plan of management for riverglade reserve · 2019-08-08 · hunters hill council plan of management...

In association with STURT ASSOCIATES

Hunters Hill Council

PLAN OF MANAGEMENT FOR RIVERGLADE RESERVE

Volume One

February 2013


Plan of Management

Riverglade Reserve


Plan of Management

Riverglade Reserve

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Section One: Study Background ......................................................... 1

1.0 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................................... 2 1.1 BACKGROUND TO STUDY .................................................................................................................. 2 1.1.1 LEGISLATIVE & PLANNING CONTEXT............................................................................................... 2 1.1.2 STUDY AIMS ......................................................................................................................................... 3 1.1.3 PLAN OF MANAGEMENT STUDY APPROACH .................................................................................. 3 1.1.4 METHODOLOGY .................................................................................................................................. 4 1.2 OUTLINE OF THE REPORT ................................................................................................................. 5 1.3 A WORD OF THANKS .......................................................................................................................... 5 1.4 ABOUT THE RIVERGLADE RESERVE................................................................................................ 5 1.5 HISTORY OF MANAGEMENT .............................................................................................................. 8 1.6 DESCRIPTION OF LAND ................................................................................................................... 10 1.7 LAND STATUS & PURPOSE .............................................................................................................. 11 1.8 RESERVE MANAGEMENT ................................................................................................................. 11 1.9 DESCRIPTION OF RESERVE FEATURES AND FACILITIES .......................................................... 11

Section Two: Basis for Management .................................................. 13

2.0 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................................. 14 2.1 VALUES OF THE RESERVE AREA ................................................................................................... 14 2.1.1 RECREATION ..................................................................................................................................... 14 2.1.2 EUROPEAN CULTURAL HERITAGE ................................................................................................. 15 2.1.3. ABORIGINAL CULTURAL HERITAGE ............................................................................................... 18 2.1.4 ECONOMIC VALUES .......................................................................................................................... 18 2.1.5 COMMUNITY & SOCIAL VALUES ...................................................................................................... 19 2.1.6 ENVIRONMENT & BIODIVERSITY VALUES ..................................................................................... 20 2.2 VISION ................................................................................................................................................. 21 2.3 MISSION .............................................................................................................................................. 21 2.4 MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVES ........................................................................................................... 21 2.5 GUIDING PRINCIPLES ....................................................................................................................... 22

Section Three: Strategy & Action Plan ............................................... 24

3.0 BLUE PRINT FOR MANAGEMENT .................................................................................................... 25 3.1 STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS, ACTIONS & RECOMMENDATIONS ..................................................... 26 3.2 ACTION PLAN ..................................................................................................................................... 26 3.3 ZONING PLAN .................................................................................................................................... 48 3.4 CONCEPT LAYOUT MASTERPLAN .................................................................................................. 51


Plan of Management

Riverglade Reserve

The Study Team

In response to the multi-disciplinary requirements of this study, Hunters Hill Council commissioned:

Montemare Consulting Pty Ltd

Guy Sturt & Associates Pty Ltd

The Plan Definitions

Additional purpose Any purpose that is additional to:

(a) the declared purpose of the reserve/dedication, or

(b) any purpose authorised by the Minister under section 121A of the Crown Lands

Act, 1989 in relation to the reserve/dedication.

Riverglade Reserve Crown Reserve No. 100263, plus Council lots Lot 3 D.P. 1128452, Lot 4 D.P. 1128452

Council or HHC Hunters Hill Council

Reserve purpose The public purpose for which the land has been dedicated or reserved under Part 5

- Crown Lands Act 1989, and includes any purpose or use permitted under, or in

connection with, the declared purpose.

LPMA Land and Property Management Authority (former Department of Lands)

Objectives Desired (SMART) outcomes = Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant &Time-

bound

Management

Principles

General principles that provide clear decision making criteria

Management Zones Identifiable precincts or units of land based on natural, economic or social factors,

or a combination of these factors

Plan of

Management

A statutory document prepared under Local Government Act 1993 providing

guidance on the administration, use, development and management of the land.

Mission Statement The fundamental purpose of an organisation and its desired level of performance

Planning area See Riverglade Reserve

Recreation A wide range of active or passive activities undertaken either individually or as a

group for pleasure, health, renewal and relaxation.

