combined parks draft plan of …...3 combined parks draft plan of management hurstville quarry...

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COMBINED PARKS

DRAFT PLAN OF MANAGEMENT Adopted December 2008

HURSTVILLE QUARRY RESERVE WILLUNGA RESERVE POULTON PARK

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Prepared by

KOGARAH COUNCIL

Department of Asset & Services

Recreation & Landscape Planning

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COMBINED PARKS

Draft Plan of Management

Hurstville Quarry Reserve,

Poulton Park & Willunga Reserve

The first plan of management for Poulton Park, Hurstville South Quarry Reserve & Willunga

Reserve was first adopted at the Council meeting of 28th June 1999. The purpose of the 2008

review was to update that document as well as address a development proposal for the

installation of floodlights on the soccer fields, categorized the land within the parkland, address

the changing community needs as a result of changing demographics, sports and recreational

interest. The plan make a number of proposed improvements to the planning management,

and development of the parks so as to improve the recreational and environmental outcomes

for the community as well as manage the impacts on local residents.

The public exhibition of the plan was advertised on Tuesday 31st October 2008 in the St

George Sutherland Shire Leader. Submissions closed on Tuesday 2nd December 2008.

Notification of the public hearing to categorise the land was advertised in the St George

Sutherland Shire Leader on 25th November 2008. The hearing was held on 1st December,

2008 at Carss Park Life Saving Hall, Carss Park. M.E.McMahon & Associates Solicitors Pty

Ltd chaired the public hearing. The plan was subsequently adopted at the Council meeting of

8th December 2008.

The review is part of an ongoing process to ensure that the plan of management is

representative of the changing needs of the local and greater community of the Kogarah

Municipality.

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INDEX

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 6 Part 1 BACKGROUND 9 1.1 Background 9 1.2 Structure of the Plan of Management 9 1.3 Land to which the Plan of Management Applies 11 1.4 State Government Land Stakeholders 14 1.5 Existing Planning Zone 15 1.6 History of the Parkland 16 Part 2 LAND MANAGEMENT & ADMINISTRATION 19 2.1 Community Land Classification 20 2.2 Community Land Categorisation 20 2.3 Principles of Crown Land Management 26 2.4 Value Statements 26 2.5 Proposed Change to Crown Land Reservation 27 2.6 Proposed Change to the Zoning of Crown Land 30 2.7 Impact of Case Law on Crown Land Management 31 2.8 Native Title 32 2.8.1 Native Title Act 1998 (Cwlth) 32 2.8.2 Aboriginal Land Rights Act 1983 (NSW) 33 2.9 Management of Department of Planning Land 34 2.10 Sydney Water Corporation Land 35 2.11 Summary 36 ________________________________________________________________________________ Part 3 WHOLE of PARK STRATEGIES & ACTIONS 37 3.0 Whole of Park Strategies & Actions 38 3.1 Principles for Licensing & Leasing of Community Land 38 3.2 Principles for Licensing & Leasing Crown Land 41 3.3 Licensing & Leasing Department of Planning Land 42 3.4 Sydney Water Corporation Land 42 3.5 General Management Strategies & Actions 42

____________________________________________________________________ Part 4 COMMUNITY LAND - LAND CATEGORY – GENERAL COMMUNITY USE 48 4.0 Land Category General Community Use 49 4.1 Core Objectives 49 4.2 Strategies & Actions 49 Part 5 COMMUNITY LAND - LAND CATEGORY – PARK 52 5.0 Land Category Park 53 5.1 Core Objectives 53 5.2 Strategies & Actions 53 Part 6 COMMUNITY LAND - LAND CATEGORY – SPORTSGROUND 55 6.0 Land Category Sportsground 56 6.1 Core Objectives 57 6.2 Strategies & Actions 57 Part 7 COMMUNITY LAND - LAND CATEGORY – NATURAL AREA – BUSHLAND 60 7.0 Land Category Natural Area Bushland 61 7.1 Core Objectives 62 7.2 Strategies & Actions 63

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____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________ Part 8 COMMUNITY LAND - LAND CATEGORY – WATERCOURSE 71 8.0 Land Category Watercourse 72 8.1 Core Objectives 73 8.2 Strategies & Actions 73 Part 9 COMMUNITY LAND - LAND CATEGORY – CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE 77 9.0 Land Category Cultural Significance 78 9.1 Aboriginal Heritage 78 9.2 European Heritage 78 9.3 Core Objectives 78 9.4 Strategies & Actions 79

____________________________________________________________________ Part 10 STATE CROWN RESERVE 80 10.0 Crown Reserve Land 81 10.1 Strategies & Actions 81

____________________________________________________________________ Part 11 DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING LAND 84 11.0 Department of Planning Land 85 11.1 Strategies & Actions 85

____________________________________________________________________ Part 12 FUNDING & SCHEDULE OF WORKS 86 12.0 Funding 87 12.1 Ranking 88 12.2 Schedule of Strategies & Actions 88

____________________________________________________________________ APPENDIX 1 PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT 100 13.0 Planning & Development 101 13.1 Foreshore Development Policy 101 13.2 Development Assessment Criteria 101 13.3 Green Web – Sydney 10## 13.4 Southern Sydney Catchment Blueprint Policy 102 13.5 State Environmental Planning Policy No.19 Bushland in Urban Areas 103 13.6 Ecological Sustainable Development 104 13.7 Market Catchments for Parks in Precinct 8 105 13.8 PROPOSED MAJOR ACTIONS 107 13.8.1 Floodlighting Poulton Park No.2 Soccer Field 107 13.8.2 Department of Sport & Recreation Grant for Floodlights 107 13.8.3 The Need for the Proposed Development on the Land 107 13.8.4 Existing Use of Kogarah LGA Winter Sports Fields 108 13.8.5 NSW Government Public Inquiry into Sportsground Management in NSW 109 13.8.6 Nearby Local Residents Issues 110 13.8.7 Management Initiatives for Poulton Park Sports Fields 111 13.8.8 Summary – Proposed Sports Floodlighting 112 13.9 Poulton Park Visitor Parking Facility - Seymour Street 113 13.10 Fish Passage from Wetlands to Oatley Bay 114

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13.11 Proposed Rezoning of Watercourse & Estuarine Wetland 115 APPENDIX 2

14.0 LAND ASSESSMENT 116 14.1 Climatic Conditions Affecting the Land 117 14.2 DESCRIPTION OF THE LAND 117 14.3 Hydrology 117 14.3.1 Stormwater 117 14.3.2 Stormwater Monitoring 118 14.4 Soils 119 14.4.1 Hawkesbury Sandstone Soil 119 14.4.2 Wianamatta Shale 119 14.4.3 Gymea Soil 119 14.4.4 Landfill 120 14.4.5 Acid Sulfate Soils 120 14.5 Fauna 121 14.6 Flora 122 14.7 Threatened Species Conservation Act, 1995 126 14.8 Impacts on the Bushland 127 14.9 CONSTRUCTED CAPITAL ASSETS 129 14.10 Asset Management 135 14.11 Risk Management 135 14.12 Access 135 14.12.1 Quarry Reserve (North) 135 14.12.2 Quarry Reserve (South) 137 14.12.3 Willunga Reserve 137 14.12.4 Poulton Park 137 14.13 Provisions for Disabled Persons Vehicle Parking 138 14.14 Intensity of Use 139 APPENDIX 3

15.0 The Parkland Community Survey Results 141 15.1 Distribution of the Survey 141 15.2 Survey Return Rate 142 15.3 Dominant Age Groups of Respondents 142 15.4 Family Types 143 15.5 Parkland User Travel Type 144 15.6 Socialisation 144 15.7 Reasons for Visitations by Local Residents 145 15.8 Facilities that would most likely be used if available in the Parkland 146 15.9 Undesirable Facilities 147 15.10 How to improve the Parkland 148 15.11 Summary 149 APPENDIX 4 16. Report on the Public Meeting to Consider the Draft Plan of Management to 151

Categorise Community Land: Hurstville Quarry Reserve, Willunga Reserve And Poulton Park, M.E.McMahon & Associates Solicitors Pty Ltd, 3rd December 2008

REFERENCES 158

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The 2007 Combined Parks (Poulton Park, Quarry & Willunga Reserves) Plan of Management has

been prepared by Kogarah Council’s Department of Assets & Services. The plan is a review and

update of the existing Poulton Park Plan of Management that was adopted by Council in June 1999.

This plan is fundamentally based on the findings of the previous plan that have remained relevant

while expanding on the former plan by incorporating a number of new planning, management and

development initiatives for the parkland. The review has been undertaken to address changing public

demands for improved sports and recreational facilities as well as provide improved management of

the parklands natural resources.

In proposing the actions and strategies a balance has been sought that may best enable Council in

meeting the changing recreational needs of the community while giving consideration to impacts on

local residents. A significant management initiative is to provide the means for improved relations

between park users and the local community by establishing a Park Advisory Group consisting of the

principal users of the park and local residents.

The spirit of this review of the Poulton Plan of Management is founded in Council’s Mission Statement:

To build on the diversity of our community

To improve our natural and built environment

To respond to changing community needs and expectations

As part of the preparation of the plan of management 200 households were surveyed and of that

number 40% responded (80 households). There was no single outstanding issue raised by the

surveyed households. However, the most undesirable facility identified by the survey that the local

community did not want in the parkland was a skatepark while the most desirable was quality

playgrounds. Council also receive a petition from 20 households in Morshead Drive who have

objected to the proposal to install floodlights on the No.2 soccer field in Poulton Park. The petitioners

expressed concerns relative to perceived increase in the demand for vehicle parking in residential

areas by the potential increased number of park users. They also cited that this would result in the

creation of traffic congestion causing a hazard in Morshead Drive. They cited these issues as having

an adverse impact on their quality of life.

This plan recognises that the sports facilities within the parkland should be utilised and managed in a

way to address the growth in sports that is occurring across the Sydney metropolitan area as has been

identified in the 2006 NSW Parliamentary Inquiry into Sportsground Management in NSW and

subsequently Council’s own records. There is acknowledgment of the growth in the public’s desire to

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participate longer in team sport for prolonged health, fitness, social and general well being. The result

is placing pressures on the all the available public sports fields in the Kogarah Local Government Area.

The increase in sports participation also has implications on residents that live opposite public parks as

well as other park users. The plan suggests that all the sports fields in the parkland should be used

and managed in the best way to meet the changing needs of the broader community without

unreasonable detriment to local residents. To achieve this outcome, Council will need to take a more

proactive approach in its enforcement of conditions of development consent or any breaches relative to

the terms and conditions of use including the hours of use by organised sports clubs, types of use or

unauthorised activities so as to ensure that there are no unreasonable impositions placed either on

local residents or other park user groups. It is also important for Council to provide the resources to

implement appropriate management regimes to monitor and police the use of its parks but also to

avoid introducing draconian measures that would inhibit the reasonable enjoyment of its public park by

groups or individuals.

The plan contends that as a result of changing demographics and interest and growth in particular

types of sports there is a need for compromise where there is a conflict between parties and that a

mechanism, such as a Parks Advisory Committee consisting of park users and local residents should

be established to bring any disputing parties together to seek a compromise through the process of

achieving a mutual understanding of their legitimate respective points of view, needs and concerns.

The plan of management also recognises the need to provide enhanced natural resource management

of the natural areas within the parkland and provides a more comprehensive program for the

protection, rehabilitation, conservation and public education about these resources. The parkland is

recognised as having an extensive range of biodiversity and that this is a significant feature of the

parkland.

The principal recommendations of this plan are:

1. To ensure the sustainability of the parkland’s natural resources so as to preserve the

parkland ecological systems and subsequent biodiversity for intergenerational equity.

2. To remove, replace, renew, provide or make alterations or additions to the existing aging

park infrastructure, including public conveniences, playgrounds, fences and other park

assets that are no longer serviceable, are inadequate to service the changing needs of

park users or are required to enhance the diversity of recreational experiences that the

parkland provides and can provide in the future.

3. To permit the use of the soccer fields for after hours sports training by permitting the fields

to be floodlit to 8.00pm. The hours of use should be consistent and in accordance with the

existing hours of use for the adjoining No.1 soccer field.

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4. To establish a Council Parks Advisory Committee to address conflicts between user

groups, local residents and other parties.

5. Request the Minister for Lands to reserve Crown land in Poulton Park (refer to photograph

5, p.28) currently designated as Reserve 1011268 for Future Public Requirements for the

public purpose of Public Recreation and Environmental Protection. At the same time

establish and name a reserve trust responsible for the care, control and management of

the subject area and appoint Kogarah Council as trust manager.

6. To improve public access to the parkland by upgrading internal access roads and

formalising internal vehicle parking areas. Create an additional parking area in that

section of Poulton Park off Seymour Street by provision of a public road. Provide

boomgates at the entrance to restrict use after hours. Use that portion of Community Land

within the existing Council Depot for additional park visitor vehicle parking.

7. To provide internal formal and informal pathways to improve public pedestrian access

throughout the parkland.

8. To address the needs of persons with disabilities to have access to and enjoyment of the

facilities and natural resources of the parkland.

9. The plan also proposes to request the Minister responsible for administering the

Environmental Planning & Assessment Act 1979 to transfer the land titles for land in

Poulton Park in the Department of Planning’s ownership to Kogarah Council.

This plan, like its predecessor, provides for the future direction and policy for the planning,

management and development of the parkland. However, it should be noted that the implementation

of the strategies herein, whether wholly undertaken in one attempt or staged over an extended period

of time, will be dependent on the demands made on Council, its preferred priorities in any one financial

year and the availability of resources each financial year. This review has been undertaken by

Kogarah Council at a cost of $10,000 in the public interest to improve the recreational opportunities of

the parkland by capitalizing on its full potential to provide a diversity of opportunities while addressing

the concerns of local residents.

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1.1 BACKGROUND

This review and update of the previously adopted 1999 Poulton Park Plan of Management builds on

that plan and address the changing needs and preferences of the greater Kogarah community. The

plan also addresses the changes to the Local Government Act 1993, recognises the changes in sports

and recreation trends, considers the issues raised by user and resident groups and the broader

community and the need to bring the parkland’s management in line with Council’s overall parks

management regime. The plan will provide a management link to all of Council’s parks and reserves

while at the same time recognising site specific differences and managing these accordingly.

Unlike the previous plan this plan includes Hurstville Quarry Reserve (North). The plan also includes

the adjoining bushland reserve, Willunga Reserve sited on the northwestern side of Poulton Park.

Unless otherwise stated, the use of the term parkland in this plan will include Poulton Park, Hurstville

Quarry Reserve (North of Hurstville Road), Hurstville Quarry Reserve (South of Hurstville Road) and

Willunga Reserve.

As with the 1999 plan of management the current plan takes a holistic approach to the planning,

management and future development of the parkland. The plan explores the character of the area in

terms of both its past and present influences in order to preserve those that enhance its unique

qualities while providing improved recreational and sustainable environmental benefits to the

community.

1.2 STRUCTURE OF THE PLAN OF MANAGEMENT

The draft plan of management is structured so as to:

● Firstly, to provide the background into the previous development and use of the land and to

describe its evolution as a response to the social and environmental demands that have arisen

as a result of changes to the demographics and urban environment within the Kogarah Local

Government Area (LGA).

● Present the overall strategies and actions for the parkland as outlined in Section 3, entitled

Whole of Park Strategies that are to apply across all of the parkland irrespective of land

ownership;

● Present strategies, actions, objectives and performance measures for each of the

recommended land management categories for Community Land in the ownership of Kogarah

Council to meet changing community needs and expectations and to address the requirements

of the Local Government Act, 1993.

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● Address the current and future land management issues associated with the reserved Crown

land within Poulton Park identified as Reserve 1011268 reserved for Future Public

Requirement that consists of the estuary wetland and the lower section of Oatley Bay Creek

and includes the riparian zones. To manage this land and its natural resources in accordance

with the objectives and principles for the management of Crown Land as specified under

Sections 10 –11 of the Crown Lands Act, 1989. Section 11 in part states as its principles:

a) that environmental protection principles be observed in relation to the management

and administration of Crown land;

b) that the natural resources of Crown land (including water, soil, flora, fauna and scenic

quality) be conserved wherever possible;

c) that the public use and enjoyment of appropriate Crown land be encouraged…

● Ensure that Kogarah Council having been delegated care, control and management of those

parcels of land being natural bushland within Poulton Park that are in the ownership of the

Department of Planning is manage in accordance with the objectives and principles of the

Environmental Planning & Assessment Act, 1979, s.5 that states in part:

(vi) the protection of the environment, including the protection and

conservation of native animals and plants, including threatened

species, populations and ecological communities, and their habitats,

and

(vii) ecologically sustainable development…

Also applicable are the relevant provisions of the Kogarah Local Environmental Plan and Local

Government Act, 1993 and as directed by the Department of Planning and the Department of

Lands.

● Assist the Sydney Water Corporation in its management of its land and infrastructure within

the parkland in accordance with the objectives and principles of the Sydney Water Act, 1994

and the Sydney Water Catchment Act, 1998 s.14 which in part states:

(a) to ensure that the catchment and the catchment infrastructure works are managed

and protected so as to promote water quality, the protection of public health and public

safety, and the protection of the environment…

● Part 12 of the plan of management outlines potential funding sources to implement the

proposed capital works and management studies recommended in the plan and list the

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priorities within each land category. The nominated works being subject to the availability of

funding and other demands placed on Council at any given time.

The Appendices provide additional information as required under the Local Government Act, 1993 in

that it provides the reasoning for specific development recommendations as well as a description and

condition of the land, its resources, both natural and existing man-made are described in more detail.

Appendix 1, entitled “Planning & Development” provides information on planning controls, proposed

major developments and the reasoning for these proposals in relation to changing community sport

and recreational needs. Appendix 2, entitled “Land Assessment” reviews the natural and man-made

resources that are valued by the community. In addition it examines the significance of the parkland

within the context of the available public open space within Precinct 8. Appendix 3 provides

information on the issues identified through the local community resident survey. Appendix 4 is the

report prepared by M.E.McMahon & Associates Solicitors Pty Ltd on the outcome of the public hearing

to categorise the community land within the parkland

1.3 LAND TO WHICH THE PLAN OF MANAGEMENT APPLIES

Poulton Park (West of Oatley Creek), Willunga Reserve and part Hurstville Quarry Reserve (North &

South) are located in the suburb of Hurstville Grove and Poulton Park (East of Oatley Bay Creek) in is

the suburb of Connell’s Point (Refer to Map 1). The parkland is situated in Precinct 8 of the Kogarah

Local Government Area (LGA). That part of the parkland located on the northwestern side of Oatley

Bay Creek is in Council’s West Ward and the southeastern side in Middle Ward.

Map 1.

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SOUTH HURSTVILLEQUARRY RESERVE

LOCATION MAP OF STUDY AREA

CONNELLS POINT

HURSTVILLE GROVE

WILLUNGARESERVE

POULTON PARK

QUARRY RESERVE

OATLEY

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1. Study Area – Quarry Reserve, Poulton Park & Willunga Reserve.

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Table 1, list each parcel of land within the study area and the significant features attributed to the

individual land parcels. Diagram 1, p.15 colour codes respective land ownership.

Table 1.

PARKLAND LAND DATA

Park / Reserve / Land Portion General Location Significant Feature Area m2

HURSTVILLE QUARRY RESERVE (NORTH)

Lot B DP 442009 54 Hillcrest Road Bushland 98.27

Lot 11 DP 236321 94C Laycock Road Part Tennis Court / Bushland 2,134.50

Lot 2 DP 232384 94 Laycock Road No. 2 Tennis Court 1,325.18

Lot 9 DP 528998 Laycock Road Park / Access Road 499.10





Lot 1 DP 191623 29 Hurstville Road Access Road Entry 659.04

Lot 1 DP 223497 94A Laycock Road Bushland / Access Road 604.98

Lot 29 DP 528848 94B Laycock Road Bushland / Access Road 604.57

Lot 27 DP 532296 94B Laycock Road Bushland / Access Road 1,179.90

Lot 25 DP 528014 94B Laycock Road Park 584.20



Lot 19 DP 528678 94B Laycock Road Part Park-Building-Tennis Court 596.50

Lot 17 DP 528726 94B Laycock Road Part No. 1 Tennis Court 1,190.28

Lot 15 DP 528999 94C Laycock Road Bushland 591.06

Lot 13 DP 528704 94C Laycock Road Bushland 599.59

Quarry Reserve (North) Total m2 12,688.18

Quarry Reserve (North) Total Hectares 1.27

HURSTVILLE QUARRY RESERVE (SOUTH)

Lot 5 DP 10500 Vol 3722 Folio 162 Hurstville Road Vehicle entry 720.71

Lot 6 DP 10500 Vol 3722 Folio 207 Hurstville Road Part Sports Field 744.51

Lot 7 DP 10500 Vol 3737 Folio 136 Hurstville Road Part Sports Field 1,779.72

Lot 3 DP 407167 Vol 7646 Folio 240 Centre of Park Part Sportsfield 7,900.61

Lot 2 DP 407167 Vol 7646 Folio 249 Hurstville Road Bushland 606.80

Lot 1 DP 407167 Vol 7646 Folio 248 Halstead Road Bushland 1,076.76

Lot 4 DP 217860 Vol 9464 Folio 9 Halstead Road Bushland 1,851.41

Quarry Reserve (South) Total m2 14,680.52

Quarry Reserve (South) Total Hectares 1.47

Quarry Reserve Total Hectares 2.74

POULTON PARK

Lot 2 DP 501785 Vol 9383 Folio 95 Halstead Road Bushland 371.10




Lot 2 DP 505836 (Department of Planning – DOP) Halstead Road Bushland 754.90


Lot 2 DP 505837 (DOP) Halstead Road Bushland 716.16

Lot 2 DP 505838 (DOP) Halstead Road Bushland 734.52


Lot 1 DP 212767 Vol 9276 Folio 25 Halstead St / Rickard Rd Bushland 1,807.00

14

Lot 47 DP 221585 Vol 9942 Folio 169 Morshead Drive Soccer Fields /Netball / Playground / Amenities Building

42,679.43

Lot 15 DP 236988 Vol 10951 Folio 132

Morshead Drive Part No.2 Soccer Field 16,161.95

Lot 63 DP 240984 Vol 11617 Folio 229 Morshead Drive Bushland 11,229.66

Lot 65 DP 240984 Vol 11617 Folio 231 (Sydney Water) Morshead Drive Sewage Pumping Station 834.40Crown Land (Oatley Bay Creek & adjoining foreshore) Centre of Park Oatley Bay Creek 54,427.38

Lot 31 DP 585249 Vol 13288 Folio 28 Whitfield Pde / Morshead Drive

Bushland 8,098.68

Lot 2 DP 361505 Whitfield Parade Bushland 6,139.80



Lot D DP 361098 Whitfield Parade Bushland 1,296.96



Lot 2 DP 360234 Whitfield Parade Bushland 950.75

Lot C DP 366217 Whitfield Parade Bushland 780.54

Lot 1 DP 509738 (DOP) Whitfield Parade Bushland 789.66

Lot 1 DP 509432 Vol 9721 Folio 121 Whitfield Parade Bushland 778.42

Lot 1 DP 360236 Vol 3237 Folio 87 Whitfield Parade Bushland 799.18

WILLUNGA RRESERVE

Lot 11 DP 1604 Vol 4897 Folio 56 Whitfield Parade Bushland 6,187.43

Part Lot 10 DP 1604 Vol 4897 Folio 56 Whitfield Parade Bushland 6,519.40

Willunga Reserve Total m2 12,706.83

Willunga Reserve Total Hectares 1.27

POULTON PARK Lot 1 DP 514974 (DOP) Whitfield Pde / East

Crescent Bushland 1,599.72

Part Lot 9 /1/DP 1604 Vol 2867 Folio 83 East Crescent Bushland 5,115.38

Lot 5 DP 527560 (DOP) East Crescent Bushland 822.32

Lot 3 DP 522167 (DOP) East Crescent Bushland 1,009.54

Lot 1 DP 515052 Vol 10448 Folio 127 East Crescent Bushland 911.51

Lot 1 DP 515051 Vol 10454 Folio 116 East Crescent Bushland 936.49

Lot 1 DP 215874 Vol 9315 Folio 46 East Crescent Bushland 6,674.10

Lot 22 DP 607133 Vol 14172 Folio 36 East Crescent Bushland 7,863.90Lot 1 DP 946013 Vol 2491 Folio 86 Seymour Street (Sth) Bushland 1,464.84

Lot 1 DP 946014 Vol 2493 Folio 246 Seymour Street (Sth) Bushland 1,447.67

Lot 1 DP 219030 Vol 9539 Folio 135 Seymour Street (Sth) Bushland 1,583.49

Lot 20 DP 10500 Vol 4788 Folio 143 Seymour Street (Nth) Turpentine Forest 773.10




Lot 24 DP 10500 Vol 4721 Folio 126 Seymour Street (Nth) Bushland 1,358.70

Lot 8 DP 21183 East Crescent Turpentine Forest 8,272.89

Poulton Park Total m2 200,194.48

Poulton Park Total Hectares 20.02

Total Hectares of Parkland 25.30

From Table 1, of the 25.30 hectares that comprise the parkland approximately 16 hectares is natural

bushland and 7.00 hectares for sports, recreational activities or ancillary infrastructure such as car

15

parks etc. The largest park is Poulton Park with an area of 20.02 hectares of which 13.90 hectares is a

natural bushland. Hurstville Quarry Reserve (North & South) has a total area of 4.01 hectares with 0.73

hectares of bushland. Willunga Reserve has 1.27 hectares of natural bushland.

1.4 STATE GOVERNMENT LAND STAKEHOLDERS

With reference to Table 1, Table 1.1 and Diagram 1, Kogarah Municipal Council is the principal owner

of Hurstville Quarry Reserve (North & South) and Willunga Reserve however there are several portions

of land in Poulton Park that are in the ownership of the Department of Lands (Crown Land),

Department of Planning (DOP) and the Sydney Water Corporation (SWC). With reference to Map 2

that area of land marked Yellow is in the ownership of Kogarah Municipal Council, the Green area (8)

is owned by the Department of Lands, the Blue areas (1-7) by the Department of Planning and the

Orange area (9), a small area marked just above the lower right hand corner is land in the ownership

of Sydney Water Corporation.

Table 1.1, identifies the various parcels of land within Poulton Park that are not owned by Council but

fall under its care, control and management or are managed independently by another authority such

as the Sydney Water Corporation. In all a total of 6.17 hectares of land is in the ownership of NSW

Government Departments while the remaining 13.85 hectares of the total 20.02 hectares are directly in

Council’s ownership.

The Department of Lands owns that portion of Poulton Park that comprises part of Oatley Bay Creek

and the adjoining estuary wetland and Oatley Bay foreshore. This is reserved Crown Land for Future

Public Requirements (R1011268). The Department of Planning owns several parcels distributed

throughout Poulton Park and the Sydney Water Corporation owns a single portion of land within

Poulton Park that is sited off Morshead Drive near the intersection of Kyle Parade. The Corporation

has constructed a sewage pumping station at this location.

Table 1.1

Poulton Park Land Stakeholders

Map Location

No.

Land Portion

Ownership General Location Significant Feature Area m2

1 Lot 2 DP 505836 Department of Planning Halstead Road Bushland 754.90



4 Lot 1 DP 509738 Department of Planning Whitfield Parade Bushland 789.66

5

Lot 1 DP 514974 Department of Planning Whitfield Pde / East Crescent

Bushland 1,599.72

6 Lot 5 DP 527560 Department of Planning East Crescent Bushland 822.32

7 Lot 3 DP 522167 Department of Planning East Crescent Bushland 1,009.54

8 Oatley Bay Creek Department of Lands Centre of Park Oatley Bay Creek 54,427.38

8 Estuary Department of Lands Morshead Drive Estuary

8 Oatley Bay foreshore Department of Lands Morshead Drive Foreshore

9 Lot 65 DP 240984 Vol 11617 Folio 231 Sydney Water Morshead Drive Sewage Pumping Station 834.40

Total m2 61,688.60

16

Poulton Park Total Hectares 6.17

Diagram 1

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Community Land

Crown Reserve

Department Planning

Sydney Water Corp

KEY

HURSTVILLEQUARRY RESERVE (SOUTH)

POULTONPARK

POULTON PARK

1

3

11

32

4

66 66 66

5

77

6

7

7

6

8

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WILLUNGARESERVE

HURSTVILLEQUARRY RESERVE (NORTH)

COMBINED PARKS LAND OWNERSHIP

HURSTVILLE GROVE

9OATLEY BAY

Combined Parks Land Ownership & Locations within the Parkland

1.5 EXISTING PLANNING CONTROLS

In accordance with the Kogarah Local Environmental Plan (LEP) the parkland has been zoned Open

Space 6(a) – Open Space (Public) Zone. The objectives of this zone are stated as follows:

a. To recognise publicly owned land used or capable of being used for local public

recreation, and

17

b. To identify and protect land intended to be acquired for local public open space.

The planning zone applies to all the land including land that is in the ownership of State authorities.

The zoning permits certain developments to take place in the park either requiring development

consent for development such as buildings etc or without requiring development consent for works

such as landscaping, installation of playgrounds, general park furniture etc. Any other structures not

listed in the Environmental Plan under this zoning are prohibited.

Under the provisions of the Environmental Planning & Assessment Regulation 2000, Clause 49

entitled Who can make a development application? state’s that a development application can be

made by the owner of the land to which the development application applies (s.49(1)(a)), that is land

owned by either Kogarah Council, the Department of Planning, Department of Lands or the Sydney

Water Corporation who are the owners of various parcels of land within the parkland.

A development application can also be made by a person, with the written consent of the owner of the

landowner (s. 49(1)(b)). In this case Kogarah Council may permit a community group or club to

develop parkland for a public benefit. However, s.49(2) Subclause (1)(b) does not require the consent

in writing of the owner of the land for a development application made by a public authority if, before

making the application the public authority, such as the Sydney Water Corporation developing land so

as to provide an essential service, serves a copy of the application to the owner. Relative to the Crown

land in the park a development application made by a lessee of Crown land, such as a community club

leasing Crown land can only be made with the written consent of the Minister administering the Crown

Lands Act 1989. If a Council is appointed Trustee of Crown land then it must forward a copy of the

development application to the Department of Lands 14 days prior to the application being lodged.

This is similar in the case of Department of Planning land where prior notification and consent must be

obtained from the Minister administering the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act 1979. Under

the provisions of Clause 59, Seeking concurrence, of the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act

1979 requires that a development application relevant to Departmental land to be forwarded to the

Department within 2 days after the application is lodged.

With reference to the Kogarah Local Environmental Plan 1998 as amended states as one of the

objectives relative to any proposed development on Open Space 6(a) Zone is that Council must take

into consideration as whether the proposed development is consistent with any plan of management

adopted by Council.

1.6 HISTORY OF THE PARKLAND

Prior to European settlement the parkland was in the ownership of the Bediagal Aboriginal peoples

who were part of the greater Dharug language group who together with the Kurringai and Dharawal

groups occupied the Sydney Basin area. There are a significant number of registered Aboriginal sites

in the Kogarah Municipality. These include middens, shelters, open campsites, shelters with middens

18

and/or deposits. Poulton Park is registered on the National Parks & Wildlife Services Aboriginal Sites

Register (No. 45-5-2270) as having an open campsite located in the park.

In the 1930’s Kogarah Council prepared the Oatley Bay Scheme that proposed the development of

Poulton Park, Hurstville Grove and Moore Reserve, Oatley. In 1934 the Chief Secretary’s Department,

under the provisions of the then s.949 (a) Local Government Act, 1919, gave permission for the

dredging of the northeastern arm of Oatley Bay to improve anchorage. It was estimated that

250,000m³ would be dredged from Oatley Bay and used as landfill at varying depths from 3 metres to

6 metres along the adjoining Poulton Park gully.

By 1936 the Department of Lands advised Council that it had no objections to the reclamation of

Poulton Park subject to Council acquiring 140 blocks of land that adjoined the reserve. Council

commenced an acquisition program that was to last the next 37 years. The last blocks of land were

acquired in 1973.

An aerial photograph held by Council taken by Adastra Airways Ltd dated 18th March 1937 clearly

displays the extent of vegetation clearing that had been undertaken along the entire length of the study

area. Extensive portions of the parkland, particularly the northwestern and substantial portions along

the southeastern boundary of Poulton Park are totally denuded of large trees and vegetation and it is

questionable as to the quality of the vegetation that remained owing to the extent of the clearing that

took place prior to and up to that period. At same time Hurstville Quarry Reserve (South) was being

mined as a sandstone quarry. In 1937 Oatley Bay extended up into that area of the parkland now

occupied by Council’s storage area. This was formerly the location where Oatley Bay Creek first

entered into Oatley Bay. The foreshore around the upper sections of Oatley Bay leading towards the

creek consisted of a thin band of grey mangroves (Avicennia marina) in the intertidal area.

Prior to 1964 members of the Connell’s Point Rovers Football Club had constructed one soccer field

located in the upper reaches of the previous landfilled central area of Poulton Park. That same year

Council acquired a dredge to commence works in Oatley Bay. Dredging and reclamation works

commenced in the northeastern arm of Oatley Bay in 1965 at the estimated costs of $1,029,000.

However, there was strong public opposition to the proposal because of the threat to the biota of the

mangrove swamps. Some of the community at that time perceived the mangrove area as a “mosquito

infested, smelly swamp”. As a result of the growing public concern for the environment the State

Pollution Control Commission (SPCC) officially ordered Council to cease dredging and reclamation

operations. It instructed Council to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) that was to

outline the proposed works and the means for the protection of the grey mangroves.

After the submission of the EIS in 1974 the then NSW Governor conditionally approved the dredging of

Oatley Bay and reclamation of a portion of Poulton Park as per Alternative 2, of Council’s EIS.

Alternative 2 provided greater protection for the mangroves, restricted the landfill area and made

19

assurances for tidal movements within the estuary where the mangroves dominated. The approval

permitted the landfill of the parkland on the southeastern side of Oatley Bay Creek. In the same year it

was estimated that these works would now cost $1,297,712.

In 1975 a grant to the sum of $200,000 was given to Council to dredge Oatley Bay and create a

causeway across the upper section of Oatley Bay to extend Morshead Drive so as to provide a

shortcut from the South Hurstville side of the parkland to the Hurstville Grove side. This affectively cut

the head of the Bay into two separate portions. By 1976, the causeway was completed creating an

estuary behind the newly created extension of Morshead Drive at the southern end of Poulton Park.

Culverts where installed under the extended portion of Morshead Drive to provide for tidal movement in

the estuary. Also in that year, Oatley Bay Creek, which dissects the full length of Poutlon Park and

drains into the estuary was cleared of undergrowth and straightened using dredged materials from the

Bay. However, owing to ongoing public concern for the environment Council ceased all dredging

works on 3rd January 1979.

The reclamation area in Poulton Park was subsequently levelled with imported clean fill from Council

works programs and from fill derived from the construction works that at the time were being

undertaken at the Hurstville Westfield Shopping Centre. The area was finally development as sports

fields and a temporary Council storage area. In May 1984, the then Mayor of Kogarah Alderman

Tynan officially opened the sportsfields.

Hurstville Quarry Reserve (South) was also used as a site to deposit waste. The site was a municipal

garbage tip in the 1950’s and was declared “unhealthy building land” in 1962. The site was sealed and

levelled and has since been used as sportsfields.

Since that time there has been ongoing development of the parkland with the construction of two new

amenities buildings, 2 grass court and 1 hard court netball court, playground and picnic facilities,

internal access roads, informal car park, floodlighting of No.1 soccer field and the hardcourt netball

courts, irrigation systems programmed to use recycled water, 2 hard court tennis courts and adjoining

amenities building, two cricket practice nets and synthetic covered cricket pitch.

