA and Toll etc.)

» Rural pursuits (predominantly grazing on vacant land)

» Riparian corridors containing remnant vegetation within Eskdale Creek and Reedy Creek

The landscape character and land use of this area will substantially change as the area is redeveloped into Èmployment Lands’ as part of the SEPP 59 Eastern Creek Precinct Release Area 3 vision.

Landscape character sub-units or zones within the described overall character type are illustrated below:

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Transition / Vegetated Ridge Zone

Rural /Industrial Zone

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Figure 3.1.6: Landscape Character Sub-units / Zones (Aerial photo source: google earth)

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1. Transition/ Vegetated Ridge ZoneThis area comprises of the tie-in works between Erskine Park Link Road and the proposed upgrade works and continues for a length of approximately 400m to the extent of the remnant Cumberland Plain Woodland and cutting batter along the southern side of Old Wallgrove Road. The steep cutting batters define the road edge on the southern side and contain views to within the road corridor. To the north, views are partially contained by much lower unvegetated cutting batters before opening up to vacant grass fields and a backdrop of big box development in the near distance.

Distant views towards the Blue Mountains (west) and Western Sydney Parklands (east) are possible from this zone. The vegetated ridgeline creates a dramatic profile when viewed from the road corridor and Quarry Road and would be highly visible if disturbed. However, only limited opportunities for views towards the road upgrade exist within the immediate vicinity given the cutting batter height and fact that the industrial developments have few windows facing Old Wallgrove Road.

Figure 3.1.9: Panoramic view of Old Wallgrove Road from Ridge / Roberts Road Intersection (south view)

Figure 3.1.7: Panoramic view from Quarry Road looking south towards Old Wallgrove Road ridgeline (prior to transmission line install)

Figure 3.1.8: Panoramic view from Roberts Road intersection looking towards Old Wallgrove Road (north view)


2. Rural / Industrial Zone This area extends east for a length of 800m from the Transition/Vegetated Ridge Zone to Quarry Road. The zone is characterised by `big box’ development to the south and rural open grassland with scattered trees to the north upon which cattle graze. The proposed works would have very little impact on the existing landscape character in this zone and views onto the road from adjacent areas are limited given that the industrial developments facing Old Wallgrove Road have no windows and are screened with planting. However, the landscape character of the proposed road upgrade will be highly visible from the road corridor given the topography change and relatively straight road alignment towards the M7 Motorway.

Figure 3.1.11: Panoramic view from Southridge Street looking east down Old Wallgrove Road

Figure 3.1.10: Panoramic view looking west up Old Wallgrove Road. Endeavour Energy transmission lines run either side.


3. Riparian/ Rural ZoneThis zone extends east for a distance of approximately 300m, along both Old Wallgrove Road and the proposed Mini Link Road. The character of these areas are strongly defined by the backdrop of mature trees along the riparian corridors including Casuarina Grove along Eskdale Creek and the River Flat Eucalypt Forest along Reedy Creek. The creek vegetation provides a strong sense of enclosure to the road corridor and contains views. Between the two creek corridors lies a vacant land parcel of open grassland which is currently designated for development.

Figure 3.1.13: Panoramic view looking west along Old Wallgrove Road towards Wallgrove Road / M7 Motorway. Eskdale Creek and backdrop of casuarina grove on left hand side. Future site on the right hand side.

Figure 3.1.12: Panoramic view looking west from intersection of Capicure Road & future Mini Link Road. Reedy Creek & Forest backdrop on right


4. Transition / Bridge ZoneThis zone includes the localised tie-in-works where Old Wallgrove Road and the new Mini Link Road interface with the existing Wallgrove Road and includes the widening of 2 existing bridges to accommodate road widening requirements. The intent of the bridge widening is to retain a similar profile, use a similar construction technique and minimise the substructure requirements to lessen the impact on Eskdale and Reedy Creeks. The character of this area is dominated by road and creek corridors and associated drainage mitigation measures in the form of dry detention basins and wetlands. The zone will predominantly be experienced via the road corridors both from a distance and on the bridge structures themselves. Currently, cycle/pedestrian access is not incorporated beneath these bridges. The creek corridors show signs of weed infestation, particularly Eskdale Creek.

Figure 3.1.14: West view up OWR at Intersection of Wallgrove Rd

Figure 3.1.18: View beneath Wallgrove Road bridge and Eskdale Creek

Figure 3.1.17: View from cycle way bridge looking downstream towards Eskdale Creek

Figure 3.1.16: View beneath Wallgrove Road bridge and Reedy Creek

Figure 3.1.15: East view down OWR towards Wallgrove Rd Intersection


4.0Urban Design


4.1 URBAN DESIGN OBJECTIVES AND PRINCIPLES

Referencing Documents

The concept design has been developed in accordance with the policy and guidelines set down in the following RMS urban design documents:

» Beyond the Pavement: Urban Design Policy, Procedures and Design Principles (2009)

» EIA Guidance Note: Guidelines for landscape character and visual impact assessment

» RMS Landscape Guidelines

» RMS Bridge Aesthetics

The objective of these reference documents is to ensure a positive urban design outcome is achieved by minimising the impact of infrastructure projects on natural, built and cultural landscapes.

The aim is to develop an integrated physical design direction to achieve good physical, functional and aesthetic outcomes that are contextually sensitive.

The 9 Key Urban Design Principles outlined in RMS `Beyond the Pavement’ include;

» Contributing to urban structure and revitilisation

» Fitting into the built fabric

» Connecting modes and communities

» Fitting with the Landform

» Responding to Natural Patterns

» Incorporating heritage and cultural context

» Designing an experience in movement

» Creating self explaining Road environments

» Achieving Integrated and minimal maintenance design.

Vision

The vision for Old Wallgrove Road upgrade is to extend the Erskine Park Link Road concept (EPLR ) to Wallgrove Road. More broadly, this will complete the east/west road link from Erskine Park Road in the west through to Wallgrove Road in the east.

Old Wallgrove Road is to become a sub-arterial road servicing the Èmployment Lands’ within the Eastern Creek Precinct of SEPP 59 - Central Western Sydney Economic and Employment Area. To align with the precincts development, Old Wallgrove Road will be developed in 2 stages; an interim stage (dual 2 lane carriageway with wide median) and the ultimate (dual 3 lane carriageway with a reduced median). The proposed Mini Link Road (a dual 2 lane carriageway with median), the widening of two brides on Wallgrove Road and the reworking of existing intersections including traffic lights will all be undertaken in the first stage of works.

The landscape design plays a significant role given the scale of the final design, the anticipated traffic volumes and posted speed (80Km/h for Old Walgrove Road and 60Km/h for Mini Link Road) within the context of future `big box’ development. The landscape will create visual and physical relief, enhance the travellers experience by establishing a landscape identity unique and responsive to the area.

The landscape treatment will respond to the landscape character proposed along EPLR (Refer to Section 4.2) to achieve a `whole of road corridor’ design. Simultaneously, the landscape design will seek to capture and reflect the existing natural features of the area through which the road passes including, the Cumberland Plain Woodland

along the ridge, the riparian corridors along Eskdale and Reedy Creek, the views and the undulating topography and cutting batters.

A robust planting / material palette will be used, incorporating a selection of local species to reflect the landscape character. Informal planting is proposed adjacent to ridges and creeks in response to the remnant stands of vegetation. In contrast, a more structured planting approach to the remainder of the road corridor is envisaged.