Reserve Land dedicated or reserved under the Crown lands Act 1989

Social Activities The holding of social functions and activities, meetings, gatherings, educational

instruction, arts & craft activities, club activities and childcare, whether carried out

by a licensee/lessee or other group under temporary license or hire arrangements.

Sporting Activities Those activities carried out by sporting clubs including the playing of games,

training, the holding of meetings and social gatherings and other fundraising

activities either undertaken by a club as license/lessee or other group under

temporary license or hire arrangements.

Strategy A planned method of achieving a desired outcome utilising best practices

Sustainable Being able to achieve outcomes without adversely affecting the long term health

and integrity of natural, social and economic values.

SWOT A strategic analysis of Strengths, Weakness, Opportunities & Threats

Trust A corporation constituted under Division 4 of Part 5 - Crown Lands Act, 1989 and

appointed by the Minister to manage a Crown reserve/dedication i.e. Hunters Hill

Council

Vision Statement A broad statement of intent to help establish desired outcomes and focus activities,

a custodial or stewardship commitment to future generations.

G1 Attachment 2 Volume 1.docx Page 1

Section One: Study Background


Plan of Management

Riverglade Reserve


1.0 INTRODUCTION

Riverglade Reserve provides an important recreation, open space and natural habitat for the Hunters Hill community. It is utilised by the neighbouring and broader community, a wide variety of sporting & recreation groups, community groups, cultural organisations, and visitors to Hunters Hill. The purpose of the study is to develop a 10 year Plan of Management (PoM) for the management, use and future enhancement of the Riverglade Reserve. This has been achieved through reviewing previous PoMs and relevant documentation current management, usage & operations and facilities, undertaking consultations with existing users, key stakeholders and the community, identifying the reserve values, future key user and community needs and making recommendations for the future provision, management and operations of the Riverglade Reserve to ensure the integrity of identified values and meet the identified future needs and priorities.

1.1 BACKGROUND TO STUDY The Riverglade Reserve is under the care, control and management of the Hunters Hill Council as appointed by the Minister and established under the Crown Lands Act 1989. The PoM was commissioned by the Hunters Hill Council, in response to some key issues including: 1 Increasing user conflicts, largely resulting from increasing sports use, displacing local community &

passive recreational use 2 Neighbourhood impacts resulting from increasing use (i.e. access & car parking, lack of toilets, noise

etc.) 3 Neighbour issues arising from regional wildlife corridor enhancement activities. 4 The need to for the PoM to be updated and adopted. 5 The need to update the PoM to recognise inclusion of The Priory and the proposed future plans

identified through the Conservation Management Plan and other Council cultural plans. 6 The Draft PoM 2009, undertaken to include the Priory, was not formally adopted by Council, and the

previous POM, adopted in 1999, was out of date. There was a need to formalise the PoM to meet requirements of the Local Government Act 1993.

1.1.1 Legislative & Planning Context

This PoM has been prepared to comply with relevant legislation and planning instruments as identified in the Background Research. The PoM has been prepared in accordance with the Local Government Act, 1993 and key linked planning instruments & documents include:

Riverglade Reserve Plan of Management 1999 and 2009 draft.

The Priory Conversation Management Plan 2009

Estuary Vegetation Rehabilitation Action Plan for Riverglade Reserve & Tarban Creek 2011 (EVRAP

Report)

Hunters Hill Community Strategic Plan 2011


Plan of Management

Riverglade Reserve


Draft Hunters Hill Sport & Recreation Strategy 2012

Draft Hunters Hill LEP 2012

The cultural and environmental management issues and needs of the reserve are well understood, due to previous planning undertaken by Council. The previous PoM had a strong focus on environmental management, as have many other reserve specific, local and regional studies and plans. The Priory Conservation Management Plan (CMP) identifies the heritage significance of the of the Priory and the reserve and future management directions. As such this PoM seeks to address these issues by incorporating recommended strategies and actions from these previous studies and identified update reports, it does not incorporate a comprehensive assessment of these values and needs.

