10/0627 M2358 Planning Report.pdf [As Published] · 152010.627

A minimum 4m wide landscaped buffer is also proposed to separate and reduce the potential
impact on the conservation area from the proposed development (Figure 2). The landscaped
buffer will function as a physical barrier reducing possibility of edge effects, and deterring
pedestrian access to the conservation area. Further landscaping would be undertaken around
proposed dwellings immediately adjacent to the ‘landscaped buffer’.


4.0           Rehabilitation Concepts

As per the recommendations in the FMP, a 4m wide landscaped buffer (characteristic of a wet
low closed heathland) will be maintained at a distance at least 20m between the development
boundary and the higher hazard remnant vegetation within the proposed conservation area.
Weed management will occur within the landscaped buffer for a 12 month period commencing at
the completion of the construction phase. Infill planting of fire tolerant/retardant species within the
landscaped buffer will also occur during this period. Fire “barrier” species such as Macaranga
(Macaranga tanarius) will be planted along the interface of the landscaped buffer and the
proposed development.

It is expected that a detailed rehabilitation plan would be prepared in accordance with Council’s
approval conditions. However, the rehabilitation strategy allows for:

ƒ     Identification and demarcation of area to be protected;
ƒ     Removal of non-native, invasive species (mechanical, where possible);
ƒ     Planting with suitable “fire tolerant’ native species (including trees, sedges, and shrubs); and
ƒ     A maintenance programme (12 months) to reduce/remove weed encroachment and replace
        dead plantings.

It is expected that landscaping maintenance would be an ongoing programme of the proposed
development.


5.0           Summary & Conclusions

In total, the proposed development incorporates an effective 20m (approximate) setback from the
proposed conservation area to be dedicated to the Crown (Figure 2).

The setback seeks to achieve the objectives outlined in the Noosa Planning Scheme Policy 18 –
Ecological Assessment Guidelines, which include:

ƒ      Protecting flora and fauna listed as either Endangered, Vulnerable or Rare under the
       Nature Conservation Act 1992 and/or the Environmental Protection and Biodiversity
       Conservation Act 1999, from direct or indirect impacts and from key threatening processes;
ƒ      Protecting remnant and regrowth vegetation for various reasons including for wildlife
       corridors, water quality, buffers and habitat; and
ƒ      Ensure that the ecological attributes of areas are identified, protected and managed
       before, during and after development, thereby contributing to the Shire-wide protection of
       environmental values.



100414_PR20517-000_DR_letter.doc                                                                Page 3