For safety reasons, only turf and low planting will be used around major intersections to ensure sight line requirements are achieved. Medians will be planted with low frangible vegetation where space permits, a portion of which will be removed when the OWR is widened to 3 lanes in each direction.

Remediation planting is to be implemented where the proposed road and additional bridge piers impact upon the riparian corridors of Reedy and Eskdale Creeks. Drainage basins (dry detention and wetlands) will be planted with appropriate species incorporating water sensitive urban design (WSUD) principles and be easily accessible to ensure ongoing maintenance.

To encourage multi-transport modes and connectivity to the broader region, bus stops and off-road pathways (a 3m wide shared cycle/pedestrian path on the north side and a 1.5m pedestrian footpath on the south side will be integrated along the road corridor. To improve safety, a landscape buffer (low planting) between path and road will minimise exposure to traffic movements.

The profile and physical character of the 2 widened bridges on Wallgrove Road will simply be an extension of the existing infrastructure. If retaining walls are to be


incorporated as the design progresses to mediate level changes or protect significant vegetation, the design of these elements are to be to RMS standards, of an appropriate scale, carefully detailed and screened with vegetation where possible.

Objectives

The following urban design objectives were outlined for the project:

» Develop an integrated engineering and urban design outcome.

» Sensitively fit road infrastructure works into the built, natural and community environments through which they pass.

» Contribute to the character and functioning of the area.

» Contribute to the accessibility and connectivity of people within regions and communities.

» Contribute to the overall quality of the public domain for the community and all road users.

Design Principles

» A single, unified design along the length of the road with subtle differences between landscape character zones. Design to respond to EPLR landscape design and plant palette.

» Changes in the landscape design and vegetation to reflect changes in topography, soils and adjacent vegetation communities and character.

» Conservation of significant remnant Cumberland Plain Woodland along the ridgeline and riparian planting along the creeks.

» Informal planting around remnant stands of vegetation to be retained / re-instated around creeks and ridges to visually blend new and existing planting.

» More structured planting along remainder of road corridors to create visual impact, filter views of future `big box’ development and provide shade amenity adjacent to cycle/pedestrian pathways and bus stops.

» Low planting along cutting batters adjacent to Eskdale and Reedy Creek to allow clear views to watercourses and amplify the reading of the riparian corridor backdrop.

» Low frangible planting in the median and between pedestrian/cycle paths and road to provide a physical buffer while retaining sightlines. Planting in these areas to provide visual interest and relief to the expanse of road pavement.

» Low planting (turf or shrub <1m) only around signalised traffic intersections to retain critical sight lines.

» Low maintenance palette of materials (hard and soft) in accordance with RMS Landscape Design Guidelines.

» Plant species to be site appropriate, preferably native and compliment the EPLR landscape.

» Integration of public transport and òff road’ cycleways into the corridor. Shade and shelter to be provided at each Bus Stop.

» Integration of WSUD initiatives to relieve pressure on nearby creek systems.

» Cut and fill batters to be no greater than 1:3 (1:4 preferred) to facilitate effective revegetation and practicality of on-going management except where this conflicts with the conservation of significant stands of remnant vegetation.

» If retaining walls are required to retain significant stands of vegetation, the design of these elements are to be of an appropriate scale, design and potentially screened with vegetation.

» The profile and detailing of road bridges to be widened are to be similar in character and construction to that of the existing structure. Visually, the bridges are to recede into the broader landscape and minimise their impact on the creek corridors beneath.

» Avoid conflicts between tree planting and utilities (surface and sub-surface) which run on either side of the road. Vertical elements within the road corridor to be designed and integrated (trees / lights / powerlines / transmission lines etc.) for aesthetic reasons and access / maintenance requirements.

» If Heritage items are uncovered during construction of road upgrade, the findings are to be reported to Council and design to respond appropriately.

» Staged landscape approach to accommodate final build.

» Contribute to the overall quality of the public domain for the community and all road users.


4.2 ERSKINE PARK LINK ROAD (EPLR) DESIGN REVIEW

Figure 4.2.1: Erskine Park Link Road (EPLR) Design Review (Source: EPRL Landscape Construction Documentation: Clouston Associates)

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» Specific riparian planting (littoral + creek bed).

» A shared pedestrian/ cycle concrete footway proposed on the northern side of road corridor.

» Riprap applied at culvert ends followed by turf.

» Gravel adjacent to detention ponds for maintenance & vehicular access.

A review of the EPLR landscape design prepared by Clouston Associates (November 2010) was undertaken to inform the concept design for Old Wallgrove Road upgrade. The following observations have been made:

» Road corridor meanders through the landscape creating changing views and driver experience. Street tree planting, creek crossings/drainage basins and 3 road intersections add to the visual interest.

» 4 Tree Planting Typologies/ characters have been proposed (refer Figure 4.2.1 and Figure 4.2.2).

» Entire road corridor landscaped to the extent of road intervention.

» Planting intensification at intersections and riparian zones.

» Median planting included where wide enough and relates to planting intensification near intersections.

» All embankments (cut and fill) hydromulched. No planting beyond top/toe of batters.

» Two turf types (road edges + water quality basin).

Tree Planting Typology Description

Random Tree Planting at riparian zone (trees across the median)

Continuous Avenue (parallel to road) (Corymbia maculata at 10m spacing)

Spaced Avenue (parallel to road) (Melaleuca styphenoides + Eucalyptus moluccana)

Feature Tree Rows (perpendicular to road) (Melaleuca styphenoides + Eucalyptus moluccana)

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NOT TO SCALE

Figure 4.2.2: Erskine Park Link Road Tree Planting Typology Diagram

Legend

Street Tree Planting

Creek Crossings and Drainage Detention Basins

Road Intersections

Plant Schedule (EPLR)

R O A D

Tree Planting Typology Diagram

1 2 3 4

3

4

Palette of Materials

» Hardscape - Rip rap, gravel, in-situ concrete

» Softscape – Turf, hydromulch, trees and shrubs (existing / proposed road and riparian planting)

Planting palette

A native mix appropriate to the site and conditions (road verges / cutting batters / riparian corridors) have been specified (refer plant schedule below) . The hydromulch includes a combination of cover crop and long term planting.


4.3 URBAN DESIGN CONCEPT

Concept Design

The concept design illustrates a physical design response to the Vision, Objectives and Principles outlined previously. A unified design with subtle differences in landscape treatment between character zones ensures a `whole of road’ design approach to the upgrades. These differences respond to the existing and future landscape character (refer Section 3) of the area once roads and èmployment lands’ have been fully developed.

Landscape treatments are contextually sensitive and cost effectively create a unique road identity that enhances the road users experience both physically and visually. Conceptually, four (4) landscape character zones have been designed along the road corridor including;

» Creek Corridor

» Tilted Avenue

» Remnant Woodland Ridge

» Feature Intersection

These have been illustrated in the Urban Design Concept Design Plan below (Figure 4.3.1). with further description of their design intent in the legend.

The planting palette will be similar to the EPLR design (Refer Section 4.2) and included appropriate species from Cumberland Plain Woodland and River Flat Eucalypt Forest plant communities which fringe the road upgrade. To ensure a consistent design thread along road corridor, planting within the median (where space permits) and buffer planting between paths and roads will be the same as will the design / material selection of pathways, bus stops and lighting.