Connell’s Point Rovers Soccer Club designed the kiosk/amenities building in Poulton Park opposite the

mini soccer field. The Football Club contributed 17% of the cost of the building while Kogarah Council

provided 34% and the NSW Department of Sport & Recreation provided a further 49% from its Capital

Assistance Grants Program. In addition, the Club was successful in gaining a further dollar-for-dollar

grant from the NSW Department of Sports for the supply and installation of the floodlights on the No.1

soccer field. The sportsfields are marked out and goal post supplied and installed each season by the

Club volunteers for the use by the Club, local schools and the community.

Council has also undertaken extensive bush regeneration and water quality programs to improve the

environment of the parkland. Contractors and the local Kogarah Bushcare volunteer group have

20

successfully revegetated extensive areas of the parkland with native and indigenous plant species.

LAND MANAGEMENT

& ADMINISTRATION

21

2.1 COMMUNITY LAND CLASSIFICATION Under the provisions of the Local Government Act, 1993 Council had previously resolved to classify

the land in its ownership in the parkland as “Community Land”. Essentially, the purpose of this

classification is to identify land that should be kept for use by the general public.

2.2 COMMUNITY LAND CATEGORISATION The parkland within the study area is a multifunctional recreational venue serving a wide variety of

community sport and passive recreational interest. Generally, the parkland consists of three soccer fields,

one hard court and two grass netball courts, two hard court tennis courts, lawn parkland, a recently

upgraded playground facility and a vehicle parking areas. Also, there are a range of buildings in the

parkland including two public toilet facilities, one tennis amenity building and one sports kiosk/amenities

building. In addition, there are sites of Aboriginal cultural heritage, native, indigenous and remnant

bushland, estuary area and formal and informal walking trails and other places of interest and scenic

quality. The bushland also contains endangered ecological communities listed under the Threatened

Species Act 1995.

The Local Government Act 1993 requires the classification of Council owned land into “Community” or

“Operational” land. The classification “Operational” land does not apply to the study area. The purpose of

classifying the land “Community Land” and then proceeding to categorise the land into management units

is to assigned core objectives so as to provide clear direction in the management and use of the various

types of landscapes and their resources within the parkland.

The various landscapes that comprise the parkland should be managed differently so as to sustain and

complement the purpose, function and quality of the different types of land resources and to preserve its

character, amenity, recreational, social, cultural and environmental values. Because there are a number of

different land attributes and uses that comprise the parkland there is a need, for the purpose of introducing

best practice land management, to delineate these into their appropriate land management categories. The

assigned categories ascribed to the land are based on the lands principal attributes and either its current or

preferred future use. Table 2 and the accompanying photographs 1, 2, 3, & 4 identifies the boundaries of

the various proposed categories of community land within the park which are as follows:

General Community Use,

Sportsground,

Park,

Natural Area – Watercourse,

Natural Area – Bushland, and

Cultural Significant.

22

Table 2 provides the reasoning for the selected Community Land category for the various portions of

parkland in Council’s ownership.

Table 2

Land Category Assessment

Category

Assessment

General Community Use

The category “General Community Use” applies to that area of parkland in Council’s ownership that is marked “General Community Use” in photographs numbered 1-4 and generally includes the following:

Access Routes The public access road and carpark into Hurstville Quarry Reserve

(North), The public access road off Rickard Street into Poulton Park, The public vehicle parking area north of and adjacent to the No.1

soccer field in Poulton Park, The vehicle roadway and parking area east of and adjacent to the

No.2 soccer field in Poulton Park. That portion of Community Land within Council’s storage depot within

the southern portion of Poulton Park. All other service roads into the parkland, The access road leading off Seymour Street, Hurstville Grove on he

western side of Poulton Park. Built Structures

The tennis amenities building in Hurstville Quarry Reserve (North) Soccer field kiosk/amenities building, Poulton Park opposite the

centrally located mini soccer field, The public toilets located south of the playground and opposite No.1 soccer field, on the southeastern side of Poulton Park, The public toilet located opposite No. 2 soccer field on the

southeastern side of Poulton Park, off Morshead Drive. Relative to the attributes of the land the infrastructure on the land, its use or potential use as multi-purpose recreational or community venues and the ancillary services or opportunities they provide this category is considered the most valid.

Sportsground The category “Sportsground” applies to that area of parkland in Council’s ownership that is marked “Sportsground” in photograph No. 1, 2 & 3 and generally includes the following: Hurstville Quarry Reserve (North) Two (2) concrete tennis courts. Relative to the attributes of the land, its current use and infrastructure having principally been set aside for the promotion and encouragement of organised sports activities whether for a social, competition or training purpose this category is considered to be the most appropriate. Hurstville Quarry Reserve (South) Located on the opposite side of Hurstville Road to Hurstville Quarry Reserve (North) the reserve contains the following sports facilities: One synthetic covered concrete cricket wicket. Two concrete cricket practice wickets. One (1) 3/4 soccer field and adjoining training areas. The above is a former tip site that has been landscaped and lawn areas that have been

23


Category

Assessment

set aside and developed for the playing of a variety of sports. Relative to the attributes of the land, its current use and infrastructure having principally been set aside for the promotion and encouragement of organised sports activities this category is considered appropriate relative to the existing use of that portion of land depicted in photograph 2 being set aside for sports activities. Poulton Park The existing sportsfields and the adjoining land between these fields used for training purposes as indicated on photograph 3 that are located in the southeastern side of Oatley Bay Creek adjacent Morshead Drive and at the opposite the intersection of Morshead Drive and Rickard Road and consists of: 2 x grass netball courts, 1 senior court and 1 junior court 1 x hardcourt netball court (asphalt surface) No 1 soccer field being 89 metres in length x 61 metres in width and includes that

area to the chain wire fence on the northwestern side of the field and that area to the bottom of the embankment on the southeastern side of the field opposite the playground and the land between it and the mini soccer field. Mini soccer field being 49 metres in length x 35 metres in width located opposite the

sports amenities building and includes that area to the edge of the bushland on the northwestern side of the field and that area to the edge of the bushland on the southeastern side of the sportsfield and the land between it and No 2 soccer field. No 2 soccer field being 97 metres in length x 62 metres in width and that portion of

land to the northwestern boundary fence, the southern boundary fence and the southeastern boundary fence adjacent the service road.

Relative to the use and attributes of the land, its historical and current use as a sports venue, the increasing demand for the provision of sports fields, the existing infrastructure having principally been set aside for the promotion and encouragement of organised sports activities the proposed category is considered to be appropriate.

Park The category “Park” applies to that area of parkland owned by Council marked “Park” on photographs 1-4 and generally includes the following: Hurstville Quarry Reserve (North) The area of the reserve depicted in photograph 1 that includes landscaped lawn, playground areas set aside for the purpose of enhancing social and cultural passive recreational activities. Relative to the attributes of the land, its current use and infrastructure having principally been set aside for the promotion and encouragement of passive recreational, social and cultural activities the proposed category would be considered the most appropriate for this section of the Reserve. Hurstville Quarry Reserve (South) That area of the reserve depicted in photograph 2 that includes landscaped lawn areas, native garden beds, access ways, areas set aside for the purpose of enhancing social and cultural passive recreational activities. Poulton Park The area of the park depicted in photograph 3 and 4 that includes landscaped lawn areas, playground area, pathways, picnic areas and other supplementary passive recreation areas having been set aside for the purpose of enhancing social and cultural passive recreational activities. Areas included in this category are: that portion of this section of the park opposite No.1 soccer field, the eastern portion of the existing Council depot site that is Community Land and that portion of the park opposite the intersection of Morshead Drive & Kyle Parade, Connell’s Point.

24


Category

Assessment

Relative to the attributes of the land, its current use and infrastructure having principally been set aside for the promotion and encouragement of passive recreational, social and cultural activities the proposed category is considered valid for these sites.

Natural Area – Watercourse

The category “Natural Area - Watercourse” applies only to those areas of parkland identified as Oatley Bay Creek in photographs 2, 3 & 4 that are situated on Community Land. It applies to the open swale, open creek and enclosed creek sections and riparian zone of Oatley Bay Creek within Quarry Reserve and Poulton Park but excludes the estuary at the lower end of the Poulton Park opposite Oatley Bay as this is within the Crown land and land categorization is not applicable to the Crown Lands Act, 1989. Relative to the attributes of the watercourse as part natural and artificial landscaped feature representative of a gully drainage system no other category is considered valid for those portions of Oatley Bay Creek and estuary that have been diverted onto community land.

Natural Area – Bushland

The category “Natural Area - Bushland” applies to that area of parkland marked “Natural Area - Bushland” on photographs 1 - 4 and generally includes the following: Hurstville Quarry Reserve (North) That area of the reserve generally along the western and northern boundary adjacent to the access road and behind the tennis courts that is relatively undisturbed or regenerated bushland consisting of a range of native and indigenous plant species that comprise the substrata and upperstrum and also includes the natural rock outcrops and sandstone ridge that are predominant around the perimeter of the parkland. Relative to the composition, extent and density of the native and indigenous plant species that comprise the principal attributes of the land no other category is considered valid. Hurstville Quarry Reserve (South) That section of parkland along the western boundary of the park but excludes the landscape native garden beds at the base of the quarry wall. The Quarry wall is part of the heritage of the park and views to it should not be unduly restricted. Poulton Park That area of the reserve generally along the northern, northwestern, southern and southeastern boundaries of the reserve that are relatively undisturbed remnant or regenerated native or indigenous bushland consisting of a range of native plant species that comprise the substrata and upperstrum and includes the natural rock outcrops that are within the bushland area. Relative to the composition, extent and density of the native plant species that comprise the principal attributes of the land no other category is considered valid. Willunga Reserve Willunga Reserve is a bushland reserve devoid of any significant built structures other than an access stairway off Whitfield Parade and informal bush trails and is comprised of remnant and regenerated native and indigenous plant species. Relative to the composition, extent and density of the native and indigenous plant species the lack of any formal built structures that comprise the principal attributes of the land no other category is considered valid.

Cultural Significance

Hurstville Quarry Reserve has been listed under the Kogarah Local Environmental Plan as a site of Local Heritage Significance. The listing states: The Hurstville Quarry and Reserve is historically significant as it is representative of local industries. It is the source of sandstone utilized in many of the local building works. A section of the quarry was reclaimed in 1946 as grassed open space. Native

25


Category

Assessment

plants are being regenerated within the reclaimed areas (Tropman & Tropman :1994, Kogarah Heritage Study). With reference to its heritage listing as a place of cultural significance no other land category is considered appropriate.

AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHS DELINIATING COMMUNITY LAND CATEGORIES IN THE PARKLAND

BUSHLAND

PARK

CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE

WATERCOURSE

SPORTSGROUND

LAND CATEGORIES

GENERAL COMMUNITY USE

BUSHLAND

QUARRY RESERVE (NORTH) LAND CATEGORIES

Carpark

Parkland

AmenitiesBuilding

TennisCourts

Bushland

1. Quarry Reserve (North) Land Categories

26

QuarryWall

Sports Field

QUARRY RESERVE

QUARRY RESERVE (SOUTH)

LAND CATERGORY

Park

Bushland

LAND CATEGORIES

BUSHLAND

PARK

WATERCOURSE

CULTURAL SIGNIFICANT

SPORTSFIELD

2. Quarry Reserve (South) & Poulton Park (North) Land Categories

POULTON PARK

N

(CENTRAL - LAND CATEGORIES

Road

Carpark

NetballNetball

Toilet

Park

Toilet

Soccer Fields

AmenitiesBuilding

Carpark

Toilet

Road

OatleyBay Creek

Bushland


BUSHLAND

PARK

LAND CATEGORIES

WATERCOURSE

SPORTSFIELDS

LLS

PO

GR

EE

NAC

RE

RD

HALSTEAD ST

HOMEDALE CRES

LICOE ST

MIMOSA

MORSHEAD DR

RIC

KA

RD

RD

ROWE ST

WA

ITA

RA

PD

E

YO

UN

G P

L

3. Poulton Park (Central) Land Categories

27

2

13

4

11

71

75

9

8784

82

80

78

86

88

79

81

77

89

94

92

149

1

9091

93

96

1519

17

68

3032

34

36

10

1633

23 21

25

27

2912

1620

18

28

45

36

30

47

34

5532

24

22

26

38

5

3

1

80

61

102

40

104

42

95

64

66

68

70

48

35

31

38

40

42

44

46

50

39

37

43

51

41

53

49

78

74

54

72

5976

56

58

60

52

62

57

23

78

23A

78A

40

32

30

34

36

38

45

4756

58

52

50

48

46

56

42

66

55

49

60

62

64

51

61

4946

4851

56

54

52

50

78

90 76

86

82

84

74

72

80

70

65

66

64

62

60

58

61

69

65

67

2

74

72

70

68

1

76

77 - 79

24

3

79 A

75

11

16

18

4

9

14

13

27

11

11

17

19

21

30

25

28

28

610 8

5

55

7911

142S

S

S

151

152

150

148

153

161

155

156

154

157

159

158

166

s

77

98

75

98A

100

48

46

171

172

168

173

165

167

169

69

69

73

71

4463

177

175

26

16

18

20

22

24

15

13

11

9

28

30

32

34

36

19

17

12

24

6

8

10

14

2

21

1

3

45

90

782

84

86

88

92

94

96

172

7

98

102

108

100

110

108

104106 10

4

112

118

116

114

93

120

124

122

71

59

68

63

57

67

75

6973

77

36

53

5

7

8

54

53

55

57

59

26

24

22

80

96

85

89

87

81A

83

79

92

91

73

71

1

88

130

126 126

49

51

53

134

132

128

10

14

2

12

23

12

16

7

15

20

34

7

32

13

18

20

S

GENERAL COMMUNITYUSE

CROWN RESERVE

SYDNEY WATER CORP

PARK

BUSHLAND

LAND CATEGORIES

CROWN RESERVE

POULTONPARK(EAST)

POULTON PARK(SOUTHERN LANDCATEGORIES)

WILLUNGARESERVE

POULTON PARK (WEST)

CROWN RESERVE

NNELLS P

OIN

T RD

LAN

GS

HA

W

MO

RS

HEA

D D

R

PALDING CRES

THE CRESCENT

IEW ST

WA

ITA

RA

PD

E

WHITFIE

LD PDE

4. Poulton Park (South) Land Categories & Crown Land

2.3 PRINCIPLES OF CROWN LAND MANAGEMENT

The Minister administering the Crown Lands Act 1989 ensures that Crown land is managed for the benefit

of the people of NSW in manner that complies with the Section 10 of the Crown Lands Act 1989, which

state:

a) a proper assessment of the Crown land, b) the management of the Crown land having regard to the principles of the Crown land management

contained in the Act, c) the proper development and conservation of Crown land having regard to those principles, d) the regulation of the condition under which Crown land is permitted to be occupied, used, sold,

leased, licensed or otherwise dealt with, e) the reservation or dedication of Crown land for public purposes and the management and use of

the reserve or dedicated land, and f) the collection, recording and dissemination of information in relation to Crown land.

The Crown reserve land (Reserve 1011268) within the parkland is reserved for Future Public Requirement

and is administered by the Crown Lands Act, 1989 and not the Local Government Act 1993 that applies to

Community Land in Council’s ownership. Therefore classification and categorisation does not apply to

Crown Reserve land. Because Crown land is administered by different legislation it has been addressed

separately in this plan of management to fulfill the requirements of the governing legislation.

The Crown reserve land within Poulton Park generally consists of the estuary wetland and the lower

sections of Oatley Bay Creek and the Oatley Bay foreshore intertidal area the surrounding riparian

zones. Oatley Bay Creek transits the length of Poulton Park with sections within the Crown land. This

is the last natural creek within the Kogarah LGA and has high environmental conservation value to the

28

community.

The plan acknowledges that the management of the Crown Reserve is to be in accordance with the

Principles of Crown land management as stated in Section 11 of the Crown Lands Act 1989. Section

11 of the Act entitled Principles of Crown land management in part states:

a. that environmental protection principles be observed in relation to the management and administration of Crown land;

b. that the natural resources of Crown land (including water, soil, flora, fauna and scenic quality) be conserved wherever possible;

c. that the public use and enjoyment of appropriate Crown land be encouraged…

2.4 VALUE STATEMENTS

In addition, to the Principles of Crown land management the community values associated with the

land and its resources establish the direction for the future management of the land: Relative to

Reserve 1011268 these values are stated in Table 2.2:

Table 2.2

Value Statements for the Management of Crown Land within the Parkland

Value

Value Statement

Sport Those portions of the sportsfields cited on reserved Crown land are valued as an

important local and district sports resource that provides beneficial health and social opportunities and experiences for a broad spectrum of age groups within both genders.

Recreation The sportsfields and the foreshore areas of Oatley Bay that are reserved Crown land are valued as places providing a diversity of high quality passive and active recreational experiences, benefits and opportunities.

Social The reserved Crown land that is within parkland is valued for the opportunities it provides as a meeting place, a place to interact, socialize and celebrate with others by providing a venue capable of fulfilling individual and group needs for affiliation and the sharing of common interest whether it be sports, recreation, appreciation of the natural environment or any other leisure activity.

Cultural The reserved Crown land is valued as a place of cultural and historical value in terms of both Aboriginal & European culture and defines the relationship between people, place, activity and the environment. This is achieved by instilling a strong sense of identity and cohesion within the local community and throughout the surrounding district.

Natural Reserved Crown land within the parkland is valued as a place that provides native and indigenous flora & fauna habitat as well as a corridor for the movement of native fauna between the terrestrial open space of the parkland and the adjoining watercourse & estuarine wetland and Oatley Bay foreshore.

Location Reserved Crown land within the parkland is valued as open space that provides a buffer between the natural and built environment and improves the visual and scenic amenity from the surrounding urban fabric.

Access Crown land is valued as accessible land that provides equal opportunity to the public, regardless of any physical limitations, capabilities, ethnicity, religion or other factors, to use and enjoy for recreation and socialization.

Environment The reserved Crown land within the parkland is valued as a site for conserving, rehabilitating and protecting the natural environment to ensure biodiversity, ecological sustainability and inter-generational equity.

Management The management of reserved Crown land has been undertaken by Council because it values the opportunity to improve the environmental, social & recreation opportunities that can be provided to the community and for the parklands own intrinsic values as a

29

Value Statements for the Management of Crown Land within the Parkland

Value

Value Statement

functioning ecological system.

The various landscape settings and recreational opportunities offered by the Crown reserve land within the

parkland plays a significant role in attracting and enhancing the visitor’s experience and enjoyment of the

park by providing a diversity of landscape settings both natural and landscaped.

2.5 PROPOSE CHANGE TO CROWN LAND RESERVATION

The Minister responsible for administering the Crown Land Act 1989 has reserved the Crown land in

Poulton Park (R 1011268) for Future Public Requirements. With reference to s.87, Division 3, of the

Crown Land Act 1989 the Minister may by notification in the Government Gazette, reserve any Crown land

for future public requirement. The Department of Lands has advised that considering the proposed future

use of the Crown land outlined in the plan of management it is desirable that the reserve purpose of the

Crown land in Poulton Park be changed to a public purpose. A “public purpose” or acceptable use is

determined by that purpose relative to the specific values and characteristics of the land that are identified

in a plan of management. Crown land may be reserved for more than one purpose.

The Department suggests that in light of Council’s intentions for the publics use and enjoyment of the

reserve an appropriate change reserve would be Public Recreation / Environmental Protection (Refer

to Photograph 5). A change to the reserve purpose could enable Council to request the Minister to

appoint it Trustee of the Crown Reserve land.

2

CROWN RESERVE 1011268 Future Public Requirement

CROWN LAND RESERVATION IN IN POULTON PARK

PARKPOULTON

CROWNRESERVE1011268

FUTURE PUBLIC REQUIREMENT

WILLUNGA RESERVE

5. Reserve 1011268 Crown land in Poulton Park, Hurstville Grove reserved for Future Public Requirement.

30

Table 2.3 describes the reasoning for the preferred change to the reserve in particular Council seeks to

create a management buffer zone to protect the riparian and estuary that contain extensive marine and

terrestrial habitat and subsequent biodiversity.

Table 2.3

Reserved Crown Land

Proposed Reservation

Those sections of the original natural creek bed of Oatley Bay Creek that still function as part of the riparian corridor are rich in habitat and marine and terrestrial biodiversity. The Estuarine wetland adjacent Morshead Drive, Connell’s Point and adjoining mangrove forest are a nursery for marine life and aquatic bird life. The land is managed under the provisions of the Rivers & Foreshore Improvements Act 1948 in that it is protected land being part of the river foreshore.

Public Recreation / Environmental Protection

The reclaimed sections of the former natural creek bed of Oatley Bay Creek that forms part of the existing open park area used as sportsfields.

The Minister, under s.92 to s.98 of the Act can establish and name a reserve trust and appoint Council as

trustee. A Crown land public reserve trustee is charged with the care, control and management of that part

of the park that the appointment of trusteeship applies. The Minister may approve to appoint a Council to

manage the affairs of a reserve trust. Section 98 of the Crown Lands Act 1989 states that where a Council

is appointed a manager of a reserve trust and the reserve is a public reserve then Council retains all the

obligations and functions it incurs through the provisions of the Local Government Act, 1993 but it has no

power to classify the public reserve Operational Land under s.25 of the latter legislation.

Section 91 of the Crown Lands Act 1989 requires that the land shall not be reserved unless the land is

assessed under Part 3 of the Crown Lands Act 1989. However, the Act also provides the waiver of the

land assessment requirement if:

• It is in the public interest to reserve the land under Part 3, and

• In reserving the land has had due regard to Crown land management as set out in s.11 of

the Crown Lands Act 1989.

It is proposed that this plan of management provides the means to waiver the land assessment

requirement because it substantiates the environmental value of the land to the community and

subsequently proposes that its future use and management will be for the public purpose and benefit

of public recreation and environmental education. In addition the plan acknowledges that the

management of the Crown Reserve is to be in accordance with the Principles of Crown land

management as stated in Section 11 of the Crown Lands Act 1989.

Table 2.4 outlines Council’s proposed management initiatives for the Crown land relative to Principles of

31

Crown land management that it would apply if the Minister administering the Crown Lands Act 1989

approves its appointment as Trustee of the Crown land in Poulton Park.

Table 2.4

Statements Addressing s.11 Principles of the Crown Land Management, from Crown Lands Act, 1989

Item

Crown Lands Principal

Council’s Initiative

A That environmental protection principles

must be observed in relation to the management and administration of Crown land.

The plan seeks to conserve, protect and where appropriate rehabilitate the parklands natural ecological systems and biodiversity. Also to preserve the cultural significance of the parkland for indigenous and non-indigenous peoples and the historical importance of the land, its character, social, economic and environmental benefits.

B That the natural resources of the Crown Land (including water, soil, flora, fauna and scenic quality) be conserved Wherever possible.

The plan seeks to retain the landscape character of the parkland as representative of the native and indigenous vegetation that once occupied extensive areas of the Kogarah LGA. As well as to conserve, protect and where appropriate rehabilitate the parklands natural ecological systems and biodiversity.

C That public use and enjoyment of appropriate Crown land be encouraged.

The proposals in the plan will enable greater public access and participation in the use and enjoyment of the land by formalization of pathways, provision of interpretive signage, instigating best practice natural resource management, planning and conservation and restoration activities.

D That, where appropriate, Crown land should be used and managed in such a way that both the land and its resources are sustained in perpetuity.

The recommendation to reserve the reserved crown land for public recreation and environmental benefits and appoint Council as Trustee will ensure the land remains for a public benefit and is used and managed in a manner that ensures, perpetuity, inter-generational equity, social, economic and environmental benefits to the community on a local, district and regional scale.

E That, where appropriate, Crown land should be occupied, used, sold, leased, licensed or otherwise dealt with in the Best interest of the State consistent with the above principles.

Recommendations in the plan outline the principal guidelines for leasing, licensing and the future use of the land that would ensure principal tenants and user groups act in the best interest of the State and preserve the land for future generations. The plan does not permit designated areas of bushland, riparian corridors or wetlands to licensed or leased.

2.6 PROPOSE CHANGE TO THE ZONING OF CROWN LAND As part of the process to change the reserve purpose Council would need to change the existing

zoning from Open Space 6(a) – Open Space (Public) Zone to part Open Space 6(a) – Open Space

(Public) Zone for that portion of Crown land currently used as sportsground and part of the Council

temporary storage area together with that portion that forms the riparian zone and estuary wetland to

be rezoned Environmental Protection 7(a) – Environmental Protection (Waterways) Zone (Refer to

Photograph 6).

32

68

66

71

69

73

67

74

72

7075

76

141

139

141

138145

5

13

2

13

4

11

71

75

9 7

87

84

82

80

78

86

88

79

81

77

89

94

92

149

147

9091

93

96

1519 17

68

34

36

10

1633

23 21

25

27

29

12

1620

18

28

45

36

30

47

34

5532

24

22

26

38

5

3

1

80

61

102

40

104

42

95

64

66

68

70

48

35

31

38

40

42

44

46

50

39

37

43

51

41

53

49

78

74

54

72

5976

56

58

60

52

62

57

23

23A

78A

40

32

34

36

38

45

4756

58

52

50

48

46

56

42

6655

49

60

62

64

51

61

4851

56

54

52

50

78

90 76

86

82

84

74

72

80

70

65

66

64

62

60

58

61

69

65

67

2

74

72

70

68

1

76

77 - 79

24

3

79 A

75

11

4

9

27

17

19

21

25

28

6

5

55

7

151

152

146

140

150

148

143

153

161

155

156

154

157

159

158

166

s

77

98

75

98A

100

48

46

171

172

168

173

165

167

169

69

69

73

71

4463

177

175

26

16

18

20

22

24

15

13

11

9

28

30

32

34

19

17

12

24

6

8

10

14

2

1

3

45

90

782

84

86

88

92

94

96

7

98

102

108

100

110

108

104106

10

4

112

118

116

114

93

120

4

122

71

59

68

63

57

67

75

6973

77

36

53

5

7

8

54

53

55

57

59

26

24

22

80

96

85

89

87

81A

83

79

92

91

73

71

1

88

49

53

1012

23

ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION 7(a)ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION(WATERWAYS) ZONE

OPEN SPACE 6(a) - OPEN SPACE(PUBLIC) ZONE

PROPOSED ZONING OF CROWN RESERVE(R 1011268)

WILLUNGARESERVE

POULTONPARK

CROWNRESERVE(R1011268)POULTON

PARK

CROWNRESERVE(R1011268)

NNELLS P

OIN

T RD

DU

GG

AN

CR

ES

KYLE P

LAN

GS

HA

W

MO

RS

HE

AD

DR

SPALDING CRES

CRESCENTW

AIT

AR

A P

DE

WHITFIE

LD PDE

6. R1010268m, Poulton Park, Hurstville Grove proposed rezoning. The objective of rezoning that portion of the Crown Reserve to Environmental Protection 7(a) –

Environmental Protection (Waterways) Zone is to ensure that any development of the land below the

mean high water mark is carried out in an environmentally sensitive manner, having regard to the

nature and function of the waterways. As the plan proposes the construction of improved fish

passageway under Morshead Drive into Oatley Bay the proposed rezoning will ensure that this and

any other works will be undertaken with regard to stringent environmental controls.

Once the re-zoning is completed Council could then proceed to request the Minister responsible for

administering the Crown Lands Act 1989 to change the reserve and request that it be appointment as

trustee of the Crown Reserve (R 1011268) within the parkland. Should Council be appointed

trusteeship it would retain all the functions of a council under the provisions of the Local Government

Act 1993 in relation to managing the reserve but it cannot classify the Crown reserve land as is

required for Community Land under the provisions of that Act. The provisions of the Crown Lands Act

1989 have precedence over the Local Government Act 1993 relative to specific administrative

functions such as land classification and the licensing and leasing of Crown Reserve land.

2.7 IMPACT OF CASE LAW ON CROWN LAND MANAGEMENT The Department of Lands has advised of other considerations that need to be taken into account in the

management of Crown land. These considerations include judgments derived from case law

concerning public recreation as well as provide guidance for Council’s who are appointed as Trustees

of Crown land. As an example these are:

33

• Where Crown land has been reserved or dedicated for a public purpose then any

development or improvements must be ancillary to the public purpose of the

reservation.

• A Trust may impose reasonable entry fees.

• Access to cross Crown land should be freely available as of right.

• The use of reserved Crown land must be consistent with the public purpose e.g.

activities or uses that are supportive of the recreational use of land reserved for public

recreation.

• The terms and conditions of use outlined in a lease or license must be consistent with

the public purpose of the reserved land.

Should the reserved Crown land be reserved for the purpose of public recreation and environmental

protection and Council appointed Trustee it is obliged to take into consideration judgments arising from

case law that may in the future impact on the management of land. Council is aware of the possible

outcomes relative to the potential loss of the management of the land should there be successful land

claims made under the provisions of either the Native Title Act, 1998 (Cwlth) or Aboriginal Lands Act,

1983.

2.8 NATIVE TITLE

2.8.1 Native Title Act 1998 (Cwlth)

As part of the study area is reserved Crown land and because of the presence of Aboriginal artifacts

on the land it is necessary to give consideration to the possible impact of native title on this land. The

rights of native title are conferred through the determination made by the Federal Court, High Court or

possibly by some State and Territorial Courts. Native title may exists in places where native and

indigenous people continue to follow their traditional laws and customs and have maintained a link with

their country, and where it has not been extinguished (refused recognition) because of acts done, or

allowed, by government. Areas where native title may exist include:

1. Vacant Crown land (or unallocated state/Crown land),

2. Some reserve lands,

3. Some types of pastoral leases,

4. Some land held by or for Aboriginal people or Torres Strait Islanders,

5. Beaches, oceans, seas, reefs, rivers, creeks, swamps and other waters that

are not privately owned.

Items 1 & 5 above may be relevant to the reserved Crown land at this site. The Native Title Act, 1998

(Cwlth) recognises native title rights and provides a process by which native title rights can be

established and compensation determined, and by which determinations can be made as to whether

34

future grants can be made or acts done over native title land and waters. Table 2.5 outlines previous

and current Native Title Claims as of January 1994 to April 2008 in the Kogarah Local Government

Area and the status of those claims to that date.

Table 2.5

Native Title Claims in the Kogarah Local Government Area from 1994 to November 2006

Date Filed

Application Name

Application

Type

Status

Local

Government Area

Tribunal File No.

Federal Court

File No.

13/06/1995

NSW Government #5

Non-claimant application

Finalised - Dismissed

Kogarah

NN95/11

Not applicable

5/01/1996

NSW Government #18

Non-claimant application

Finalised - Dismissed

Kogarah

NN96/1

Not applicable

26/06/1996

Gundungura

Claimant application

Finalised - Rejected

Kogarah

NC96/21

Not applicable

12/05/1997

Darug Tribal Aboriginal Corporation


Active

Kogarah

NC97/8

NSD6061/98

1/05/06

Eora People


Finalised dismissed

Kogarah

NC98/10

NSD6099/98

With reference to Table 2.5, the Darug Tribal Aboriginal Corporation originally filed a claim for Crown

lands across the Sydney region on 12th May 1997. Council has been advised that the claim, which

includes Crown land within the Kogarah Municipality, has yet to be determined by the Native Title

Tribunal and, therefore, remains active and requires consideration as to the future use of lands that

may be claimed under the provisions of the Act.

Native title is deemed to exist on Crown land unless it has been extinguished by an extinguishing

action. Where a development is proposed native title should be investigated prior the proposal being

brought forward.

2.8.2 Aboriginal Land Rights Act 1983 (NSW)

The NSW Government has introduced the Aboriginal Land Rights Act 1983. Section 36 Claims to

Crown lands sets out the provisions for a NSW Aboriginal Land Council to make a claim for land within

its or their area or, with the approval of the Register, outside its or their area. The Act was established

to provide a mechanism for compensating Aboriginal peoples for the loss of their land. Unlike Native

Title, land rights are a grant created by the NSW State Government rather than the Courts. The

assessment of a claim is fundamentally based on whether the Minister administering the Aboriginal

Land Rights Act 1983 determines that the lands are needed, or likely to be needed, for an essential

public purpose, at the time the claim is made, if the whole of the lands claimed is claimable Crown

35

lands or only part on the lands is claimable.

The Department of Lands advised on 23 November 2006 that there is currently only one Aboriginal

land claim affecting the Kogarah LGA. The claim and status are listed in Table 2.6 that notes the claim

is incomplete at the time of the preparation of this plan.

Table 2.6

Aboriginal Land Claims Affecting Kogarah LGA

Claim No.

Affected

Lands/Waters

Lodgment

Date

Aboriginal

Land Council

Parish

County

Status

6735

Georges River

Cooks River

Wooko Creek

Muddy Creek

19 June 2002

Metropolitan

St Peters

Cumberland

Incomplete

2.9 MANAGEMENT OF DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING LAND

Table 2.7 identifies the land in Poulton Park in the ownership of the Department of Planning. The care,

control and management of this land was transferred to Kogarah Council on the 15th June 1984.

Council currently manages the land in accordance with directives from the Minister administering the

Environmental Planning & Assessment Act, 1979, with particular reference to s.5 of that legislation that

states in part:

(vi) the protection of the environment, including the protection and conservation of native animals and plants, including threatened species, populations and ecological communities, and their habitats…

These specific parcels of land are bushland settings containing valuable strands of native flora, fauna

and habitat that significantly contribute to the ecological and amenity value of the parkland and

surrounding urban area. In addition, Council has a long history of maintenance and improvements to

the land performed by both contractors and the Kogarah Poulton Park BushCare Volunteer group who

have tendered over the land for many years.

Subsequently, in the interest of local public benefit and acknowledgement of Council’s continued

financial contribution towards the maintenance and improvement to the land it would now be

36

appropriate for Council to approach the Corporation of the Minister Administering the Environmental

Planning & Assessment Act 1979 to seek that Minister’s approval to have the land titles for the land

described in Table 2.7 transferred to Council.

Table 2.7

Department of Planning Land in Poulton Park

Map Location

No.

Land Portion Ownership General Location Significant Feature Area m2




4 Lot 1 DP 509738 Department of Planning Whitfield Parade Bushland 789.66

5

Lot 1 DP 514974 Department of Planning Whitfield Pde / East Crescent

Bushland 1,599.72

6 Lot 5 DP 527560 Department of Planning East Crescent Bushland 822.32

7 Lot 3 DP 522167 Department of Planning East Crescent Bushland 1,009.54

The Department of Planning has advised that if the Minister does approved the transfer of the land

titles identified in Table 2.7 then Council could be required to enter into a Land Transfer Agreement.

The conditions of such an agreement could include but not be limited to the following:

1. That the Council would need to accept the land in its present state and condition and state

of repair including any structures, waste or any substances on the land or latent or patent

defects;

2. Council waives and indemnifies the Corporation with the corporate name Minister

Administering the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act 1979 against any existing

and future claims or redress of any kind;

3. Council must use the entirety of the Land for Open Space Recreational Purposes, it must

ensure that the land is not used for any purpose other than Open Space Recreational

Purposes (The Corporation may register a Positive Covenant pursuant to Section 88D of

the Conveyancing Act 1919 on the title of the Land to ensure that this clause is adhered

to);

4. The Council must not offer, sell or transfer the Land without first offering it to the

Corporation by serving notice on the Corporation, etc.

5. Council would be required to ensure that the Land is kept free of noxious weeds, feral

37

animals, vermin, pest animals, waste of any kind including contaminants or hazardous

materials likely to injure the health of any person, flora or fauna on or surrounding the

Land; and

6. Council would be expected to comply and enforce all statues, regulations, ministerial

directives, by laws, planning instruments, directions, etc from any authority from time to

time.

Subject to Council adopting this proposed action in the plan of management it could then proceed to

implement the appropriate actions to seek the transfer of land titles to Kogarah Council.

2.10 SYDNEY WATER CORPORATION LAND

Kogarah Council does not have any jurisdiction regarding the control or management those portions of

land occupied by the Sydney Water Corporation within the parkland. This includes the sewage

pumping station site located on the eastern side of the estuary wetland off the southern section of

Morshead Drive and sewage infrastructure within the parkland. This portion of land within the park

remains the responsibility of the Sydney Water Corporation.