1.1.2 Study Aims The aims of the study, as expressed by the Council, in the project brief are:

Identify the values of the reserve to the community.

Identify potential opportunities for future recreational development of the reserve based on community priorities.

Identify threats to the ecological quality of the bushland and provide strategies to sustainably manage the natural resources.

Address current issues including the mix of recreational facilities, recreation needs of residents and conflict between users.

Prepare a concept plan showing practical future developments.

Prepare guidelines for future management and maintenance of the reserve.

1.1.3 Plan of Management Study Approach In line with contemporary planning policies for Crown Reserves, the Council has adopted the Department of Lands preferred “Values Based” approach to the development of the Plan of Management, in which the values of the Riverglade Reserve have been identified first, to guide issues identification and strategies to protect & enhance these values. The aim of this approach is to make the plan more lasting and effective. The plan is not intended as a prescriptive instrument, but as a guide to future management intent. In this way it is anticipated that the plan is a “living document” and will take into account current circumstances and trends at the time key strategies are implemented. It is incumbent upon all stakeholders to work together to protect and enhance the Reserves values identified and agreed in adopting this PoM. Recommendations and masterplan design concept relate to the specific environmental, cultural heritage social and recreational issues that have been identified by investigation and consultation, as well as considering existing and anticipated user demands.


Plan of Management

Riverglade Reserve


1.1.4 Methodology The study has been completed in line with the requirements of the Local Government Planning Act 1993 and has involved the following key steps and tasks as outlined in the diagram below.


Plan of Management

Riverglade Reserve


1.2 OUTLINE OF THE REPORT

The Plan of Management report is presented in three documents. Executive Summary – Providing a summary of the basis for management, action and concept masterplan. PoM Volume One- providing a summation of the strategic framework, key issues, study recommendations & action and concept layout planning for implementation. PoM Volume Two –includes the background research & consultation undertaken to develop the Plan.

1.3 A WORD OF THANKS

The project consultant team would like to thank the Council’s Project Steering Committee and in particular Mrs Margaret Kelly, Council’s Project Manager, for their guidance, advice and assistance with the study. We would also like to thank all those members of key user groups, the community and other stakeholders who made themselves available and provided their time to provide their thoughts and ideas to the studies development.

1.4 ABOUT THE RIVERGLADE RESERVE

Riverglade Reserve is located in the suburb of Huntleys Cove between the suburbs of Hunters Hill, Gladesville and Huntleys Point. (A map of the area is provided below) Hunters Hill (Municipality) is described as Australia’s oldest “garden suburb” and has a distinctive appearance created by its canopy of large trees and many parks and reserves on a peninsula separating the Lane Cove from the Parramatta Rivers in Sydney Harbour. From a total catchment management perspective, Riverglade Reserve is situated in the lower portion of Tarban Creek and includes the adjacent floodplain and parts of the sloping land to the north and south.


Plan of Management

Riverglade Reserve


A linear reserve, the reserve can be described as a large modified area of public open space, and stream environment with significant remnant coastal vegetation communities and harbour estuarine environments. The reserve is highly significant in Councils overall provision of public open space for recreation and conservation, providing significantly sized and quality open spaces for the western side of the Municipality Key features and facilities include:

The Priory

Tarban Creek and adjacent flood plain

Remnant bushland on the Northern and Southern slopes

Passive recreation features such as pathways, dog exercise and open spaces.

Sports playing fields

Linkage to other residential areas, significant parks and transport

Neighbourhood and Catchment The reserve is surrounded by predominately urban residential. Immediate neighbouring properties and land uses include:

Villa Maria Marist Brothers to the north

University of NSW and St Josephs College rowing sheds

Huntleys Cove urban residential community

The farm attendants cottage (privately owned)

Tarban Creek Reserve


Plan of Management

Riverglade Reserve


Huntleys Point ( RMS land)

Links to Gladesville Hospital and Bedlam Bay via access ways under Victoria Road.