1.5 m pedestrian path only (south side)

3m Shared cycle / pedestrian path (north side)

Dual 3 lane carriage way with median 2

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Figure 4.3.1: Urban Design Concept for Old Wallgrove Road, Wallgrove Road and M7 Intersection

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Filtered Screen Planting

Riparian Planting - Make good around Bridge / Road widening and ramps

Low riparian planting – Low planting only in order to read backdrop of existing creek planting (trees)

Structured street tree planting (River Flat Eucalypt forest species)

Structured street tree planting (Cumberland Plain Woodland species)

Feature Tree Row planting (refer to EPLR design)

Cumberland Plain Woodland retention / reinstatement (informal planting)

Turf verge between road and path

Low median planting

Concrete median

Potential retaining wall to protect significant vegetation.

Signalised Road Intersections (4 way + 3 way)

Bus stop

Landscape character zone divisions

Landscape Character Zones

Creek corridor Tilted avenue Remnant woodland ridge Feature intersection (tie in with EPLR design)

Dual 2 lane carriageway with median

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Legend

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Road bridge widening

Road bridge widening

Road widening - turning lane additions

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MINI LINK ROAD

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ESKDALE CREEK

REEDY CREEKCAPICURE ROAD

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Landscape Character Impact Assessment 5.0


5.1 LANDSCAPE CHARACTER IMPACT ASSESSMENT

0 – 0.5m

0.5 – 1m

1 – 1.5m

1.5 – 1.75m

0 – 0.5m

0.5 – 1m

1 – 1.5m

1.5 – 1.75m

OWR corridor view shed catchments

FILL

CUT

Proposed Road Upgrade - Cut and Fill

Figure 5.1.1: Proposed Cut / Fill of Old Wallgrove Road and the proposed Mini Link Road (Aerial photo source: google earth)

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The overall area of the works has been characterised as rural / industrial fringe landscape, comprising four landscape character zones as described in Section 3. It is considered the similarities in the nature of the landscape character zones to be sufficient to classify and assess the whole corridor as a single rural / industrial fringe landscape character, rather than as a series of separate sub-units.

Landscape Impacts

The proposed road upgrade will have a series of impacts upon the character of the landscape, as follows:

» The proposed road generally matches the existing grade, however in a few instances would be raised up to 1.5m above and cut 2m below the surrounding landscape. Areas of fill are proposed around the dip in Old Wallgrove Road adjacent to Eskdale Creek, also at the road tie in with EPLR and within the vicinity of the Mini Link Road road tie in with Wallgrove Road adjacent to Reedy Creek. A small portion of Mini Link Road will be cut where it intersects with Old Wallgrove Road. Figure 5.1.1 illustrates where the proposed road sits above or below existing grade .

WESTERN SYDNEY

PARKLANDSTO M4 +

MINCHINBURY

TO ERSKINE PARK


ESKDALE CREEK

REEDY CREEK

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Visibility

Old Wallgrove Road roughly traverses a ridgeline, climbing 26.5m from Eskdale Creek to the intersection of Roberts Road. The view shed of the road corridor is split in two by a slight change in direction and a small topographic dip to the east of Eastern Creek Drive (refer figure 5.1.1). The resulting two straight road stretches can be taken in at a glance. Conversely, the proposed MLR follows a sweeping curve, constantly changing the view with minor undulations along its length (4m grade difference).

The proposed road upgrades pass predominantly through open grasslands particularly to the north. Visual catchments are contained on the south side of OWR by the ridgeline cutting batters, remnant vegetation and light industrial development. Views to OWR from the existing adjacent`big box’ developments are limited given building facades are continuous with no windows and have screen vegetation along their boundaries. However, the one existing building adjacent to the proposed Mini Link Road appears to address / overlook this new linking road corridor.

Beyond the immediate road corridor, the backdrop of adjacent riparian vegetation along Eskdale and Reedy Creeks strongly contain views. Distant views to the ascending ridgeline along OWR can be seen from Quarry Road across the open grasslands (refer figure 3.1.7)

Sensitivity to Change

It is assessed that the sensitivity of the landscape to the proposed change to be Low, given that:

» The remaining remnant Cumberland Plain Woodland along the ridge will be retained. This landscape is classified as an endangered ecological community and of high scenic quality.

» Retaining walls and embankments minimise impacts on the Eskdale and Reedy Creek landscape corridors. The impact on the rest of the landscape through which the road passes is negligible.

» The existing transmission lines and powerlines running either side of the road already create visual clutter.

» The area is designated for Employment Lands (SEPP 59) which will substantially change the area, with a high component of light industrial / `big box’ development.

» The development of this area can be anticipated to meet the requirements of current planning codes, and be in keeping with the standards of design, and the character of the proposed road upgrade works including mitigation measures for the loss of any remnant Cumberland Plain Woodland

» In the long term, the proposed landscape will mature, improving the visual and physical amenity along the road corridor. The Cumberland Plain Woodland will also be enhanced through additional planting of this community.

» Critical impact is the potential removal of Remnant Cumberland Plain Woodland on the southern side of Old Wallgrove Road between Roberts Road and Eastern Creek Drive.

» The interface of the road verges with the steep cutting batters along the ridge near the intersection of Old Wallgrove Road and Roberts Road will be altered. The cutting batters also provide a buffer to the remnant Cumberland Plain Woodland.

» The road cutting batters (1:4) may partially encroach on the riparian corridors of Eskdale and Reedy Creek. Some vegetation will need to be removed specifically around the intersection of Old Wallgrove and Wallgrove Road (north).

» The substructures required to widen the 2 bridges along Wallgrove Road will impact on Eskdale and Reedy Creeks in terms of the existing riparian landscape (weed invasion present) and hydrology.

» The scale of the proposed road upgrade is substantially wider than the existing dual single lane carriageway. However, the 40m wide road corridor is appropriate for this designated sub-arterial road set amidst proposed Employment Lands / `big box’ commercial developments.


Mitigation Strategy

The concept design for the road upgrade incorporates a range of design strategies which will contribute to the mitigation of adverse impacts on landscape character and visual amenity, including:

» The retention / reinstatement of Cumberland Plain Woodland along the ridgeline through informal planting of this plant community. Retaining walls are proposed to ensure protection and to treat the cut batters near Roberts Road.

» Retaining walls are to have an architectural treatment that enhances the urban design of the road environment and experience.

» Planting of endemic species along the road verges to reflect the existing landscape character of the road corridor including: River Flat Eucalypt Forest and Cumberland Plain Woodland plant communities. This will help to establish a landscape identity, provide shade and assist with screening of the existing transmission lines and future `big box’ developments. Planting palette will use a similar plant list proposed in the EPLR design to ensure a `whole of road’ character.

» Advanced tree stock can be used at major intersections to create scale and emphasise intersection.

» Low frangible planting and turf within the median strip will provide visual and physical relief to the extent of road pavement. Median planting creates an opportunity to develop a consistent landscape identity along road upgrade extents and will easily accommodate road widening in the future.

Magnitude of Change

The magnitude of change within the landscape is assessed as Low, given that:

» The remaining remnant Cumberland Plain Woodland will be retained and protected as part of the design between Roberts Road and Eastern Creek Drive. This plant community will be enhanced through additional planting of appropriate species along the ridge.

» The existing rural landscape will be replaced by `big box’ industrial development within a highly urbanised landscape in keeping with the character of the proposed road upgrade works.

» The road upgrade in relation to the surrounding landscape and proposed èmployment lands’ is in keeping with the scale of the proposed infrastructure.

Overall Rating

This assessment provides an overall rating with regard to the impact of the proposed road upgrade on landscape character as:

» Minor to Negligible

Refer Figure 5.1.1

» Low planting adjacent to Eskdale and Reedy Creeks to allow clear views / `reading’ of the riparian landscape beyond.