The Corporation’s land is managed in accordance with the objectives and principles of the Sydney

Water Act, 1994 and the Sydney Water Catchment Act, 1998 s.14 that in part states:

(a) to ensure that the catchment and the catchment infrastructure works are managed and protected so as to promote water quality, the protection of public health and public safety, and the protection of the environment…

Council has initiated prolonged conservation and restoration projects to regenerate, restore and

conserve native vegetation on its adjoining land. This has softened the visual impact on the pumping

station and improved the scenic amenity surrounding the site. As the Sydney Water Corporation is the

sole owner of the land and its infrastructure Council has no responsibility in the management of the

land.

2.11 SUMMARY

It should be noted that while giving due consideration to the specific legislation and directives for

governing the various portions of land owned by various NSW Government Corporations every effort

has been made in this plan to integrate and consolidate the planning, management and development

of the parkland into a workable whole of park management system. The principal aim is to provide a

management system capable of delivering a diversity of social and environmental outcomes that will

benefit the broader community and contribute to the quality of their life styles by offering a diversity of

recreational opportunities to stimulate both the intellectual and physical well being of visitors to the

parkland.

39

WHOLE OF PARK

STRATEGIES & ACTIONS

40

3.0 WHOLE OF PARK STRATEGIES & ACTIONS

The following whole of park strategies and actions apply across the entire parkland and includes both

Community Land, Crown land and land in the ownership of the Department of Planning (DOP). These

strategies should not conflict with the objectives of the respective land categories or where the land is

Crown land with the principals of the Crown Lands Act, 1989 or the relevant legislation, policies or

directives from the Department of Planning in which case the latter have precedence.

3.1 PRINCIPLES FOR LICENSING & LEASING COMMUNITY LAND

The Plan of Management expressly authorises the issuing of licences and leases on the Community Land

subject to the general and specific conditions and uses set out in this plan. However, there are restrictions

placed on Community Land relative to the granting of licenses or leases. For example, under the

provisions of the Local Government Act, 1993 Council may grant a licence or lease for a period up to 21

years. In addition, the lease or licence must be consistent with the core objectives for each of the

nominated land categories in which the licence or lease is confined and publicly advertised in accordance

with the Act.

Under s.47 of the Local Government Act, 1993 if Council considers entering into a lease or licence for the

use of Community Land for a period greater than 5 years (including an option) it has to give public notice

by way of advertisement in the local media of the proposed agreement and exhibit a notice of the proposal

on the land where the proposal relates, give notice to adjoining owners and other key stakeholders. Any

person can make a submission (s.47(3)) in writing to Council up to 28 days after the public notice (s.47(2))

or as specified in the public notice but this must not be less than 28 days. A Council must consider all

submission (s.47(4)) prior to granting a lease or licence or other estate over Community Land.

It is Council’s preference to maintain and where feasible enhance the environmental and recreational

values and services to the community that the parkland currently provides. To this end, Council has

previously entered into Seasonal Permits with local community sports organisations that have provided a

variety of recreational opportunities to the community. In addition this plan requires the entering of formal

lease agreements for the long-term occupation or use of any buildings located on Community Land.

Further in accordance with s.47B of the Local Government Act, 1993 a lease, licence or other estate

cannot be granted over Community Land categorized Natural Area for a building or structure that is not a

building or structure prescribed by the Act or Regulations. It is the intention of this plan of management not

to permit leasing of any natural area within the parkland but seeks the protection and conservation of these

areas for future generations.

Table 3.1 outlines the governing Principles for licensing and leasing the parkland and public buildings

within the parkland.

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Table 3.1

Principles for Leasing & Licensing

Item

Principles

Lease Agreements Subject to the termination of any current lease agreement for the use of any of the

existing built structures within the parkland, either by default or voluntary surrender of the existing licence or lease by the licensee or lessee, any future permit, licence or lease agreement for the use of land or existing or new built structures are to adopt the following principles.

Occupied Buildings on Community Land

Council is to enter into lease or licence agreements for any buildings constructed on Community Land occupied by a third party.

Lease Area As agreed between Council and the potential lessee but exclude those portions of land within the land categories Natural Area.

Development (i) Any proposed building development is to demonstrate how it achieves the Ecological Sustainable Development principles outlined in this plan. (ii) Council should strive to rationalise the number of buildings by limiting future new separate building development or, where appropriate, seek multiple use of existing facilities and amenities by means, if necessary, by permitting alterations and additions to existing structures or replacing existing structures. (iii) Key views along the central corridor of the parkland should to be maintained. (iv) Permit development in accordance with the Kogarah Local Environmental Plan.

Development Conditions Approved development will be subject to the terms and conditions of development consent and this plan of management.

Development Costs Where appropriate development costs for new development or embellishment, alterations and additions to an existing built structure subject of a licence or lease is to be at the lessee’s costs or as agreed between participating parties.

Aesthetics Future built form should relate to the scale and character of the parkland as established by the existing buildings. The design of built structures must consider the proposed building mass, form, roof pitch and shape, materials, detailing and colour and their impact on the parkland, its users, existing park buildings, vistas to the park and the surrounding residential area. Lessee and licensees must notify and obtain consent in writing from Council prior to erecting, placing, fixing or attaching or otherwise any product advertising, promotional material, lights or otherwise to the buildings or surrounding grounds, fixtures or fittings.

Maintenance Lessees shall be responsible for the maintenance and good appearance of the building(s) and surrounding parkland within the boundary of their leased area.

Permitted Uses Activities associated with passive or active recreational activities, social, cultural, educational, community and ancillary services as permitted under the Kogarah Local Environmental Plan, Local Government Act, 1993, as determined by Council in respect of the objectives of the assigned land category and this plan of management.

Private Access to the Parkland.

The plan, under conditions of access, authorises the issuing of a temporary licence at a fee for private access to cross or transport materials or equipment for private construction, excavation, demolition, building or waste removal or other engineering or maintenance works to be carried out on adjoining private properties to the parkland. Access is restricted to those premises that have no other means of vehicle access off a public road into the property and where it is determined that the use of cranes, other lifting devices or alternative engineering means could not otherwise provide access. Access will not be permitted where it would result in any impact on or removal of any native vegetation within the park. Access may be permitted where Council determines that a hazard on private property poses a direct threat to public health, safety or private property. In accordance with the provisions of the respective legislation access will be permitted to construct, connect, maintain or any other works required to any essential public utility services located or to be created in the parkland or emergency services. Where access is approved to an adjoining private property owner access will be conditional and subject to an appropriate terms and conditions of the permit and the payment of all fees and charges as imposed by Council in accordance with its Management Plan.

Intensity of Use Council permits a diversity of recreational, educational and cultural events to take

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Item

Principles

place in the parkland. However, the use of the parkland and its facilities are to be managed in a manner that will avoid detriment to public assets excessive to general wear and tear, the natural environment or results in unreasonable inconvenience to adjoining residents and other park users. Excluding pre-season selection and seasonal club sports competition and training Council is to consult with local residents when an application for any major event is proposed that has the potential to result in high traffic volumes and an excessive overflow of vehicles parking in the adjoining surrounding residential areas.

Hours of Use Buildings Floodlights Sundays

Hours of use of buildings or sports fields and facilities will be subject to the outcome of negotiations between the Council, licensee or lessee or as approved under any Development Application or as restricted by this plan of management. For reasons of consistency the use of sports floodlights are to be subject to the terms and conditions of Development Consent or otherwise restricted to 4.30pm to 8.00pm curfew Tues-Fri for Poulton Park sports fields and 9.30pm for hardcourts as conditions of development consent. While Quarry Reserve is restricted to 9.30pm all applicable for the winter sports season. Restrict the use of the sportsgrounds on Sundays to 8.30am commencement of establishment and 9.30am for the commencement of games or training activities.

Lease Term (i) Agreed negotiated period between Council and the lessee up to 21 years where the land is “Community Land” and categorized “General Community Use”.

(ii) Where the land is Crown Land reserved for public recreation and Council has been appointed Trustee then although a lease may extend beyond 21 years this plan limits the leasing of Crown Land reserved for recreation to a period not greater than 21 years to be in accordance with the provisions of the Crown Lands Act 1989. It is a Department of Lands policy for lease and licence agreements to offer shorter terms to allow for economic consideration, rental redetermination.

(iii) Where the land is Crown Land reserved for environmental protection then the appointed Trustee is not permitted to lease or licence this reserve land.

(iv) Where the land is in the ownership of the Department of Planning reserved for recreation and Council has care, control and management a lease may not extend beyond 21 years including the provision of an option.

(v) Other than leases entered into under Item (i), at the conclusion or at such time as the current lessee or Council terminates a lease for whatever reason, future leases are to be generally restricted to 5 years.

(ii) Leases exceeding 5 years are only to be offered where the total investment capital to be expended by the lessee for new capital works (excluding maintenance works) within the lease period exceeds $50,000 Sydney CPI adjusted annually from 2008.

(iii) Leases extending beyond 5 years are to be conditional on the commencement of the new capital works within 12 months of the lease commencement and the completion of the proposed works within an agreed timeframe between Council and the lessee. Any development is to be ancillary to the purpose of the park as a venue for public recreation and permitted under the Kogarah Local Environmental Plan.

(v) Licenses generally should not exceed 5 years. (vi) Seasonal licenses or permits should be offered where applicable. (vii) Daily, weekly or monthly permits authorised to be offered at Council’s

discretion. (viii) It is mandatory for all lessees and licensees of built structures and

organisational users of the parkland provide Council with accurate usage and participation data and any other data requested in writing by Council.

Rent Commercial Activity No private commercial activities are permitted in Poulton Park. Private commercial activities are permitted in Hurstville Quarry Reserve (North) for the licensing or leasing of the tennis court facilities and associated amenities building. Community Activity All lease or licence agreements with community groups or associations are to comply with Council’s policy entitled “Leasing of Community Land and Buildings” adopted 27 August, 2001 and are also to be based on an independent valuation.

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Item

Principles

Periodic Rent Review Part 2(c) of Council’s policy entitled “Leasing of Community Land and Buildings” makes provisions for periodic rent reviews. This condition should be extended to lease agreements for facilities and amenities that operate on a commercial basis and are profit orientated. Minimal rent increases should be based on the annual Sydney Consumer Price Index. Subsidised Rents Any agreement that results in Council subsidising a commercial activity or service then that amount is to be compared with similar full commercial rates and the level of annual subsidisation as well as for the term of the agreement is to reported to Council. Lease and licensing fees and charges are to be expended by Council at its discretion for the benefit of the community.

Reporting To ensure Council’s accountability in the management of a public built asset any new lease or license agreement is to ensure that Council is provided with an annual report and other reports as required by this plan and those included in any license or lease agreement.

Insurance Lessees and licensees annually must provide Council with copies of their Certificates of Currency for their Public Risk Liability Insurance that must to be the sum as stipulated in their lease or licence agreements. Where a lessee or licensee has public risk liability insurance protection by their affiliation with an Association then they are required to provide proof of cover by way of a letter from their Governing Association that they are included in the Association’s current policy. The lessee/s of community buildings must have appropriate fire indemnity insurance in the joint names of the lessee/s and Council.

3.2 PRINCIPLES FOR LICENSING & LEASING CROWN RESERVE LAND

The licensing and leasing of Crown Reserve’s must be in accordance with the objectives and principles for

Crown land management as specified under Sections 10 –11 of the Crown Lands Act, 1989. Section 10,

entitled Objects for the management of Crown reserve land in part stated as:

…b) the management of Crown land having regard to the principles of the Crown land

management contained in the Act, c) the proper development and conservation of Crown land having regard to those

principles… e) the reservation or dedication of Crown land for public purposes and the management

and use of the reserved or dedicated land…

While section 11 of the Act entitled Principles of Crown land management in part states:

a) that environmental protection principles be observed in relation to the management and

administration of Crown land; b) that the natural resources of Crown land (including water, soil, flora, fauna and scenic

quality) be conserved wherever possible; c) that the public use and enjoyment of appropriate Crown land be encouraged…

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Furthermore, with reference to s.102 of the Crown Lands Act 1989 a Council if it is appointed reserve

trustee cannot sell, lease or mortgage land or grant an easement or a licence except a temporary licence

over any part of Crown Reserve land without the Minister’s responsible for administering the Crown Lands

Act 1989 consent. The trustee may not give consent for a licence or lease for a term exceeding 5 years or

a lease for a term that by the exercise of an option exceeds five years without advertising and obtaining

prior written consent from the Minister. As part of the consent the Minister may choose to impose terms

and conditions within the proposed lease agreement. Under s.108, of the Crown Lands Act 1989 a reserve

trustee may issue a temporary licence for all or any part of a reserve for a prescribed purpose that is in

accordance with the reservation or public purpose of the land.

3.3 LICENSING & LEASING DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING LAND

In the Government Gazette date 15th June 1984 Kogarah Council was appointed care, control and

management of seven parcels of land in Poulton Park (refer to Table 2.7, p.34) covering an area of 0.64 ha

in the ownership of the Department of Planning. Under the terms of the agreement Council is required to

obtain the consent of the Corporation Minister Administering the Environmental Planning & Assessment

Act 1979 prior to it granting any lease, licence or other right of possession or use of the land for a period

exceeding 21 years (including any option to renew). The Corporation’s consent may be given, withheld,

refused or given with conditions’ as the Corporation considers appropriate.

Council also managers the Department’s land in accordance with the provisions of the Local Government

Act, 1993.

3.4 SYDNEY WATER CORPORATION LAND

Situated on the eastern side of the estuary wetland opposite Morshead Drive is a small parcel of enclosed

fenced off land identified as Lot 65 DP 24098 that has an area of approximately 834.40m² and is in the

ownership of the Sydney Water Corporation. The land is used as a site for a sewage pumping station. No

agreement is proposed between Council and the Sydney Water Corporation for public use of the land.

3.5 GENERAL MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES & ACTIONS

General management strategies and actions include the undertaking of research or specific studies to

provide relevant information that would further enhance management decision-making and assist in

implementing best practice park management. Table 3.2 lists only those strategies and actions applicable

to the whole of the parkland.

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Table 3.2

Whole of Parkland Planning, Management & Development Strategies & Actions

Strategies & Actions

Objectives

Performance Measures

Council is to prepare a Landscape Master Plan for the study area. Council is to ensure public consultation in preparing the Landscape Master Plan.

to synthesize the landscape development of the parkland. to incorporate sustainable design principles. to maximise the parks potential as a diverse recreational, educational, environmental, social and cultural resource. to ensure public input into the design process.

60% community acceptance of the Landscape Master Plan. Landscape design in accordance with the requirements of this plan and ecological sustainable design principles.

This plan authorises development that is ancillary to the purpose, use and enjoyment of the parkland as determined by the land category and this plan the Kogarah Local Environmental Plan and as determined by Development consent.

to maximise the use of public land in accordance with the objectives of the respective land category for a public and/or environmental benefit. to be able to respond to changing community infrastructure needs.

Compliance with the current Kogarah Local Environmental Plan and this plan of management. Compliance with the designated objectives of the respective land categories within the parkland.

Prepare a Water Audit and Management Plan for all the sports fields and amenities within the park.

to improve water use efficiencies for sports, cultural and recreational facilities within the parkland. to reduce the use of reticulated (town) water and its associated financial and resource costs. to increase the use of recycled water within the parkland.

Reduction in the total number of litres used from reticulated water sources. Annual % increase in the use of alternative recycled water resources. Annual cost reduction in the supply and use of reticulated water.

In accordance with the objectives of each of the prescribed land categories avoid excessive building development within those land categories where such development is permitted.

to retain and preserve public open space, improve asset management, avoid duplication of existing building facilities and amenities, encourage the maximisation and use of existing assets.

Where feasible avoid duplication of existing facilities and amenities. Shared use of facilities and amenities.

Council to prepare Landscape Design Guidelines (LDG) for park furniture, fixtures and fittings based on sustainable design principles.

to provide a quality standard for park furniture, fixtures, fittings, form, colour, texture and construction materials that aesthetically complements the parkland’s environment and its surrounds. to improve and maintain the quality and amenity of the parkland and its resources.

Compliance with the criteria within the Council approved Landscape Design Guidelines.

Council has prepared a Disability Discrimination Act, 1992 - Action Plan (DDA) that identifies and assesses issues for public access to facilities for able bodied and for persons with a disability. Implement the recommendations of the DDA Action Plan that are relevant to the parkland.

to ensure ease in environmental negotiability to, in and around facilities for aged and persons with a disability. to provide ease of interpretation of signage by using international symbols where appropriate. to adhere to the legislative requirements of the DDA,1992.

Adhere to appropriate Australian Standards for public access and signage for people with a physical disability. Compliance with Disability Discrimination Act, 1992.

Apply the Principles of Leasing & to ensure consistency in the management Compliance with the Principles of

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Objectives


Licensing outlined in Table 4, p.39 to community land and buildings as permitted within the appropriate land categories.

of council assets and resources. to ensure accountability in the management of public assets.

Leasing and Licensing incorporated in legal agreements for the use of park assets.

Review & provide internal pedestrian circulation, links & loop networks throughout the parkland. Provide pedestrian links in the parkland to connect to The Great Kai’Mai Way recreational access network.

to provide appropriate formal and informal pedestrian linkages & loop networks between the various land use categories and recreational facilities of the parkland. to protect sensitive environmental & habitat areas within the parkland from excessive visitation (Refer to Section Natural Area – Bushland). to provide linkages to the nearby The Great Kai’Mai Way that is to pass by Poulton Park via Morshead Drive.

Compliance with appropriate Australian Standards for public access ways across various terrains. Connect primary internal park pedestrian pathways to The Great Kai’Mai Way.

Improve direction and transition by providing appropriate standardised signage throughout the park. Where appropriate incorporate the use of international symbols that meet the Australian Standards for signage. Rationalise park signage. Install signage for information, environmental & heritage interpretation. Provide information on park regulations.

to provide clarity of directional interpretation throughout the parkland. to improve overall park visitor information. to provide educational information on cultural and heritage resources as well as environmental issues including the natural environment, flora, fauna and ecological systems within the parkland. to assist in enforcing regulations and provide emergency contact information. to place signs in appropriate and highly visible and accessible locations. to consolidate and reduce the number of signs throughout the parkland.

Ease of interpretation of signage for a variety of ethnic & language groups. Installation of signage at major access points. Adhere to the adopted Design Guidelines for the parkland.

Initiate triennial park visitor and resident surveys using staff, student, voluntary assistance or combination.

to monitor the use of the park and its impact on the environment, park assets and facilities and the surrounding residential area. to monitor changing recreational trends for various age, cultural and gender groups.

Completion of tri-annual surveys and reported findings to Council for asset management, project and budgetary considerations.

Implement the strategies relevant to State Government’s Southern Sydney Catchment Blueprint Policy for riparian and watercourse zones.

to contribute to and assist in achieving an ecologically healthy and productive catchments. to contribute and assist in achieving the objectives of the Southern Sydney Catchment Blueprint Policy. to address the following key issues identified in the Southern Sydney Catchment Blueprint Policy: • water quality • land use and capability • information exchange, network and access • aquatic and terrestrial biodiversity • community education and participation • cultural heritage. to protect the river foreshore and riparian

Compliance with the Southern Sydney Catchment Blueprint Policy. Record of the implementation of those actions outlined in the Blueprint Policy that are applicable to the site and are Council’s responsibility. Liaise with the Department of Lands concerning environmental protection of the foreshore adjoining the park & Oatley Bay Creek.

47



Objectives


vegetation of the adjoining Oatley Bay and Oatley Bay Creek.

Council to prepare Architectural Design Guidelines (ADG) for any future buildings that may be proposed for the park based on sustainable design principles and where appropriate with consideration to site’s heritage significance. Where feasible, introduce sustainable energy and water saving features into existing buildings.

to adopt sustainable architectural design principles for buildings based on the following: “Flexible designs to enhance multiple use and building longevity. Utilise strategies that protect and restore water resources. Improve energy efficiency while ensuring thermal comfort. Reduce environmental impacts related to energy use. Promote Occupational Health and Safety in the indoor and outdoor environments. Conserve water and consider water reuse systems. Use environmentally preferable building materials such as uncertified rainforest woods, reclaimed woods, other renewable resources. Use appropriate plant materials. Plan for recycling during construction, demolition and occupancy” (Mendler & Odell : 2000). to ensure building fixtures and fittings aesthetically complement the parkland environment and its surrounds. to ensure quality in building fixtures and fittings relative to their design, form, colour, texture and construction materials. to improve and maintain the amenity of the parkland and its resources.

Compliance with the criteria within the Council approved Architectural Design Guidelines and Landscape Design Guidelines.

Council to monitor the condition and use of its assets and infrastructure.

to ensure accountability in the management of Council assets and infrastructure. to ensure appropriate service and maintenance levels relative to reasonable user demands on park infrastructure and natural resources. to adhere to health and safety regulations to ensure the protection of park visitors. to retain the visual amenity of the parkland and its resources.

Compliance with health and safety regulations. No adverse incidents to visitors or the parklands natural resources. Well maintain build structures, fixtures and fittings.

Where appropriate, Council to prepare a detailed structural design engineers Dilapidation & Risk Assessment Report on the condition of the buildings their structural integrity, fixtures and fittings prior to issuing any lease agreement.

to implement life cycle property asset management and maintenance practices. to provide cost-benefits analysis (depreciation rates, remaining life span, major repair and replacement costs, social costs and benefits, etc) of assets and services for decision making purposes. to comply with occupational health and safety regulations.

Implementation of the recommendations of the Dilapidation Report. Compliance with requirements of AAS27, Workcover, Occupational, Health and Safety regulations, Building Codes of Australia and access requirements in accordance with AS1428.1

48



Objectives


Council to prepare an Energy Audit to identify, where feasible, appropriate savings on greenhouse gas emissions.

where feasible, use alternative energy resources to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. where feasible achieve savings in energy consumption costs without detriment to identified user needs and required Australian Standards for specific activities and use. to implement user pays system for energy use.

Use of alternative energy resources. Use low energy consumption technology and or electricity grid feedback systems to obtain neutral costs. Total energy cost savings. Introduce equitable user pays systems for energy use.

Council to apply for capital assistance through State and Federal Government Grants or other opportunities for recreation, cultural, heritage and natural resource projects within the parkland.

to provide capital assistance to undertake works to improve the amenity and environmental quality of the parkland, to provide quality sport and recreational resources in the study area for the community’s benefit. to protect, conserve, reinstate and manage the parks natural resources, bushland, heritage and cultural areas.

Acquisition of capital assistance for a range of projects outlined in the plan of management and as recommended in appropriate studies outlined in the plan.

With the assistance of the community and organisations such as schools prepare a range of promotional and educational material relevant to the parkland.

to promote the district significance of the parkland as a destination for quality recreation, environmental, cultural and heritage education. to educate the community to the environmental significance of the parkland in terms of its terrestrial and marine biodiversity.

Preparation of a Marketing Plan. Completion and community distribution of a range of educational and promotional material.

Prepare a Poulton Park Annual Events Calendar focusing on environmental education. Liaise with the local schools, environmental groups, Kogarah BushCare Volunteers and individuals interested in environmental issues to organise events in the park.

to inform the public of the importance of biodiversity, the significance of Kogarah’s natural history, the cultural significance of the parks aboriginal heritage and appreciation of the amenity of natural areas within an urban environment. to deter anti-social environmental behaviour.

Reduction in the annual number of reported dumped waste sites in the parkland. Reduction in the, poisoning, ring barking, felling and/or clearing of the parks vegetation. Reduction in vandalism to natural resources.

Provide Green Web links via streetscapes leading to and around the parkland by planting native tree species.

to facilitate the migration of wildlife. to create habitat for native fauna. to increase food sources for fauna. to provide green link corridors and improve the adjoining streetscape amenity. where feasible acquire additional property to link to nearby public open space and increase the total area of public parkland.

Implementation of Green Web strategies. Record, measure and monitor outcomes by: • Species list. • Number of tree planting’s Acquisition of adjoining private property to improve public access.

Appoint a registered surveyor to identify private property boundary encroachments into the parkland.

to preserve public open space for the benefit of the community. to prevent & discourage the destruction & loss of bushland.

Remove identified encroachments onto public land by cooperation with adjoining landowners or by legal means.

Prepare a Safety Hazard & Risk Management Plan for the study areas facilities, structures, amenities and services based on

to manage or eliminate potential hazards and risk within the parkland.

Elimination of identified hazards Introduction of risk management regime

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Objectives


Australian Standard AS/NZS 4360:2004 & publication Guidelines for Managing Risk in Sport & Recreation (HB 246-2004)

Compliance to Occupational Health and Safety standards.

Manage the park in accordance with the Kogarah Open Space Policy and in accordance with the objectives of the community land categories. Where there is a discrepancy between the policy & the objectives of the land use category the land use category prevails.

to ensure consistency in the management of public open space. to ensure the appropriate recreational use & conservation of the various land use categories within the parkland.

Implement policies and regulatory regimes in the management of the parkland.

In consultation with local residents identify traffic management options for Morshead Drive and present these to Council’s Traffic Management Committee for consideration by the Road Traffic Authority, Police, Councillors and other traffic specialist. Options may include: • Introducing speed traffic control devices along Morshead Drive. • 45º angle parking along parts of the length of Morshead Drive next to the park. • Introducing parking restrictions on the residential housing side of Morshead Drive. • Other feasible options as identified through the public consultation process.

to manage vehicle traffic in Morshead Drive by reducing traffic speed and controlling traffic movement.

Reduced traffic speed and control traffic movement along Morshead Drive.

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COMMUNITY LAND

LAND CATEGORY


51

4.0 LAND CATEGORY – GENERAL COMMUNITY USE

That portion of parkland categorized – “General Community Use” includes the following assets:

Access Routes The public access road into Hurstville Quarry Reserve (North), The access road in to Hurstville Quarry Reserve (South). The public access road off Rickard Street into Poulton Park, The public vehicle parking area adjacent No. 1 soccer field, The public access road off Morshead Drive, The vehicle parking area adjacent No.2 soccer field, The access road leading off Seymour Street, Hurstville Grove and vehicle parking

area at the rear of private properties in East Crescent. Built Structures

Soccer field kiosk/amenities building, opposite the mini soccer field, Public toilets located south of the playground and opposite No.1 soccer field, on the southeastern side of Poulton Park, Public Toilet located opposite No. 2 soccer field on the southeastern side of Poulton

Park, off Morshead Drive. Tennis amenities building, Hurstville Quarry Reserve (North),

4.1 CORE OBJECTIVES

The core objectives for the management of this category focuses on promoting, encouraging and

providing for the use of the land, and to provide facilities on the land, to meet the current and future

needs of the general community:

a) in relation to public recreation and the physical, cultural, social and intellectual

welfare or development of individual members of the public; and

b) in relation to purposes for which a lease, license or other estate may be

granted in respect of the land (other than the provision of public utilities and

works associated with or ancillary to public utilities).

4.2 STRATEGIES & ACTIONS

The strategies and actions outlined in Table 4 are for that land categorised as “General Community

Use” and are intended to provide a system of management by objectives. The following objectives

supplement the core objectives in directing the management, planning and development of the

parkland. These are formulated so that it is possible to apply assessment criteria to measure the

implementation of the plan. It is this element of measurability that makes the objectives valuable in

determining accountability.

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Table 4

Strategies & Actions for Land Category – General Community Use


Objectives


Categorise that area of parkland identified on photographs 1-4, pp. 24 - 25 as “General Community Use”

to comply with the provisions of Section 36, Local Government Act, 1993.

Land categorized in accordance with the provisions of the Local Government Act, 1993.

Authorise the leasing & licensing of community facilities in accordance with the core objectives of the land category and as permitted by this plan of management.

to ensure multiple use of public facilities. to ensure accountability in the management of public assets.

Leases & licensing of community assets.

Upgrade the vehicle access road into Hurstville Quarry Reserve (North). Upgrade the vehicle access road off Morshead Drive into Poulton Park. Upgrade and formalize the lower portion of the vehicle access road off Rickard Street in Poulton Park. Convert the access road off Seymour Street into Poulton Park (west) into a park visitor carpark – install boomgates and restrict opening & closing hours.

to improve road safety & traffic management. to assist in controlling surface run-off. to maximize the existing available vehicle parking areas by formalizing the parking arrangements. to improve the amenity of the parkland. to formalize the entry points to these sections of parkland.

Formalise & landscaped the entry into the parkland. Installed notices signs advising of opening and closing hours of the boomgates. Creation of formalized vehicle parking areas within the parkland.

Authorise the creation of a public road and vehicle car park for the access pavement into Poutlon Park (west) off Seymour Street identified as No.2 Seymour Street being Lot 1 DP 219030 and Lot 1 DP 946013 being a former 7 foot wide corridor at the rear of properties in East Crescent Street, Hurstville Grove. Formalise the entry & parking area. Install boomgates and restrict opening & closing hours.

to maximize public access to the park and its facilities. to inhibit access to the car park after hours to avoid negative impacts on local residents from any potential anti-social behaviour. to embellish & improve the visual amenity of the area.

Creation of formalized vehicle parking area on the western side of Poulton Park off lower Seymour Street, Hurstville Grove. Landscape the area with native vegetation. Installed notices signs advising of opening and closing hours of the boomgates. Compliance with Section 47F Dedication of community land as public road, Local Government Act, 1993.

Formalise the vehicle parking area opposite the Tennis Courts in Hurstville Quarry Reserve (North) and opposite No1 & No 2 soccer field in Poulton Park.

to improve traffic & vehicle parking management & maximize the use of the existing vehicle parking areas within the parkland.

Installation of formalized parking area & designed parking lots.

Convert that part of Community Land that forms the eastern side of Council’s Depot into public car park.

to improve visitor traffic & vehicle parking management. to reduce traffic impacts on local residents.

Installation of formalized parking area & designed parking lots.

Construct a new amenities building to include toilet facilities for persons with a disability, a small storage area and kiosk in Hurstville Quarry Reserve (South)

to improve the amenities & facilities in the park. to improve access and serviceability for persons with a disability. to improve park visitor service.

Compliance with the provisions of the Disability Discrimination Act, 1992. The new toilet facility to meet AS 1428 Design for Access Mobility.

Implement a dust control management systems within that

to reduce dust particle air pollution. Dust control management systems installed within the depot

53

Strategies & Actions for Land Category – General Community Use


Objectives


area of Poulton Park used by Council as a works depot and include the linkage roads to the depot.

and along the linkage roads.

In accordance with the approved Development Consent permit & encourage the multiple licensing of the Tennis amenities building in Hurstville Quarry Reserve (North) as determined by Council. Permit the facility to be used for community sports, recreational, social activities or ancillary activities as approved by Council.

to ensure responsible management and service provision of a community asset. to permit the use of the facility by approved community sports organizations and social groups, etc. to maximize the use of a community resource.

Multiple use of the facility. Compliance with the terms & conditions of Development Consent that permits the use of the building for a community purpose.

In accordance with the approved Development Consent permit & encourage the multiple licensing of the soccer field amenities building in Poulton Park as determined by Council. Permit the facility to be used for community sports, recreational, activities or ancillary activities as approved by Council.

to ensure responsible management and service provision of a community asset. to permit the use of the facility by approved community sports organisations, and groups, etc. to maximize the use of a community resource.

Multiple use of the facility. Compliance with the terms & conditions of Development Consent.

Demolish the toilet facilities located near the playground in Poulton Park. Construct new toilet facilities at this location and make provision for persons with a disability.

to improve the provision & amenity of facilities in the park. to improve access and serviceability for persons with a disability. to improve park visitor service.

Construct a new toilet facility near the playground in Poulton Park. Compliance with the provisions of the Disability Discrimination Act, 1992. The new toilet facility to meet AS 1428 Design for Access Mobility.

Demolish the toilet facilities opposite No.2 soccer field in Poulton Park and construct a new toilet and amenities building and make provision for access for persons with a disability. Incorporate a storage area within the new toilet block building for use by local community sports groups that use the sportsfields in Poulton Park. Offer short or long-term licenses for the use of the storage area. Prohibit the permanent placement of any storage containers, caravans, trailers, ships containers or similar devices within the parkland.

to improve the provision & amenity of facilities in the park. to improve access and serviceability for persons with a disability. to improve park visitor service. to make provisions of the storage of sports and recreation equipment such as goal post etc.

Construct a new toilet and amenities building opposite No.2 soccer field in Poulton Park. Compliance with the provisions of the Disability Discrimination Act, 1992. The new toilet facility to meet AS 1428 Design for Access Mobility. Remove ship storage container from the parkland.

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COMMUNITY LAND

LAND CATEGORY

PARK

55

5.0 LAND CATEGORY – PARK

The following objectives and strategies apply to that area of parkland categorised as “Park”.

5.1 CORE OBJECTIVES The core objectives for the management of community land categorised as “Park” are:

a) to encourage, promote and facilitate recreational, cultural, social and educational

pastimes and activities;

b) to provide for passive recreational activities or pastimes and for the casual playing of

games; and

c) to improve the land in such a way as to promote and facilitate its use to achieve the

other core objectives for its management.


Table 5, outlines the planning, management and development strategies and actions for that portion of

parkland categorized “Park”.

Table 5

Strategies & Actions for Land Category – Park


Objectives


Categorise that area of parkland identified on photographs 1-4 pp.24-25 as “Park”.



Permit low impact passive events & activities in that area of parkland categorised “Park” as determined by the core objectives for the land category, Council & this plan of management. Authorise the licensing of low impact community and special events, social, recreational, educational & cultural activities.

to provide a venue for community social, cultural and educational events. to promote, develop and support our local community & groups.

Promote a range of suitable low impact community activities that are not detrimental to the parkland & nearby residents. Monitor the number of complaints & introduce effective management procedures to address concerns.

Replace the existing playground in Hurstville Quarry Reserve (North) and make provision for younger children between the ages of 0 to 6 years of age including those with limited physical, intellectual, mobility, sight or other limitations.

to extend the recreational opportunities to all children’s age groups & both genders including those with limited physical, intellectual, mobility, sight or other limitations.

Installation of playground equipment suitable for children between the ages of 0 to 6 years including those with limited physical, intellectual, mobility, sight or other limitations.

Upgrade the playground in Poulton Park to a District Grade facility making provision for younger children between the ages of 0 to 11 years of age.

to extend the recreational opportunities to all children’s age groups & both genders including those with limited physical,

Installation of playground equipment suitable for children between the ages of 0 to 11 years including those with limited

56

Strategies & Actions for Land Category – Park


Objectives


intellectual, mobility, sight or other limitations.

physical, intellectual, mobility, sight or other limitations.

Where appropriate fit shade covers over the playgrounds areas in the parkland.

to reduce user exposure to ultraviolet light.

UVD rating within Cancer Council guidelines.

Design outdoor furniture, signs & utilities to be visually coordinated to enhance the landscape character of the parkland as expressed by the dominant theme, colours & textures of the site in accordance with the adopted Landscape Design Guidelines.

to coordinate the adopted design theme of the park.

Uniformity in the design of the outdoor furniture, fixtures & fittings of the parkland.

Provide at least 2 electric BBQ facilities near the playground area. As a precaution to prevent bushfire incidents prohibit the use of portable BBQs in parkland.

to enhance the opportunities for families to enjoy the natural settings of the surrounding parkland & its recreational opportunities.

Installation of electric BBQ’s and picnic facilities in those sections of the parkland designated under the land category “Park”.

Where feasible, install energy efficient pathway & access entry lighting within the park. All lighting to be placed on timing switches to be shutdown at times to be approved by Council.

to improve public safety & transition through the parkland. to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. to reduce energy costs. to reduce maintenance costs.

Installation of energy efficient lighting to improve safety. Reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. Reduction in energy and maintenance costs. Improved lighting and amenity.

Where appropriate construct internal pedestrian pathways in identified high use tracks at grades of 1:14 or better for persons with a disability & for pram use linking major recreation facilities and amenities.

to provide sure footing and/or ease of transit for wheelchair bound persons and/or persons with a disability.

Compliance with the provisions of the Disability Discrimination Act, 1992.