UNSW Rowing sheds

Gladesville Hospital Site


Plan of Management

Riverglade Reserve


1.5 HISTORY OF MANAGEMENT The building known as the Priory gave Hunters Hill its first architectural landmark which still currently resides within the reserve at over 100 years old, the architect who designed the priory was named William Weaver. The Marists turned the site into a vineyard to produce wine, which they produced for 50 years to the 1890’s when disease wiped out the vines, these wines were believed to be some of the first wines produced in Australia. The Priory is one of the significant heritage features at the Riverglade Reserve, which is registered with National Trust for retention within a defined curtilage. Other significant heritage features are the air raid shelter and the farm attendant’s cottage. The air raid shelter is located on the southern side of the Priory while the farm attendants cottage at the eastern side. Tarban Creek appears in poems about Hunter’s Hill and is one of two precincts in Hunters Hill which reflect the ideals of the garden suburb movement. The project was undertaken in 1919 by the NSW government. The following chronologically history of the reserve has been compiled using the following sources:

2009 draft PoM

The Priory Conservation Management Plan (CMP)

LPMA Records

DATE USE/ACTIVITY

1836 Thomas Stubbs buys 2 adjoining allotments (18 acres, or 7.4 ha) in area now known as Riverglade Reserve.

Used as a working farm then occupied by Stubbs family.

Stubbs cottage (later to be known as “The Priory”) built.

1845 Early vineyard establish by visitors French Brother Stephen Chaurain.

1845 –1847

Marist order purchase property.

1847 First permanent name of Marist Brothers in Australia and base for their south pacific.

The Marist’s move out early 1860’s to their new Villa Maria on Northern side of Tarban Creek (now called Villa Maria Theological College).

1857 House extended under early Victorian architect.

Land continues to William Weaver, for med, extended vineyards

1874 Thomas Salter purchases the property from the Marist’s.

1876 The Priory extended.

1888 NSW Dept. of Health purchased the property.

Renamed Gladesville Hospital Asylum or Tarban Creek Asylum.

Many original outbuildings removed and new hospital buildings constructed.

Late victoria “pleasure gardens” develops.


Plan of Management

Riverglade Reserve


Continued farming and food production

1901-1930

Golf course occupied some of the reserve site.

Some cropping and agriculture continued

1950 – 1980s

The Priory building undergoes restoration in mid 1980’s.

Reclamation of 3 ha land Tarban Creek foreshore.

Tip, uncontrolled landfill operated at site until 1982.

1996 Reserve 100263 gazetted 07 June, 1996 Hunters Hill Council appointed Reserve Trust.

2004 The Priory listed in the State Heritage register. Curtilage identified as the whole of Riverglade and Tarban Creek itself.

2007 Many years of managing the reserve Hunter’s Hill Council and community lobbying for “The Priory” to remain in community ownership for public access. Culminate in an agreement between the Health Dept. and Dept. Lands for The Priory to be added to the Crown Reserve system, Reserve No 100263.

- Gazetted 5 Oct 2007, officially handed over by the Minister November 1 2007.

2009 Conservation Management Plan for the Priory completed.


Plan of Management

Riverglade Reserve


1.6 DESCRIPTION OF LAND Riverglade Reserve (Crown Reserve No. 100263) comprises of two Crown owned allotments as follows:

Lot 1 D.P. 823988. (6,962m2)

Lot 2 D.P. 823988 (11.12ha) For the purposes of this PoM, “The Reserve” also includes land adjacent to the Priory that is in the process of being transferred to Council. It includes two allotments, as follows:

Lot 3 D.P. 1128452 (1.033ha)

Lot 4 D.P. 1128452 (117.6m2) The total area of the Riverglade Reserve, including all afore mentioned allotments, is 12.9 Ha (approx.). A map of the site and associated lands is provided on the following page. The land in the process of being transferred to Council is identified on the map as the “unshaded” land adjacent to the Priory and within the Crown Reserve marked in Red.


Plan of Management

Riverglade Reserve


1.7 LAND STATUS & PURPOSE Riverglade Reserve (Reserve No. 100263 comprising Lot 1 DP 823988) was reserved for the purpose of “public recreation” by the NSW State Government on 7th June 1996. Hunters Hill Council was appointed Reserve Trust on this same date. The Priory (Lot 2 DP 823988) was added to the reserve (Reserve No. 100263) in 2007 and gazetted on the 5th October 2007.