» `Make good’ riparian planting around the two road bridges to be widened on Wallgrove Road crossing Eskdale and Reedy Creek.


MAGNITUDE OF CHANGE IN LANDSCAPE CAUSED BY DEVELOPMENTVERY HIGH (DOMINANT)

CHANGEHIGH (CONSIDERABLE)

CHANGEMEDIUM (NOTICEABLE)

CHANGELOW (IMPERCEPTIBLE)

CHANGE

A clearly evident and frequent / continuous change in landscape

characteristics affecting an extensive area, which is likely to fundamentally change the character of the landscape

A considerable change in landscape characteristics, frequent or continuous and over a wide area or a clearly evident (or dominant)

change over a restricted area

A noticeable change in landscape characteristics over a wide

area, or a considerable change over a restricted area, but will not fundamentally change the

character of the landscape

An imperceptible, barely or rarely perceptible change in landscape

characteristics

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INDICATOR

MAJOR MODERATE TO MAJOR MODERATE MINOR TO MODERATE

A landscape protected by national designation and / or widely

acknowledged for its quality and value; a landscape with distinctive character and low capacity to accommodate the

type of change envisaged

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A moderately valued landscape, perhaps a regionally important landscape and / or protected by

regional / state designation, or where its character, land use, pattern and scale may have some capacity to

accommodate a degree of the type of change envisaged

MODERATE TO MAJOR MODERATE MINOR TO MODERATE MINOR

LOW

A landscape valued to a limited extent, perhaps a locally important landscape,

or where its character, land use, pattern and scale is likely to have the capacity to accommodate the type of

change envisaged

MODERATE MINOR TO MODERATE MINOR MINOR TO NEGLIGIBLE

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A landscape which is not valued for its scenic quality or where its character, existing land use, pattern and scale are tolerant of the type of change envisaged, and the landscape has capacity to accommodate change

MINOR TO MODERATE MINOR MINOR TO NEGLIGIBLE NEGLIGIBLE

Figure 5.1.1: Landscape character impact analysis matrix - short term (red box) & median term (grey box)


6.0Visibility of Proposal

Big box light industrial development and open grassland adjacent to Old Wallgrove Road


6.1 VISIBILITY OF THE PROPOSAL

Legend

Ridge Line

REEDY CREEK


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Future View Catchment - Employment Lands built

Cutting batters

Current Visual Catchment

MINI LINK ROAD

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0 50 100 200 300 400 500MFigure 6.1.1: Visual catchment of Old Wallgrove Road, Mini Link Road and Wallgrove Road (Aerial photo source: google earth)

As described in Section 5, views to the road upgrade from adjoining observer locations are relatively unimpeded from the north of Old Wallgrove Road. However, views are constrained from the south by the ridgeline cutting batter, remnant Cumberland Plain Woodland, `big box’ developments and associated screen planting. Within the vicinity of the proposed Mini Link Road, the visual catchment is contained by the riparian corridors of Eskdale and Reedy Creek and Wallgrove Road.

The current visual catchment of the OWR is assessed to be approximately 500m to the north beyond Quarry Road, and between 5m-10m to the south. Around the intersection of Mini Link Road, Old Wallgrove Road

WESTERN SYDNEY

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and Wallgrove Road the visual catchment between these roads and the riparian corridors is about 250m.

The future visual catchment, once the zoned Èmployment Lands (SEPP 59) have been developed, will be substantially reduced to predominantly the road corridor and the riparian corridors of Eskdale and Reedy Creeks, with glimpses from adjoining roads. Refer Figure 6.1.1.1


Visual Impact Assessment 7.0


7.1 INTRODUCTION

Five observer locations have been identified for assessment as follows:

1. Old Wallgrove Road and Roberts Road Intersection

2. Road User - Old Wallgrove Road

3. Old Wallgrove Road and Eskdale Creek

4. Old Wallgrove Road, Wallgrove Road and M7 motorway intersection

5. Mini Link Road and Reedy Creek

Figure 7.1.1 comprises the matrix against which the sensitivity of the viewpoint to the proposal, and the magnitude of change in the view caused by the development are rated. When combined, an overall impact rating for the viewpoint is derived.


MAGNITUDE OF CHANGE IN VIEW CAUSED BY DEVELOPMENTVERY HIGH (DOMINANT)

CHANGEHIGH (CONSIDERABLE)

CHANGEMEDIUM (NOTICEABLE)

CHANGELOW (IMPERCEPTIBLE)

CHANGE

Major changes in view at close distances, affecting a substantial

part of the view, continuously visible for a long duration, or

obstructing a substantial part or important elements of the view

Clearly perceptible changes in views at intermediate distances, resulting in either a distinct new element in a significant part of

the view, or a more wide ranging, less concentrated change across a

wider view

Minor changes in views, at long distances or visible for a short

duration, and / or are expected to blend in with the existing view to a

moderate extent

Change which is barely visible, at a very long distance, or visible for a very short duration, and / or are expected to blend in with the

existing view

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MAJOR MODERATE TO MAJOR MODERATE MINOR TO MODERATE

Large numbers of viewers or those with proprietary interest and prolonged

viewing opportunities such as residents and users of attractive and / or well-used recreational facilities. Views from a regionally important

location whose interest is specifically focussed on the landscape

ME

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Medium numbers of residents and moderate numbers of visitors with

an interest in their environment, e.g. visitors to State Forests, including bush walkers, horse riders, trail biker. Larger numbers of travellers with an interest

in their surroundings

MODERATE TO MAJOR MODERATE MINOR TO MODERATE MINOR

LOW

Small numbers of visitors with a passing interest in their surroundings e.g those travelling along a principal road. Viewers whose interest is not

specifically focussed on the landscape e.g. workers, commuters

MODERATE MINOR TO MODERATE MINOR MINOR TO NEGLIGIBLE

NE

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surroundings e.g. those travelling along minor roads and minor routes

MINOR TO MODERATE MINOR MINOR TO NEGLIGIBLE NEGLIGIBLE

Figure 7.1.1: Viewpoint character impact analysis matrix


7.2 OBSERVER LOCATION 1 Old Wallgrove Road (OWR) and Roberts Road Intersection

Proposed Works

The proposed works as seen from this observer location comprise of:

» Road tie in works with Erskine Park Link Road (EPLR) and the proposed road upgrade widening including a central median and cycle / pedestrian paths. Between 1-1.5m of fill is required at tie in.

» Landscape works will include informal planting of Cumberland Plain Woodland species on either side of the road to amplify this plant community along the ridge. Feature tree planting (trees planted in rows perpendicular to road corridor) are proposed at the road tie in / re-aligned OWR intersection based on the EPRL design.

» Road tie in works at the recently constructed Eastern Creek Drive is also proposed.

Impacts

The following impacts are anticipated as a result of the proposed works;

» The road will change from a local dual single lane road to a sub-arterial road.

» The works will encroach on the cutting and require a retaining wall to treat the edge and ensure the retention of the existing remnant Cumberland Plain Woodland on the southern side of OWR. This stand of vegetation is classified as an endangered ecological community, is of high scenic quality.

Visibility

The visibility of the proposed works from this observer location is as follows:

» Potential views to the proposed road upgrade will be experienced by the immediate road user along the carriageway and intersecting roads as well as from the broader visual catchment (views back to OWR ridgeline from Quarry Road).

» In the future, once the Èmployment Lands’ have been fully developed, it is envisaged that similar `big box’ development will occur with no views towards OWR. From a distance, the remnant woodland may be seen over the tops of buildings (assumed 10 to 20m high approximately).