57

COMMUNITY LAND

LAND CATEGORY

SPORTSGROUND

58

6.0 LAND CATEGORY – SPORTSGROUND

The parkland sportsgrounds and sports facilities are aimed principally towards the provision of sports

activities in terms of competition games, training and personal skills development. The sportsgrounds and

facilities cater to local and district needs by providing a diversity of sports opportunities for both genders, a

broad range of age groups and cultural backgrounds.

In addition, because of the limited available space for team sports throughout the Kogarah municipality it is

necessary to ensure improvements to the sports grounds and their facilities to cater to the increasing

demands as the demographic composition of Kogarah changes. The primary purpose of those areas of

parkland set aside for sports activities is to provide a venue for active outdoor sport at either the social or

organised level. However, the grounds play a secondary role as a venue for other activities when not used

by organized sports groups. It is proposed that the sportsgrounds identified in photographs 1-4 pp.24-25,

be assigned the land category – “Sportsground” and managed in accordance with the category objectives.

7. No.2 Soccer Field – Poulton Park

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6.1 CORE OBJECTIVES

The core objectives for management of community land categorised as a sportsground are:

a) to encourage, promote and facilitate recreational pursuits in the community involving

organised and informal sporting activities and games,

b) to ensure that such activities are managed having regard to any adverse impacts on

nearby residences, as well as;

c) encourage, promote and facilitate the site as a green link for native flora and fauna.



parkland categorised “Sportsground”.

Table 6

Strategies & Actions for Land Category – Sportsground


Objectives


Categorise that area of parkland identified in photographs 1-4, pp.24-25 as “Sportsground”.



The plan authorises the multiple licensing for the use of the land categorized as sports fields & leasing of the tennis court facilities. Permit the use of the sportsfields principally for sports but permit summer low-key recreational, social and cultural events such as district, local and school sports days, community social and cultural activities and other events appropriate to a park.

to improve public access to sports facilities. to provide a diversity of use of community resources. to ensure accountability in the management of public assets.

Multiple licensing agreements for sports fields & facilities. Lease the tennis court facilities in Hurstville Quarry Reserve (North). Monitor the issuing of sports facilities bookings and permits to determine usage patterns and their impact on the parkland and local residents. Implement remedial actions to reduce unreasonable impacts on local residents. Provide resources to improve the monitoring and management of sports parks and reserves.

Hours of use of buildings or sports fields and facilities will be subject to the outcome of negotiations between the Council, licensee or lessee or as approved under any Development Application or as restricted by this plan of management.

to ensure consideration to adjoining residential property owners rights to reasonable quiet enjoyment of their neighbourhood. to improve public safety in the use of the sports grounds and hard court facilities.

No breaches by sports clubs on the conditions of use. No conflicts between park users and local residents. Council enforcement of conditions of use.

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Objectives


Authorise the installation of automatically timed floodlights for sports activities and training on the sportsfields. Lighting standards to be of a quality and in accordance with Australian Standards for sports training. For reasons of consistency the use of sports floodlights are to be subject to the terms and conditions of Development Consent or otherwise restricted to 4.30pm to 8.00pm curfew Tues-Fri for Poulton Park sports fields and 9.30pm for hardcourts as conditions of development consent. While Quarry Reserve is restricted to 9.30pm all applicable for the winter sports season. Restrict the use of the sportsgrounds on Sundays to 8.30am commencement of establishment and 9.30am for the commencement of games or training activities.

to maximise the use of public resources. to address identified needs for sports facilities within the Kogarah LGA. to comply with the terms and conditions of development consent, Seasonal Permit, licence or other agreements between authorized park user groups and Council.

Improvement in photometric readings across sports facilities to improve user visibility. Compliance with AS 4282-1997 obtrusive effects for outdoors floodlighting. Conform to existing hours of use for sports fields & hardcourt facilities. Utilisation of an existing sports resource to address a demonstrated need for additional sports venues and facilities.

Where there is continual conflict between organized park user groups and/or local residents Council to convene a Park Advisory Committee to address the issue(s) of concern. The Advisory Committee to be chaired by a Council appointed elective representative or Council Officer who is to report to Council for it to make a determination.

to reduce conflicts between residents & user groups. to establish a mechanism of processes & procedures to address concerns between conflicting parties.

Resolution of conflicts. Compliance by the aggrieved parties to the agreed or imposed Council resolution or directive to undertake actions to resolve the conflict. Imposing penalties as required and permitted by the relevant legislation or as stated in lease or licence agreements or Council policies.

In consultation with the user groups make provision for spectator seating around the perimeter of the sportsgrounds. Provide or locate seating in shaded areas.

to improve spectator amenities and comfort.

Spectator facilities installed.

Maintain the automatic computerised recycled water irrigation system for the sportsgrounds and playground area. If required, increase the water storage capacity so as to be able to include other areas of the parkland for recycled water irrigation.

to retain a safe and durable turf playing surfaces and reduce maintenance repair costs.

Where feasible, expand & improve the irrigation systems on the sports fields & adjoining areas.

Improve the drainage along the eastern boundary of the No.1 & mini sports fields in Poulton Park & redirect water into Oatley Bay Creek.

to reduce the flooding of the sports fields & surrounding areas.

Installation of appropriate drainage works along the eastern side of the sports fields in Poulton Park.

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Objectives


Within Council’s financial means, undertake preferred actions to ensure continual improvement in sportsfield turf management.

to ensure cost effective & relevant best practice sportsground turf management.

Implementation of cost effective best practice for sports turf management.

Improve regulatory enforcement by assessing the financial feasibility of introducing after hours and weekend Council Ranger Patrols.

to ensure compliance with relevant legislation, council policies, terms & conditions of leases, licences & permits & development approvals etc. to protect sportsfields & facilities. to protect the surrounding natural environment. to manage conflict between users & users & residents.

Enforcement of regulatory requirements, legislation, Council policies, terms & conditions of leases, licences & permits, development approvals & any other legal requirement, Active mediation between groups or persons in conflict.

In liaison with local Sports Associations & Clubs who use the sports fields on a seasonal basis to prepare guidelines for managing risk & safety in sports & recreation in accordance with Australian Standard AS/NZS 4360:2004 Risk Management & HB 246-2004 Guidelines for Managing Risk in Sport & Recreation.

to effectively manage risk. to protect against public risk liability insurance claims. to ensure that all providers & users are accountable & responsible for actively managing risk. to incorporate hazard & risk assessment as the principal management tool to determine the safety of sportsfields & there continue safe use.

The issuing of a seasonal licence is to be subject to Council obtaining a copy of the users risk management & safety procedures manual prior to issuing a seasonal licence. The risk management & safety procedures manual to comply with AS/NZS 4360 Compliance with the users risk management procedures manual.

62

COMMUNITY LAND

LAND CATEGORY

NATURAL AREA: BUSHLAND

63

7.0 LAND CATEGORY – NATURAL AREA - BUSHLAND The natural bushland throughout the parkland is a valuable ecological community asset in terms of the

habitat, biodiversity, aesthetic, heritage, recreational and the educational opportunities that it presents.

In a 1996 study of the vegetation of the park the National Trust (NSW) noted that the plant

communities of the parkland consisted of the following:

• Estuarine Complex includes Coastal Saltmarsh & Swamp Oak Floodplain,

• Turpentine Ironbark Forest

• Sydney Sandstone Gully Forest

• Sydney Sandstone Ridge top Woodland

• Southern Sydney Sheltered Forest

Relative to the Coastal saltmarsh community within Poulton Park it is listed as an Endangered

Ecological Community under the Threatened Species Conservation Act, 1995 Part 3 of Schedule 1 of

the Act and is declared within the Sydney Basin bioregion. “Ecological community” is defined by the

legislation as an assemblage of native and/or indigenous species occupying a particular area. Also

listed as Endangered Ecological Community are the Swamp Oak Floodplain Forest and Sydney

Turpentine Ironbark Forest both within Poulton Park. The former is characterised by saline

waterlogged or periodically inundated flats associated with flood plains, with a dense to sparse tree

layer of Casuarina glauca and a highly variable ground layer comprised of species such as Baumea

juncea and Phragmities australis. While the latter Turpentine-Ironbark Forest was once common

throughout this region of Kogarah and those in Poulton Park are the last remaining remnants in the

Kogarah Local Government Area.

Other specific flora species in Poulton Park include the Gosford Wattle (Acacia prominens) that has

been listed as a declared threatened population under the provisions of the Threatened Species

Conservation Act, 1995. “Population” is defined as a group of organisms all of the same species

occupying a particular area. The Scientific Committee, which is an independent group of ten scientists

responsible for listing threatened species, populations and ecological communities have determined

that the two cited groups are likely to become extinct or are in immediate danger of extinction.

In addition, it is suspected that there may be portions of Poulton Park that contain Southern Sydney

Sheltered Forest on transitional sandstone soils. It is characterised by a dominant upper storey of

Eucalyptus spp., diverse shrub layer and groundcovers such as ferns, forbs, grasses and graminoids.

The cited forest type is also listed as an Endangered Ecological Community under the Act. This

possibility is based on the fact that this forest community is known to exist within Carss Bush Park,

Carss Park and due to similar environmental conditions it may also be present within Poulton Park.

This will need to be substantiated by further investigations as part of the proposed flora studies of the

parkland.

64

In the previous cited study conducted in 1996 by the National Trust entitled Poulton Park Bushland

Survey for Kogarah Council the rare species Tetratheca neglecta that has been listed under the

CSIRO Rare or Threatened Australia Plants (Briggs & Leigh:1988) was located in Poulton Park. Fairly

(2004) cites that the plant has been listed as, Rare in Australia, but not currently under threat.

The bushland and soil profile in many areas of the parkland have been severely affected by

urbanisation and is highly degraded from its original pristine state. The parkland has been used for a

variety of purposes including a dairy farm, landfill site, quarry and material storage areas. Stormwater

run-off, the previous dumping of building materials and waste deposited during subdivision of the land

above the bushland ridge has also been detrimental to the endemic flora and fauna species that

occupied or utilise the bushland. There are many opportunities to enhance the environmental amenity

of the parkland by regenerating and extending the bushland area. Council’s ongoing appointment of

bush regeneration contractors and the use of bushcare volunteers have resulted in a significant

reversal of fortunes for the natural environment of the parkland. However, this area needs continued

protection and conservation if it is to survive and be an integral component of the parkland and benefit

to the community.

The community consultation process revealed strong support for the continuation of bush regeneration

activities and other methods to enhance and re-establish the natural areas in parkland.

7.1 CORE OBJECTIVES The core objectives for management of community land categorised as a Natural Area - Bushland are:

a) to ensure the ongoing ecological viability of the land by protecting its ecological values in

terms of its biodiversity and habitat, the flora and fauna, (including invertebrates, fungi and

micro-organisms) of the land;

b) to protect the aesthetic, heritage, recreational, educational and scientific values of the

land;

c) to promote the management of the land in a manner that protects and enhances the

values and quality of the land and facilitates public enjoyment of the land, and to

implement measures directed to minimising or mitigating any disturbance caused by

human intrusion;

d) to restore degraded bushland;

e) to protect existing landforms such as exposed sandstone ridges, boulders, natural

drainage lines, watercourses and foreshores;

f) to retain bushland in parcels of a size and configuration that will enable the existing plant

and animal communities to survive in the long term; and

g) to protect bushland as a natural stabiliser of the soil surface.

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parkland categorized “Natural Area - Bushland”.

Table 7

Strategies & Actions for Land Category – Natural Area: Bushland


Objectives


Categorise that area of parkland identified on Photographs 1-4, pp.24-25 as “Natural Area – Bushland”.



No leases or licenses to be issued for the occupation or private use or crossing of those areas identified in Photographs 1-4 as Natural Areas – Bushland.

to protect habitat from destruction, disturbance & damage. to avoid exclusive use of the bushland.

Restrict the use of the bushland to activities that are deemed not to be detrimental to the condition, status or quality of the bushland.

Council to liaise with the NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service to assist in preparing a Site Specific Recovery Plan for the Gosford Wattle (Acacia prominens) identified as declared Threatened Population under the provisions of the Threatened Species Conservation Act, 1995.

to plan & manage for the recovery & conservation of the Gosford Wattle (Acacia prominens) identified as declared Threatened Population under Schedule 1, Part 2 of the Threatened Species Conservation Act, 1995. to meet the requirements of the Threatened Species Conservation Act, 1995 to conserve significant flora. to ensure that the representative sample of the Acacia prominens populations within the parkland is protected from habitat loss & conservation management practices are initiated.

Prepare and action a Recovery Plan for the Gosford Wattle (Acacia prominens) within the parkland in accordance with the Threatened Species Conservation Act, 1995. Conservation is facilitated through the provision of appropriate planning & management decisions. Record the number of species. Status is reported in the Kogarah State of Environment Report.

At the completion of the Department of Environment & Climate Change & Scientific Committee’s Sydney Turpentine Ironbark Recovery Plan Council to implement the plan and liaise with the NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service to assist in preparing a site specific Recovery Plan for the Poulton Park Sydney Turpentine – Ironbark Forest. The forest has been identified as a declared Endangered Ecological Community under the provisions of the Threatened Species Conservation Act, 1995.

to plan & manager for the recovery & conservation of the Sydney Turpentine – Ironbark Forest identified as a declared Endangered Ecological Communities under Schedule 1, Part 2 of the Threatened Species Conservation Act, 1995. to meet the requirements of the Threatened Species Conservation Act, 1995 to conserve significant plant communities. to ensure that the representative sample of the Sydney Turpentine Forest within the parkland are protected from habitat loss & conservation management practices are initiated.

Prepare and action a Recovery Plan for the Sydney Turpentine – Ironbark Forest within the parkland in accordance with the Threatened Species Conservation Act, 1995. Conservation is facilitated through the provision of appropriate planning & management decisions. Record the number of species. Status is reported in the Kogarah State of Environment Report.

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Objectives


Utilise local knowledge of fauna & flora species to assist in secondary research for surveys & studies outlined in this plan.

to capitalise on local area knowledge & create effective community stewardship.

Community involvement & input in natural resource studies.

Where there are identified & map rare species such as the Tetratheca neglecta in the park Council to liaise with the Sydney Botanical Gardens to prepare ecological conservation strategies for these areas.

to manage, conserve & protect the rare species Tetratheca neglecta in the parkland. to ensure that a representative sample of the Tetratheca neglecta populations that occur within the parkland are protected from habitat loss & conservation management practices are initiated.

Prepare an Ecological Conservation Plan for the bushland area of the parkland. Conservation is facilitated through the provision of appropriate planning & management decisions. Status is reported in the Kogarah State of Environment Report.

Update & review the National Trust (NSW) Vegetation Survey, 1996 of the study area by preparing a Vegetation Management Plan, map and assess the terrestrial floristics of the bushland in terms of composition (population distribution), structure (species distribution) & function (contribution to health of ecosystem) at the patch (study area) & relate to the landscape scale (Georges River Catchment), identify threatening processes & propose management & conservation strategies. Identify preferred native & indigenous flora biomarkers to measure changes in the condition of the native vegetation. Include an assessment of the possible impacts of climatic change as predicted by the CSIRO for the Sydney Region to the flora of the parkland.

to compile relevant data for natural resource management planning. to identify gaps in flora information to identify priority habitat areas. to be able to monitor changes in vegetation structure & floristics over time. to assist in identifying threatening processes & impacts to flora.

to provide a detailed map of the floristic compositions & their distribution throughout the bushland.

to assist in seeking funding for conservation & biodiversity projects. to assist in identifying planning opportunities to increase habitat size, configuration or connectivity so as to maintain habitat viability.

Implementation of best practice natural resource planning & management for the parkland with regard to the regional approach ascribed for the Georges River Catchment. Completion of a comprehensive vegetation map an assessment report on the parks biodiversity, identifying threatening processes & outlining conservation & management strategies. Implementation of the recommendations of the Vegetation Survey. Information & data used for the preparation of grants. Measurable biomarkers (e.g. generic diversity) identified & monitored. Status is reported in the Kogarah State of Environment Report.

67



Objectives


Compile a significant native and indigenous tree register to: ·identify significant native and indigenous tree species & their distribution throughout the parkland. ·determine the economic value of significant native and indigenous trees within the parkland to assist in their management. ·calculate the estimated carbon sequestration of the bushland area. ·carry out a hazard & risk assessment on significant native and indigenous trees utilizing Council’s PDA computerised risk management system. ·identify hollow bearing trees & retain for native arboreal mammal & insect habitat.

to assist in the conservation & retention of significant native and indigenous trees.

to assist in monitoring the changing conditions of the parklands landscape. to monitor changes to the height & breath of the canopy cover of the parkland.

to provide an economic value to assist in managing the environment in accordance with its value. to provide estimates for carbon accounting for the bushland’s above ground biomass and monitor the impacts over time of any climate change. to protect native fauna & insect habitat.

Compilation of a significant native and indigenous tree register & location map. Use GPS where appropriate to locate significant tree species. Implementation of appropriate conservation strategies for significant native and indigenous trees (evaluate the use of introducing fire regimes). Established economic value of significant trees using the methodology of outlined in the Draft Australian Standard DR 9907 Amenity Trees – Guide to valuation. Identification & mapping & protective management systems of places & opportunities for native fauna & inspect habitat.

As part of the flora study prepare a weeds management strategy for the parkland & identify and prioritise target weeds. Prevent the introduction of new weed species and eliminate exotic, invasive & noxious weeds by: Implementing bush regeneration & revegetation programs by both contract & voluntary means. Implement stormwater drainage management systems within the parkland. Implement action to police & remove illegally dumped green waste & other materials that could be potential exotic or noxious seed carriers in the parkland.

to preserve native vegetation & assist in the conservation of biodiversity and ensure the integrity of the ecosystem. to prevent & control the introduction & spread new & existing exotic & invasive weed species. to protect threatened & rare plant species & populations. to maintain & extend the existing native floristic & structural diversity. to maximize habitat value for native fauna.

to maintain & enhance the environmental amenity & scenic values of the bushland.

Map the increase in hectares of native & indigenous flora species & reduce the total area of exotic & noxious weed species. Initiation of the principal guidelines for weed control outlined in the document entitled Recovering bushland on the Cumberland Plain: Best Practice for the Management & Restoration of Bushland, Dept Environment & Conservation (NSW). No illegal dumping in the parkland. Compliance with the: Noxious Weeds Act, 1993, Pesticides Act, 1999 & Council’s Pesticides Use Notification Plan, 2006. Status reported in the Kogarah State of Environment Report.

68



Objectives


Pellitory (Parietaria judaica) (Noxious Weed Class 4 – Locally Controlled Weed).

Reference: Weeds Australia: www.weeds.org.au

Large-leaved Privet (Ligustrum lucidum) (Noxious Wees Class 4 – Locally Controlled Weed).

Lantana (Lantana camara) (Noxious Weed Class 4 – Locally Controlled Weed).

Reduce green space fragmentation by providing green-web infill where appropriate and feasible. Promote the planting of low fire ignition native vegetation on residential properties that adjoin the bushland. Plant native species trees in adjoining streetscapes.

to enhance the opportunity to increase & sustain biodiversity. to ensure the long-term viability of the native bushland as a source of habitat.

to provide a nexus between native flora from the adjoining private property to the bushland.

Increase in the total area & distribution of native vegetation along the perimeter boundary of the bushland. to provide greenbelt links to the bushland.

Protect the aesthetic & scenic values of the bushland by not permitting unsympathetic development design within those areas of the parkland categorized as natural areas.

to protect the aesthetic & scenic quality of the natural areas of the parkland. to minimise disturbance to native vegetation & habitat.

Compliance with the Department of Lands - Southern Sydney Catchment Blueprint.

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Objectives


Where feasible, protect native vegetation & habitat during development works by improved enforcement of the guidelines for bushland protection during such works. Improve the efficiency & effectiveness of site inspection processes & procedures where Development approval has been granted within the parkland or on adjoining private properties to the parkland.

to protect & conserve native vegetation during utility service works associated with adjoining property development or utility services maintenance works. to avoid, where feasible, changing natural drainage patterns & water regimes (affecting microhabitats for flora & fauna). to avoid undesirable nutrient enhancement from surface run-off. to ensure compliance with Environmental Planning & Assessment Act, 1979 including conditions of development consent.

Recorded application of the Precautionary Principle in decisions concerning native vegetation in the parkland to be based on: • Evaluations to avoid, wherever practicable, serious or irreversible damage to the environment; and • An assessment of risk-weighted options of the various proposed actions. Enforcement of appropriate environmental legislation including the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act, 1979 & State Environmental Planning Policy No.19 Bushland in Urban Areas (SEPP 19) and associated guidelines. Legal action initiated by Council for breaches of environmental legislation or policies.

Manage fire risk by monitoring ground fuel loadings (quantity) and fuel state (condition). Request the Rural Fire Service to perform reduction burns in identified high fuel loading areas. Avoid burning within the riparian vegetation corridor & areas containing protected & rare flora within the parkland. Create fire buffer zones & plant fire resistant native species along the rear of private property boundaries that adjoin the parkland. Permit spot pile burns of bush green waste produced by contractor bush regeneration activities.

to manage & reduce potential fire hazards. to avoid adverse impacts on aquatic biota. to germinate soil stored native seed banks. to avoid inappropriate fire management practices. to protect public & private property assets.

Use of fire as a management tool. Fire risk assessment undertaken, ongoing bush regeneration and planting of fire resistant endemic species along the property boundaries. Compliance with the Rural Fires Act, 1997. Preparation & implementation of fire protection measures for riparian corridor, threatened & rare flora species within the parkland. Protection of high value habitat zones for identified native fauna.

Where feasible, propagate plant species that are unique to the native and indigenous vegetation of the parkland.

to sustain the genetic heritage of the parklands flora.

Propagate local native and indigenous plant species for future use in the parkland.

Fence off the bushland area opposite Rickard Road & Halstead Street. Install the same fence style as that in Morshead Drive.

to protect the quality bushland from illegal dumping.

Install the same fence design type to that which is installed along Morshead Drive.

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Objectives


Update Council’s previous Fauna Survey, 1998 (prepared by Biosphere Environmental Consultants Pty Ltd) to identify changes in the presence or otherwise in the fauna biodiversity within the study area. Identify preferred fauna species biomarkers to measure improvements in the condition of the native fauna. Identify threatening processes & prepare management strategies.

to compile relevant data for natural resource management planning. to provide a measurable means of monitoring the scope, distribution & presence of fauna in the parkland. to be able to monitor changes in biodiversity over time. to identify gaps in fauna information & identify priority habitat areas. to assist in identifying threatening processes & impacts to fauna.

to map specific habitat areas for selected fauna. to assist in seeking funding for conservation projects.

Completion of a map & assessment report on the parks fauna biodiversity, distribution & preferred habitat, identifying threatening processes & outlining conservation & management strategies. Implementation of the recommendations of the Fauna Survey. Information & data used for the preparation of grants. Measurable biomarkers (e.g. generic diversity) identified & monitored. Noted in the Kogarah State of Environment Report. Record species numbers.

Control or eradicate feral fauna species in the bushland such as foxes, rabbits, birds (e.g. Indian Mynas), dogs, cats & insects in the Order Hymenoptera e.g. feral honey bees, wasp, ants etc by: ·Community education about feral and domestic animals & insects and their competitive and destructive impact on native flora and fauna. ·Introduce appropriate means to catch or eliminate feral animals & high-risk insects from the parkland. Lethal baits such as Strychnine, sodium monfluoroacetate (1080), etc are prohibited in the parkland.

to conserve & improve biodiversity. to prevent & control the introduction of feral and domestic animals in the bushland.

to avoid the use of lethal baits in areas of high risk to humans, particularly children and companion animals.

Bushland rehabilitated with an increase in the number of native fauna species. A reduction in the number of feral animals including foxes, dogs and cats being sighted and captured in the bushland area. Pest control to be carried out to a standard that accord with the Vertebrate Pest Control Manual (NSW) & the requirements of the Pesticides Act, 1999.

Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes)

Resource: www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au

Feral Cat (Felis catus)

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Objectives


Ensure existing emergency & maintenance vehicle access along the existing fire trail off Morshead Drive.

to protect public & private property.

to ensure appropriate access for park maintenance & emergency vehicles.

Ease of maintenance & emergency vehicle access along existing fire trail.

Formalised the primary bushland trails within the bushland area. Reduce the total number of bush trails by closing off non essential secondary trails within the bushland area and restore native and indigenous vegetation along the selected closed trails. Construct bush trails to places of environmental interest or that present vistas across the parkland. Where feasible, provide access for persons with a disability. Where appropriate use elevated walkways for areas of intensive visitor use to prevent soil erosion & provide crossings for fauna.

to ensure the long-term viability of the bushland area. to improve, manage and control access through the bushland. to provide access to displays, educational signage about flora & fauna, aboriginal uses of plants and aboriginal history & mythology. to reduce soil erosion & compaction.

Formalised bush trails installed along with educational signage. Confine park visitors to formalized trails. Implementation of appropriate erosion & soil management systems. Where feasible improve ease of access. Closure of secondary non-essential bush trails. Consultation with appropriate Aboriginal agencies.

Realign the trail at the bottom of the western escarpment & extend the revegetated areas and provide appropriate edge treatment.

to provide improved access along the trail.

The trail realigned along the bottom of the escarpment.

Enforce the protection of the soil & geological features of the parkland. No permanent structures will be provided on or near natural features likely to be affected by natural erosion. Actions are to be initiated so as to minimize or eliminate induced erosion. No actions taken to control either gradual or catastrophic natural erosion for the purposes of protecting natural features but where cultural sites are at risk an assessment of the conservation importance of the site will be determined prior to carrying out any works.

to protect & conserve native soils & the geological features of the surrounding Hawkesbury sandstone gully ridges & rock outcrops of the parkland.

Recorded application of the Precautionary Principle in that decision concerning soils & geological features in the parkland should be based on: • Evaluations to avoid, wherever practicable, serious or irreversible damage to the environment caused by human interference; and • An assessment of risk-weighted options of the various proposed actions for erosion control. Enforce the appropriate legislation for the protection of the environment, e.g. Environmental Planning & Assessment Act, 1979.

Promote, fund & coordinate the Kogarah BushCare Volunteer Groups. Employ a Natural Resource Officer.

to increase direct community participation in biodiversity & ecology management. to increase community awareness of ecological systems to the maintenance of biodiversity.

Market for BushCare Volunteers and maintain a viable number to ensure an efficient & effective program. Employ a Natural Resource Officer.

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Objectives


Develop & implement interpretation & education policy & guidelines to increase resident & visitor understanding of natural & cultural heritage of the parkland. Investigate options such as: • Publications, • Internet, • Park interpretive signage, • Park regulatory signage, • Educational Guided Tours, • Other means.

to educate residents & visitors alike as to the value of natural & cultural heritage. to protect and maintain culturally significant sites or sensitive environmental areas. to ensure the long-term viability of the bushland area & its biodiversity.

Public awareness & access to natural & cultural heritage educational material through a variety of media and alternative opportunities.

Events/Communications Officer and Natural Resource Officer to Prepare a Poulton Park Annual Events Calendar focusing on environmental education specifically for annual environmentally significant events such as Biodiversity month etc. Council to liaise & network with the local schools, environmental groups & interested individuals to prepare educational material.

to inform the public of the importance of biodiversity conservation, the significance of Kogarah’s natural history, the cultural significance of the parks aboriginal heritage and appreciation of the amenity of natural areas within an urban environment. to deter anti-social environmental behaviour.

Percentage reduction in the level of dumped waste in the parkland. Reduction in the felling and clearing of the parks vegetation. Reduction in vandalism to natural resources.

Minimise external impacts by: ·Community education to reduce the illegal dumping of green waste within the parkland. ·Police and monitor the bushland area for illegal activities associated with the cutting down of or damaging to trees to improve views from private property. ·Manage stormwater run-off from residential properties and roads by the creation of mini-detention ponds for sediment & nutrient collection.

to ensure the long-term viability of the bushland area. to protect significant and other native trees & vegetation.

Community education leading to a reduction in: ·Dumped green waste including grass cuttings and garden clippings. ·The number of trees damaged or destroyed to improve views. Stormwater run-off channelled into Oatley Bay Creek.

Hollow bearing native trees especially mature eucalyptus species with large tree diameters at breast height (DBH) is a strong predictor of occupancy by terrestrial vertebrate fauna and are to be preserved throughout the bushland & riparian zones unless such trees pose a significant threat to public property or the public. Where pedestrian pathways, bush trails, etc pass under or near such trees then these pathways are to be re-routed to a safe distance from the tree(s).

to comply with the Threatened Species Conservation Act, 1995 to manage and reduce the loss of significant hollow trees determined to be a threatening process under the Act to native fauna. to avoid public risk liability.

Compliance with the Threatened Species Conservation Act, 1995 to preserve significant hollow trees as places of native fauna habitat. No public risk liability claims.

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COMMUNITY LAND

LAND CATEGORY

NATURAL AREA: WATERCOURSE

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8.0 LAND CATEGORY - WATERCOURSE As a result of the landfill operations in the parkland and urbanisation of the surrounding area Oatley

Bay Creek was in parts diverted from its original natural watercourse. The original creek bed (whether

it has been landfilled or is still part of the natural creek bed) is reserved Crown Land and is

administered by the Crown Lands Act, 1989 and, therefore, is addressed in the Crown Lands Section

of this document. Those sections of Oatley Bay Creek that were diverted from its original watercourse

onto Council owned Community Land are the subject of this land use Category.

8. Oatley Bay Creek, Poulton Park.

Oatley Bay Creek is the principal stormwater discharge into Oatley Bay for the Penshurst, Hurstville,

South Hurstville, Hurstville Grove and Connell’s Point urban areas. The service catchment has an

area of approximately 220 hectares. The pipe drainage system culminates in an open channel through

Hurstville Quarry Reserve (North) northwest of Hurstville Road. The channel is then enclosed under

Hurstville Road extending approximately 270 metres under Hurstville Quarry Reserve (South) and then

opens up into Oatley Bay Creek proper at the head of Poulton Park in the northwestern sector of the

park. Council has installed a gross pollutant trap in the drainage pipeline under Hurstville Quarry

Reserve (South). Those sections that remain of the original Oatley Bay Creek are the last remaining

sections of natural creek in the Kogarah Local Government Area. Unfortunately, as described earlier,

parts of the creek have been diverted from its original watercourse by landfill activity.

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The riparian zone of Oatley Bay Creek, defined as that land that adjoins, directly influences, or is

influenced by, the creek such as its banks, gullies and dips that sometimes run with surface water that

interact with the marine the river bank vegetation as well as the wetland ecological system (Lovett &

Price: 1999) extends generally along the central area and length of Poulton Park through bushland

entering an estuarine wetland containing mangrove swamps and saltmarsh at the Morshead Drive end

of Poulton Park. It then discharges into Oatley Bay through culverts constructed under Morshead

Drive.

In addition, at the low point in the southern central section of Hurstville Quarry Reserve (South)

provisions has been made for a linear grass drainage swale that collects surface water and discharges

it back into Oatley Bay Creek. The swale is identified in photograph 2, p.24 and has been included in

this land category because of its function and the planting of dry wetland flora along its bed and

embankments.

The following objectives and strategies apply to that portion of parkland within Council’s ownership

categorised as a “Watercourse” in Photographs 2 & 3, pp.24-25.

8.1 CORE OBJECTIVES The core objectives for management of community land categorized as watercourse are:

a) to manage watercourses so as to protect the biodiversity and ecological

values of the in stream environment, particularly in relation to water quality

and water flows,

b) to manage watercourses so as to protect the riparian environment, particularly

in relation to riparian vegetation and habitats and bank stability,

c) to restore degraded watercourses, and

d) to promote community education, and community access to and use of the

watercourse, without compromising the other core objectives of the category.



parkland under Council’s management categorized as “Watercourse”. The appropriate strategies have

been listed in the column entitled “Strategy” and are based on the requirements of the parkland and

with reference to the documents entitled Georges River Catchment: Guidelines for Better Practice in

Foreshore Works, Version I, July 2004 and Biodiversity of the Georges River Catchment: Aquatic

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Biodiversity, November 2004, published by the Department of Infrastructure, Planning & Natural

Resources and the latter document in conjunction with the NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service &

NSW Fisheries.

Table 8

Strategies & Actions for Land Category – Natural Area: Watercourse


Objectives


Categorise that area of parkland identified as community land in Photographs 2 & 3, pp.24-25 as “Natural Area – Watercourse”.



No leases or licenses are to be available for the those areas identified as “Natural Area – Watercourse”

to protect habitat from destruction, disturbance & damage.

Restrict the use of the watercourse to activities that are deemed not to be detrimental to the condition, status of the watercourse.

Permit the use of the area for educational & passive recreational activities that do not result in adverse impacts on or a decrease in the condition or status of the riparian corridor.

to provide natural resource educational opportunities. to provide for opportunities for the appreciation of natural resources significant to the Kogarah LGA.

Controlled access & use of specific areas of the riparian corridor. Enforcement of legislative, Kogarah parks policies & regulations.

Apply & implement the appropriate principles & practices applicable to the Hurstville water catchments where the parkland is sited as outlined in the documents entitled: Lower Georges River Stormwater Management Plan, 1999, Sinclair Knight Merz. Georges River Catchment for Better Practice in Foreshore Works, Version 1, July 2004. Biodiversity of the Georges River Catchment: Aquatic Biodiversity, November 2004.

to contribute to a coordinated & consistent approach in the planning, management & development of natural resources in the Georges River Catchments.

Recorded application of the Precautionary Principle in decisions concerning native and indigenous riparian vegetation in the parkland should be based on: • Evaluations to avoid, wherever practicable, serious or irreversible damage to the environment; and • An assessment of risk-weighted actions of the various proposals. Implementation of best practice natural resource planning & management for the parkland with regard to the regional approach ascribed for the Georges River Catchment.

Engage a qualified ecologist to prepare a riparian corridor study to determine appropriate stream & embankment management strategies.

to identify appropriate management strategies that will result in favourable aquatic physiological conditions to sustain & encourage native aquatic life. to clearly establish the boundary of the riparian corridor to provide appropriate management practices between riparian & transitional vegetation zones.

Establishment & identification of riparian corridor for best practice management & planning. Mapped area of riparian corridor. Identification of threatening processes & actions to manage these processes.

The ecology study is to identify areas to regenerate & revegetate by the planting endemic and indigenous riparian vegetation along the embankment of Oatley Bay Creek & across the riparian corridor to: • Provide a source of native and indigenous organic litter matter as an important energy source for the

to avoid the planting of in appropriate vegetation along Oatley Bay Creek embankments. to stabilize the creek banks. to control weeds in the riparian zone to assist in conserving and regenerating native and indigenous vegetation.

Plant endemic and indigenous riparian vegetation to improved biodiversity. Adhere to Department of Lands guidelines for creek restorations. Adhere to State water quality standards for urban stormwater drainage systems.

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Objectives


creek ecosystem. • Provide habitat for terrestrial wildlife. • Provide shade, shelter & to buffer temperature extremes & create habitat for aquatic marine life. • Stabilizes the creeks embankments, bind the soil & protects against erosion & slumping of the embankment in time of high flows. • Act as a filter for sediments, phosphorous & organic nitrogen, improving the water quality entering into the estuarine wetland & on to Oatley Bay. • Control weed growth that competes, suppresses or kills native and indigenous riparian vegetation & restricts habitat for native wildlife.

to assist in reducing the scouring of the creek bed & embankments. to increase habitat values for native wildlife. to improve water quality by assisting in aerating the waters of Oatley Bay Creek. to improve the visual amenity of the riparian landscape.

Enhance the visual amenity of the landscape. Reduction in the erosion of the creek embankment. Compliance with the: Noxious Weeds Act, 1993, Pesticides Act, 1999 Council’s Pesticides Use Notification Plan, 2006.

Remove aquatic weeds in the creek bed & estuarine wetland open water zones.

to control aquatic weed infestation along the creek bed. to maintain appropriate stream flows. to eliminate competition to the establishment & growth of native and indigenous aquatic plant species. to provide food for aquatic biota. to improve the visual amenity of the creek corridor.