1.8 RESERVE MANAGEMENT The Riverglade Reserve is managed by the Hunters Hill Council, as the appointed Reserve Trust. Riverglade Reserve Trust (the Trust) is charged with the care, control & management of the Riverglade Reserve pursuant to Section 92 of the Crown Lands Act 1989 (the “Act”). However, when a council or a corporation is appointed as manager, decisions regarding the operation of the reserve must be made in accordance with the rules which govern the Council’s operations or the corporation’s own constitution, as applicable, as well as the Crown Lands Act 1989. As reserve trust manager, a council has all the functions of a council under the Local Government Act 1993 in relation to public reserves. However the council has no power to classify the Crown reserve under the Local Government Act and only has power to grant leases, licenses and easements over reserves, if authorised by the Minister and only in certain circumstances (as defined by the Minister for Lands). In effect, this means the Council as The Trust can make decisions about regulating such things as:

the way in which the reserve is used

the driving and parking of vehicles (or the mooring of vessels) on the reserve

hours of entry

fees to be charged for entry

permitted or prohibited activities. For a full description of Crown Reserve Trust Management roles & responsibilities and regulatory compliance please refer to the Department of Lands “Reserve Trust Handbook” at www.lpma.gov.nsw.au or the relevant Sections of the Act, also at www.lpma.gov.nsw.au.

1.9 DESCRIPTION OF RESERVE FEATURES AND FACILITIES The Reserve comprises open space and a range of facilities and infrastructure, including:

Main central, walking track

The Footbridge and access to Joly Parade.

Playing fields

http://www.lpma.gov.nsw.au/

http://www.lpma.gov.nsw.au/


Plan of Management

Riverglade Reserve


Constructed Wetlands, both at western and eastern end of Reserve

Recreation areas (Passive)

The Priory

Boardwalks and creek viewing platforms at Manning Road Entry.

Carparking (On-street Manning Road 19 space)

Seawall

Remnant bushland, off Richmond Crescent, wetlands and on Southern Slopes.


Section Two: Basis for Management


Plan of Management

Riverglade Reserve


2.0 INTRODUCTION

This section of the report outlines the policy framework for the PoM, including reserve values, vision, objectives, management principles and blue print for the future management of the Riverglade Reserve. Key study findings, strategic directions, action planning and recommendations are found in Section 3 of this report.

2.1 VALUES OF THE RESERVE AREA The land is reserved under the Crown Lands Act 1989 for the public purposes of “public recreation”. Following evaluation of current and future potential use and management, application of LPMA policy and consideration of consultation, the following values have been determined to relate to the Riverglade Reserve. The strategies and outcomes outlined in this plan have been devised to protect and enhance these values.

2.1.1 Recreation Recreation can be defined as: “Any form of play, amusement, etc. used for refreshment of body or mind.” (Collins Australian Pocket English Dictionary) Riverglade Reserve has a long history of providing an environment for refreshment of “body or mind”, from the days of the Marist Brothers, in providing settings and activities to rehabilitate asylum patients, including its use as a Golf Course, and now as an open space, natural bushland area and cultural precinct providing local residents with a refuge from a highly urbanised lifestyle and opportunities to participate in sport and cultural activities and events. The general theme today is for family orientated, passive recreation based in a natural bushland and modified open space reserve environ. Sport is also played at the reserve, but is secondary to passive recreation. Riverglade Reserve provides spaces and facilities for a diverse range of passive recreation opportunities including but not limited too; walking, bike riding, dog walking, family activities and picnicking, water based activities such as kayaking & canoeing, nature care & observation, relaxation & contemplation. Sporting opportunities are largely associated with the outdoor sports fields located in the Eastern Basin area. Current booked activities include Soccer, School Sport, Fitness & Wellness activities, however, a range of outdoor sports activities could be potentially hosted on the playing fields, subject to availability. Traditionally, recreational use has been associated predominantly with residents of the immediate local area and there is a strong sense of ownership and shared responsibility for the management of the Reserve. However, continued urban development, population growth in the region, increasing participation trends in outdoor recreation activities and in sports field based sport, particularly Soccer and Rugby, has


