2017-05-09 Planning & Environment Committee Agenda

PLANNING & ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA                                             9 MAY 2017


Watercourse Works Code
Specific Outcome O3 of the Watercourses Works Code does not allow the undertaking of
prescribed tidal works on the southern bank of the Noosa River and tributaries between the Noosa
Heads Lions Park and Weyba Bridge. The extent of the relevant bank is depicted below in Figure
5.




Figure 5 – Southern Banks of Noosa River
Prescribed tidal works are not permitted in the nominated location for the purpose of amenity. More
specifically, the Overall Outcomes sought for the Watercourses Works Code are to ensure that
prescribed tidal work is compatible with the character and amenity of its surrounding area.
Site 11 is the only oyster reef restoration unit (out if the 15 locations) proposed to be located on
the Southern bank between Noosa River and tributaries between Noosa Heads Lions Park and
Weyba Bridge.
Although contrary to Specific Outcome O3 of the Watercourses Works Code, the proposed
prescribed tidal works for the installation of an oyster restoration unit at site 11 will actually restore
the natural amenity and environment. The proposal is to use natural recruitment processes for
restoration of oyster habitats that once naturally occurred and were anthropogenically removed
from the system.
The restoration units are not of a sizeable nature, will only be visible during low tide periods, and
are required to grow into a self-sustaining natural feature after three years, or require removal. For
these reasons they are considered inconsequential and unlikely to impact on the amenity and
character of its surroundings.
3.    CONSULTATION
IDAS Referral Agencies
The application was referred to the following IDAS Referral Agencies:
Concurrence
Department of Local Government, infrastructure and Planning.
The department is a concurrence agency for Tidal Works and Works within Fish Habitat Areas.
The department responded by letter dated 22 March 2017 approving the proposed development
subject to reasonable and relevant conditions.




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