Removal & control of aquatic weeds along the creek bed. No creek flow obstructions caused by the presence of aquatic weeds. Planting of native and indigenous riparian vegetation. Increase in the overall heath of the creek ecological systems. Measured rated improvement in the visual amenity of the creek corridor.

The ecologist to assist in the updating & review of the National Trust (NSW) Vegetation Survey, 1996 map and assess the riparian corridor including terrestrial, emergence & aquatic floristics in terms of composition (population distribution), structure (species distribution) & function (contribution to health of ecosystem) at the patch (study area) & landscape scale (Georges River Catchment), identify threatening processes & propose management & conservation strategies. Consult with NSW Fisheries to assist preparing the Vegetation Study. Identify preferred species biomarkers to measure

to compile relevant data for natural resource management planning. to identify gaps in flora information to identify priority habitat areas. to be able to monitor changes in vegetation structure & floristics over time. to assist in identifying threatening processes & impacts to flora.

to provide a detailed map of the floristic composition & its distribution throughout the riparian corridor.

to assist in seeking funding for conservation projects.

Implementation of best practice natural resource planning & management for the riparian corridor. Completion of a comprehensive vegetation map an assessment report on the aquatic biodiversity, identifying threatening processes & outlining conservation & management strategies. Implementation of the recommendations of the Vegetation Survey. Information & data used for the preparation of grants. Measurable riparian biomarkers identified & monitored.

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Objectives


improvements in the condition of the native vegetation in the riparian corridor. Include an assessment of the possible impacts of climatic change as predicted by the CSIRO to the flora of the parkland.

Findings included in the State of Environment Report.

Instigate integrated catchments management as prescribed in the report entitled Poulton Park Flood Study, August 2005, DHI Water & Environment. ·

to manage stormwater run-off flows & nutrient levels entering into the ecosystem. to achieve control and management of aquatic weeds. to enhance aquatic recreational opportunities. to improve the water quality for creek, estuarine & Georges River biota.

Implementation of the recommendations of the Poulton Park Flood Study, August 2005, DHI Water & Environment report Adhere to State water quality standards for urban stormwater drainage systems.

Monitor the condition of Oatley Bay Creek embankments for erosion & slumping after high flows.

to assess the impact of natural erosion and determine its consequences.

Record and monitor changes to the creek flow rate and impacts on opposite embankments. Wherever possible do not instigate actions to interfere with natural weathering.

Carry out site hazard & risk assessment by performing geochemical analysis of sediments in Poulton Park estuary wetland to investigate the influence of urban or industrial pollutant in the wetland. Compare results with ANZECC (Australian & New Zealand Environment & Conservation Council) sediment quality guidelines with consideration to the local environmental conditions & other factors relevant to the site. Assess the nature, source & significance of any environmental risk & prepare tactics to reduce any identified risk to the environment.

to identify possible & probable sources of synthetic chemicals or other pollutants entering the riparian corridor & estuarine wetland. to eliminate where possible synthetic chemical or other pollutants entering the riparian corridor & estuarine wetland.

Hazard & risk assessment completed in accordance with: ANZECC/ARMCANZ 2000: Australia & New Zealand for Fresh & Marine Water Quality, Publisher Australian & New Zealand Environment & Conservation Council & Agricultural & Resource Management Council of Australia & New Zealand, Canberra, Australia. Implement action to eliminate synthetic chemical intrusion into the riparian corridor & wetland.

Monitor the type & use of fertilizers on the adjoining sports playing fields & determine if alternative organic fertilizers can be used as substitutes.

to reduce the reliance on the use of chemical fertilizers on the adjoining sports fields.

Use of alternative organic fertilizers to eliminate or reduce the reliance of chemical fertilizers. Compliance with Pesticides Act, 1999. Compliance with the Kogarah Council Pesticides Notification Plan.

Remove & replace the existing steel pedestrian bridge over Oatley Bay Creek adjacent to the sportsfields.

to remove an identified hazardous structure to that does not meet the appropriate Australian Standards.

Removal & replacement of existing pedestrian bridge over Oatley Bay Creek.

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COMMUNITY LAND

LAND CATEGORY

CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE

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9.0 LAND CATEGORY – CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE

The Poulton Park and Quarry Reserve contains places of cultural significant derived from past

Aboriginal inhabitants who used the area for food gathering and later use by early European settlers

who used the then forest timbers for construction. Hardy (2002) notes that:

Cultural heritage places provide us with evidence of past human activity. Heritage places may be confined to a small area, or represented by a complex of features, including a cultural landscape.

9.1 ABORIGINAL HERITAGE

Within Poulton Park there is an Aboriginal heritage artefact that have cultural values significant to the

history of the original landowners the Bediagal, of the Eora / Dharug language group who occupied the

area prior to European settlement. The NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service Sites Register has

recorded one Aboriginal archaeological site within the study area. Site registration No.45-5-2270

identifies an Open Camp Site situated within Poulton Park as being of heritage significance.

Owing to the extensive landfill, agricultural activity, sandstone quarrying and the adjoining urban

development a significant area of the original natural area of the parkland has been lost. However, as

there is a record of Aboriginal presence within the parkland there is the future potential of uncovering

Aboriginal artefacts and sites of archaeological and heritage significance.

9.2 EUROPEAN HERITAGE

Of specific European cultural significance is the quarry wall in Hurstville Quarry Reserve (South) that

depicts the use of the site and its materials for construction works that were carried out at the time.

The quarry walls, although not perceived to be threatened by any present or future development never-

the-less should be preserved for their historical significance as part of the economic and social history

of the parkland.

9.3 CORE OBJECTIVES With reference to the Local Government Act, 1993 the core objective for land categorized as being of

cultural significance is:

“To retain and enhance the cultural significance of the area (namely its aboriginal, aesthetic, archaeological, historical, technical or research or social significance) for past, present or future generations by the active use of conservation methods.” (LGA: 1993).

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Table 9, outlines the strategies and actions for parkland in categorised as “Cultural Significance”.

Table 9

Strategies & Actions for Land Category – Cultural Significance


Objectives


Categorise the Hurstville Quarry Reserve (South) as depicted in Photographs 3 & 4, pp.24-25 as sites of “Cultural Significance”:

to implement appropriates conservation & management strategies for the protection of a culturally significant feature of the parkland.

Preservation of quarry wall face.

Amend the Kogarah LEP to include both Hurstville Quarry Reserve (North & South) quarry walls as places of local cultural significance.

to preserve the quarry wall face as a feature of cultural significance.

Preservation of quarry wall face.

Authorise the leasing & licensing within Hurstville Quarry Reserve for approved uses that are not detrimental to the quarry wall.

Restrict the use of the area to activities that are deemed not to be detrimental to the quarry wall face.

Conditions within leases or licenses that restrict activities to those that will protect & conserve the quality of the face of the quarry walls.

Promote the Aboriginal & European history of the parkland by installing interpretive signs. Liaise with appropriate Aboriginal representatives and the Kogarah Historical Society to assist in preparing the interpretive signs.

to contribute to a sense of place to the community. to provide educational information on the history of the parkland.

Installation of signage depicting the history of the quarry. Liaise with appropriate Aboriginal representatives and the Kogarah Historical Society to assist in preparing the interpretive signs.

Categorise the site of the Aboriginal artefact in Poulton Park as a site of “Cultural Significance”: (Location is not revealed to comply with the protection and conservation of the site in accordance with NPWS directives).

to implement appropriates conservation & management strategies for the protection of an Aboriginal culturally significant feature of the parkland.

Preservation of the Aboriginal midden site in Poulton Park.

Involve appropriate Aboriginal representatives in the conservation and protection of the Aboriginal site in its current condition.

to conserve for future generations significant aboriginal cultural heritage.

Appropriate Aboriginal representatives consulted and agreed actions implemented to protect and conserve Aboriginal artifacts. Conservation methods to be in accordance with NSW National Parks & Wildlife Standards for heritage conservation.

In consultation with appropriate Aboriginal representatives seek consensus to install interpretive signs and Aboriginal artwork at the entrance to Poulton Park south off Morshead Drive stating the Aboriginal history of the site.

to promote and educate the public as to the cultural history of the parkland and its links to the past. to capture the oral history of the site for intergenerational equity.

Consultation held and where appropriate approval given from appropriate Aboriginal representatives for written interpretation and artworks of Aboriginal history and mythology to be displayed near but not at the site.

In consultation with the NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service seek the best means to control landscape erosion of the Aboriginal heritage site.

to instigate best practice conservation methods to reduce the rate of decay of non-durable artefacts.

Appropriate measures implemented for the conservation of the site.

Raise the public’s awareness of the cultural heritage values of the parkland.

to encourage public awareness, appreciation of and participation in the protection of cultural heritage values of the parkland.

Interpretive signs, brochures and articles produced in consultation with appropriate Aboriginal representatives.

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STATE CROWN RESERVE

Poulton Park Crown Reserve 1011268 Estuary Wetland & Grey Mangroves

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10.0 CROWN RESERVE LAND The portions of Crown Reserve land in Poulton Park include parts of the existing watercourse, parts of

the previous watercourse creek bed that has been landfilled and the estuarine wetland adjacent Oatley

Bay Creek and accompanying riparian zones.


Table 10.1, outlines the preferred strategies, actions and objectives for the management of Crown

Reserve 1011268 that comply with the objectives of s.11 entitled Principles of Crown land

management, Crown Lands Act 1989.

Table 10.1

Planning, Management & Development Strategies & Actions – Crown Land


Objectives


Council to requests the Minister responsible for the administration of the Crown Lands Act, 1989 to have the Crown Land Reserve 1011268 currently reserved for Future Public Requirement that includes the existing active natural creek bed of Oatley Bay Creek and estuarine wetland (refer to photograph 5 & 6 p.28 & p.30) Public Recreation / Environmental Protection.

to reserve the reserved crown land in the parkland for Public Recreation / Environmental Protection. to ensure the parklands natural resources & biodiversity are conserved & protected from in appropriate use and sustained for intergenerational equity. to ensure that the land as a resource is preserved for inter-generational equity. to provide an opportunity as a place for bio-banking. to ensure that the land as a resource is preserved for the enjoyment of the public.

Reserved Crown land in the parkland that forms part the existing active creek bed & estuarine wetland reserved for Recreation / Environmental Protection. Compliance with relevant wetlands protection legislation & policies. The area reinstated with native & indigenous flora.

Subject to Reserve 1011268 being reserved for Public Recreation / Environmental Protection Council to request that the Minister establish and name a reserve trust over the subject land and appoint Council to manage the affairs of the Trust.

to manage the land in a manner that fulfils the objects and principles of Crown land management in accordance with s.10 & s.11 of the Crown Lands Act, 1989. to provide a multipurpose venue for sports, recreation, social and cultural events and experiences.

Council appointed Trust Manager of the newly created reserve Trust within the parkland to be responsible for the care, control and management of Reserve 1011268. Management of the affairs of the Trust in accordance with s.92 to s.95 of the Crown Lands Act, 1989

Council to re-zone that portion of the Crown Reserve land in Poulton Park that is part of the estuary wetland and riparian corridor – Environmental Protection 7(a) – Environmental Protection (Waterways) Zone (refer to p.30, photograph 6).

to provide appropriate environmental protection for the most highly sensitive marine and terrestrial habitat within the parkland.

Council to re-zone that portion of the Crown Reserve in Poulton Park that is part of the estuary wetland and riparian corridor – Environmental Protection 7(a) – Environmental Protection (Waterways).

Council to retain the existing zoning for that portion of Crown Reserve

to retain the existing Zoning for that portion of Crown Reserve land for

No change to the existing Zoning to that area of Crown Reserve

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Objectives


land in Poulton Park that is part sportsfield, part temporary Council storage area Open Space 6(a) – Open Space Public Zone (refer to p.30, photograph 6).

public recreational use and ancillary services. to progressively reclaim and develop the land for public recreation and ancillary services. to comply with the objects and principles of management as per ss.10-11 of the Crown Lands Act, 1989.

currently partly use as sportsfields and Council storage area. Progressively withdraw Council’s use of the land as a storage area and embellish the land for public recreation and ancillary services.

Permitted uses of the Crown reserved land reserved for public recreation: Sports, cultural, social and passive recreation.

to preserve the existing sports and recreational opportunities being derived from the use of the land. to continue to meet identified community recreational needs.

Compliance with the objects and principles of management as per ss.10-11 of the Crown Lands Act, 1989.

Subject to that area of reserved Crown land being reserved for public recreation apply the Whole of Park Strategies as outlined in Table 3.2, p.43 to the Crown land.

to provide a consistent and holistic planning, management and development approach to the whole of the parkland.

Implementation of actions , strategies and the achievement of objectives and monitoring of outcomes for Whole of Park Strategies listed in Table 3.2 p.43.

Subject to that area of reserved Crown land being reserved for Public Recreation / Environmental Protection apply those actions and strategies outlined in Table 7, p.63 Natural Area Bushland .

to provide a consistent and holistic planning, management and development approach to the whole of the parkland. to implement best practice natural area flora and fauna habitat management.

Implementation of actions , strategies and the achievement of objectives and monitoring of outcomes for Natural Area Bushland listed in Table 7, p.63.

Permitted uses of the Crown reserved land reserved for Public Recreation / Environmental Protection: cultural, educational and low key passive recreation.

to ensure the protection & conservation of the riparian corridor & estuarine wetlands from in appropriate use. to assist in the environmental education of the ecological role & function of natural creeks & estuarine wetlands.

Compliance with the objects and principles of management as per ss.10-11 of the Crown Lands Act, 1989. Compliance with the adopted plan of management.

Subject to that area of reserved Crown land being reserved for Public Recreation / Environmental Protection apply the strategies as outlined in Table 8, p.73 Natural Area Watercourse to the Crown land.

to ensure consistency in the management of habitat and biodiversity in the riparian corridor & estuarine wetland. to implement the state rivers & estuary policy. to implement the southern Sydney Catchments Blueprint Policy. to comply with the Rivers & Foreshores Improvement Act, 1948.

Compliance with the Department of Lands Sydney Catchments Blueprint Policy. Compliance with the principles of the Rivers & Foreshores Improvement Act 1948. Compliance with the NSW State rivers & estuary policies. Compliance with the objects and principles of management as per ss.10-11 of the Crown Lands Act, 1989.

Protection of Estuarine wetland area Macrophyte Zones consisting of: Grey Mangrove (Avicennia marina). Littoral areas Open Water areas. Conserve and protect the estuarine wetlands terrestrial and marine flora and fauna including the Endangered

To comply with the Threatened Species Conservation Act, 1995 and appropriate Recovery Plans. to ensure the protection & conservation of the riparian corridor & estuarine wetlands from inappropriate use.

Compliance with the Threatened Species Conservation Act, 1995 and Recovery Plans. Monitor sediment build up within the Macrophyte Zones. Remove emergent undesirable vegetation to prevent colonizing

85



Objectives


Ecological Communities Swamp Oak Floodplain Forest and Coastal Salt marsh.

to conserve and protect the ecological processes within the riparian zone. to assist in the environmental education of the ecological role & function of natural creeks & estuarine wetlands.

the foreshore & open water. Replace with native and indigenous riparian flora as required. Correct erosion & slumping as soon as detected.

Reduce the flow rate in the culverts and stormwater outlet pipes.

to ensure sustainable passage for marine life between the wetland and Oatley Bay.

Installation of additional culverts that meet best practice designs for fishways.

Replace the stormwater pipes with culverts.

to reduce the tidal flow rates between the wetland and Oatley Bay.

Replace the stormwater pipes with culverts that meet best practice design for fishways.

Council to program the removal of the depot storage facilities in Poulton Park to be completed for commencement of restoration works in 2020 and the site restored as part bushland and for passive public recreation.

to implement the provisions of the Crown Lands Act, 1989 and embellish the Crown reserve for public recreation and environmental protection.

Compliance with the reservation of the land in accordance with the Crown Lands Act, 1989.

Implement a dust control management systems within that area of Poulton Park used by Council as a works depot and include the linkage roads to the depot.

to reduce dust particle air pollution. Dust control management systems installed within the depot and along the linkage roads.

9. Stormwater pipes located in the estuary wetland adjoining Oatley Bay.

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NSW DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING LAND

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11.0 DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING LAND There are seven parcels of land in Poulton Park that are in the ownership of the Department of

Planning. These land lots consists of native bushland areas in the central and northern sector of

Poulton Park, Hurstville Grove. As these parcels of land adjoin Council owned Community Land that

also consist of native bushland it is proposed that these areas be managed as previously outlined for

the Community Land – Land Category Natural Area Bushland.


Table 11.1, outlines the preferred strategies, actions and objectives for the management land in the

ownership of the Department of Planning and comply with the objectives of Council’s designated

responsibilities for the lands care, control and management.

Table 11.1



Objectives


Council to requests the Minister responsible for the administration of the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act, 1979 to have the land titles for the land in Poulton Park in the ownership of the NSW Department of Planning transferred to Council in fee simple.

to ensure future public use of the land for public recreation in accordance with local and district needs. to provide a single and consist management system that is relevant to local changing recreational needs and demands. to ensure the parklands natural resources including its biodiversity are conserved & protected from in appropriate use and sustained for local intergenerational equity .

The land titles for the Department of Planning land in Poulton Park transferred to Kogarah Council.

Implement appropriate strategies & actions outlined in the NSW Department of Planning trails study entitled Creating The Great Kai’mia Way a Catchment Vision (2003) : • Regenerate & upgrade public access ways throughout the parkland and along the adjoining foreshore areas. • Review Morshead Drive traffic speed management. • Provide on road cycling signs & markings. • Provide bicycle barriers & lock up. • Proactively seek foreshore access opportunities & provide linkages to other open space areas.

to enhance the recreational and educational opportunities of existing open space. to provide safe traffic free routes linking communities to their surroundings. to increase community awareness of river and catchment environmental values. to promote aboriginal and non-aboriginal heritage. to encourage active and healthy lifestyles for a broad range of people in the community. to increase the protection of the foreshores and bushlands in the catchment.

Attain grants for capital works from the NSW Department of Planning Metropolitan Greenspace Program. Implementation of the actions outlined for Oatley Bay in the document entitled Creating The Great Kai’mia Way a Catchment Vision (2003). Provide promotional material advertising the walkways and their linkages. Provide educational opportunities via bushwalks, interpretive signage & other means.

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Objectives


to foster cross community ties between indigenous and non-indigenous groups. to develop stewardship, partnerships between land owners, residents, aboriginal land councils, private and government agencies.

Apply the strategies & actions as outlined in Table 7, p.63 Natural Area Bushland to Department of Planning land in Poulton Park

to ensure consistency in the management of habitat and biodiversity in the parkland catchment including the riparian corridor. to implement the state rivers & native vegetation management policy. to implement the southern Sydney Catchments Blueprint Policy. to comply with the principles of the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act 1979

Compliance with the Department of Planning policies & directives and terms & conditions for the care, control & management of the land. Compliance with the principles of the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act 1979 Compliance with the NSW State native vegetation management policies.

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FUNDING &

SCHEDULE OF WORKS

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12.0 FUNDING The implementation of the strategies and actions outlined in the plan, whether wholly undertaken in

one attempt or staged over a period of time, will be dependent on the demands made on Council, its

preferred priorities in any one financial year and the availability of resources each financial year. Table

12, outlines possible external sources of funding to assist Council in its undertaking of capital works

associated with the plan.

Table 12.

POSSIBLE SOURCES OF EXTERNAL FUNDING

Licenses & Leases – rental income NSW Department of Sport & Recreation – Capital Assistance Program Department of Land - Capital Assistance Programs Department of Land - Public Reserves Management Fund Department of Planning – Capital Improvement Programs, e.g. Metropolitan Greenspace Program.

The cited external grants are generally available annually but may vary as to the sum of capital

assistance available and the criteria for preferred projects being promoted by the funding body. It

should be noted that grants are not available to contribute towards maintenance works. These remain

the responsibility of Council. In addition, grants are available only for a limited time and are not always

available every year. The availability of grants can be limited to only 12 months or may be available for

a set period, for example grant funding may be available over a three (3) year period for a specific

staged project that requires, owing to the extent of the project, extensive financial assistance. Financial

assistance from grants is generally confined to a dollar-for-dollar contribution. This requires Council to

contribute 50% of the costs of the project and the funding body contributing the other 50%.

The total amount and number of grant funds that are available from any one source at any one time is

very limited. The availability of grant funding is also competitive between all applicant Councils.

Therefore, Council cannot entirely rely on grants to commence and supplement a project. However, it

should apply to any grant body for assistance where any of its projects comply with the grant criteria.

This plan of management can assist Council in the preparation of appropriate applications. In addition,

the State and Federal Government periodically introduce new grant programs. These may address a

specific social, economic or environmental issue. Council will need to monitor these as they are

introduced.

As previously noted, grants are not available to assist Council in financing its maintenance for its parks

and reserves. Unless balanced by the introduction of new efficiency measures any reduction in

existing maintenance expenditure to supplement new capital works should be avoided. The

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consequences of a failure to adequately maintain a valuable asset is the necessity to bring that asset

back online at a later date. This is usually at a higher financial cost to the community. Further

consequences result in a loss of public credibility and accountability in asset management as well as a

reduction in asset service value. The adage “prevention is better than cure” has significant relevance

in the management of valuable community assets. In addition, it should be noted that where

monitoring of works is required then this too would incur additional costs for Council.

The ongoing maintenance and replacement of the parkland’s existing assets should be the preferred

course of action where that asset has high community value and use. However, assets whose rate of

deterioration has exceeded reasonable ongoing maintenance expenditure, repair or replacement costs

then Council will need to give consideration to asset disposal and divert funding to supplement new

development or improved maintenance of other assets.

12.1 RANKING

The cited priorities may be subject to changes so as to accommodate a program of works that best

achieves a consistent means of development relative to available funding and resources. However, where

changes are proposed prior consideration needs to be given to the impact it may have on any other

proposed future works so as to avoid unnecessary expenditure, duplication or inconvenience.

The schedule of works listed in the plan has been prioritized in a hierarchy expressed by the numeric

symbols “1” indicating a “First Order Priority”, “2” a “Second Order Priority” and “3” a “Third Order

Priority”. These are further detailed in Table 12.1

Table 12.1 PRIORITY ORDER KEY

Priority

Description

1 First Order Priority Items allocated “1” are the preferred first items to be addressed in implementing the plan.

2 Second Order Priority Items allocated “2” are the preferred secondary items to be addressed in implementing the plan but can be upgraded or downgraded.

3 Third Order Priority Items allocated “3” are the preferred third order items to be addressed in implementing the plan and should be implemented after items “1” and “2” have been initiated. Items in this category may be upgraded to secondary items.

12.2 SCHEDULE OF STRATEGIES & ACTIONS

The following Tables 12.2 to 12.9 presents the actions and priorities for the various land management

categories defined by the Local Government Act, 1993 and relative to the reserve Crown land,

Department of Planning and Sydney Water Land as outlined in this plan of management. Tables 12.2

to 12.10 indicate the actions and their preferred priority.

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Table 12.2

Priority

Strategies & Actions for Whole of Park

1 Council is to prepare a Landscape Master Plan and design palette for the study area.

Council is to ensure public consultation in preparing the Landscape Master Plan. 1 This plan supports development that is ancillary to the public purpose, use and enjoyment

of the parkland as determined by the land category and as permitted under the Kogarah Local Environmental Plan and/or as determined by Development consent.

1 Prepare a Water Audit and Management Plan for all the sports fields and amenities within the park.

1 In accordance with the objectives of each of the prescribed land categories and public purpose avoid excessive building development within those land categories where such development is permitted.

1 Council has prepared a Disability Discrimination Act, 1992 - Action Plan (DDA) that identifies and assesses issues for public access to facilities for able bodied and for persons with a disability. Implement the recommendations of the DDA Action Plan that are relevant to the parkland.

1 Apply the Principles of Leasing & Licensing outlined in Table 4 to community land and buildings as permitted within the appropriate land categories and reserve Crown land. The latter in accordance with the Crown Lands Act, 1989 s.102 & s.108.

1 Improve direction and transition by providing appropriate standardised signage throughout the park. Where appropriate incorporate the use of international symbols that meet the Australian Standards for inclusion in the design palette for the parkland. Install signage for information, environmental & heritage interpretation. Provide information on park regulations.

1 Initiate triennial park visitor and resident surveys using staff, student, voluntary assistance or combination.

1 Implement the strategies relevant to State Government’s Southern Sydney Catchment Blueprint Policy.

1 Council to monitor the condition and use of its assets and infrastructure.

1 Where appropriate, Council to prepare a detailed structural design engineers Dilapidation & Risk Assessment Report on the condition of the buildings their structural integrity, fixtures and fittings prior to issuing any lease agreement.

1 Council to prepare an Energy Audit of buildings, outdoor lighting systems and other energy uses within the parkland.

1 Council to apply for capital assistance through State and Federal Government Grants or other opportunities for recreation, cultural, heritage and natural resource projects within the parkland.

1 Prepare a Safety Hazard & Risk Management Plan for the study areas facilities, structures, amenities and services based on Australian Standard AS/NZS 4360:2004 & publication Guidelines for Managing Risk in Sport & Recreation (HB 246-2004)

1 Manage the park in accordance with the Kogarah Open Space Policy and in accordance with the objectives of the community land categories. Where there is a discrepancy between the policy & the objectives of the land use category the land use category prevails.

1 In consultation with local residents identify traffic management options for Morshead Drive and present these to Council’s Traffic Management Committee for consideration by the Road Traffic Authority, Police, Councillors and other traffic specialist.

1 Implement a dust control management systems within that area of Poulton Park used by Council as a works depot and include the linkage roads to the depot.

2 Council to prepare Landscape Design Guidelines (LDG) for park furniture, fixtures and fittings based on sustainable design principles and incorporate these into the design palette for the parkland.

2 Council to prepare Architectural Design Guidelines (ADG) for any future buildings that may be proposed for the park based on sustainable design principles and where appropriate with consideration to site’s heritage significance. Where feasible, introduce sustainable energy and water saving features into existing buildings.

2 With the assistance of the community and organisations such as schools prepare a range of promotional and educational material relevant to the parkland.

2 Prepare a Poulton Park Annual Events Calendar focusing on environmental education. Liaise with the local schools, environmental groups, Kogarah BushCare Volunteers and individuals interested in environmental issues to organise events in the park.

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Priority

Strategies & Actions for Whole of Park

3 Review & provide internal pedestrian circulation, links & loop networks throughout the

parkland. Provide pedestrian links in the parkland to connect to The Great Kai’Mai Way recreational access network that is to extend from Sutherland across the Como Bridge to Moore Reserve via Morshead Drive pass Poulton Park then on to Sans Souci & around Botany Bay.

3 Provide Green Web links via streetscapes leading to and around the parkland by planting native tree species.

3 Appoint a registered surveyor to identify private property boundary encroachments into the parkland.

10. Aging public amenities building – Poulton Park.

Table 12.3 Priority

Strategies & Actions for Land Category General Community Use

1 Categorise that area of parkland identified on Photograph 1 & 3 & 4, pp.24-25 as “General Community Use”.

1 In accordance with the Development Consent permit & encourage the multiple licensing of the Tennis amenities building in Quarry Reserve (North) as determined by Council. Permit the facility to be used for community sports, recreational, social activities or ancillary activities as approved by Council.

1 In accordance with Development Consent permit & encourage the multiple licensing of the soccer field amenities building in Poulton Park as determined by Council. Permit the facility to be used for community sports, recreational, activities or ancillary activities as approved by Council.

1 Demolish the toilet facilities located near the playground in Poulton Park. Construct new toilet facilities at this location and make provision for persons with a disability.

2 Construct a new amenities building to include toilet facilities for persons with a disability, a small storage area and kiosk in Hurstville Quarry Reserve (South)

2 Demolish the toilet facilities opposite No.2 soccer field in Poulton Park and make provision for persons with a disability. Incorporate a storage area within the new toilet block building for use by local community sports groups. Offer short or long-term licenses for the use of the storage area. Prohibit the placement of ships containers within the parkland.

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Priority

Strategies & Actions for Land Category General Community Use

3 Upgrade the vehicle access roads into Quarry Reserve (North) and Morshead Drive into Poulton Park. Upgrade and formalize the lower portion of the vehicle access road off Rickard Street into Poulton Park. Upgrade & formalize the access road off Seymour Street into Poulton Park (west). The plan authorizes the creation of a public road for this access way and the creation of visitor parking facilities.

3 Convert that part of Community Land that forms the eastern side of Council’s Depot into public car park.

3 Formalise the vehicle parking area opposite the Tennis Courts in Quarry Reserve (North), opposite No1 & No 2 soccer field in Poulton Park & Seymour Street entrance to Poulton Park.

11. Quarry Reserve (North) vehicle access Road.

Table 12.4

Priority

Strategies & Actions for Land Category Park

1 Categorise that area of parkland identified on Photographs 1-4, pp.24-25 as “Park”.

1 Permit low impact events & activities such as community, cultural, educational and special events in that area of parkland identified as “Park” as determined by Council. Issue permits and licenses stating terms and conditions of use for events.

1 Permit family or group social gatherings within this land category.

1 Upgrade the existing playground in Poulton Park to a District Grade facility making provision for younger children between the ages of 0 to 11 years of age including those with limited physical, intellectual, mobility, sight or other limitations.

1 Where appropriate construct internal pedestrian pathways in identified high use tracks at grades of 1:14 or better for persons with a disability & for pram use linking major recreation facilities and amenities.

2 Relocate the existing playground in Quarry Reserve (North) to that section of land opposite the basketball ring and make provision for younger children between the ages of 0 to 6 years of age including those with limited physical, intellectual, mobility, sight or other limitations.

2 Where appropriate fit shade covers over the playgrounds areas in the parkland.

2 Design outdoor furniture, signs & utilities to be visually coordinated to enhance the landscape character of the parkland as expressed by the dominant theme, colours & textures of the site.

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Priority

Strategies & Actions for Land Category Park

2 Provide electric BBQ facilities in the designated picnic areas throughout the parkland. As a precaution to prevent bushfire incidents prohibit the use of portable BBQs in parkland.

3 Where feasible, install energy efficient pathway & access lighting within the park. All lighting to be placed on timing switches to be shutdown at 9.30pm nightly.

12. Children’s Playground – Poulton Park

Table 12.5

Priority

Strategies & Actions for Land Category Sportsground

1 Categorise that area of parkland identified on Photographs 1-4, pp.24-25 as “Sportsground”.

1 Permit multiple licensing agreements for the use of sports fields and hardcourts. Permit the use of the sportsfields and hardcourts for sports, recreational, social and cultural events such as district, local and school sports days, community social and cultural activities and other events appropriate to the park.

1 Where there is continual conflict between organized park user groups and local residents Council to form a Community Advisory Committee to address the issue(s) of concern. The Advisory Committee to be chaired by a Council appointed elective representative.

1 Authorise the installation of automatically timed floodlights for sports activities and training. Lighting standards to be of a quality and in accordance with Australian Standards for sports training. Hours of use to be in accordance with existing hours of operation as determined by previous development approvals for the same type of sports activities being 8.00pm for sports fields & 9.30pm for hardcourt sports venues.

1 In consultation with the user groups make provision for spectator seating around the perimeter of the sportsgrounds. Provide or locate seating in shaded areas.

1 Maintain the automatic computerised recycled water irrigation system for the sportsgrounds and playground area. If required, increase the water storage capacity so as to be able to include other areas of the parkland for recycled water irrigation.

1 Improve the drainage along the eastern boundary of the No.1 & mini sports fields in Poulton Park & redirect water into Oatley Bay Creek.

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Priority

Strategies & Actions for Land Category Sportsground

1 Within Council’s financial means, undertake preferred actions to ensure continual improvement in sportsfield turf management.

1 Regulatory enforcement.

1 In liaison with local Sports Associations & Clubs who use the sports fields on a seasonal basis to prepare guidelines for managing risk & safety in sports & recreation in accordance with Australian Standard AS/NZS 4360:2004 Risk Management & HB 246-2004 Guidelines for Managing Risk in Sport & Recreation.

13. Netball Courts – Poulton Park

Table 12.6

Priority

Strategies & Actions for Land Category Natural Area – Bushland

1 Categorise that area of parkland identified on photographs 1-4, pp.24-25 as “Natural Area

– Bushland”.

1 Permit educational & passive recreational activities that do not result in an adverse impact or a decrease in the condition or status of the bushland.

1 Utilise local knowledge of fauna & flora species to assist in secondary research for surveys & studies outlined in this plan.

1 Council to liaise with the NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service to assist in preparing a Recovery Plan for the Sydney Turpentine – Ironbark Forest identified as an Endangered Ecological Community under the provisions of the Threatened Species Conservation Act, 1995.

1 Update & review the National Trust (NSW) Vegetation Survey, 1996 of the study area by preparing a Vegetation Management Plan, map and assess the terrestrial floristics of the bushland in terms of composition (population distribution), structure (species distribution) & function (contribution to health of ecosystem) at the patch (study area) & relate to the landscape scale (Georges River Catchment), identify threatening processes & propose management & conservation strategies etc. Identify preferred native flora biomarkers to measure changes in the condition of the native vegetation. Include an assessment of the possible impacts of climatic change as predicted by the CSIRO to the flora of the parkland.

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Priority


1 Compile a significant native and indigenous tree register to:

·Identify significant native and indigenous tree species & their distribution throughout the parkland. ·determine the economic value of significant native and indigenous trees within the parkland to assist in their management. ·calculate the estimated carbon sequestration of the bushland area. ·carry out a hazard & risk assessment on significant native and indigenous trees utilizing Council’s PDA computerized risk management system.

1 Eliminate exotic, invasive & noxious weeds by: Implementing bush regeneration & revegetation programs by both contract & voluntary means. Implement stormwater drainage management systems within the parkland. Implement action to police & remove illegally dumped green waste in the parkland.

1 Reduce green space fragmentation by providing green-web infill where appropriate and feasible. Promote the planting of native vegetation on residential properties that adjoin the bushland. Plant native species trees in adjoining streetscapes.

1 Protect the aesthetic & scenic values of the bushland by not permitting unsympathetic development design within those areas of the parkland categorized as natural areas.

1 Protect native vegetation & habitat during development works by improved enforcement of the guidelines for their protection during such works. Improve the efficiency & effectiveness of site inspection processes & procedures where Development approval has been granted within the parkland or on adjoining private properties to the parkland.

1 Manage fire risk by monitoring ground fuel levels and undertake spot burns. Avoid burning within the riparian vegetation corridor & areas containing protected & rare flora within the parkland. Create fire buffer zones & plant fire resistant (endemic) species along the rear of private property boundaries that adjoin the parkland. Permit spot pile burns of bush regeneration green waste.

1 Where feasible, propagate plant species that are unique to the native and indigenous vegetation of the parkland.

1 Protection and conservation of all threatened species within the parkland and the elimination of threatening processes.

1 Control & if possible eradicate feral fauna species in the bushland area, including foxes, dogs and cats, by: ·Community education about dogs, cats and other feral animals and their competitive and destructive impact on native flora and fauna. ·Introduce appropriate means to catch and/or eliminate feral animals from the parkland. The use of lethal baits such as Strychnine, sodium monfluoroacetate (1080), etc are prohibited in the parkland.

1 Ensure existing emergency & maintenance vehicle access along the existing fire trail off Morshead Drive.

1 Enforce the protection of the soil & geological features of the parkland. No permanent structures will be provided on or near natural features likely to be affected by induced or natural erosion. The design and construction of permanent structures will be undertaken so as to minimize erosion. No attempt should be made to control either gradual or catastrophic natural erosion for the purposes of protecting natural features but where cultural sites are at risk an assessment of the conservation importance of the site will be determined prior to carrying out any works.

1 Promote, fund & coordinate BushCare Volunteer Groups. Prepare a marketing recruitment plan for bushcare volunteers.

1 Develop & implement interpretation & education policy & guidelines to increase resident & visitor understanding of natural & cultural heritage of the parkland. Investigate options such as: • Publications, • Internet, • Park interpretive signage, • Park regulatory signage, • Educational Guided Tours, • Other means.