Plan of Management

Riverglade Reserve


seen usage of the reserve increase, users come from a broader catchment area and the Reserves importance as a district outdoor recreational area and sports reserve elevated. In the future there is likely to be a greater need to allow access to the site for commercial activities and special events associated with The Priory, in order to ensure the facilities ongoing financial viability and conservation and a greater need and demand for access to the site for sport, associated with the playing fields. Hunters Hill Draft Recreation Strategy 2012 has identified very high demand for sports field based sports in the Municipality and the need for greater access to outdoor sports playing fields over the next 10+ yrs. Many existing sports fields are at or near full capacity, for their condition and at full occupancy in peak times. The Hunter’s Hill Draft Recreation Strategy, has also identified very high demand currently and in the future for passive and outdoor recreation activities such as walking, cycling/bike riding, running, gardening/nature conservation, family and social activities such as going to the park for play and picnicking, as well as water based activities such as kayaking and canoeing. The most desired recreation improvement indicated by residents for Hunters Hill Council to focus on in the future was tracks, trails and linkages, which Riverglade Reserve is an important link. Similarly, Riverglade Reserve is one of only a few local open space areas in the south west of the Municipality and has an important role in providing recreation opportunities aligned to local residential needs. Similarly, it is one of only a few reserves in Hunters Hill that has the quality, capacity & flexibility to accommodate a wide variety of recreation activities, and is a pivotal element of the overall provision of recreation and open space in the Hunters Hill area.

2.1.2 European Cultural Heritage The building known as the Priory gave Hunters Hill its first architectural landmark which still currently resides within the reserve at over 100 years old. The architect who designed the Priory was named William Weaver, a notable late Victorian Architect. After being used as a working farm, by Thomas Stubbs, the areas first land owner, the Marists brothers bought Stubbs cottage (renaming it Villa Maria) and the farm as a base for their South Pacific operations and retreat for the brothers. The Marists continued to operate the site to produce their own food and established a vineyard to produce wine, which they produced for 50 years to the 1890’s when disease wiped out the vines. These wines are believed to be some of the first wines produced in Australia. The Priory itself, is the most significant heritage feature at the Riverglade Reserve. It is registered with the National Trust for retention within a defined cartilage, inclusive of the entire Riverglade Reserve. A diagram of the Priory curtilage is provided below.


Plan of Management

Riverglade Reserve


Source: NSW State Heritage Inventory (DBE. 5003310), as reproduced in The Priory CMP.

The following statement of significance is reproduced from the NSW State Heritage Register and upon its listing in 2004. “The Priory is a complex cultural landscape formed by the aesthetic and historic relationship of its harbourside location, the topography of the site, natural and introduced vegetation, open space and a variety of buildings and structures. The Priory has historic associations with early settlement, the advent of the Marist order in Australia and with mental health care for more than a century. The main Priory building is a major landscape element, being a fine example of the colonial regency style of architecture, designed by William Weaver. In addition to Weaver’s building, the site contains outbuildings, remnant structures and archaeological features that are heritage items in their own right. The Priory site includes areas of natural vegetation and historic plantings, as well as evidence of the use of the building for farming purposes. The significance, meaning and interpretation of the building, outbuildings archaeological sites and landscape are integral to one another. 1847-1874 Colonial Regency building and site. First permanent home of the Marist Fathers in Australia, their base for the South Pacific, and their first, purpose-built Procure house. Integral to the history of the original Gladesville Asylum (later renamed) for over 100 years, and hence the history of psychiatric care in NSW.” Key physical elements of its listing and grading of significance are highlighted below. (For full details, please refer to the Priory Conservation Management Plan)


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High significance-

The cottage and a majority of the associated original, internal and external features.

Sandstone walls

Stone chemical store

External stone landscaping features including steps, retaining walls and paths

Remnant stone building foundations

Air raid shelter

Steel cattle grid

Verandahs to the west of the weaver wing and south of the Slater wing

Shed remains, west of the air raid shelter

Other significant heritage features of the Reserve include the air raid shelter which is located on the southern side of the Priory and the farm attendant’s cottage at the eastern side of the Reserve. A small orchard of about a dozen trees still exists in this area and may be associated with its former use. The broader reserve area also has a rich and significant history and local residents have provided the following brief historical account of the use and development of the area now within the Reserve, which has been corroborated by the Hunters Hill Historical Society and Heritage Architect. Before the Priory was built and the Tarban Creek canal was constructed, it is thought there was a small stone cottage and pump house adjacent a storm water weir situated on the corner of Manning Road and Tarban Street. The stormwater was captured via a gate under Manning Road. Settlers and farmers lived in cottages on the southern slopes of the “Riverglades” east of the Priory, and used the water from the lake to irrigate market gardens and grow food and vegetables to feed the inmates of the Gladesville Lunatic asylum on the southern side of Victoria Road.