Figure 7.2.1: Panoramic view of Old Wallgrove Road from Ridge / Roberts Road Intersection (south view)

Erskine Park Link Road tie inRoberts RoadCut batter and Remnant Cumberland Plain Woodland


Key plan

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Figure 7.2.2: View from Eastern Creek Road looking towards significant remnant woodland

Remnant Cumberland Plain Woodland along Ridgeline

Erskine Park Link Road tie inSensitivity to Proposed Change

The sensitivity of this observer location to the proposed works is assessed to be LOW, due to:

» The remnant Cumberland Plain Woodland fringing the southern side of OWR will be retained with addition of retaining walls.

Magnitude of Proposed ChangeWe would assess the magnitude of the change to be MEDIUM due to:

» The retaining walls required to accomodate the road widening to treat the steep cutting and retain/protect the majority of the remnant Cumberland Plain Woodland on the southern side of OWR. To improve

MAGNITUDE OF CHANGE IN VIEW CAUSED BY DEVELOPMENT

VERY HIGH CHANGE

HIGH CHANGEMEDIUM CHANGE

LOW CHANGE

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HIGH MAJORMODERATE TO

MAJORMODERATE

MINOR TO

MODERATE

MEDIUMMODERATE TO

MAJORMODERATE

MINOR TO

MODERATEMINOR

LOW MODERATEMINOR TO

MODERATEMINOR

MINOR TO

NEGLIGIBLE

NEGLIGIBLEMINOR TO

MODERATEMINOR

MINOR TO

NEGLIGIBLENEGLIGIBLE

visual amenity, an architectural treatement to the retaining wall is recommended.

» The retained remnant Cumberland Plain Woodland provides screening to existing `big box’ development, landscape habitat and improves road and landscape amenity.

Combined Impact RatingThis assessment provides an overall rating with regards to the visual impact of the proposed road upgrades on views within and to OWR and Robert Road intersection along the ridgeline to be MINOR.

OWR

SCALE BAR

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1


7.3 OBSERVER LOCATION 2 Road User - Old Wallgrove Road (OWR)

Proposed Works


» Proposed road upgrade widening including a central median and cycle/pedestrian paths.

» Tie in works with the existing Southridge Street (sth) and the future Southridge Street (nth).

» Essentially, road remains at a similar elevation to that of the existing with only minor fill (0 to 0.5m) required along the route .

» Landscape works include a more structured Cumberland Plain Woodland planting layout to create an impact in conjunction with the low frangible planting in the median and between cycle / pedestrian paths and road.

Impacts


» The road will change from a local dual single lane road to a sub-arterial road, a dual 3 lane carriageway with median.

» Beyond road widening, the impact is negligible as the adjacent landscape is either open grasslands or grass road verges adjacent to screened `big box’ developments which do not address OWR physically or visually.

Visibility

The visibility of the proposed works from this observer location is as follows:

» Views to the proposed road upgrade are primarily along road corridor and intersection roads. Broader views back to OWR are possible across open grasslands and grazing cattle from Quarry Road.

» In the future, once the Èmployment Lands’ have been fully developed, it is envisaged that similar `big box’ development will result in views being contained within the road corridor.

» Road corridor views are observed at a glance given the relatively straight road alignment and tilt, falling from west to east at this point. Currently, the road corridor is dominated by transmission and power lines.

Figure 7.3.1: Easterly view down Old Wallgrove Road from the intersection of Southridge Street (sth). Endeavour Energy Transmission lines have since been installed either side of road.


Key plan

Sensitivity to Proposed Change

The sensitivity of this observer location to the proposed works is assessed as NEGLIGIBLE, due to:

» The limited visual impact on adjacent open grasslands and verges which have few to no trees.

» Only minor earthworks are required, the proposed upgrade will remain at a similar level.

Magnitude of Proposed Change

The magnitude of the change is LOW, due to:

» The scale of the proposed development will read as a distinct new element within the view.

» Only grasslands and grass verges will be removed.

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0 50 100 200 300 400 500M

Combined Impact Rating

This assessment provides an overall rating with regards to the visual impact of the proposed road upgrades on views within and to OWR along this section to be NEGLIGIBLE.


VERY HIGH CHANGE


LOW CHANGE

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MAJORMODERATE

MINOR TO

MODERATE

MEDIUMMODERATE TO

MAJORMODERATE

MINOR TO

MODERATEMINOR


MODERATEMINOR

MINOR TO

NEGLIGIBLE

NEGLIGIBLEMINOR TO

MODERATEMINOR

MINOR TO


2

Figure 7.3.2: Westerly view up Old Wallgrove Road


7.4 OBSERVER LOCATION 3 Old Wallgrove Road and Eskdale Creek

Proposed Works


» OWR upgrade widening (dual, 3 lane carriageway including a central median and cycle/pedestrian paths.

» Tie in works with intersecting streets including the existing Quarry Road (nth) and proposed Mini Link Road (sth).

» The road will be elevated with fill to a maximum 1.75m above existing levels adjacent to Eskdale Creek. 1:4 cutting batters will transition raised road to surrounding levels .

» Planting palette will be derived from River Flat Eucalypt

Forest community found in the area. Road cutting batters will be planted with low planting to allow clear views to the riparian corridor backdrop on the north side of OWR. Tree planting is proposed on south side of OWR to define road edge, establish landscape character and filter views to future development site (refer to 4.3 Urban Design Concept).

» Low frangible planting in the median.

Impacts

The following impacts are anticipated as a result of the proposed works:

» The road will change from a local two lane road to a sub-arterial road, a dual 3 lane carriageway with median.

» Impact on road users experience/relationship to the low point of the creek corridor now altered with raised road elevation.

» A few existing trees along Eskdale creek will be removed where road cutting batters encroach, however this creek is partially weed infested and trees not of high significance.

Figure 7.4.1: Eastern view from Old Wallgrove Road towards Wallgrove Road Intersection.

Eskdale Creek Wallgrove Rd Western Sydney Parklands M7


Key plan

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SCALE BAR

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Visibility

The visibility of the proposed works from this observer location is as follows;

» Potential views to the proposed road upgrade are primarily along the road corridor and intersecting roads. Eskdale Creek screens views and cutting batters to OWR from the north. Depending on access / street address of the proposed site there may be some observer views onto OWR from the south side of OWR.


The sensitivity of this observer location to the proposed works to be LOW, due to:

» Views to the road are relatively contained by Eskdale Creek which has visual and ecological value. Fill batters

Eskdale Creek

Figure 7.4.2: Westerly View down Old Wallgrove Road

3

will slightly impact riparian corridor and the manner in which the creek is viewed from raised road.


The magnitude of the change to be LOW, due to:

» The raised road does not change the landscape characteristics of the site.

» The urban design initiatives are contextually sensitive including planting palette, views to Eskdale Creek and landscape response to the scale of the proposed road works.


The above assessment provides an overall rating with regard to the visual impact of the proposed road upgrade on views to be MINOR to NEGLIGIBLE.


VERY HIGH CHANGE


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7.5 OBSERVER LOCATION 4 Old Wallgrove Road, Wallgrove Road and M7 Motorway Intersection

Proposed Works


» Intersection re configuration of OWR and Wallgrove Road to accommodate carriageway widening of both roads to include additional lanes, medians and cycle/pedestrian paths. The Wallgrove Road bridge will also be widened under which Eskdale Creek flows.