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Priority


1 Minimise external impacts by:

·Community education to reduce the illegal dumping of green waste within the parkland. ·Police and monitor the bushland area for illegal activities associated with the cutting down of or damaging to trees to improve views from private property. ·Manage stormwater run-off from residential properties and roads by the creation of mini-detention ponds for sediment & nutrient collection.

2 Council to liaise with the NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service to assist in preparing a Recovery Plan for the Gosford Wattle (Acacia prominens) identified as a Threatened Population under the provisions of the Threatened Species Conservation Act, 1995.

2 Where there are identified rare species such as the Tetratheca neglecta in the park Council to liaise with the National Parks & Wildlife Service to prepare ecological conservation strategies for these areas.

2 Update Council’s previous Fauna Survey, 1998 (prepared by Biosphere Environmental Consultants Pty Ltd) to identify changes in the presence or otherwise in the fauna biodiversity within the study area. Identify preferred fauna species biomarkers to measure improvements in the condition of the native fauna. Identify threatening processes & prepare management strategies.

2 Formalised the primary bushland trails within the bushland area. Reduce the total number of bush trails by closing off non essential secondary trails within the bushland area and restore native and indigenous vegetation along the closed trails. Construct bush trails to places of environmental interest or present vistas across the parkland. Where feasible, provide access for persons with a disability. Where appropriate use elevated walkways for areas of intensive visitor use to prevent soil erosion & provide crossings for fauna.

2 Realign the trail at the bottom of the escarpment & extend the revegetated areas and provide appropriate edge treatment.

2 Events/Communications Officer and Natural Resource Officer to Prepare a Poulton Park Annual Events Calendar focusing on environmental education specifically for Biodiversity month. Council to liaise & network with the local schools, environmental groups & interested individuals to prepare educational material.

14. Regenerated bushland and public access facilities.

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Table 12.7

Priority

Strategies & Actions for Land Category Natural Area – Watercourse

1 Categorise that area of parkland identified as community land in photographs 2-3, pp.24-25 as “Natural Area – Watercourse”.

1 Permit the use of the area for educational & passive recreational activities that do not result in adverse impacts on or a decrease in the condition or status of the riparian corridor.

1 Apply & implement the appropriate principles & practices applicable to the Hurstville water catchments where the parkland is sited as outlined in the documents entitled: Lower Georges River Stormwater Management Plan, 1999, Sinclair Knight Merz. Georges River Catchment for Better Practice in Foreshore Works, Version 1, July 2004. Biodiversity of the Georges River Catchment: Aquatic Biodiversity, November 2004.

1 Engage a qualified ecologist to prepare a riparian corridor study to determine appropriate stream & embankment management strategies.

1 The study to identify areas to regenerate & revegetate by the planting native and indigenous riparian vegetation along the embankment of Oatley Bay Creek & across the riparian corridor to: • Provide a source of native and indigenous organic litter matter as an important energy source for the creek ecosystem. • Provide habitat for terrestrial wildlife. • Provide shade, shelter & to buffer temperature extremes & create habitat for aquatic marine life. • Stabilizes the creeks embankments, binds the soil & protects against erosion & slumping of the embankment in time of high flows. • Act as a filter for sediments, phosphorous & organic nitrogen, improving the water quality entering into the estuarine wetland & on to Oatley Bay. • Control weed growth that competes, suppresses or kills native and indigenous riparian vegetation & restricts habitat for native wildlife.

1 Remove aquatic exotic weeds in the creek bed & estuarine wetland open water zones.

1 The ecologist to assist in the updating & review of the National Trust (NSW) Vegetation Survey, 1996 map and assess the riparian corridor including terrestrial, emergence & aquatic floristics in terms of composition (population distribution), structure (species distribution) & function (contribution to health of ecosystem) at the patch (study area) & landscape scale (Georges River Catchment), identify threatening processes & propose management & conservation strategies. Consult with NSW Fisheries to assist preparing the Vegetation Study. Identify preferred species bio-indicators to measure improvements in the condition of the native vegetation in the riparian corridor. Include an assessment of the possible impacts of climatic change as predicted by the CSIRO to the flora of the parkland.

1 Instigate integrated catchments management as prescribed in the report entitled Poulton Park Flood Study, August 2005, DHI Water & Environment.

1 Monitor the condition of Oatley Bay Creek embankments for erosion & slumping after high flows.

1 Carry out site hazard & risk assessment by performing geochemical analysis of sediments in Poulton Park wetland to investigate the influence of urban or industrial pollutant in the wetland. Compare results with ANZECC (Australian & New Zealand Environment & Conservation Council) sediment quality guidelines with consideration to the local environmental conditions & other factors relevant to the site. Assess the nature, source & significance of any environmental risk & prepare tactics to reduce any identified risk to the environment.

1 Monitor the type & use of fertilizers on the adjoining sports playing fields & determine if alternative organic fertilizers can be used as substitutes.

1 Remove & replace the existing steel pedestrian bridge over Oatley Bay Creek adjacent to the sportsfields.

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15. Oatley Bay Creek.

Table 12.8

Priority

Strategies & Actions for Land Category – Cultural Significance

1 Categorise the Hurstville Quarry Reserve (South) quarry wall as depicted in photograph 2,

p.24, as sites of “Cultural Significance”: 1 Permit licensing within Hurstville Quarry Reserve for approved uses that are not

detrimental to the quarry wall. 1 Involve appropriate Aboriginal representatives in the conservation and protection of the

Aboriginal site in its current condition. 1 Promote the Aboriginal & European history of the park by installing interpretive signs. 2 Amend the Kogarah LEP to include both Hurstville Quarry Reserve (North & South)

quarry walls. 2 In consultation with appropriate Aboriginal community’s and NSW National Parks &

Wildlife Service seek consensus to install interpretive signs and Aboriginal artwork at the entrance to Poulton Park south off Morshead Drive stating the Aboriginal history of the site.

2 In consultation with the NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service seek the best means to control landscape erosion of the Aboriginal heritage site.

2 Raise the public’s awareness of the cultural heritage values of the parkland.

16. Grey Mangroves (Avicennia marina). 17. Poulton Park Bush Track

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Table 12.9

Table 12.10

Priority

Strategies & Actions for Reserve Crown Land

1 Council to request the Minister responsible for the administration of the Crown Lands Act, 1989 to have the reserved Crown Land (R 1011268) in the parkland that is landfilled former creek bed that now forms part of the sports fields & passive recreational areas as Public Recreation / Environmental Protection.

1 Council to request the Minister responsible for the administration of the Crown Lands Act, 1989 to have the reserved Crown Land (R 1011268) in the parkland that is Oatley Bay Creek and estuarine wetland Public Recreation / Environmental Protection and conserve and regenerates these areas to natural areas by planting native and indigenous flora to the Kogarah LGA.

1 Subject to the respective land being reserved for Public Recreation / Environmental Protection Council request the Minister to name the Trust and appoint it as Reserve Trust Manager.

1 Council to re-zone the Crown Reserve land in Poulton Park that is the estuary wetland and riparian corridor – Environmental Protection 7(a) – Environmental Protection (Waterways) Zone.

1 Council to retain the existing zoning of Crown Reserve land in Poulton Park that is part sportsfield, Council storage area Open Space 6(a) – Open Space Public Zone

1 Permitted uses of the Crown reserved land for public recreation in accordance with the public purpose: sports, cultural, social and passive recreation.

1 Permitted uses of the Crown reserved land for environmental protection: cultural, educational and low key passive recreation.

1 Conserve and protect the estuarine wetland and its terrestrial and marine flora and fauna including the Endangered Ecological Communities Swamp Oak Floodplain Forest and Coastal Saltmarsh including the Grey Mangroves (Avicennia marina).

1 Subject to that area of reserved Crown land being reserved for public recreation apply the “Whole of Park Strategies” as outlined in Table 5 and Table 6 “Sportsground” to the Crown land.

1 Subject to that area of reserved Crown land being reserved for environmental conservation apply the appropriate strategies as outlined in Tables 7, p.63 & Table 8, p.73 Natural Area – Bushland and Natural Area Watercourse to the Crown land.

1 Implement a dust control management systems within that area of Poulton Park used by Council as a works depot and include the linkage roads to the depot.

2 Progressively withdraw Councils use of the land adjacent the southern end of the soccer fields as a storage area & revegetate the land to create a natural area buffer zone between the sports grounds & the watercourse.

2 Installation of additional culverts that meet best practice designs for fishways.

2 Replace the stormwater pipes with culverts that meet best practice design for fishways.

3 Council to program the removal of the depot storage facilities in Poulton Park to be completed for commencement of restoration works in 2020 and the site restored as part bushland and for passive public recreation.

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Priority

Strategies & Actions for Department of Planning Land

1 Council to request the Minister responsible for the administration of the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act, 1979 to have the seven parcels of land in Poulton Park in the ownership of the Department of Planning transferred to Council’s ownership.

1 Subject to the Minister consenting to the transfer of land in the Department of Planning’s ownership in Poulton Park to Council apply the appropriate strategies, actions and management initiatives as outlined in Tables 7, p.63 & Table 8, p.73 Natural Area – Bushland and Natural Area Watercourse to those portions of land.

1 Implement appropriate strategies & actions outlined in the NSW Department of Planning trails study entitled Creating The Great Kai’mia Way a Catchment Vision (2003) : • Regenerate & upgrade public access ways throughout the parkland and along the adjoining foreshore areas. • Review Morshead Drive traffic speed management. • Provide on road cycling signs & markings. • Provide bicycle barriers & lock up. • Proactively seek foreshore access opportunities & provide linkages to other open space areas.

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appendix 1

PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT

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13.0 PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT The following outlines a number of planning instruments and environmental policies the complement

the current and proposed changes to the planning zones for the management of the park that apply

under the provisions of the Kogarah Local Environmental Plan 1998. In addition these planning

instruments and policies have significant influence in decision making for the management of the

environment and the conservation of the parklands natural resources changes.

13.1 FORESHORE DEVELOPMENT POLICY

Council has also adopted the policy entitled Kogarah Council Development Control Plan – Foreshore

Development Policy. The policy’s the principal aim to:

…provide guidelines for developers of the foreshore of the Georges River and to avoid undesirable development adjoining the waterways, which is unsympathetic to the environment of this sensitive foreshore location.

Some of the objectives of the policy are focused on the conservation and protection of the foreshores

natural resources, the enhancement of the natural appearance of the waterways, to strive to minimise

the adverse impacts of development on the adjacent lands and waterways, to seek to ensure that

obstruction of waterviews by development is minimised and require development to be sited having

regard to the need to respect land forms along the waterways as far as practicable. The policy defines

Foreshore Scenic Protected Areas as identified as the black hatched area on the Kogarah Local

Environmental Plan to include the Georges River and all of its tributaries and Bays and includes Oatley

Bay and Oatley Bay Creek within Poulton Park, the mean high water and mean high water mark,

mangroves, riparian boundaries etc.

The Foreshore Development Policy supplements State policies for the protection of river riparian and

adjoining hinterland vegetation and specifically applies to all the land located between the Georges

River and the nearest public road located generally parallel to the foreshore. The lower section of

Poulton Park to that point where Oatley Creek enters the estuary wetland is subject to the provisions of

the policy.

13.2 DEVELOPMENT ASSESSMENT CRITERIA Council considers development applications for its parks and reserves with reference to its Local

Environmental Plan (LEP) and the development assessment criteria within that plan and the

Environmental Planning & Assessment Act, 1979. The LEP states that the Council as the consent

authority should not grant its consent to development on land zoned Open Space 6(a) unless it has

considered the following assessment criteria:

the need for the proposed development on that land; whether the proposed development promotes or is related to the use of the land;

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the impact of the proposed development on the existing or likely future use of the land; and the need to retain the land for its existing or likely future use.

Furthermore, when assessing whether a particular use or development on a public reserve is

appropriate at this site then:

the total area to be effected by a proposed development is to be a relevant factor in assessing

the appropriateness of that development. Where a development proposal results in a

permanent loss of a substantial area of open space parkland, then the total area to be

alienated is to be weighted against the impact on the purpose, enjoyment and amenity of the

reserve.

the incorporation and use of ecological sustainable development building and management

practices are also to be a relevant factor in assessing the appropriateness of a proposed

development within a public reserve.

13.3 GREEN WEB-SYDNEY Green Web – Sydney is a metropolitan wide initiative to establish a green web of native vegetation and

habitat corridors. Its principal objectives are to establish habitat corridors so as to provide links

between fragmented sections of urban native bushland as well as to protect, conserve and enhance

the remaining bushland in the Sydney region (Seidlich:1997). The aim of the project is to facilitate the

migration of wildlife and the natural dispersal of native plants (Seidlich:1997). Large open space

areas, such as parklands, can make a significant contribution to these ideals without undue impact on

their existing use or conflict with core objectives for such use.

With reference to the Green Web –Sydney scheme, the parkland has been designated by Council as a

Habitat Reinforcement Area. As a consequence, Council requires the planting of native trees and

vegetation to establish a green web link to provide for migrating birds and habitat opportunities around

the foreshore areas of Kogarah Bay. In addition, the presence of the Oatley Bay Creek offers a further

opportunity to incorporate a system of freshwater habitat and associated riparian vegetation within the

parkland.

13.4 SOUTHERN SYDNEY CATCHMENT BLUEPRINT POLICY The Minister for the Department of Lands has notified Council of the Southern Sydney Catchment

Blueprint Policy. The Policy outlines a number of strategies to achieve a healthy, productive and

diverse catchment. The Blueprint Policy is consistent with the environmental plans previously

prepared by the former Catchment Management Committee for Southern Sydney. It has also given

due consideration with other planning instruments and documents prepared by State and Local

government as well as organisation such as the Southern Sydney Regional Organisation of Council’s

of which Kogarah Council is a member. The plan states as its vision for catchment management as:

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A sustainable Southern Sydney Catchment which recognises cultural and heritage values and is the responsibility of the whole community

The objectives of the plan are stated as follows:

• Remediation and protection of terrestrial and aquatic environments to levels where

they will be ecologically sustainable.

• Management of urban and rural areas with economic, social and physical

infrastructures that promote sustainable communities with good quality of life.

• Management of the Board area by participation of the whole community, including

Aboriginal people in recognition of their historical occupation and Care of the Country.

• Recognition and appropriate preservation of the Board area’s cultural heritage.

• Integration and coordination of all spheres of government, business and the

community to achieve a sustainable and productive Board area.

The Blueprint Policy sets out a number of measurable targets to be achieved by Councils. Briefly the

Catchment Targets have been stated as:

• Improve management of the natural environment in the catchment.

• Regional environmental plans and other environmental plans for the Board area are

consistent with the Blueprint.

• Catchment management plans and programs give consideration and support to the

cultural valued and needs of indigenous and other cultural groups in the Board area.

• By 2012 achieve a coordinating, representative and participative integrated system,

including the capacity to:

• Integrate research and information systems,

• Overseer the implementation of the provisions of the Blueprint.

A number of management targets and actions have been identified that have relevance to this plan of

management and should be referred to as part of future management of the parkland. The targets and

actions of the Southern Sydney Catchment Blueprint that are relevant to this site will form part of the

strategies to be undertaken as part of this plan.

13.5 STATE ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING POLICY NO.19

BUSHLAND IN URBAN AREAS

The general aims and objectives of State Environmental Planning Policy No.19 – Bushland in Urban

Areas (SEPP 19) is to protect and preserve bushland within the Kogarah LGA.

SEPP 19 recognises the value of native bushland to the community as part of the natural heritage, in

this case Kogarah’s natural heritage. It also recognized the aesthetic value of bushland as a means of

softening the urban fabric. Natural bushland areas are also valued as recreational, educational and for

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their scientific value to the community. SEPP 19 outlines specific aims some of which are:

(a) To protect the remnants of plant communities which were once characteristic of land now

within an urban area. (b) To retain bushland in parcels of a size and configuration which will enable the existing plant

and animal communities to survive in the long term.

(c) To protect rare and endangered flora and fauna species.

(d) To protect habitats for native flora and fauna.

(e) To protect wildlife corridors and vegetation links with other nearby bushland… Future reference should be made to this policy when any development is proposed that could impact

on the bushland.

13.6 ECOLOGICAL SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT Ecologically sustainable development seeks to provide economic, social and environmental benefits in the

long term; the Commonwealth Government as defines it:

“...using, conserving and enhancing the community’s resources so that ecological processes, on which life depends, are maintained and the total quality of life, now and in the future, can be increased” (Commonwealth Gov:1990).

Essentially this means that any activity carried out now should meet current sustainability requirements in

that the activity should not degrade of deplete the environment so much that a society or community will

not be able to meet their needs in the future (Beder:1996). These core principles should form the basis for

guiding any future development, alteration or addition to the built environment as well as landscape works

that may take place within the study area.

The following provides a summary of these principles that are to be adopted as guiding principles in this

plan of management.

a. Conservation of Energy

Any new building or landscape works should, where feasible, be constructed so as to

minimise the reliance on fossil fuels and promote renewable energy alternatives.

b. Utilisation of Ecological Systems

Buildings or landscape works are to be designed to work with the seasonal climatic

conditions, natural energy sources and other ecological systems.

c. Minimisation of New Resources

Buildings and landscape works are to be designed so as to minimise the use of new

resources. Existing resources at the end of their useful life in one form, where feasible, to

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be incorporated into new works.

d. Integrating User Needs while ensuring Ecological Sustainable Practices

Buildings and landscape works are to be designed relative to the principal user purpose

and needs with least impact on the environment. Works associated with the landscape

are to consider the inclusion of endemic vegetation and the creation of habitat

opportunities for native species and furthering life supporting ecological systems.

e. Consideration of the Sites & its Ecological Systems

Works associated with buildings or landscape and their use are to give consideration

to the site and impacts on ecological systems, e.g. wildlife habitat and water quality.

f. Adopting a Holistic Approach

From the above-cited Principals, Items (a) to (e) are to be embodied in a holistic approach to the built

and landscaped environment within the parkland.

13.7 MARKET CATCHMENTS FOR PARKS IN PRECINCT 8

There are twenty-five (25) parks with a total area of 36.7144 hectares within Precinct 8 of the

municipality in which the study area is located. These are listed in Table 13 together with their principal

visitor catchments. The catchments are described as Local, District and Regional.

Parks designated in part or whole as having Local visitor catchments are targeted to meet the needs of

visitors from within the immediate surrounding suburb. Their limited size, configuration and topography

inhibit the opportunity to provide a variety in landscape forms that generally restricts the diversity and

scope of recreational and environmental opportunities that they are capable of providing. They have a

smaller visitor catchment than the other two market catchment divisions.

Parks listed in the District visitor catchment division generally attract a significant number of visitors

from across the municipality and provide a greater diversity of recreational facilities and environments

than the parks designated in Local catchment. District Parks will also attract local visitors and

therefore will also have a Local visitor catchment component. Six parks within the Precinct have been

designated District Parks and include the parks in the study area.

Parks identified as having Regional visitor catchments attract a high percentage of visitors from within

the Kogarah LGA as well as from across the St George Region and beyond. They are high profile

parks such as Carss Bush Park, Carss Park that have a diversity of sports and recreational facilities

and amenities, varying landscapes from formal to natural, extensive infrastructure such indoor outdoor

recreation centres, community halls etc and may contain items of historical value. There are no

designated Regional parks in Precinct 8.

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Table 13

Kogarah Council Precinct 8 Parks & Reserves

100 Market Catchment Classification

Map Site

Park Name Local ha

Land %

District ha

Land %

Regional ha

Land %

Area Hectares

(ha)

1 Bell Park 1.1473 100 1.1473

2 Unnamed Res (Panorama Street, Sth Hurstville) 0.0320 100 0.0320

3 Denman Street Reserve 0.1296 100 0.1296

4 Grove Park 0.4071 100 0.4071

5 Waitara Parade Reserve 0.0691 100 0.0691

6 Unnamed Reserve (Morshead Dr opposite West Cres) 0.2564 100 0.2564

7 Unnamed Reserve (btwn Morshead Dr & Spalding St) 0.0800 100 0.0800

8 Quarry Reserve (North) 0.6350 50 0.6350 50 1.2700

9 Pogson Park 0.2880 100 0.2880

10 Quarry Reserve (South) 1.1400 42 1.6000 58 2.7400

11 Poulton Park 3.1420 16 16.8780 84 20.0200

12 Willunga Reserve 0.6350 50 0.6350 50 1.2700

12 Donnelly Reserve 1.2420 50 1.2420 50 2.4840

13 Connells Point Reserve 0.4199 50 0.4199 50 0.8397

14 Connells Point Road Reserve 0.0285 100 0.0285

15 Bowden Crescent Reserve 0.0670 100 0.0670

16 Redin Place Reserve 1.6093 100 1.6093

17 Queens Road Reserve 0.1229 100 0.1229

18 Condor Crescent Reserve 0.3111 100 0.3111

19 Duggan Park 0.2440 100 0.2440

20 Whitfield Parade Reserve 0.1609 100 0.1609

21 Unnamed Reserve (Queens & Connells Point Rds) 0.0560 100 0.0560

22 Unnamed Reserve (Rear of 47 & 49 Queens Road) 0.0900 100 0.0900

23 Merriman Reserve 0.6660 50 0.6660 50 1.3320

24 The Green 0.8297 50 0.8297 50 1.6594

13.8088 22.9056 0.0000 36.7144

Parks in Precinct 8 designated as sportsgrounds in Council’s 1996 Sportsgrounds Plan of

Management included: Poulton Park that provides for soccer and netball facilities, Quarry Reserve

(North) has two hard court tennis courts, Quarry Reserve (South) provides a cricket pitch and 2

practice cricket nets as well as soccer training facilities, Donnelly Park, Kyle Bay is listed because of

the presence of the Connell’s Point Sailing Club and the Kyle Bay Sea Scouts. The Green, also at Kyle

Bay has one floodlit rugby union field. Bell Park at Hurstville Grove is restricted to being a sports

training venue as the gradient or slope of the landform is unsuitable for competitive sports.

Other parks in the Precinct such as Redin Place on the foreshore of Oatley Bay and Willunga Reserve

are bushland parks while Connell’s Point Reserve and Merriman Reserve are landscaped river

foreshore passive parks. Denman Street Reserve, Grove, Duggan and Pogson Parks etc are small

local urban parks offering passive recreational opportunities and are unsuitable as high intensive active

recreation but provide a range of alternative venues for passive recreation.

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13.8 PROPOSED MAJOR ACTIONS

13.8.1 FLOODLIGHTING POULTON PARK NO.2 SOCCER FIELD

Connell’s Point Rovers Soccer Club Inc have requested the floodlighting of Poulton Park No.2 soccer

field which is located at the southern end of the sportsground area within the land category

“Sportsground”. The proposal is to install 2 x 18 metre high steel galvanized floodlight towers with two

2000 watt floodlights affixed to each tower (Refer to Photograph 18). In addition a new power supply

pole and control box is to be located adjacent Morshead Drive in accordance with Energy Australia

specifications.

It is proposed to position the light towers approximately 6 metres off the eastern side of No.2 soccer

field at a distance of approximately 85 metres apart. The floodlights would be facing in a westerly

direction angled downward onto the No. 2 sportsfield. Each floodlight is to be fitted with glare shields

to control light spillage into the adjoining bushland on the western side of the playing field.

13.8.2 Department of Sport & Recreation Grant for Floodlights

In 2005 the Department of Sport & Recreation notified the Connell’s Point Rovers Soccer Club Inc that

their application under the Department’s Capital Assistance Program for the sum of $12,500 was

successful. The Club contributed $6,250 and Kogarah Council a further $6,250. Council makes

several financial contributions each year to local sport and recreation clubs to assist them in providing

additional facilities for sports and other park users. Council’s contribution is subject to the proposal

being accepted by the broader community and the demonstated need to address identified community

needs.

The Club’s application stated that the main purpose for seeking the grant was to eliminate

overcrowding and overloading of the existing mini and No.1 fullsize soccer field.

13.8.3 The Need for the Proposed Development on the Land

With reference to their 2007 Seasonal Sportground Permit the Connell’s Point Rovers Soccer Club

cited a total of 28 soccer teams training and playing competition matches as Poulton Park 6 days per

week including Saturday and Sunday competition days. Disregarding team reserves, based on 11

players per team this equates to approximately 308 persons using the 2 fullsize and mini soccer fields

at Poulton Park. The Club cited times of use during the winter season from 4.00pm to 8.00pm from

Tuesdays to Fridays and 8.30am to 4.45pm on the weekends. During the winter months only the No.1

fullsize and mini soccer fields at Poulton Park are available for soccer training after sunset.

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18. Example of the proposed sports floodlight type for Poulton Park No.2 Soccer field

13.8.4 Existing Use of Kogarah LGA Winter Sports Fields

In total, the Connells Point Soccer Club has one team sharing training facilities on one night per week

on the single rugby union field at The Green, Kyle Bay, in addition they have 5 teams training at

Donnelly Park during daylight hours only over 5 days per week, 8 teams share the single rugby league

field at Todd Park with the rugby club, they also have 27 teams training on the single field at Quarry

Reserve, Hurstville Grove under lights 5 days per week and 22 teams at Bell Park. The club caters for

teams under 6 years of age to over 35 years of age for both males and females. Table 13.1 outlines

the 2007 winter season bookings for the playing fields in the Kogarah LGA by various winter sports

clubs.

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Table 13.1

Kogarah Local Government Area - Winter Sportsground Use

Park

No. & Type of Sportsfields

Principal User Groups

No. of Teams @ Venue

Bell Park, South Hurstville

Open grassed area Connell’s Point Rovers Soccer Club 22

Carss Bush Park Sportsfields, Carss Park

1 x Full size soccer field 1 x Mini soccer field

South Hurstville Carss Park Soccer Club St George Rugby Union Hurstville Zegreb Soccer Club

8 8

12 Claydon Reserve, Sans Souci

1 x Fullsize soccer field 1 x Mini soccer field 1 x Midi soccer field

Sans Souci Soccer Club 43

Donnelly Park, Kyle Bay

Open grassed area Connell’s Point Rovers Soccer Club 10

Harold Fraser Oval, Kogarah Bay

1 x Fullsize soccer field Carlton Rovers Soccer Club 4

Parkside Drive Reserve, Kogarah Bay

1 x Fullsize soccer field 1 x Mini soccer field 1x Midi soccer field

Carss Park Soccer Club 46

Poulton Park, South Hurstville

2 x Fullsize soccer fields 1 x Mini soccer field

Connell’s Point Rovers Soccer Club 28

Quarry Reserve, South Hurstville

1 x Fullsize soccer field 1 x Mini soccer field

Connell’s Point Rovers Soccer Club 27

Renown Reserve, Oatley

1 x Fullsize soccer field 1 x Mini soccer field 1 x Fullsize Rugby League field

Oatley RSL Juniors Soccer Club Renown United Rugby League Football Club

52 18

The Green, Kyle Bay 1 x Rugby Union field Connell’s Point Rovers Soccer Club Blakehurst Rugby Union Football Club

2 9

Todd Park, Blakehurst

1 x Fullsize soccer field 1 x Full size rugby field

Connell’s Point Rovers Soccer Club NSW Churches Football Club Kogarah Cougars Rugby League Club Kogarah Chinese Soccer Club Carss Park Soccer Club South Hurstville United Rugby Club Carlton Rovers Soccer Club

8 2 5 1

10 2 4

Total Number of Winter Sports Teams 321

With reference to Table 13.1 there were approximately 321 winter sports teams using Kogarah LGA

sportsfields in 2007. Based on this figure the estimated number of people using sports fields in

Kogarah is in excess of 3,531 persons playing sports across the Kogarah LGA and is indicative of the

public interest in participation in team sports events. This number doubles when competitive matches

are played. These sports fields were being used to their full carrying capacity resulting in damage to

the grass playing surfaces. Relative to Poulton Park there are 28 soccer teams training at this venue

alone and with one field currently not being available after sunset it imposes additional loads on the

existing fields.

13.8.5 NSW Government Public Inquiry into Sportground Management in NSW

In the NSW Legislative Assembly Standing Committee on Public Works Report No.53/08, November

2006, entitled Inquiry into Sportsground Management in NSW it was noted in their submissions to the

inquiry by each of the St George Regional Council’s, Kogarah Municipal Council, Hurstville City

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Council and Rockdale City Council that:

a. The State Government’s Urban Consolidation initiatives and the Metropolitan Strategy Sub

regional Housing Targets increased housing density and therefore significant increases in

population within the St George Region.

b. There is extensive growth in the traditional sports such as soccer in the St George Region

mainly because of the growth in interest by women and men to remain physically active in

sports longer than the previous generations. As an example, in 2001 outdoor soccer was

ranked the 9th fastest growing sport in NSW with 4.7% of the population participating then by

2005 it was ranked 4th with a 21% increase in the participation levels (AC Neilson:2006).

c. The high cost of acquiring additional land suitable for sports activities was prohibitive in the

inner city areas of Sydney.

In the submission made by Kogarah Council it was noted that there were also a number of issues that

impacted on local residents who reside opposite or adjoin sports fields these included issues of noise,

impacts on native fauna, traffic and pedestrian management, floodlighting and the general amenity of

the parkland. The submission also acknowledged the necessity to preserve areas of open space for

passive recreation and that not all parks should be sports parks. However, where parks have existing

sports fields that can be used for sports training in the evenings then in response to the community’s

growing interest in team sports and the limited available open space within the Kogarah LGA Council

could consider it reasonable to capitalized on these venues to address this demonstrated need. At the

same time it will need to introduce mechanisms to better manage the use of these venues by

supporting management initiatives that ensure a fair and equitable outcome to residents and users of

the park.

13.8.6 Local Resident Issues - Poulton Park Soccer Fields

Currently there are sports floodlights within Poulton Park that service the netball courts and No.1

soccer field. At the Council meeting of 28th June 1999, Item 307/1999 entitled Development

Application No. 74/99 – Installation of lighting for soccer training it was resolved in part that:

2. The hours of use of the lighting shall be confined to the soccer season and only

between the hours of 4.30pm and 8.00pm Tuesdays to Fridays inclusive… 3. The Club shall take all reasonable steps to maintain a low level of noise during training

and also whilst members are entering and leaving the park and to ensure that all members leave the park by 8.30pm...

Relative to the previous development consent there have been breaches to the terms and conditions of

consent by principal users of the fields. The major issues identified by local residents include:

1. The floodlights on No.1 soccer field being left on until 9.30pm or later of an evening.

2. The use of the sportsfield for training on Monday nights.

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3. Illegal fitting of additional lights to the amenities building.

Other matters of concern expressed by nearby residents are:

4. Excessive noise being generated by members of the soccer club arriving, during and

prior to leaving the venue.

5. Increased traffic movement and noise along Morshead Drive.

These issues need to be addressed to ensure that both residents and users are not unduly or

unreasonably inconvenienced as a result of the increasing pressures being placed on public parks

throughout the Metropolitan area as a direct result of population increases and interest in active

recreation across a broader spectrum of age groups and gender.

13.8.7 Management Initiatives for Poulton Park Sports Fields

There is a need to improve the management of the Poulton Park sports fields and in particular if

Council decides to permit the inclusion of floodlighting of the sportsfields. The plan of management

proposes a number of management initiatives, these are:

1. That Council ensures and enforces compliance with conditions of any development consent.

Appropriate penalties should apply in accordance with the Environmental Planning &

Assessment Act, 1979.

2. Council to enforce the Protection of the Environment Operations Act, 1997 that permits the

issuing of an on the spot fine of $200 to anyone making excessive noise after being directed

to stop by an EPA officer, the police, or a local council officer.

3. That should Council approve the proposal to install floodlights at the sportsfields then the

hours of use should be consistent with its resolution of 28th June 1999, for the previous

Development Application No. 74/99 for the installation of floodlighting on the No. 1 soccer

field. That is the hours of operation of the floodlights are to be confined to the soccer season

and between the hours of 4.30pm and 8.00pm Tuesdays to Fridays inclusive.

4. Restrict the use of the sportsgrounds on Sundays to 8.30am commencement of

establishment and 9.30am for the commencement of games or training activities.

5. Where there are continual breaches of licenses or leases Council should enforce penalties

on the offender or impose other actions that ensure future continued compliance. In addition,

a Community Park Advisory Committee could be formed to address issue(s) between park

users and local residents.

6. There is provision in the plan for additional internal vehicle parking at Poulton Park at

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Seymour Street by the creation of a public road and on the Community Land in that portion of

parkland currently used by Council as a storage area next to the Crown Land.

7. In consultation with local residents identify traffic management options for Morshead Drive

and present these to Council’s Traffic Management Committee for consideration by the Road

Traffic Authority, Police, Councillors and other traffic specialist. Options may include:

• Introducing speed traffic control devices along Morshead Drive.

• 45º angle parking along parts of the length of Morshead Drive next to the park.

• Introducing parking restrictions on the residential housing side of Morshead Drive.

• Other feasible options as identified through the public consultation process.

8. Relative to litter, Council should provide additional garbage bins at the venue and ensure

compliance to license and permit conditions on keeping the area clean and tidy.

9. Council to continue to initiate improved sports turf maintenance regimes by monitoring

impacts on preferred turf species composition, turf root health, nutrient status of soils,

compaction levels, optimum irrigation practices relative to the carrying capacity ability of the

sports fields.

13.8.8 Summary - Proposed Sports Field Floodlighting

The increase in the number of people of both genders and varying age groups interested in playing

soccer is evident by the substantial growth rate of 21% over the last 5 years. This clearly

demonstrates a need to consider maximising the use of any existing soccer facilities at Poulton Park

and also greater utilization of Quarry Reserve (South). As a result of the proposed increased use of

the sports facilities provision needs to be made by Council to enable additional vehicle parking within

and adjacent to the parkland. This will require Council to consider introducing traffic control devices to

reduce the speed of vehicles along Morshead Drive and the provision of preferential vehicle parking

adjacent residential properties particularly in Morshead Drive.

The plan outlines a number of strategies to reduce both the environmental and social impacts on the

surrounding area by Council supporting appropriate management initiatives and the proposal for a

conflict resolution process through a Community Park Advisory Committee to address any ongoing

concerns or issues arising between park users and residents.

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13.9 POULTON PARK VISITOR PARKING FACILITY – SEYMOUR STREET

It is propose to utilize that portion of Poulton Park marked “A” in Photograph 19, identified as part of

No.2 Seymour Street (Lot 1 DP219030) as well as Lot 1 DP 946013 (A 7 foot wide corridor at the rear

of properties in East Crescent) for a park visitor car park.

Poulton Park Hurstville Grove

Area proposed to beset aside for public roadfor park visitor access &vehicle parking

Formalise this portion of Poulton Park toprovide park visitor parking & pedestrian access from the carpark into the park

Nfor PARK VISITOR VEHICLE ACCESS & PARKING

PROPOSED PUBLIC ROADWAY

KEY

Seymour Street

A

19. Proposed public roadway for park visitor vehicle access and parking.

The former vehicle access way once provided access to the rear 42 East Crescent when it was used

as a maintenance and delivery vehicle access road into the former Hurstville South Bowling Club.

To provide this option Council is seeking to formalize this section of the park by having that portion of

land marked “A” in Photograph 19, which includes the existing roadway, dedicated as a public road so

as to convert this portion of the parkland into a public car park to service the western side of Poulton

Park.

The site having formerly been used as a vehicle access way provides the opportunity to formalize that

section of the park for the purpose of providing a park visitor car park as well as formal pedestrian

entry point, interpretive signs and internal pathways leading from this point into the western side of

Poulton Park. This area of the park is in poor condition and needs to be revitalise and developed in a

way to relieve current and future park visitor parking in Seymour Street and East Crescent.