Vineyards were located on the slopes, east of the Priory to produce wine for the Church. The grapes were transported across the Weir and along a track which runs along the northern side of the creek within the Marist Fathers land. The track is supported by a handmade cut stone retaining wall, still evident today.

In the 19th century the river was used for transport, associated with the Priory and it’s use. A wharf and the sea walls that still exist today facilitated this water transport route. The Wharf/Jetty was located east of the now ‘basin” area, on the northern side of the creek, at the end of De Milhau Road. Prior to the cut block stone seawalls being built to embank the river and bay, the upper reaches of the bay and “Riverglades” basin area, especially at low tide, was a flat muddy salt marshland creek area. It is thought, the mud was so thick and like quicksand that it claimed a man’s life (potentially an asylum escapee) in the early 1800”s. The flat mown lawn sports ground area, as seen now, was man made to create a nine hole golf course to be used by the inhabitant and staff of the Lunatic asylum and for rest & recovery for the missionaries returning from the south pacific islands who stayed at the Priory. The whole area has had many signs of the original aboriginal inhabitants. The bay was abundant with fish, crab, rock oyster, fresh water from upper Tarban Creek and a spring behind Rocher Ave. There was shelter with rock shelves for living and a scattering of middens.

It is thought the name Tarban descended from an Aboriginal word and was named by the Surveyor-General Thomas Mitchell In 1828. Thomas Mitchell was well known to name districts after Aboriginal titles and it is understood that Mitchell named the area Tarban Creek after the Aboriginal named geographical feature of the area. So from the early 1930’s on the area became known as Tarban Creek.


Plan of Management

Riverglade Reserve


By 1838, the Tarban Creek Lunatic Asylum was opened but it was not until a subdivision of John Glade’s land was completed in 1856 that the name changed to Gladesville.

In 1869, the Tarban Creek Lunatic Asylum was renamed “Gladesville Hospital for the Insane” and by the 1960s it was simply called Gladesville Hospital.

Before 1997 and the Huntleys Cove housing settlement was built, there were many outbuildings scatted over the site that supported the Lunatic Asylum (Gladesville Hospital for the insane). This area was connected by two tunnels under Victoria Rd. to the main hospital on the southern side. One narrow tunnel for walking and the other is a one way vehicle tunnel wide enough for a horse and buggy.

2.1.3. Aboriginal Cultural Heritage

When Hunters Hill was charted in 1788, by Captain John Hunter, the land was the eastern limit of the Aboriginal people of the Ryde district, the Wallumategal. It is thought the Wallumategal people may have known the peninsula as Moco Boula, meaning 'two waters.' Captain John Hunter made careful notes in his journal, of the Aboriginal shelters, made out of 'a soft crumbly sandy stone' in the area, and observed that some caves 'would lodge 40 or 50 people.' [3] It is thought by the 1830s, when the first white settlers came to the Hunters Hill area, and the Riverglade Reserve was first bought by Thomas Stubbs (1837) , the Aboriginal people had died from smallpox or been driven from their land. However, Archaeological sites, including axe grinding grooves, rock engravings and middens, remain in pockets of bushland and undeveloped stretches of foreshore across Hunters Hill, and including at Riverglade Reserve. (Source: Sydney Journal 2009, part of the Dictionary of Sydney Project. Sourced from, Beverley Sherry, Hunter's Hill: Australia's Oldest Garden Suburb, David Ell Press, Sydney, 1989.) In 2004 Hunter’s Hill Council commissioned the Aboriginal Heritage Office to undertake a comprehensive archaeological survey and assessment of Aboriginal heritage in the LGA .i.e. Aboriginal Site Management Report (Aboriginal Heritage Office, 2004). This report and the National Parks & Wildlife aboriginal heritage database indicates the Reserve contains a number of cultural sites and places of significance to the local aboriginal community, some of which are known to be of high importance. Aboriginal sites and relics are protected under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974, and statutory responsibility for the sites and relics around the Parramatta River lies with the Office of Environment & Heritage. A licence must be obtained from the Office prior to carrying out any proposed works in relation to known Aboriginal sites. An archaeological assessment should also be undertaken and a notification will need to be made to the native Title claimants under the Native Title Act, 1993.