» The landscape works at this nexus includes riparian planting where infrastructure interventions impact on Eskdale Creek and existing dry detention basin. Native tree planting along the western side of Wallgrove Road adjacent to the proposed site is intended to provide a filtered screen and establish a landscape character.

» Refer also to the proposed landscape works for Observation Location 3 along OWR which link in with this intersection.

Impacts


» Extent of road intersection will approximately double in size and encroach on adjacent land . Turning lanes and pedestrian islands improve circulation and the cycle/pedestrian path on bridge will be retained .

» Wallgrove Road bridge widening will impact on Eskdale Creek corridor resulting in a loss of vegetation and permanently increase shadow extents which make it difficult to plant. The riparian corridor is currently degraded and in poor condition. The existing character of bridge will be replicated when extended.

» Existing scattered trees along western edge of Wallgrove Road will need to be removed to accommodate upgrade.

Visibility

The visibility of the proposed works from this observer location are as follows;

» Views to the proposed road upgrade are primarily along road corridor and from the adjacent M7 Motorway. Views from existing `big box’ developments are limited due to landscape buffer along Eskdale Creek and their distance to intersection upgrade (approx. 400m).

» Views to road upgrades from the creek corridor are limited given that pedestrian / cycle paths follow the road. Occasionally, views from adjacent service roads to access utilities and detention basins are expected, however have been deemed too infrequent to consider.

Future Site Old Wallgrove Rd

Figure 7.5.1: View from Wallgrove Road towards Old Wallgrove Road Figure 7.5.2: View from Wallgrove Road bridge


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The sensitivity of this observer location to the proposed works to be NEGLIGIBLE, due to:

» The roads and intersection already exist

» Minimal impact on surrounding landscape that is observed. The upgrade works will predominantly be viewed and experienced from within the road corridor.


The magnitude of the change to be LOW, due to:

» The scale of the proposed road upgrade is in keeping with scale of road network , developments and landscape.

» Contextually sensitive landscape response to road corridor and surrounding drainage basins and creeks.

Key plan

4


This assessment provides an overall rating with regard to the visual impact of the proposed road upgrade on views from surrounds to be NEGLIGIBLE.


VERY HIGH CHANGE


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Eskdale Creek M7 Wallgrove Rd

Figure 7.5.2: View from Wallgrove Road bridge Figure 7.5.3: View of dry detention basin from OWR/M7


Proposed Works


» Mini Link Road construction (dual, 2 lane carriageway) including a central median and pedestrian paths.

» The proposed road curves horizontally and undulates vertically, roughly aligning with the existing grades. Cut and fill is required to achieve smooth inclines (maximum cut and fill is 2m and 1.5m respectively)

» Tie in works with intersecting streets including Capicure Road and OWR & Wallgrove Road on either end.

» Planting palette will be derived from River Flat Eucalypt Forest community associated with Reedy Creek.

Road cutting batters will be planted with low planting to allow clear views to the riparian corridor backdrop on the southern side of road (i.e. No new verge trees creek side)

» To the remaining road corridor, street tree planting on either side of the road will help to establish a landscape character in keeping with Eucalypt Forest community, provide shade, scale and filter views to existing and proposed `big box’ developments.

» Low frangible planting in the median will provide visual and physical relief to road pavement where over 4m wide

Impacts


» New road built through a vacant grass covered parcel of land. Cut, fill and cutting batters are required to achieve the necessary gradients and drainage.

» Road will encroach on Reedy Creek’s riparian corridor

7.6 OBSERVER LOCATION 5 Mini Link Road and Reedy Creek

Figure 7.6.1: Panoramic View from Capicure Road looking east

Old Wallgrove Rd M7 + Wallgrove RdWestern Sydney Parklands Reedy CreekProposed Mini Link Rd


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Visibility

The visibility of the proposed works from this observer location and along Mini Link Road are as follows:

» Views from existing industrial developments that address /face Mini Link Road. Depending on access / street address of the adjoining site there may also be observer views onto road along its length.

» Views from the road corridor itself will change as the road curves from OWR to Wallgrove Road taking in Developments and Reedy Creek which screens views to Mini Link Road from the south. .


The sensitivity of this observer location to the proposed works to be LOW, due to:

» Overlooking views from adjacent developments which face / address the proposed Mini Link Road

Key plan

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The magnitude of the change to be LOW due to:

» A new road being built across a vacant grass lot with a retaining wall to prevent encroachment on the adjacent to Reedy Creek.However, this is mediated by the contextually sensitive landscape response to road corridor, creek and drainage basins in addition to being compatible with existing and proposed developments.


This assessment provides an overall rating with regard to the visual impact of the proposed road upgrade on views to and from Mini Link Road to be MINOR to NEGLIGIBLE.

Reedy Creek Future site OWRProposed Mini Link Rd

Figure 7.6.2: Westerly view from Old Wallgrove Road over future site + Mini Link Rd


7.7 OVERALL RATING

A summary of the above ratings for visual impact is provided on the opposite page.

On the basis of this summary, the visual impact results as follows:

» The installation of retaining walls at location 1 has mitigated the visual impact by ensuring the retention / protection of the remnant Cumberland Plain Woodland. Architectural treatment to the retaining walls will be required to enhance the road environment.

» The visual impact upon the other observer locations (2-5) are considered to be either minor or negligible. The proposed landscape measures assist in sensitively embedding the road upgrades within the context of the site by mitigating impacts and amplifying site quality and characteristics.

» Over the medium to long term, once the employment lands are developed and the road and landscape matures, the impacts will be negligible if constructed and maintained in accordance with design intent.


VISUAL IMPACT SUMMARY TABLE

CATEGORY CHARACTER UNIT

OBSERVER LOCATION 1 -

OLD WALLGROVE ROAD

AND ROBERTS ROAD

INTERSECTION

OBSERVER LOCATION

2 - ROAD USER - OLD

WALLGROVE ROAD

OBSERVER LOCATION 3 - OLD

WALLGROVE ROAD AND

ESKDALE CREEK

OBSERVER LOCATION

4 - OLD WALLGROVE RD,

WALLGROVE RD AND M7

INTERSECTION

OBSERVER LOCATION 5 -

MINI LINK ROAD AND REEDY

CREEK

SENSITIVITY LOW NEGLIGIBLE LOW NEGLIGIBLE LOW

MAGNITUDE MEDIUM LOW LOW LOW LOW

COMBINED MINOR NEGLIGIBLE MINOR TO NEGLIGIBLE NEGLIGIBLE MINOR TO NEGLIGIBLE


Landscape Character and Visual Impact Mitigation Strategy 8.0

Old Wallgrove Road Ridge


8.1 LANDSCAPE CHARACTER AND VISUAL IMPACT MITIGATION STRATEGY

The Urban Design Report has provided a range of design approaches that provide a substantial level of landscape and visual mitigation for the proposed works.

It is recommended that measures to protect and minimise the loss of remnant Cumberland Plain Woodland be undertaken. Retaining walls should be investigated further in design in combination with a Cumberland Plain Woodland restoration planting scheme / approach that ensures plant establishment and ongoing maintenance.

Similarly, riparian corridor restoration is encouraged around Eskdale and Reedy Creeks specifically where they are impacted by the road bridge widening along Wallgrove Road.


