RFI - Ecology report - Riparian Buffer

      PLATES 3 & 4: Previously-Levelled Dwelling Site (Showing Change of Grade to Southeast)


The proposed dwelling is also extensively setback from the lake frontage to provide substantial
opportunity for filtration of stormwater runoff from the minor building footprint.

In terms of addressing the Biodiversity Overlay Code, Council’s blanket request for ‘necessary’
rehabilitation works (planting/weed control and 3-year maintenance program inclusive) is in this case
considered to be an excessive and unreasonably onerous capital impost for the landowner given both
the paucity of environmental impact and negligible ongoing environmental risk as follows:

          Type and scale of proposed development (minor).

          Partial encroachment within the mapped riparian buffer (at the outermost edge).

          Footprint minimised (no bulk earthworks).

          Avoidance of native vegetation (use of an existing cleared area).

          Extensive setback of improvements from lake edge (~180m).

          No pragmatic alternative.

In summary the dwelling will not result in an unacceptable compromise to existing riparian integrity/
function (if anything a net-improvement via slashing of weeds), and given the collective planning weight
of evidence we therefore respectfully request Council’s deletion of any requirement for rehabilitation
works from assessment of the proposal in full.

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This response comprises a merit-based alternative solution to Council’s performance outcomes and is
submitted in accordance with provisions of the Planning Act 2016. Please contact the undersigned with
any queries.

Sincerely,

Urban Forest Concepts




Mark Jones B.Sc.(AES) MEIANZ

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