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13.10 FISH PASSAGE FROM WETLANDS TO OATLEY BAY

Council has recently completed a fish passage study for Poulton Park Wetland. The wetland

discharges into Oatley Bay via means of four drainage points two are 1.8m diameter culverts located

on the southwestern side of the wetland and two smaller 1.45m diameter stormwater pipes on the

southeastern side of the wetland (Photograph 20). These systems extend under Morshead Drive

providing tidal movement under the roadway. Tidal movement between the wetland habitat and Oatley

Bay enables fish and other marine life to transit from one environment to the other. Ample clearance

and low tidal flow rates are critical to enable marine life to cross boundaries. There are a number of

reasons for Council to provide improved links between the wetland and Oatley Bay so as to provide:

1. Access for all forms marine life to food sources, provide places to avoid predators and provide

places of shelter during daylight.

2. Seasonal movement for marine creatures between habitats to assist breeding cycle and

response to rising water levels and temperatures.

3. Opportunities for upstream movement to assist marine life to establish new habitats, spawning

areas and provide access after spawning to downstream food sources.

4. Lateral movement to access food, breeding cycle and juvenile recruitment to habitat areas

(KMC: 2007).

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20. Proposed site of fish passage to Oatley Bay.

Barriers to marine life can effectively stop many them from breeding and re-populating an area by

restricting their access to habitat areas. Wetlands are favoured breeding grounds for partnering and

spawning for many varieties of marine life. Local extinction is likely to occur where barriers inhibit fish

and other marine animals from migrating. Under the provisions of the Fisheries Management Act 1994

the Minister for Fisheries may require a person or public authority to provide fish passage via some

means of appropriately constructed fishway. The current conditions of the fishways at Poulton Park

severely limit fish the ease of access into and out of the wetland because of the shallow water levels at

high tide and rapid flow rates created by the narrowness of the existing pipes.

13.11 PROPOSED REZONING OF WATERCOURSE & ESTURINE WETLAND

The Kogarah LEP makes zoning provision for Environmental Protection 7(a) – Environmental

Protection (Waterways) Zone. The objective of the zoning is to ensure that any development of land

below the mean high water mark is carried out in an environmentally sensitive manner, having

particular regard to the nature and function of the waterways. The zoning prohibits any development

without development consent. To protect that area of the Crown Reserve 1011268 that comprises the

esturine wetlands and to ensure that the proposed reservation Public Recreation / Environmental

Protection is compatible with the intention to protect and conserve the area the plan proposed that

wetland and Oatley Bay Creek be rezoned Environmental Protection 7(a) – Environmental Protection

(Waterways) Zone.

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appendix 2

LAND ASSESSMENT

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14.0 LAND ASSESSMENT The primary function for describing and assessing the land’s assets and resources is to identify the

principal attributes of the land within the various management zones, determine the condition of both the

natural elements and man-made structures in the park as well as identify constraints. The process

provides the basis for ascribing land categories, identifying land management issues, determining

objectives to supplement the core objectives for each category of land and for determining the appropriate

action plan and performance measures as required by the Local Government Act, 1993.

14.1 CLIMATIC CONDITIONS AFFECTING THE LAND Climate influences all forms of plant growth, land use and constraints and includes the availability of

water, solar radiation, length of day, temperature and wind factors. The climatic conditions impacting

on the parkland are typical Sydney moderate temperate climate having a mean annual rainfall of

1100mm and temperatures ranging from 8° - 24° degrees Celsius (Bureau of Meteorology, 2000).

Seasonal rainfall is variable and unpredictable. Winds are predominantly southeast in the winter and

northeasterly in the summer. The climatic conditions favor the introduction of environmentally

sustainable energy and water management systems.

14.2 DESCRIPTION OF THE LAND

The following outlines the lands general descriptive factors such as landform, geology and soils and

hydrology.

14.3 HYDROLOGY Council has the responsibility for managing its urban stormwater through the provisions of the Local

Government Act, 1993, the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act, 1979 (as amended) and the

Protection of the Environment Operations Act, 1997. Owing to the parkland being sited on the

foreshores of Kogarah Bay Council must also give consideration the requirements of the Fisheries

Management Act, 1994 to ensure the protection of marine life in the intertidal area and Kogarah Bay.

There are several aspects of the site’s hydrology that need to be addressed in the plan in terms of the

quality of surface run-off water, groundwater, stormwater drainage, leachate and the impact of any

pollutants on the land and nearby foreshore of the Oatley Bay. It remains largely unknown as to the type

and extent of materials contained in the site that are capable of being transported by groundwater

movement or their composition altered by the accumulation of various substances contained in the landfill.

14.3.1 Stormwater

Owing to human behaviour, stormwater run-off has become a source for carrying pollutants to the

receiving waters of Oatley Bay. It carries disposed litter, nutrients from fertilizers, lawn cuttings,

detergents, animal wastes, heavy metals, rubber and oil washed from road surfaces and high level

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sediment loads into these waters.

The Australian and New Zealand Environment and Conservation Council (ANZECC) have established

water quality guidelines for maintaining and protecting environmental values within waterways. These

values have been adopted for the Lower Georges River catchment area and are applicable to

managing the stormwater channels in Carss Bush Park (Sinclair Knight Merz:1999). The ANZECC

values are outlined in Table 14.

Table 14

AQUATIC ENVIRONMENTAL VALUES

Values

Definition

Aquatic ecosystems Marine vegetation, habitat and breeding areas.

Primary contact recreation waters Aquatic areas used for direct contact for water sports and recreation.

Secondary contact recreation waters Waterways used for fishing and boating.

Visual amenity Quality of scenic form and content.

Aquatic environmental food sources Sea grass, fish, crustaceans and shellfish other aquatic resources.

14.3.2 Stormwater Monitoring Council has installed a grass pollutant trap in Quarry Reserve to contain the amount of flotsam litter

entering into Oatley Bay Creek. The pollutant trap captures flotsam such as plastic bottles, organic

material including leaf and grass mulch, domestic plastics and industrial and commercial packaging. There

are no viable costs effective systems at present in place to capture chemicals entering into the stormwater

system and discharging into Oatley Bay Creek.

Council does not have an ongoing monitoring program to detect the presence of any heavy metals, oils,

phosphorus, nitrogen or other chemical compositions that may be present in the stormwater surface run-off

or the stormwater discharged from its channel into Oatley Bay Creek and into Oatley Bay. A monitoring

system that includes physical and biological analysis of the aquatic environment and any impacts on the

relationships between biological systems such as algae, invertebrates, fishes, etc needs to be initiated.

The monitoring system should aim to detect, identify and assist in determining remedial action and police

any non-visible hazardous or toxic discharges into the waterways.

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14.4 SOILS The main soil types within the parkland are:

Hawkesbury Sandstone

Wianamatta Shale

Gymea Soil

Landfill Dredging from Oatley Bay

Landfill waste from the previous Westfields development at Hurstville

and clean fill from Council roadwork’s, and

Acid Sulfate Soils (suspected to be present at the site)

14.4.1 Hawkesbury Sandstone

Two linear Hawkesbury sandstone intermittent low ridges form culluvial landscapes on the

northwestern and adjacent southeastern boundaries and covering approximately 28% of the parkland.

Hawkesbury sandstone based soils are quartz rich rock bound by ferriferous clays yielding light

coloured sandy loams that are strongly acidic and generally deficient in phosphate and nitrogen which

influences the vegetation types within the parkland. The soils have low available water capacities a

condition that best suits local native and indigenous vegetation (Chapman & Murphy:1997). In various

sections of the park the Hawkesbury sandstone is overlaid with Wianamatta shale.

14.4.2 Wianamatta Shale

The Wianamatta Shale within the park have been extensively removed or eroded from most areas but

are found capping sections of the some of the Hawkesbury Sandstone ridge line. Wianamatta Shale

are rich clayey soils. Both the Hawkesbury Sandstone and Wianamatta Shale are the result of Triassic

rocks formed in freshwater conditions when large streams from the west deposited silts in river valleys

and other similar low points in the topography.

14.4.3 Gymea Soil

Gymea residual soils comprise approximately 15% of the parkland while the remainder consists of

Hawkesbury Sandstone, Wianamatta Shale and landfill materials. The Gymea soil is generally

moderately acid and has high permeability with low water capacities. In addition, Gymea soils also

have low nutrient levels relative to their phosphorus and nitrogen content (Chapman & Murphy:1989).

The soil can also present an erosion hazard when surrounding vegetation is disturbed or there are low

levels of ground cover.

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14.4.4 Landfill

Disturbed landscapes are directly the result of human activities within the parkland and include

sandstone open cut mining in Quarry Reserve (North) and Quarry Reserve (South) resulting in the

removal of remnant vegetation, geological features, native topsoil’s and seed banks.

The reclamation of part of the southeastern arm of Oatley Bay and extensive landfill of part the former

Oatley Bay Creek bed and the land along the central and eastern side of Poulton Park as a result of

residential subdivision and subsequent development, the construction of public roads the inclusion of

services such as sewage pipes within the park has resulted in extensive destruction of habitat,

remnant terrestrial and marine flora, native topsoil’s and seed banks. These activities have resulted in

ongoing leaching of introduced soil elements and minerals into the groundwater, erosion along the

boundary of the landfill areas resulting in sediment entering into Oatley Bay Creek that then discharges

into the estuary at the southern end of the parkland then into Oatley Bay.

The urban development that surrounds the parkland resulted in extensive clearing of remnant

vegetation, topsoil and geological features and by 1937 had resulted in the virtual denuding of the

parkland and the adjoining residential land of any significant remnant vegetation including the once

pristine tree canopy and remnant groundcovers.

Most of the landfill areas have been converted into sports fields that continue to settle as a result of the

leaching of materials from the site. The landfill covers approximately 56% of Poulton Park and 90% of

Quarry Reserve (South).

14.4.5 Acid Sulfate Soils

The Department of Lands report that there is a risk of the presence of acid sulfate soil (ASS) within the soil

profile of the previous intertidal area (Refer to Diagram 5). ASS is the result of a chemical reaction

between iron oxides in the soils and sulfate in seawater that when exposed to air produces sulfuric acid.

Sulfuric acid effects plant growth, landscaping, corrodes and weakens concrete, iron, steel and certain

aluminum alloys, impacts on marine life and the food chain (Sammut:1997). It is highly desirable to avoid

exposing ASS to oxygen. It is necessary to determine if ASS is present on–site so as to introduce

appropriate management regimes and policies to avoid future exposure should ASS be detected. ASS

investigations are to be included into soil analysis investigations as part of the geo-technical report prior to

any extensive excavation work within the suspected Acid Sulphate Soils area. In the interim period the

precautionary principle is to apply to any program involving extensive earthworks. In this case the

appropriate measures as recommended in the document entitled “Acid Sulfate Manual”, prepared by the

Acid Sulfate Advisory Committee (1998), are to be instigated to ensure the environmental integrity of the

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site and its surrounds.

It is necessary that prior to any extensive excavation within the landfill zone that the proponent of

works is to determine if any landfill material on the proposed work site is toxic or contaminated. Soil

and waste analysis maybe required, especially within the former estuarine intertidal area, to determine

the presence or otherwise of any toxic matter or contamination.

14.5 FAUNA

The native vegetation in the parkland supports a range of native avifauna (Refer to Table 14.2),

including birds like the Eastern Rosella and Tasmanian Silver-eye, reptiles such as the Eastern Water

Skink and the Weasel Skink as well as the Ring-tailed and Brush tailed Possums. In addition, the

Common Eastern Froglet is also found in the park (White, 1998). Of all the native fauna species

present in the parkland birds are the most predominant.

Table 14.2

EXAMPLE OF REPORTED BIRD FAUNA KNOWN TO VISIT THE PARKLAND

Common Name

Scientific Name

Common Name

Scientific Name

Australian Magpie Gymnorthina tibicen Peaceful Dove Geopelia striata Australian Raven Corvus coronoides Pied Currawong Strepera graculina Black-faced Cuckoo-shrike

Corachina novachollandiae

Rainbow Lorikeet Trichoglossus haematodus

Brown Goshawk Accipiter fasciatus Rose Robin Petroica rosea Brown Thornbill Acanthiza pusilla Rufous Fantail Rhipidura ruifrons Black-shouldered Kite Elanus axillaries Red-browed Firetail Crested Pigeon Ocyphaps lophotes Red Wattlebird Anthochaera carunculata Crimson Rosella Platycercus elegans Rufous Whistler Pachycephala rufiventris Dollarbird Eurystomus orientalis Red –whiskered Bulbul Pycnonotus jocosus Eastern Rosella Platycercus eximius Spotted Turtle-dove Streptopelia chinensis Eastern Silver-eye Zosterops familiaris Swamp Harriier Circus approximans Eastern Spinebill Acanthorhynchus

tenuirostris Southern Figbird

European Pigeon Sulphur-crested Cockatoo Cacatua galerita Eastern Yellow Robin Eopsaltria australis Sacred Kingfisher Todiramphus sanctus Fan-tail Cuckoo Cacomantis flabelliformis Silver Gull Larus novaehollandiae Galah Cacatua roseicapilla Superb Blue Wren Grey Fantail Rhipidura fuliginosa Scarlet Robin Golden Whistler Pachycephala pectoralis Spangled Drongo Dicrurus bracteatus Horsfield’s Bronze-Cuckoo

Chrysococcyx basalis Starling Stumus vulgaris

House Sparrow Passer domesticus Spotted Pardalote Indian Myna Acridotheres tristis Tasmanian Silver-eye Zosterops lateralis Common Koel Eudynamys scolopacea Welcome Swallow Hirundo neoxena Kookaburra Dacelo novaeguineae White Bellied Sea Eagle Haliaeetus leucogaster Little Black Cormorant Phalacrocorax sulcirostris White –faced Heron Egretta novaehollandiae Little Wattlebird Anthochaera chrysoptera White Ibis Threskiornis molucca Magpie-lark Grallina cyanoleuca Willie Wagtail Rhipidura leucophrys Nanken Kestrel Falco cenchroides Yellow Thornbill Acanthiza nana Noisy Miner Mrnorina melanocephaca Yellow-faced Honeyeater Lichenostomus chrysops New Holland Honeyeater Phylidonyris

novaehollandiae Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoo

Calyptorhynchus funereus

Olive-backed Oriole Oriolus sagittatus

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References: White, A (1998) Fauna Survey of Kogarah Bushland Reserves, Biosphere Environmental Consultants Pty Ltd. Relative to the conservation of native fauna there are a number of threatening processes that include:

• Anthropogenic induced climate change;

• Bush rock removal or damage;

• Clearing of native vegetation and therefore habitat;

• Feral animals including Red Fox (Vuples vulpes), European Rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus),

Feral Cat (Felis catus); Water Rats (Rattus rattus), domenstic cats and dogs, etc.

• Diseased native plants;

• Invasion of native plant communities e.g. Lantana (Lantana camara);

• Alterations to the creeks natural flow regimes and tidal movements in the estuary wetland. In addition, White (1998) reported that there were five species of reptiles located in Carss Bush Park,

these were:

Eastern Water Skink

Bar-sided Skink

Weasel Skink

Garden Skink

Delicate Skink

The ground dwelling native animals have almost disappeared from the area, with only one species of

frog and five species of skinks being found. The only other ground dwelling animals found are non-

native species and include foxes, dogs, cats, rats and mice (White, 1998). As there have been

significant changes to the environment through bush regeneration activities since the completion of

White’s 1998 study further studies should be conducted to update and compare the latest changes

relative to determining the changes in the presence of fauna in the parkland.

14.6 FLORA

There is 15.90 hectares of bushland in throughout the parkland. The bushland areas generally

surrounds most of the parkland with Closed Forest areas located on the western side of Oatley Bay

Creek along the Hawkesbury Sandstone outcrops and Open Woodland in Quarry Reserve (North) and

Poulton Park (East) together with Turpentine-Ironbark Forest consisting predominately by Turpentine

Ironbark (Syncarpia glomulifera) principally located on the eastern side of Poulton Park on Hawkesbury

Sandstone capped Wianamatta Shale outcrops. There is also a Mangrove community dominated by

Grey Mangroves (Avicenna marina) bordering the estuary wetland in the southern portion of Poulton

Park. There are more than 200 different recorded native, indigenous and remnant plant species in

Poulton Park. Native flora is defined as those plants that have originated naturally in Australia and are

particularly indicative to this country. Indigenous plants are defined as flora that are particular to a

specific regions such as the Kogarah LGA while remnant flora is the surviving representation of the

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original plant species that once dominated a specific or entire area. Table 14.3 provides a sample list

of the variety of plants within the parkland.

Table 14.3

Sample of Extent of Plant Variety in the Parkland

Division Genus Species Common Name

PTERIDOPHYTA Adiatantaceae Adiantum aethiopicum Maiden Hair Fern

Aspleniaceae Asplenium australasicum Bird Nest Fern

Blechanaceae Doodia aspera Rasp Fern

Davalliaceae Rumohra adiantiformis Shield Hare's Foot

Dennistaedtiadeae Pteridium esculentum Braken

Dicksoniaceae Calochlaena dubia Soft Braken

Gleicheniaceae Gleichenia dicarpa Pouched Coral Fern

Lindsaeceae Lindsaea linearis Screw Fern

Osmundaceae Todea Barbara King Fern

ANGIOSPERMAE Dicotyledon

Aizoaceae Tetragonia tetragoniodes New Zealand Spinach

Apiaceae Actinotus helianthi Flannel Flower

Araliaceae Polyscias sambucifolia Elderberry Panax

Asclepiadaceae Tylophora barbata Beared Typophora

Asteraceae Ozothamus sp.

Avicenniaceae Avicennia marina Grey Mangrove

Bignoniaceae Pandorea pandorana Wonga Vine

Campanulaceae Wahlenbergia gracilis Native Blue Bell

Casuarinaceae Allocasuarine littoralis Black She Oak

Casuarina glauca Swamp Oak

Convolvulaceae Dichondra repens Kidney Weed

Chenopodiaceae Sarcicornia quinqueflora Samphire

Cassulaceae Crassula sieberana Austral Stonecrop

Cunoniaceae Callicoma serratifolia Black Wattle

Dilleniaceae Hibbertia dentate Twining Guinea Flower

Droseraceae Drosera peltata Sundew

Elaeocarpaceae Elaeocarpus reticulates Blueberry Ash

Epacridaceae Astoloma humifusum Cranberry Heath

Epacris longiflora Fuchsia Heath

Euphorbiaceae Breynia oblongifolia Dwarfs Apples

Glochidion ferdinandi Cheese Tree

Omalanthus populifolius Bleeding Heart

Fabaceae Hovea linearis Narrow-leafed Hovea

Viminaria juncea Native Broom

Geraniaceae Pelargonium inodorum

Goodeniaceae Goodenia hederacea

Haloragaceae Gonocarpus teucrioides

Lauraceae Cassytha paniculata

Lobeliaceae Lobelia dentate

Loganiaceae Mitrasacme polymorha Mitre Weed

Menispermaceae Stephania japonica var discolor Snake Vine

Minosaceae Acacia falcate White Sallow Wattle

Acacia myrtifolia Sydney Golden Wattle

Acacia prominens Gosford Wattle

Acacia terminalis Sunshine Wattle

Moraceae Ficus rubiginosa

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Myrsinaceae Rapanea variabilis Muttonwood

Myrtaceae Acmena smithii Lilly Pilly

Angophora costata Sydney Red Gum

Calytrix tetragona Fringe Myrtle

Eucalyptus botryoides

Eucalyptus gummifera Bloodwood

Eucalyptus haemastoma Scribbly Gum

Eucalyptus pilularis Blackbutt

Eucalyptus piperita spp. piperita Sydney Peppermint Gum

Eucalyptus puncata Grey Gum

Eucalyptus resinifera Red Mahogany

Eucalyptus robusta Swamp Mahogany

Melaleuca ericifolia Swamp Paperbark

Syncapria glomulifera Turpentine

Oleaceae Notelaea longifolia

Pittosporaceae Billardiera scandens

Pittosporum undulatum

Polygonaceae Persicaria lapathifolium

Proteaceae Banksia integrifolia

Hakea dactyloides Broad-leaf Hakea

Lambertia formosa Mountain Devil

Persoonia levis Broad-leaf Geebung

Xylomelum pyriforme Woody Pear

Rhamnaceae Pomanderris ferruginea

Rubiaceae Opercularia varia

Rutaceae Eriostemon scaber

Santalaceae Exocarpos cupressiformis Native Cherry

Sapindaceae Dodonaea triquetra

Thymelaeaceae Pimelea linifolia

Tremandraceae Tetratheca neglecta Black Eyed Susan

Vitaceae Cissus antactica Kangaroo Vine

Monocotyledons

Commelinaceae Commelina caynea

Cyperaceae Lepidosperma longitudinale Pithy Sword Sedge

Schoenus melanostachys Sedge

Juncaginaceae Juncus kraussii

Liliaceae Burchardia umbellate Milkmaids

Laxmannia gracilis Slender Wire Lily

Stypandra caespitosa Turfed Blue Lily

Lomandraceae Lomandra filiformis Wattle Matrush

Lomandra longifolia Spiny-headed Matrush

Orchidaceae Acianthus fornicatus Pixie Caps

Calochilus paludosus Bearded Orchid

Philesiaceae Eustrephus latifolius Wombat Berry

Poaceae Cymbopohon refractus Barb Wire Grass

Danthonia sp. Wallaby Grass

Microlaena stipoides Weeping Meadow Grass

Themeda australis Kangaroo Grass

Restionaceae Lepyrodia muelleri Scale Rush

Smilacaceae Smilax australis

Stylidiaceae Stylidium graminifolium

Xanthorrhoeaceae Xanthorrhoea sp. Grass Tree

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Reference: Douglas,A (2000) Poulton Park Report, Bush Regeneration 45807D Padstow TAFE

As stated within the land category section entitled Natural Area – Bushland, Poulton Park contains the

declared endangered population Gosford Wattle (Acacia prominens) and the declared endangered

ecological communities Sydney Turpentine Ironbark Forest and Coastal Saltmarsh. This population

and communities have been listed under the provisions of the Threatened Species Conservation Act,

1979 for protection and conservation.

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22. Example of Sydney Turpentine Ironbark Forest, Syncarpia glomulifera

The Gosford Wattle (Acacia prominens) found in the Kogarah LGA are disjunct from other populations

and at the southern limit of the range of species. Nineteenth century records state that the species

was found throughout Kogarah in that period (NPWS:2007). The plant is an erect tree 4-18 metres in

height with Phyllodes (leaves) straight or almost sickle shaped 3-5 cm long and 8-12 mm wide. There

is a single gland along the margin of the leaves. The wattle flowers are pale yellow to white or golden

yellow (NPWS:2007).

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Sydney Turpentine Ironbark Forests are open forest dominated by turpentine (Syncarpia glomulifera),

grey ironbark (Eucalyptus paniculata) and understorey plant species include sweet pittosporum

(Pittosporum undulatum), hop bush (Dodonaea triquestra), elderberry panax (Polyscias sambucifolia)

and sickle wattle (Acacia falcate). The species composition varies according to the influence of

sandstone and aspect. The last remaining strands of Sydney Turpentine Ironbark Forest are found

within the Wianamatta shale outcrops within Poulton Park and have been affected by significant

disturbances to their environment especially the understorey.

Coastal saltmarsh occurs in the intertidal zone on the shores of the estuary and is characterized by the

presence of species such as Glasswort (Sarcocornia quinqueflora), Bare twigrush (Baumea juncea)

and Marine couch (Sporobolus virginicus). It receives infrequent inundation by tide but is largely

affected by the increased presence of salt. Coastal saltmarsh provides habitat for both marine and

terrestrial fauna and creates a link between the two environments.

14.7 Threatened Species Conservation Act, 1995

a) The Threatened Species Conservation Act, 1995 (TSC, Act) makes provision for the

identification and declaration of critical habitat for those endangered species,

populations and ecological communities listed in Schedule 1 of the TSC, Act.

b) Division 1, TSC, Act describes the process by which critical habitat is identified by the

Director-General of National Parks and Wildlife and declared by the Minister

responsible for the TSC, Act and makes provision for public participation in that

process.

c) Division 2, TSC, Act addresses the preparation, publication and other dissemination of

maps of critical habitat, and the maintenance of a register of critical habitat by the

Director-General.

d) The whole or any part or parts of the bushland area of the parkland comprising the

habitat of the endangered population that is critical to the survival of the Gosford

Wattle and Sydney Turpentine Ironbark Forests in the parkland is eligible to be

declared under Division 1, Part 37 (1) to be critical habitat of the population. Division

1, Part 37(2), states that a specified habitat of a specific kind, may or may not be

declared to be critical habitat for the purpose of this Part of the TSC, Act.

e) Division 1, Part 50 entitled Public authorities to have regard to critical habitat states

that a public authority [Council] must on or after publication of a declaration of critical

habitat have regard to its existence;

i. “In relation to use of land that it owns or controls that is within or contains

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critical habitat, or

ii. In exercising its functions in relation to land that is within or contains critical habitat.”

f) The National Parks and Wildlife Act, 1974 makes it is an offence to damage critical

habitat.

g) Should the whole or parts of the bushland in Poulton Park be listed as critical habitat

Council would then be required under the TSC, Act Part 4 entitled Recovery plans for

threatened species, populations and ecological communities to address responses to

threats to the survival of the Gosford Wattle and Sydney Turpentine Ironbark Forests

in bushland area of the parkland by having a recovery plan prepared and

implemented.

h) Until such time as an assessment for critical habitat has been completed Council

should avoid the undertaking of any works in the bushland focusing only on bush

regeneration activities carried out by appropriate qualified personnel.

i) Should the site be declared critical habitat and a recovery plan prepared then this plan

should be appended to the adopted plan of management.

14.8 Impacts on the Bushland

Urbanisation and the lack of an appropriate fire regime have adversely affected the natural

bushland areas in the parkland. Owing to these factors the area is subject to weed invasion by

species such as the Madeira vine (Adredera cordifolia), Morning Glory (Ipomea indica),

Asparagus fern (Protoasparagus aethiopicus) Fleabane (Conyza albida) Panic Veldt grass

(Ehrharta erecta) and Lantana (Lantana camara). Other invasive weeds include: Large leaf

Privet (Ligustrum lucidum), Small leaf Privet (Ligustrum sinense), Mickey Mouse plant (Ochna

serrulata) African olive (Olea europaea var. aficana), Wandering Jew (Tradescantia albiflora)

and Nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus) (Refer to Table 14.4). The greatest intensity of these

weeds is found on the disturbed area behind the residential properties that surround the

parkland and along the creek embankment. Other impacts of environmental weeds include:

Competition for resources including sunlight, moisture and nutrients;

Prevention of recruitment, reducing or preventing the establishment of native plant

species;

Alteration of geomorphological processes by prolific growth in exotic and noxious

weeds;

Alteration to hydrological cycles by invasive plant species that lower water tables or

change watercourses;

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Atleration of nutrient content of soils;

Changes to the abundance of indigenous flora caused by the modification of

indigenous plant population sizes subsequently impacting on native fauna habitat and

ecosystem cylces (BMURCP:2003).

Table 14.4

REPORTED COMMON WEEDS IN POULTON PARK IN 2007

Botanical Name

Common Name

Botanical Name

Common Name

Acetosa sagittata Turkey Rhubarb Foeniculum vulgare Fennel Ageratina adenophora Crofton Weed Fumaria spp. Fumitory Alstroemeria psittacina Peruvian Lily Galinsoga parviflora Galinsoga Amaranthus viridus Green amaranth Ipomoea indica Morning glory Anredera cordifolia Madeira vine Lantana camara Lantana (C4) Arundo donas Giant reed Ligustrum lucidum Large leaf privet

(W4b) Bidens pillosa Cobblers Peg Ligustrum sinense Small leaf privet (C4) Brassica rapa Brassica Myrsiphyllum

asparagoides Bridal creeper

Briza maxima Quaking grass Nothoscordum gracile Onion weed Briza minima Shivery grass Ochna serulata Mickey mouse plant Bromus diandrus Great Broome grass Panicum maximum Guinea grass Cardiospermum grandiflorum Balloon vine Parietaria judaica Pellitory (C4) Cestrum parqui Green cestrum (C3) Protasparagus

aethiopicuss Asparagas fern

Cerastium glomeratum Mouse-ear chick weed

Ricimus communis Castor Oil plant

Cinnamomum camphora Camphor laurel Rubus fruiticosa Blackberry Conyza Canadensis Fleabane Senecio

madagascariensis Fireweed

Crocosmia X crocosmirflora Crocosmia / montbreccia

Sida rhombifolia Paddy’s lucerne

Cyperus congestus Cyperus Solanum nigrum Blackberry nightshade

Cyperus eragrostis Cyperus Sonchus oleraceus Sowthistle Ehrharta erecta Veldt grass Tradescantia albifora Wandering Jew Ehrharta longifolia Annual ehrharta Verbena borariensis Purpletop Reference: Final Report: Bush Regeneration Maintenance Poulton Park Bush Reserve, July 2006 – July 2007, p.11, Creatures of Habitat Bushland Restoration Pty Ltd. C3 – Class 3 Noxious Weed – Regionally Controlled Weed C4 – Class 4 Noxious Weed – Locally Controlled Weed

Currently, Council engages contractors to carry out bush regeneration and restoration works in

the parkland to:

Restore or recreat a suitable habitat to either attract or maintain native flora and fauna

biodiversity;

Creating a green corridor for native fauna as habitat and as a source of sustenance;

Maintaining an ecological community that provides ecological or aesthetic services

that enhances historical features;

Reversing historical anthropogenic damage to the ecosystem; and

Increase public awareness of the value of natural resources.

Other impacts on the bushland include:

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• The dumping of lawn, soil and exotic vegetation waste in the parkland;

• Change in distribution and area of selected ecosystems;

• Illegal clearing or willful destruction of native, indigenous and remnant vegetation;

• Environmental stresses including increased air and water pollution;

• Introduced plant diseases;

• The illegal removal of natural rock and soils.

• Urban encroachment into the parkland.

14.9 CONSTRUCTED CAPITAL ASSETS

The park contains a variety of structured capital assets that contribute to the general enjoyment of the

parkland for both passive and active recreation. Tables 14.5, 14.6, 14.7 and 14.8 provide an overview

of the condition of the assets in each major areas of parkland. These assets are generally in a good

condition but many are aging incurring increased maintenance cost and loss of serviceability.

Table 14.5

QUARRY RESERVE (North) CONSTRUCTED CAPITAL ASSETS

Asset

Description & Condition

Scale

2 chain wire fenced enclosed hard court tennis courts

There are two separate 15.7metre x 32metre hardcourt tennis courts in Quarry Reserve (North) under agreed management of a third party. The is no formal lease or licence between the operator and Council.

1004.8m²

Change room & amenity building

A single storey brick amenities building provides change rooms and showers, public toilet facilities, kitchen and storage areas sheltered outdoor seating area. The building is in good condition.

119.4 m²

Basket ball ring Located in the grassed play area the unit is in very poor condition. 1 unit Park signage 1 x park identification signage in good condition. 1 unit Playground Aged playground equipment in reasonable working condition but with

no softfall. 2 units

Park lights Road lights along the access road are in good condition. 6 units Retaining Wall The retaining wall around the grassed play area is damaged and

requires repair.

23. Quarry Reserve (North) No.1 Tennis Court.

Table 14.6

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QUARRY RESERVE (South) CONSTRUCTED CAPITAL ASSETS

Asset


Scale

Synthetic covered cricket pitch

There is one grass synthetic covered concrete cricket pitch within Quarry Reserve (South). The cricket wicket is in good condition.

74.73m²

2 concrete cricket practice wickets

There are 2 x concrete cricket practice wickets with chain wire fence surround located in the park. The facility is in good condition.

119m²

Floodlight towers & Floodlights

Soccer field: 1 x wooden power pole with 1 x 2000w floodlight and 2 x 500w floodlights. In adequate lighting for sports training. 1 x metal 18 metre high floodlight tower with 2 x 2000w floodlights towers and lights in a good to fair condition.

12m 18m

Park signage 1 x park identification signage in good condition. 1 x park regulation sign.

2 units

Sports fields 1 x soccer training field (winter season) 1 x cricket oval (summer season)

10425m²

Underground recycled water Irrigation System

Sports field recycled water irrigation system installed in 2007

24. Quarry Reserve (South) Cricket Practice Wickets

Table 14.7

135

POULTON PARK CONSTRUCTED CAPITAL ASSETS

Asset


Scale

Soccer field Kiosk & amenities building

Single storey brick building has provisions for change rooms, showers, toilets and storage area and kiosk. No facilities for persons with a disability. The building is in good condition.

73.28 m²

Sports facilities floodlights

4 x 15metre high metal floodlight towers with a total of 10 x 1500w floodlights located adjacent the netball courts. The floodlights and towers are in good condition. 2 x 15metre high metal floodlight towers with 2 x 1500w floodlights per tower for a total of 4 floodlights in good condition.

15m height

Sports fields No.1 x soccer field (winter season) No.2 x soccer field (winter season) 1 x mini soccer field (winter season)

5,447m² 6,014 m² 1,723 m²

1 x asphalt covered netball court

The asphalt netball court is in reasonable condition for sports activities. The netball rings are in good condition.

666.13m²

1 x senior grass netball court

The court surface is level and in reasonable condition for sports activities. The netball rings are in good condition.

478.85m²

1 x senior grass netball court

The court surface is level and in reasonable condition for sports activities. The netball rings are in good condition.

475.85m²

Public Toilet (off Morshead Drive near the playground)

The toilet block is a brick building with a flat concrete roof providing male and female toilet facilities. There are no facilities for persons with a disability to access or use the facilities. The building aged and is in reasonable condition.

16.38m²

Public Toilet (opposite No.2 soccer field)

The toilet block is a brick building with a flat concrete roof providing male and female toilet facilities. There are no facilities for persons with a disability. The building aged and is in reasonable condition. Access is by steps only.

16.38m²

Playground

A new multifunction play structure was installed in the park in 2007 at a cost of $140,000 including earthworks and rubber softfall

1 unit

Water Tank There is one irrigation water tank and automatic controller unit located next to the amenities building. The tank is used to store recycled water to irrigate the playing fields.

23,000 litres

Underground irrigation system

The mini and No.1, No.2 soccer fields had underground irrigation systems installed in 2005/2006. Valued at $53,136.

Park signage There are several park signs installed. These are aging and lack directional, interpretive, regulatory and general information about the parks recreational, educational and environmental opportunities.

Several

Boardwalk (Yara Nura)

Yara Nura wooden boardwalk near the intersection of Morshead Drive & Kyle Parade at the southern end of the park extends into the wetland and provides opportunities for visitors to view the natural features and biodiversity of the wetland. Provision has been made for persons with a disability for ease of access.

101m long

Sydney Water Sewage Culvert Pedestrian Bridge

The Sydney Water Sewage Culvert that spans Oatley Creek has been formalised to provide safe pedestrian access. Safety handrails have been installed. Access is not possible for persons with a disability.

26.7m

Pedestrian Bridge A small new safer pedestrian bridge was installed in 2007. It is located opposite No.1 soccer field spans Oatley Creek. The bridge permits access for disabled persons.

L 12.65m x W 1.3m

Pathways & tracks The bush tracks are narrow, informal over irregular terrain. 1.5km Fencing There is mix of fencing types, from chain wire to wooden koppers log

fencing, within and around the parkland. The varying fencing types have a significant impact on the visual amenity of the park: The boundary chain wire fencing along Morshead Drive was replaced in 2008 with a more sympathetic design fence to blend into the background. The internal chain wire fencing at the southern end No. 2 playing field is generally in very poor condition. The internal chain wire fencing at the southern end No. 2 playing field is generally in very poor condition.

H 2.2m x L 384m H 2.4m x L 104m H 2.2m x L 113m

136

25. New pedestrian footbridge over Oatley Bay Creek links Poulton Park West to Poulton Park East

26. Sportsfield Amenities Building – Poulton Park Soccer Fields

137

27. Poulton Park Netball Courts

28. Poulton Park Soccer Fields

29. Poulton Park Playground under construction.

138

Table 14.8 WILLUNGA RESERVE CONSTRUCTED CAPITAL ASSETS

Asset


Scale

Boundary Fencing Post and rail (upper and lower) log fencing in good condition. 104.7m Park signage 1 x aged park identification signage in poor condition. 1 units Public access stairway

Wooden & steel constructed public access stairway off Whitfield Parade, Hurstville Grove.