Landscape Implementation 9.1


Qty. Key Botanic Name Common Name Percent Pot SpacingCAR app Carex appressa Tall Sedge 10% 350mmCAS gla Casuarina glauca River She Oak 4% 3.15MCOM cya Commelina cyanea Scurvy Weed 5% 350mmDIC rep Dicondra repens Kidney Weed 5% 350mmEIN has Einadia hastata Saltbush 5% 350mmEUC amp Eucalyptus amplifolia Cabbage Gum 3% 3.15MFIC nod Ficinia nodosa (syn. Isolepis nodosa) Nobby Club Rush 10% 350mmIND aus Indigofera australis Australian Indigo 5% 2.25MLOM kat Lomandra longifolia 'Katrinus' Lomandra Katriunus 15% 350mmMEL dec Melaleuca decora White Feather Honey Myrtle 5% 2.25MMEL sty Melaleuca styphelioides Prickly-leaved Paperbark 3% 3.15MMIC sti Microlaena stipoides var. stipoides Weeping Grass 10% 350mmOZO dio Ozothamnus diosmifolius Rice Flower 5% 2.25MPOA lab Poa labillardieri Tussock Grass 15% 350mm

Riparian Reinstatement - MixQty. Key Botanic Name Common Name Percent Pot1498 CAR app Carex appressa Tall Sedge 10% Viro-Tube7 CAS gla Casuarina glauca River She Oak 4% Viro-Tube749 COM cya Commelina cyanea Scurvy Weed 5% Viro-Tube749 DIC rep Dicondra repens Kidney Weed 5% Viro-Tube749 EIN has Einadia hastata Saltbush 5% Viro-Tube6 EUC amp Eucalyptus amplifolia Cabbage Gum 3% Viro-Tube1498 FIC nod Ficinia nodosa (syn. Isolepis nodosa) Nobby Club Rush 10% Viro-Tube18 IND aus Indigofera australis Australian Indigo 5% Viro-Tube2247 LOM kat Lomandra longifolia 'Katrinus' Lomandra Katriunus 15% Viro-Tube18 MEL dec Melaleuca decora White Feather Honey Myrtle 5% Viro-Tube6 MEL sty Melaleuca styphelioides Prickly-leaved Paperbark 3% Viro-Tube1498 MIC sti Microlaena stipoides var. stipoides Weeping Grass 10% Viro-Tube18 OZO dio Ozothamnus diosmifolius Rice Flower 5% Viro-Tube2247 POA lab Poa labillardieri Tussock Grass 15% Viro-Tube

Basin Planting - MixQty. Key Botanic Name Common Name Percent Pot Spacing1434 BAU jun Baumea juncea 5% Viro-tube 300mm5733 CAR app Carex appressa Tall Sedge 20% Viro-tube 300mm1434 COM cya Commelina cyanea Scurvy weed 5% Viro-tube 300mm4300 FIC nod Ficinia nodosa (syn. Isolepis nodosa) Nobby Club Rush 15% Viro-tube 300mm5733 IMP cyl Imperata cylindrica Blady Grass 20% Viro-tube 300mm4300 JUN usi Juncus usitatus Common Rush 15% Viro-tube 300mm1434 MIC sti Microlaena stipoides var. stipoides Weeping Grass 5% Viro-tube 300mm4300 POA lab Poa labillardieri 'Eskdale' Tussock Grass 15% Viro-tube 300mm

TOTAL AREA = 12976 m2





Median Planting - Mix 1Qty. Key Botanic Name Common Name Percent Pot5026 LOM lon Lomandra longifolia Spiney Matt-Rush 100% Viro-Tube

Median Planting - Mix 2Qty. Key Botanic Name Common Name Percent Pot12778 LOM kat Lomandra longifolia 'Katrinus' Lomandra Katriunus 100 Viro-Tube

TOTAL AREA = 702 m2


TREESQty. Key Botanic Name Common Name Pot99 ANG flo Angophora floribunda Rough Bark Apple 45L57 COR mac Corymbia maculata Spotted Gum 45L47 EUC cre Eucalyptus crebra Narrow Leafed Iron Bark 45L55 EUC mol Eucalyptus moluccana Grey Box 45L41 EUC sid Eucalyptus sideroxylon Ironbark 45L52 MEL sty Melaleuca styphelioides Prickly-leaved Paperbark 45L

Cumberland Plain Reinstatement - MixGrams Key Botanic Name Common Name Pot1930 AUS ten Austrodanthonia tenuior Wallaby Grass Seed1930 CAR app Carex appressa Tall Sedge Seed1287 DIC rep Dicondra repens Kidney Weed Seed1930 IND aus Indigofera australis Australian Indigo Seed1287 LOM lon Lomandra longifolia Spiney Matt-Rush Seed1930 MIC sti Microlaena stipoides var. stipoides Weeping Grass Seed1930 POA lab Poa labillardieri Tussock Grass Seed

Low Riparian Planting - MixGrams Key Botanic Name Common Name Pot1856 CAR app Carex appressa Tall Sedge Seed1856 COM cya Commelina cyanea Scurvy Weed Seed1238 DIC rep Dicondra repens Kidney Weed Seed1238 EIN has Einadia hastata Saltbush Seed1856 FIC nod Ficinia nodosa (syn. Isolepis nodosa) Nobby Club Rush Seed1238 IND aus Indigofera australis Australian Indigo Seed1238 LOM kat Lomandra longifolia 'Katrinus' Lomandra Katriunus Seed618 MEL dec Melaleuca decora White Feather Honey Myrtle Seed1856 MIC sti Microlaena stipoides var. stipoides Weeping Grass Seed1238 OZO dio Ozothamnus diosmifolius Rice Flower Seed1856 POA lab Poa labillardieri Tussock Grass Seed

TURFKey Botanic Name Common Name Qty.ZOY jap Zoysia japonica 'Empire' Empire Grass 8704

Qty. Key Botanic Name Common Name Percent Pot SpacingCAR app Carex appressa Tall Sedge 10% 350mmCAS gla Casuarina glauca River She Oak 4% 3.15MCOM cya Commelina cyanea Scurvy Weed 5% 350mmDIC rep Dicondra repens Kidney Weed 5% 350mmEIN has Einadia hastata Saltbush 5% 350mmEUC amp Eucalyptus amplifolia Cabbage Gum 3% 3.15MFIC nod Ficinia nodosa (syn. Isolepis nodosa) Nobby Club Rush 10% 350mmIND aus Indigofera australis Australian Indigo 5% 2.25MLOM kat Lomandra longifolia 'Katrinus' Lomandra Katriunus 15% 350mmMEL dec Melaleuca decora White Feather Honey Myrtle 5% 2.25MMEL sty Melaleuca styphelioides Prickly-leaved Paperbark 3% 3.15MMIC sti Microlaena stipoides var. stipoides Weeping Grass 10% 350mmOZO dio Ozothamnus diosmifolius Rice Flower 5% 2.25MPOA lab Poa labillardieri Tussock Grass 15% 350mm

Riparian Reinstatement - MixQty. Key Botanic Name Common Name Percent Pot1498 CAR app Carex appressa Tall Sedge 10% Viro-Tube7 CAS gla Casuarina glauca River She Oak 4% Viro-Tube749 COM cya Commelina cyanea Scurvy Weed 5% Viro-Tube749 DIC rep Dicondra repens Kidney Weed 5% Viro-Tube749 EIN has Einadia hastata Saltbush 5% Viro-Tube6 EUC amp Eucalyptus amplifolia Cabbage Gum 3% Viro-Tube1498 FIC nod Ficinia nodosa (syn. Isolepis nodosa) Nobby Club Rush 10% Viro-Tube18 IND aus Indigofera australis Australian Indigo 5% Viro-Tube2247 LOM kat Lomandra longifolia 'Katrinus' Lomandra Katriunus 15% Viro-Tube18 MEL dec Melaleuca decora White Feather Honey Myrtle 5% Viro-Tube6 MEL sty Melaleuca styphelioides Prickly-leaved Paperbark 3% Viro-Tube1498 MIC sti Microlaena stipoides var. stipoides Weeping Grass 10% Viro-Tube18 OZO dio Ozothamnus diosmifolius Rice Flower 5% Viro-Tube2247 POA lab Poa labillardieri Tussock Grass 15% Viro-Tube

