FINAL Response to Information Request_ 03.05.2016

Refer also to Duke Environmental correspondence attached.


In light of the above additional bushfire mitigation measures proposed, it is considered that the proposal complies
with the Specific Outcome O7 as it minimises the number of people and property subject to bushfire risk and
maximises the protection of people and property during the passage of a fire front.


Information Required

     e) A base BAL rating of 12.5 should be used for all buildings in terms of appropriate setback distance from
        hazardous vegetation. BAL 12.5 is used to ensure setbacks are not reduced by increased BAL ratings
        that do not broadly protect people from the impacts of being placed in a bushfire prone area. A higher
        BAL may be used to provide additional building protection; however, setbacks should comply with a BAL
        of 12.5.

Response


There are no planning instruments or Australian Standards which mandate the use of a base BAL rating of 12.5 to
ensure that setbacks are not reduced by the use of increased BAL ratings. Furthermore, the proposed bushfire
management strategy is consistent with other recent developments in the Sunshine Coast region which have
been approved as part of an integrated bushfire management strategy comprising reduced building separation
setbacks, increased BAL ratings and fire retardant barriers.


The proposed setbacks shown on the revised plans are considered appropriate for the site as part of the revised
integrated bushfire management strategy which includes:
         Increased setbacks for building F of 20m to the southern boundary which is the most at risk area of the
          site;
         Building upgrades;
         Bushfire resistant landscaping and fire retardant barrier along the southern boundary;
         Safe and convenient access and firefighting routes within the site;
         Appropriate water supply including provision of fire hydrants along the private road;
         A comprehensive bushfire management and evacuation plan;
         A bushfire management and maintenance protocol for the Site Manager.


The above strategy is considered to provide a broad level of protection of people and property within the bushfire
prone area. Refer also to Duke Environmental correspondence attached.


Information Required

     f)   An emergency response plan be prepared to address residents’ response to a bushfire event, taking
          into consideration the distance from the site to a safe area or providing appropriate measures for self
          and assisted evacuation using existing infrastructure in the area, such as the Noosa Springs Golf
          Course, where possible.




JFP Ref: M2652                                                                                                Page 11