1 unit

30. Stairway leading into Willunga Reserve off Whitfield Parade, Hurstville Grove

Council will need to determine the actual value of its constructed capital assets, provide a detailed report

on their condition and assess their depreciation to determine life cycle replacement time and cost values

as well as improve accountability in asset management.

139

14.10 ASSET MANAGEMENT

It is important that Council continues to monitor and report on its assets and aging infrastructure. The

information provides the means for Council to evaluate and make decisions relative to the allocation of

scarce resources and the need for repairing, renewing, replacing or disposing of an asset. The process

allows for budget and service planning relative to the expenditure required to retain the quantity and/or

quality of service to be provided to a particular asset.

Council has considerable investment in its assets across the parkland. Some of the most significant

assets are its buildings, tennis and netball courts, playing fields and infrastructure such as floodlights,

irrigation and access roads and pathways, native bushland, playgrounds, etc. Based on the

information contained in its asset registrar and with consideration to public expectations, regulatory

requirements and trends in expected future growth and demand Council should proceed to prepare an

asset management plan for the study area.

14.11 RISK MANAGEMENT

Standards Australia note that:

“Risk management is recognised as an integral part of good management practice”. (AS/NZS

4360:1999)

Risk management is a systematic method for establishing the context, identification, analysis,

evaluation, treatment, monitoring and communication of risks (AS/NZS 4360:1999). Council will need

to prepare a hazard identification and risk management plan for the study area. The site could contain

a number of potential unidentified environmental, health and safety risks. One identified is the need for

safety fencing along the top of the former quarry wall in Quarry Reserve (South) behind Halstead

Street. The risk management plan should be prepared by an appropriately qualified person and in

accordance with Australian Standard AS/NZS 4360.

14.12 ACCESS 14.12.1 Quarry Reserve (North)

The main entrance into Quarry Reserve (North) is off Hurstville Road that divides Reserve into its

northern and southern sectors. The main recreational area of the reserve is set back from Hurstville

Road and is bordered by residential houses. The entry road is asphalted and lit by 6 streetlights that

lead up to the parking area adjacent the tennis courts (Refer to Table 13.9). The carriage way is

relatively narrow with limited scope for passing vehicles and is in poor condition being uneven and

potholed. There is no separation between vehicle and pedestrian access, which poses safety issues.

140

31. Quarry Reserve (North) vehicle carpark.

Table 14.9

PROVISION for PRIVATE VEHICLE PARKING WITHIN THE PARKLAND

Location

Estimated Vehicle Parking Spaces

Comment

Quarry Reserve (North)

15 Limited informal vehicle parking.

Quarry Reserve (South)

0 No provision for unauthorised vehicle parking.

Willunga Reserve

0 No vehicle access.

Poulton Park

30 Informal internal vehicle parking access off Rickard Road on the northeastern side of the park.

Poulton Park 20 Informal internal vehicle parking access off Morshead Drive on the eastern side of the park.

32. Informal vehicle parking area in Poutlon Park

141

14.12.2 Quarry Reserve (South)

Quarry Reserve (South) faces Hurstville Road, Hurstville Grove with pedestrian access along the parks

length. Restricted vehicle entry is off Hurstville Road. There is no private vehicle access into the park,

however, there is parking along Hurstville Road adjacent the park and opposite to the park. To slow

the traffic a round-about has been installed at the intersection of East Crescent and Hurstville Road

and an integrated speed hump and pedestrian crossing has been constructed just down towards the

park from Denman Street on Hurstville Road. The traffic management devices slow the traffic down as

it passes the park allowing relatively safe crossing from the opposite side of the road to the park.

There are formalised internal pathways leading from the entrance into the park from both the Hurstville

Road side and from Seymour Street, Hurstville Grove located on the northwestern side of the park.

Both these access routes lead down into the bushland area that link to bush tracks that navigate the

western bushland area of Poulton Park. There is limited opportunity for persons with a disability to

transit beyond the formalised pathways as the terrain becomes more difficult to negotiate.

14.12.3 Willunga Reserve

The formal access to Willunga Reserve is off Whitfield Parade, Hurstville Grove on the northwestern

side of the park. The pedestrian access way requires the negotiation of a stairway limiting access for

persons with a disability. There are several entrances to Willunga Reserve through the use of informal

bush tracks along the northwestern side of Poulton Park. These bush tracks have very limited scope

for transit by persons with a disability. Vehicle parking is only available in Whitfield Parade opposite the

park.

14.12.4 Poulton Park

The bushland area in Poulton Park contains numerous informal bush tracks, with entrances through

Willunga Reserve off Whitfield Parade, several entrances to Poulton Park from Morshead Drive with

the main entrance off Rickard Road, and entrances from Seymour Street and Quarry Reserve (South).

The bush tracks criss-cross the bushland area covering a distance in excess of 1.5 km. Council needs

to establish a central bush track system, formalise these tracks and close secondary tracks which are

identified as being unsuitable, or pose a threat to more sensitive areas that are identified as containing

threatened or rare flora and or fauna.

There is also a need to ensure safety, ease of access and unimpeded transition to and within the

facilities and amenities within the formalised areas of Poulton Park. An essential requirement is to

ensure environmental negotiability in the event of an emergency and to ensure the comfort for aged

and for persons with a disability. Therefore, all formal points of access and egress to the park as well

142

as facilities and amenities within the parkland should, where feasible, make provision for persons with

a disability and meet appropriate Australian Standards. There is a network of concrete and asphalt

pathways / bikeways within the parkland which appears to be sufficient for the purpose of providing

ease of access to the focal points within the parkland.

There is limited vehicle parking available within Poulton Park (Refer to Table 26). Two areas within the

park have been set aside opposite the No.1 and No.2 playing fields at the northern and eastern side of

the park off Morshead Drive respectively. The vehicle parking areas are informal and need to be

formalised so at to maximise the available area. There is some concern relative to the position of the

roadway in relation to the No.1 soccer field and the distance from the roadway.

14.13 Provision for Disabled Persons Vehicle Parking

There are no designated areas either on street opposite the entry points to the parkland where

appropriate access is or could be provided and in the vehicle parking areas cited within the parkland

for vehicles owned by persons with a disability.

143

14.14 INTENSITY OF USE

Table 14.10 provides an overview of the intensity of use of the various facilities in the park.

Table 14.10

INTENSITY OF USE OF THE PARKLAND FACILITIES & AMENITIES

Facility

Purpose

Scale m²

Intensity of Use

Comment

QUARRY RESERVE (North) Tennis Courts

Active sports & recreation

1004.8m² High Seasonal use by tennis clubs and social tennis players.

Amenities Building Change rooms for sports users

119.4 m² Low to Medium

Used by tennis clubs and social tennis players.

Playground / Passive area Child physical development & social skills

Low Kiosk and storage area used by tennis clubs and social tennis players.

QUARRY RESERVE (South)

Sports fields Training / social sports / competition sports

10425 m² Medium to High

Seasonal use by sports clubs also used by local schools, social groups and individuals.

Cricket Practice Nets Training / social activity / competition sports

2 units Medium Seasonal use by sports clubs also used by local schools, social groups and individuals.

Passive area Walking / various recreational uses

N/A Medium Year round use by the general public.

WILLUNGA RESERVE Bushland Walking / nature

appreciation / educational

1.27 hectares

Very Low Bush walking and nature observation in high quality and areas of improved natural environment.

POULTON PARK Sports fields Training / social

sports / school sports / competition sports

14808 m² High Seasonal use by sports clubs also used by local schools, social groups and individuals.

Kiosk & Amenities Building Change rooms for sports / kiosk

73.28 m² High Seasonal use by sports clubs.

New Playground installed in 2008

Child physical development & social skills.

N/A Medium to High

Year round use by the general public.

Bushland Walking / nature appreciation / educational

N/A Medium Bush walking and nature observation in high quality and areas of improved natural environment.

The ranking’s cited in Table 14.10, are solely based on perceptions of use derived from observations

over the period of the preparation of the review plan and information derived from the community

survey, park Seasonal Permits and bookings. It is recommended that Council conduct ongoing user

surveys as part of its management of the parkland to accurately monitor the use of the various areas of

the park, identify high and low use areas, assist in measuring impacts on facilities, areas of conflict and

other park management matters.

144

appendix 3

PARKLAND COMMUNITY SURVEY

145

15.0 THE PARKLAND COMMUNITY SURVEY RESULTS

15.1 Distribution of Community Survey

As part of the public consultation process Council issued 200 local resident surveys with self-

return addressed envelopes to those residential properties in the following streets adjacent,

opposite and near the parkland:

● Morshead Drive

● Rickard Road

● Halstead Street

● Truman Street

● Hurstville Road

● East Crescent

● Whitfield Parade

● Waitara Parade

● Duggan Crescent

● Greenacre Crescent

● Kyle Parade

● William Street

● Langshaw Place

● Young Place

● Homedale Crescent

● Laycock Road

● Hillcrest Avenue

● Hurstville Road

Those resident in Morshead Drive opposite the parkland returned 27 (33.75%) of the total surveys issued.

Residents in Greenacre Crescent returned 16.25% of the total number of submitted surveys, which was

the second highest return rate (Refer to Table 15.1).

There were no recorded surveys returns received from residents in East Crescent, Whitfield Parade,

Hillcrest Avenue or Laycock Road whose properties adjoin or are opposite or nearby the parkland.

146

Table 15.1

Community Survey Results

Item Tally %

Question 3 Street

Duggan Crescent 11 13.75

Greenacre Crescent 13 16.25

Halstead Road 5 6.25

Homedale Crescent 5 6.25

Hurstville Road 1 1.25

Kyle Parade 1 1.25

Langshaw Place 3 3.75

Morshead Drive 27 33.75

Rickard Road 7 8.75

Truman Street 4 5.00

William Street 1 1.25

Young Place 2 2.50

Not stated 0 0.00

Totals 80 100.00

15.2 Survey Return Rate

The residents in the survey area were determined to be the most likely passive users of the

parkland and or have knowledge of the park and its issues. Council received a 40% (80 surveys)

return rate (Refer to Table 15.2).

Table 15.2


Item Tally %

Total number of Survey Questionnaires 200 100.00

Total number of Survey Responses 80 40.00

15.3 Dominant Age Groups of Respondents

In all, 38.75% of respondents were male and 61.25% were female (Refer to Table 15.3)

Of the total number of responses received those in the 36-65 years of age groups returned

66.25% of the total number of surveys issued (Refer to Table 15.4). Those in the 36-45 years of

age group returned 31.25% of the total submitted surveys.

147

Table 15.3


Item Tally %

Question 1 Sex of Respondent

Total number of Males 31 38.75

Total number of Females 49 61.25

Non response to this item 0 0.00

Totals 80 100.00

Table 15.4


Item Tally %

Question 2 Respondent's Age

Less than 18 years of age 2 2.50

18-25 years of age 1 1.25

26-35 years of age 8 10.00

36-45 years of age 25 31.25

46-55 years of age 13 16.25

55-65 years of age 15 18.75


>75 years of age 8 10.00

Non respondents 1 1.25

Totals 80 100.00

15.4 Family Types

Relative to family composition or type of the total number of respondents 45% (36 respondents)

comprised of two adults and children and 11.25% consisted of two adults with children and

teenagers (Refer to Table 15.5). Of the total number of responses with children there were 23%

(20) of children in respondent families were from 0-5 years of age, 34% in the 6-10 years of age,

30% in the 11-15 years of age and 14% in the 16-19 years of age (Refer to Table 15.6). In all

there were 88 children or teenagers in families in the immediate facinity of the parkland.

Table 15.5


Item Tally %

Question 4 Family Type

Single 5 6.25

One parent family 1 1.25

Two adults no children 19 23.75

Two adults and children 36 45.00

Two adults with children and teenagers 9 11.25

Other 10 12.50

Non respondents 0 0.00

Totals 80 100.00

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Table 15.6


Item Tally %

Question 5 Number of Children & Teenagers


6-10 years of age 30 34.09

11-15 years of age 26 29.55

16-19 years of age 12 13.64

Totals 88 100.00

15.5 Parkland User Travel Type

As would be expected 92.50% of those local residents surveyed walk to the park while 6.25% use

private vehicles (Refer to Table 15.7). The dominant arrivals by private vehicles are associated

with sports activities that take place in the parkland.

Table 15.7


Item Tally %

Question 6 Method of Travel

Public Transport 1 1.25

Private Vehicle 5 6.25

Friend's Vehicle 0 0.00

Walk 74 92.50

Ride a Bike 0 0.00

Other 0 0

Totals 80 100.00

15.6 Socialisation

Local residents who responded to the survey indicated that they visit the site generally in the

company of family members and friends of a similar age group (26%) (Refer to Table 15.8). Also,

it was indicated that the many visitors to the parkland (15%) were in the accompany of children

under 6 years of age, while 13% were with children and teenagers between 7-11 years of age and

13% were with family or friends of different age groups. There were 5 respondents (3%) who

indicated they visited the parkland with persons with a disability.

149

Table 15.8


Item Tally %

Question 7 Preferred Visitation

Alone 22 12.50

With a pet 17 9.66

With family and friends similar age 45 25.57

With family or friends different age group 23 13.07

With one or more children under 6 years 27 15.34

With one or more children between 7-11 yrs 23 13.07

In the company of teenagers 12-19 years 14 7.95

With aged and/or persons with a disability 5 2.84

Totals 176 100.00

15.7 Reasons for Visitations by Local Residents

Of the total number of persons surveyed 34% the reason that they visit the park is to appreciate its

natural setting. Items in this category include “To view the scenery”, “Be close to nature” and

“Release of tension” (Refer to Table 15.9). The parkland setting includes extensive areas of

regenerated and natural bushland. The restoration of the bushland has significantly contributed to

the scenic amenity of the parkland and from the survey results it is an important feature of the

parkland. When compared to the third highest reason for visiting the parkland being for reasons of

introspection (20% of respondents) this figure indicates the importance of the sense of place that

the parkland can provide to a significant number of visitors. The category Introspection includes

items such as “Just doing your own thing”, “Being away from family and friends”, “Think about

important issues and problems” and “Rest physically and relax”.

The second highest reason (22% of respondents) indicated for visiting the parkland was for

reasons for personal development the items included in this category were “Keeping fit”, “Doing

something creative” and “Develop new skills and abilities”.

Table 15.9


Item Tally %

Question 8 Reason for Visitation

Nature Appreciation 103 33.88

Novelty 16 5.26

Social Familiar 54 17.76

Personal Development 66 21.71

Introspection 61 20.07

Other 4 1.32

Totals 304 100.00

150

15.8 Facilities that would most likely be used if available in the Parkland

The most preferred additional park facilities that were rated as either “Very likely” or “Highly likely

to be use” by respondents were as follows:

● Walking & exercise pathways - 66 favourable Reponses indicating they would use the

facility – 7 responses not likely or uncertain if they would use the facility (Refer to Table

15.10).

● Multipurpose playground – 62 favourable responses indicating they would use the facility

– 44 responses not likely or uncertain if they would use the facility.

● Park seating - 56 favourable responses – 14 responses not likely or uncertain.

Table 15.10


Item Tally Tally Question 9 Preferred Facilities Not Likely or

Uncertain Very or Highly Likely

BBQ & Picnic Shelters 24 43

Playground for 0-6 years of age 24 29

Playground for 7-11 years of age 20 33

Physical fitness station 29 29

Walking / exercise pathway 7 66

Park seating 14 56

Gardens / Trees / Landscaping 15 50

Other

Upgrade toilets 3

Cycle track 5

Physical fitness station 1

BBQ picnic shelters 1

Improve sports lighting 2

Cleaner toilets 1

Dog exercise area 1

151

15.9 Undesirable Facilities

The most “undesirable facility” was the provision of a skatepark within the parkland. A total of 18

respondents indicated that this was the least desirable recreational facility (Refer to Table 15.11).

The second highest tally recorded for this category was BBQ facilities 6 register objections, no

more buildings 5 objections, bush motorbike or cycle track 4 objections, additional sportsfields or

courts 3 objections with 2 objections each for the removal of Council’s Depot and for no water

features. The remaining items such as floodlights, fitness stations, car parks, remove boundary

fencing, additional sports activities received 1 objection each.

Table 15.11


Item Tally

Question 10 Undesirable Facilities

Additional sports activities not already available 1

Remove the green wire fence 1

Facilities that destroy the natural beauty of the park 1

BBQ and picnic shelters 6

Noisy activities 1

Activities that lead to additional parking in residential streets 1

Activities that lead to littering 1

Skate park 18

Asphalt pathways 1

Golf Practice 1

Council Depot 2

No more buildings / Preserve the existing open space 5

Sports fields or courts 3

Preserve the bushland setting 1

Unsightly structures that do not blend in with the natural environment 1

Fitness Station 1

Bush motorbike or cycle track 4

Ponds / water features / swimming pools 2

24 hour Toilet access 1

Dogs 1

Floodlights 1

Car park 1

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15.10 How to improve the Parkland

There were many suggestions as to how the playground could be improved (Refer to Table 15.12)

but the leading preference was for improvements to be made to the playground facilities (17

requests).

Table 15.12


Item Tally

Question 11 How to improve the playgrounds

Upgrade the playground equipment / Shade the playground equipment 17

Provide shaded areas / picnic areas 7

Enforce parking in areas within the park 1

Restrict hours of use 1

Shaded picnic areas 3

Walking track 7

Bicycle track 8

No Dogs 1

Sports spectator seating 2

Improve grass areas 2

Water bubbler 3

Shaded seating / seating 8

Skate park 2

Cricket nets 1

More grassed areas for children’s play / more places for children to play 4

Remove deadwood from the park & fallen trees / bush debris 2

Community Hall 1

Remove Morshead Drive chain wire boundary fence 1

Accessible public toilets / Light toilets / New toilets / Toilet maintenance 5

Synthetic sports surfaced playing field 1

Bushland restoration / Creek restoration / Extend bushland 4

Pond / water feature 1

Landscape gardens / landscaping 4

Boundary fencing 1

Develop lower Poulton Park open space area opposite wetland 1

More rubbish bins 2

Improved park maintenance 3

Pathways / improved access 3

Dog litter bins / regulatory signage to pick up dog litter 2

Provide more vehicle parking inside the park 3

Provide BBQ's 2

Exercise equipment 1

Additional floodlighting of the sports fields 1

Ban car parking in residential areas 1

Regulatory signage / Alcohol Free Zone 2

New access ramp to the soccer field 1

153

Other items from Table 15.12 sought to improve the play opportunities for children and others

include bicycle tracks, walking tracks, shades seating, and improved toilet facilities.

15.11 SUMMARY

The local resident survey provided additional opportunity to gain insight into the key issues of

concern to the local residents relative to the management and development of the parkland. Many

of the issues raised in the survey have been considered and where appropriate have been

included in the strategies for the parkland.

Of those families that did respond to the question inquiring into family type 45% of the total 80

respondents for this question indicated that there were two adults with children in their families.

The 2001 Australian Bureau of Statistics Census data (2006 Census Data was not available at the

time of writing) indicates that there are a significant number of children and teenagers in the

Hurstville Grove, Connell’s Point area (Refer to Table 15.13). This may explain the high response

rate for items such as playgrounds and picnic shelters and also the high participation rates of

sports activities at the park. The local sports club has 28 soccer teams training at Poulton Park

and a further 27 at Quarry Reserve.

Table 15.13 Population Age in Connell’s Point & Hurstville Gove Suburbs, 2001 Census

Suburb Connell’s Point Hurstville Grove

Age No. % of pop'n No. % of pop'n

0-4 152 5.4 127 5.7

5-11 272 9.7 229 10.2

12-17 227 8.1 211 9.4

18-24 230 8.2 201 8.9

25-39 529 18.8 413 18.4

40-54 584 20.7 496 22.1

55-64 325 11.5 263 11.7

65-74 250 8.9 154 6.9

75 & over 248 8.8 152 6.8

Total 2,817 100.0 2,246 100.0

Source: ABS, Census of Population and Housing, 2001, Table B03

Of the local people who visit the park most recorded that they were in the company of family and

friends of a similar age group and that they visit the park principally for nature appreciation,

introspection and personal development. The results support a preference for recreational

improvements to the park including the provision of improved park seating, shade covered

seating, physical fitness station, walking paths etc. The results also demonstrate the importance

154

of the natural resources of the parkland and that this is one of the most significant aspects of the

park that has wide appreciation that the public area able to derive a range of benefits to park

visitors.

The highest response rate to the survey came from 27 of the 40 residential properties in Morshead

Drive who live directly opposite Poulton Park. A further 8 households are not directly across the

road from the park. This response represented 33.75% of the total number of responses in this

category and 56% of residents in Morshead Drive. Of this number there was a very mixed range of

issues raised but no one defining issue with regards to the current use of the parkland. Residents

in East Crescent whose properties adjoin the park did not respond.

From the survey it can be determined that the residents focus is centered on providing for family,

children and aged persons activities by improving existing facilities. This can be achieved by

replacing outdated assets or improving the general amenity of the park by providing additional

minor infrastructure such as park seating, BBQ’s, new toilet facilities, formal and informal

walkways etc. These types of improvements will extend their enjoyment of the parkland without

detriment to the existing ambience that it provides and to its current mixed role as both a sports

venue and natural resource habitat.

There were no outstanding single issues but a range of minor issues that could be addressed by

Council at relatively minor cost. In conclusion, the local community appears relatively satisfied

with the parkland but emphasized that there is a need for more social settings for family and group

activities such as picnic facilities. Council’s recent upgrading of the Poulton Park playground is a

positive move in fulfilling the identified goals for the park. The provision of additional floodlighting

is justified in that the increasing demand the community has shown by the numbers engaging in

sports activities justifies Council ensuring that it maximizes the use of its existing facilities.

155

appendix 4

REPORT ON THE PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER THE DRAFT PLAN OF MANAGEMENT

TO CATEGORISE COMMUNITY LAND

156

REPORT ON THE PUBLIC MEETING TO CONSIDER THE DRAFT PLAN OF MANAGEMENT TO CATEGORISE COMMUNITY LAND

HURSTVILLE QUARRY RESERVE, WILLUNGA RESERVE AND POULTON PARK

_________________________________________________________________________________

Contents:

1. Introduction

2. Background materials

3. Purpose of this report

4. Author of this report

5. The land that forms Hurstville Quarry Reserve, Willunga Reserve and Poulton Park

6. The land in the surroundings

7. Assignment of Land Categories

8. General Comments

9. Summary

_________________________________________________________________________________ 1. INTRODUCTION At the public hearing which took place at the Carss Park Life Saving Hall in Carss Bush Park on 1st

December, 2008 I explained the process of the public hearing. Fundamentally, it was an opportunity

for members of the public to voice their opinions on the Combined Parks Draft Plan of Management for

Hurstville Quarry Reserve, Willunga Reserve and Poulton Park in an open public forum. They were

encouraged to be open and frank in bringing forward their ideas.

2. BACKGROUND MATERIALS

In preparing this report, the following documents were taken into consideration:

a) Combined Parks Draft Plan of Management September 2008 Hurstville Quarry Reserve,

Willunga Reserve and Poulton Park prepared by Kogarah Council Department of Assset

& Services Recreation & Landscape Planning (Annexure 1).

b) Written submissions received by the Council following the public participation of the Draft

Plan of Management Review.

c) Oral participation at the Public Hearing by:

Mr & Mrs G Chapple, 4 Walton Street, Blakehurst (Connells Point Football Club)

Keith Hudson, 17 Waratah Street, Kyle Bay (Connells Point Football Club)

Les Tingle 42 Morsehead Drive, Connells Point

Walter Gavsia, 66 Morsehead Drive, Connells Point

N Varley 56 Morshead Drive, Connells Point

157

A Varley 56 Morshead Drive, Connells Point

George Saab 4 Queens Road, Connells Point

Walter Glaser 67 Whitfield Parade, Hurstville Grove

Luciano Benedet 18 Empire Avenue, Blakehurst 2221

Graham Lee 22 Grove Avenue, Penshurst 2222 (Connell’ s Point Rovers)

Victor Vera 223 Connells Point Road, Connells Point 2222 (Connells Point Club)

John Krslovic 16 Bayswater Avenue, Hurstville Gorve (Connells Point Club)

John Dorrian 34 Stuart Street, Blakehurst 2221

Rex Drew 40 Morshead Drive, Connells Point

Dolleen Drew 40 Morshead Drive, Connells Point 2221

Alan Varley 56 Morshead Drive, St. Hurstville 22221

Graham Fry 46 Whitfield Parade, Hurstville Grove

Jan Douglas 35 Woodlands Avenue, Lugarno – Oatley Flora & Forna Conservation

Society

Tang Matthews 70 Greenacre Road, Connels Point

Phil Ward 34 East Crescent, Hurstville Grove.

d) Poulton Park Residents’ Action Committee submission.

3. PURPOSE OF THIS REPORT

This report is intended to assist the Councillors in making their decision on how the combined parks

being Hurstville Quarry Reserve, Willunga Reserve and Poulton Park should be managed in the future.

The review is part of an ongoing process to ensure that the plan of management is representative of

the changing needs of the local and greater community of the Kogarah Municipality.

It is a report back to the Councillors on the feelings of people who made representations and those

who attended the public hearing.

4. AUTHOR OF THIS REPORT

This report has been prepared by Michael McMahon who is a solicitor with specialist accreditation by

the Law Society in Local Government and Town Planning. He is completely independent of Kogarah

Council and he has been given freedom on the preparation of this report. He visited the parks and the

surrounding area on the afternoon prior to the public hearing. He observed that the parks are situated

generally below the level of surrounding houses.

5. THE LAND TO WHICH THE PLAN OF MANAGEMENT APPLIES

158

The land adjoins Oatley Bay where it is called Poulton Park. That park is contiguous with Willunga

Reserve which merges with Quarry Reserve at South Hurstville. To a casual observer the whole of the

land appears to be one large park as it has a total area exceeding 25 hectares. The Location map of

the study area appears on page 11 of Anexure 1. There is a complicated patchwork of titles that

constitutes these reserves and the particulars are contained on pages 12-15 of Annexure 1.

6. THE LAND IN IT'S SURROUNDINGS

The best way of appreciating the relationship between the land and the surroundings is to observe

aerial photographs delineating community land categories in the parkland at pages 24 and 25 of

Annexure 1. Aerial photographs give the impression of the land being flat, but it should be appreciated

that the land is generally the bottom of a valley that drains into the Oatley Bay and so the surrounding

houses are generally located at a higher level than the land.

7. ASSIGNMENT OF LAND CATEGORY

I agree with the approach adopted in the report at page 20 where it was stated:

“The various landscapes that comprise the parkland should be managed differently so as to sustain

and complement the purpose, function and quality of the different types of land resources and to

preserve its character, amenity, recreational, social, cultural and environmental values. Because

there are a number of different land attributes and uses that comprise the parkland there is a need,

for the purpose of introducing best practice land management, to delineate these into their

appropriate land management categories . The assigned categories ascribed to the land are based

on the lands principal attributes and either its current or preferred future use. Table 2 and the

accompanying photographs 1, 2, 3 & 4 identifies the boundaries of the various proposed categories

of community land within the park which are as follows:

General Community Use

Sportsground

Park

Natural Area – Watercourse

Natural Area – Bushland

Cultural Significant.

Table 2 provides the reasoning for the selected Community Land category for the various portions

of parkland in Council’s ownership.”

At the public hearing, Mr Phil Ward from 34 East Crescent, Hurstville Grove pointed out that on page

159

112 there is a photograph showing an area marked A that is proposed as a public roadway “for park

visitor vehicle access and parking”. He Pointed out his house which is at the bottom left of the

photograph on that page and he produced a copy of his Certificate of Title which stated that his land

has a right of way over the land marked A. He was concerned that his easement might be

compromised if the proposal is carried out in such a way as to deny him access.

Mr Rex Drew spoke on behalf of the Poulton Park Residents’ Action Committee and he presented the

written submission which forms Annexure 4. The Committee opposes the proposed lighting of Oval

number 2 and it criticizes the conclusions drawn on page 149 of Annexure 1. It is noted that on that

page it was stated:

“The highest response rate to the survey came from 27 of the 40 residential properties in Morshead

Drive who live directly opposite Poulton Park. A further 8 households are not directly across the

road from the park. This response represented 33.75% of the total number of responses in this

category and 56% of residents in Morshead Drive. Of this number there was a very mixed range of

issues raised but no one defining issue with regards to the current use of the parkland….There

were no outstanding single issues but a range of minor issues that could be addressed by Council

at relatively minor cost. In conclusion, the local community appears relatively satisfied with the

parkland but emphasized that there is a need for more social settings for family and group activities

such as picnic facilities. Council’s recent upgrading of the Poulton Park playgrounds is a positive

move in fulfilling the identified goals for the park. The provision of additional floodlighting is justified

in that the increasing demand the community has shown by the numbers engaging in sports

activities justifies Council ensuring that it maximizes the use of existing facilities.”

The criticism could possibly be sustained if the conclusion was based only on the numbers in the

report, but Volume III of the Council file contains form letters signed by 166 people in support of the

lighting for Oval Number 2 and page 106 of Annexure 1 sets out the basis of the proposal. The

summary – Proposed Sports Field Floodlighting on page 111 states that:

“..,the increase in the number of people of both genders and varying age groups interested in

playing soccer is evident by the substantial growth rate of 21% over the last 5 years. This clearly

demonstrates a need to consider maximizing the use of any existing soccer facilities at Pulton Park

and also greater utilization of Quarry Reserve (South). As a result of the proposed increased use of

the sports facilities provision needs to be made by Council to enable additional vehicle parking

within and adjacent to the parkland. This will require Council to consider introducing traffic control

devices to reduce the speed of vehicles along Morshead Drive and the provision of preferential

vehicle parking adjacent residential properties particularly in Morshead Drive. The plan outlines a

number of strategies to reduce both the environmental and social impacts on the surrounding area

by Council supporting appropriate management initiatives and the proposal for a conflict resolution

process through a Community Park Advisory Committee to address any ongoing concerns or

issues arising between park users and residents.”

160

John Dorrian spoke on behalf of the Connells Point Football Club and he confirmed that his club would

be willing to participate in a Park Advisory Committee in order to ensure the club operates as

harmoniously as possible with the neighbours. Other members of the club who were there confirmed

that on occasions the lights have not been switched off on time but the they said that the club has no

control over their lights and sometimes when there is a blackout it affects the automatic timer and a

person from council will then need to addend to adjust the timer. (The club is willing to participate in

recycling waste generated by the club).

There was general concern at the public hearing about the problems associated with the wide streets

that promoted dangerous speeding cars, but no remedies were suggested.

As far as “formalising” parking under the headings “Strategies & Actions” on the reserves was

concerned, there was general agreement that this should not involve the laying of bitumen.

The second part of the Poulton Park Residents’ Action Committee submission concerned

the “storage area”. It was not just that Committee that had concerns when it is observed in

Table 12.9 on page 98:

“Council to program the removal of the depot storage facilities in Poulton Park to be

completed for commencement of restoration works in 2020 and the site restored as part

bushland and for passive public recreation.”

One of the people participating raised the question about the demarcation between the

Environmental protection zone and the Open Space zone on page 30, but no details were

provided. There was general agreement on the rest of the management plan proposals,

including support by Jan Douglas on behalf of the Oatley Flora & Forna Conservation

Society.

After considering the draft plan of management, the written and oral submissions from members of the

public and having viewed the site and the locality I conclude that the logical categorisation for the parks

are those recommended on pages 20-25 as shown in the photographs on pages 24-25 of the plan is

suitable for adoption.

8. GENERAL COMMENTS

The Draft Plan of Management is a comprehensive document that has general community support.

There are parts of it where minds will differ, particularly where the proposed illumination of active

recreation is involved in an area where passive recreation has been enjoyed for many years.

9. SUMMARY

161

The Combined Parks Plan of Management for Hurstville Quarry Reserve, Willinga Reserve and

Poulton Park appropriately categorises the various parts of this land that forms these reserves. It is

acknowledged that the proposed illuminating of the Number 2 oval will not please several nearby

residents. That unease can only be lessened by the imposition of appropriate enforceable conditions.

Michael McMahon

3rd December, 2008.

REFERENCES

Aboriginal Land Rights Act, 1983

162

A C Nielson (2006) Exercise, Recreation and Sports Survey, Fith Collection, in NSW Legislative Assembly Standing Committee on Public Works Report No.53/08, November 2006, Inquiry into Sportsground Management in NSW

Acid Sulfate Soil Manual, New South Wales, Acid Sulfate Soil Management Advisory Committee, August, 1998.

Blue Mountains Urban Runoff Control Program (BMURCP), (2003) Bush Regeneration: A Practical Guide to Contract Management, BMURCP. Beder, S., The Nature of Sustainable Development, Scribe, Newham, Australia, Second Edition : 1996. Biodiversity of the Georges River Catchment: Terrestrial biodiversity, November, 2004, Department of Infrastructure, Planning & Natural Resources.

Chapman, G.A. & Murphy, C.L., (1989) Soil Landscapes of the Sydney 1:100,000 Sheet, Soil Conservation Service of NSW. Council resolution, meeting of 28th June, 1999, Item 307/1999, Development Application No.74/99 – Installation of lighting for soccer training.

Crown Lands Act, 1989.

Disability Discrimination Act, 1992

Douglas, A (2000) Poulton Park Report, Bush Regeneration 45807D Padstow TAFE Estuaries of New South Wales, Guidelines on Integrated Development and the Rivers & Foreshore Improvement, Act, 1948, www.dlwc.nsw.gov.au. Final Report: Bush Regeneration Maintenance Poulton Park Bush Reserve, July 2006 – July 2007, Creatures of Habitat Bushland Restoration Pty Ltd

Fletcher, J. (1985) River, Road and Rail: A History of Kogarah Municipality, Kogarah Municipal Council.

Kogarah Local Environmental Plan, 1998

Kogarah Council Poulton Park Plan of Management, June 1999.

Kogarah Council (2001) Disability Discrimination Act - Action Plan. Kogarah Municipal Council (2007) Oately Bay – Poulton Park Wetland: A Fish Passage Study. Fisheries Management Act, 1994 Local Government Act, 1993.

Local Government (General) Regulation, 1998. Mendler,S.F. & Odell, W. (2000) The HOK Guidebook to Sustainable Design, John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Native Title Act, 1998 (Cwlth) NSW Legislative Assembly Standing Committee on Public Works Report No.53/08, November 2006, Inquiry into Sportsground Management in NSW Protection of the Environment Operations Act, 1997 Pizzery, G &Knight, F (2000) The Graham Pizzery & Frank Knight Field Guide to the Birds of Australia, Angus & Robertson, Sydney. Rivers & Foreshore Improvement Act, 1948 Roberts, P.(1993) A Birdwatchers Guide to the Sydney Region, Kangaroo Press. Southern Sydney Catchment Management Board, Catchment Blueprint, April, 2002.

163

Standards Australia, Risk Management, AS/NZS 4360:1999

Seidlich, B.(1997) Action Plan for Local Government: Green Web-Sydney: A Vegetation Management Plan for the Sydney Region, The Sydney Regional Organisations of Councils.

Sinclair, Knight & Merz Lower Georges River Stormwater Management Plan: Sutherland, Hurstville, Kogarah, Rockdale Councils , July 1999.

State of the Environment Report, 2006, Kogarah Council. Threatened Species Information, Acacia prominens (Gosford Wattle) www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au Threatened Species Information, Sydney Turpentine Ironbark Forest www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au Threatened Species Information, Loss of Hollow Bearing Trees www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au Webster’s Birds of Australia, a multimedia title in Australian Animals Series, CD-Rom, 1998. White, A (1998) Fauna Survey of Kogarah Bushland Reserves, Biosphere Environmental Consultants Pty Ltd.

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