Basin Planting - MixQty. Key Botanic Name Common Name Percent Pot Spacing1434 BAU jun Baumea juncea 5% Viro-tube 300mm5733 CAR app Carex appressa Tall Sedge 20% Viro-tube 300mm1434 COM cya Commelina cyanea Scurvy weed 5% Viro-tube 300mm4300 FIC nod Ficinia nodosa (syn. Isolepis nodosa) Nobby Club Rush 15% Viro-tube 300mm5733 IMP cyl Imperata cylindrica Blady Grass 20% Viro-tube 300mm4300 JUN usi Juncus usitatus Common Rush 15% Viro-tube 300mm1434 MIC sti Microlaena stipoides var. stipoides Weeping Grass 5% Viro-tube 300mm4300 POA lab Poa labillardieri 'Eskdale' Tussock Grass 15% Viro-tube 300mm






Median Planting - Mix 1Qty. Key Botanic Name Common Name Percent Pot5026 LOM lon Lomandra longifolia Spiney Matt-Rush 100% Viro-Tube

Median Planting - Mix 2Qty. Key Botanic Name Common Name Percent Pot12778 LOM kat Lomandra longifolia 'Katrinus' Lomandra Katriunus 100 Viro-Tube

TOTAL AREA = 702 m2


TREESQty. Key Botanic Name Common Name Pot99 ANG flo Angophora floribunda Rough Bark Apple 45L57 COR mac Corymbia maculata Spotted Gum 45L47 EUC cre Eucalyptus crebra Narrow Leafed Iron Bark 45L55 EUC mol Eucalyptus moluccana Grey Box 45L41 EUC sid Eucalyptus sideroxylon Ironbark 45L52 MEL sty Melaleuca styphelioides Prickly-leaved Paperbark 45L

Cumberland Plain Reinstatement - MixGrams Key Botanic Name Common Name Pot1930 AUS ten Austrodanthonia tenuior Wallaby Grass Seed1930 CAR app Carex appressa Tall Sedge Seed1287 DIC rep Dicondra repens Kidney Weed Seed1930 IND aus Indigofera australis Australian Indigo Seed1287 LOM lon Lomandra longifolia Spiney Matt-Rush Seed1930 MIC sti Microlaena stipoides var. stipoides Weeping Grass Seed1930 POA lab Poa labillardieri Tussock Grass Seed

Low Riparian Planting - MixGrams Key Botanic Name Common Name Pot1856 CAR app Carex appressa Tall Sedge Seed1856 COM cya Commelina cyanea Scurvy Weed Seed1238 DIC rep Dicondra repens Kidney Weed Seed1238 EIN has Einadia hastata Saltbush Seed1856 FIC nod Ficinia nodosa (syn. Isolepis nodosa) Nobby Club Rush Seed1238 IND aus Indigofera australis Australian Indigo Seed1238 LOM kat Lomandra longifolia 'Katrinus' Lomandra Katriunus Seed618 MEL dec Melaleuca decora White Feather Honey Myrtle Seed1856 MIC sti Microlaena stipoides var. stipoides Weeping Grass Seed1238 OZO dio Ozothamnus diosmifolius Rice Flower Seed1856 POA lab Poa labillardieri Tussock Grass Seed

TURFKey Botanic Name Common Name Qty.ZOY jap Zoysia japonica 'Empire' Empire Grass 8704

INDICATIVE PLANTING SCHEDULE


9.1 LANDSCAPE IMPLEMENTATION

Landscape Design

Based on the Urban Design Concept presented in Section 4.3 of this report, the implemented landscape physically translates the vision and relates to the connecting Erskine Park Link Road (EPLR) landscape. The proposed planting palette reinforces the concept of four (4) landscape character zones along the Old Wallgrove Road upgrade including;

» Creek Corridor

» Tilted Avenue

» Remnant Woodland Ridge

» Feature Intersection (refer EPLR design)

The overall effect is a unified design with subtle differences in landscape treatment between the character zones ensuring a `whole of road’ design that responds to the surrounding environment through which it passes and connects to the EPLR landscape.

Landscape Preparation

Landscape batters along the road corridor will be graded at 1:4 or 1:3 with smooth transitions between grade changes. Landscape works will extend a minimum of 1m beyond the toe / top of cutting batters. However, a 5m wide zone to allow for construction operations is recommended based on previous experience with road construction and landscape disturbance.

Cultivated subsoils, approved landscape topsoils and mulch layers of appropriate depths have been proposed to ensure planting success. Depths relate to the planting species and application (direct seeding, forestry/viro tubes or 45L trees) .

A riprap treatment is proposed beneath the widened road bridge upgrades along Wallgrove Road to provide scour protection. Overshadowing from these structures makes a soft landscape response unviable within the creek corriodors.

Landscape Protection

Retaining walls are proposed to protect and minimise the loss of remnant Cumberland Plain Woodland along the southern side of Old Wallgrove Road and where the road upgrade encroaches significantly into the riparian corridors and adjacent properties.

Where possible, trees have been retained and protection fencing is to be installed prior and during construction.

Landscape Planting Palette

The proposed native planting palette is similar to the EPLR design with some additions and deletions to the plant species list based on suitability, drought tolerance and availability. Plant additions have been selected from the Cumberland Plain Woodland and River Flat Eucalypt Forest plant communities that fringe the road upgrade, helping to reinforce the character zones, reinstate these remnant ecosystems and avoid planting monocultures.

Tree planting (45L) is proposed beyond the pedestrian/cycle paths on either side of the road to avoid service and drainage utility corridors. Over time, these trees will frame the road corridor, screen adjacent `big box’ developments and provide shade to improve pedestrian amenity. This scheme relies on the retention of the existing Cumberland Plain Woodland on the southern side of OWR to provide a continuous green backdrop along the ridge given there is insufficient space to plant trees infront of the retaining walls due to conflicts

with the utility corriodor. Trees have not been planted along road cutting batters when adjacent to riparian corridors (Eskdale Creek & Reedy Creek) to allow the existing landscape to be read/understood by road users.

A combined process of `direct seeding and hydromulching’ is proposed in place of hydroseeding along road cutting batters based on its proven success rate. Weed mats will be pinned onto cutting batters which will be planted with forestry/viro tubes to minimise soil erosion until plants have established.

The verges between road and pedestrian/cycle paths will be turfed for ease of maintenance in place of low frangible planting (<1m). This treatment will link in with the adjacent EPLR design. Where wide enough, the central median will consist of a 3m wide turf edge on either side with low frangible planting in the middle. Where central median narrows, the treatment will be turf or hardstand only.

The staged development of this road upgrade will require a median width reduction to cater for additional vehicular lanes. The median may require replanting at this stage with a similar planting approach.

Landscape Hardscape Palette

A 3m shared pedestrian / cycle concrete path follows the northern side of the road and a 1.5m pedestrian path on the southern side, improving connectivity and access to bus stops along the route. Retaining wall design and lighting elements will be based on RMS standards to create an integrated landscape response.