2.1.4 Economic Values

Crown reserves across NSW provide important social, economic and environmental assets and opportunities. If allowed to be developed and used appropriately, The Priory could add significantly to Hunter’s Hill’s economic and tourism activity and success, particularly as a functions and meetings venue arts/creative industries precinct and associated events venue. Indeed this type of adaptive re-use of the


Plan of Management

Riverglade Reserve


Priory is essential in providing revenue to support the building and associated significant sites/areas ongoing conservation. It is likely, the reserve itself has a high land value and contributes to the market value of neighbouring properties.

2.1.5 Community & Social Values

Riverglade Reserve, like many Crown Reserves of its kind around NSW provides important social infrastructure for the local community and people of Hunters Hill. The Reserve has long been used and become a focal point for community life, with recreation, sport, social gatherings, community leisure, education, learning and development activities the most common uses of the site. Important Community and Social values include: Sense of Identity

Extensive consultation with the Hunters Hill community undertaken for the project reveals a strong sense of ownership & identity with the Riverglade Reserve. Many community members have had a long association with the site of several decades and cite the Reserve as integral to the social & cultural fabric of the Hunters Hill community & its way of life. Coupled with this sense of ownership & identity is a strong sense of custodianship amongst users and the need or responsibility to protect & enhance this important public asset for future generations. Health & Wellbeing

Riverglade Reserve contributes to the health & wellbeing of the local community and to visitors. It provides a place for physical activity, mental stimulation, contemplation & social connection. Similarly, Riverglade Reserve is well placed to capitalise on recent growth trends in community desire to get “back to basics”, participate in health & wellbeing activities. Arts

Riverglade Reserve has long been a place for artistic expression, in its design, development & presentation. In the future, it is hoped that the Priory will become a hub for the arts in Hunters Hill and provide spaces for art exhibition and creative industries, local history museum and a space that facilitates use of the reserve for outdoor cinema, festivals, music and performances. It is envisaged this use would sit alongside, other complimentary commercial uses of The Priory, such as cafe and hospitality. Learning

The Riverglade Reserve has traditionally and will continue to be used by local schools and the community as a place of recreation and learning.


Plan of Management

Riverglade Reserve


2.1.6 Environment & Biodiversity Values

As noted in the previous plan of management, Riverglade Reserve is located in the suburb of Gladesville and has original remnant bushland which is believed to pre date 1788. Bushland is defined broadly to include all habitats within it.

The significance of remnant bushland and estuarine communities is high as it provides a vegetated link between the marine environment of the Sydney Harbour and the adjacent catchment. This is increasingly rare as harbour side land is developed across Sydney. The eco systems represented in the area are diverse providing a great range of habitats for flora and fauna. They compromise:

Marine waters and shores of Sydney Harbour

Estuarine sediments/mudflats in Tarban Bay and Creek;

Estuarine Mangrove Forests;

Estuarine Saltmarsh which is an Endangered Ecological Community (EEC Coastal Saltmarsh under the Threatened Species Act 1995);

Coastal Freshwater Swamp Forest (EEC Sydney Freshwater Wetlands under the TSC Act 1995);

Aquatic ecosystems of Tarban Creek and its tributary;

Coastal Sandstone Foreshore Forest Estuarine Mangrove Forest and Coastal Sandstone Foreshore Forest are threatened at a local level due to extent of community across the LGA. Two rare plants species have been identified along Tarban Creek – Darwinia biflora (2Vca – Threated Species Conservation Act) and Genoplesium bauera (3RC – ROTAP). No rare or vulnerable fauna was reported by fauna expert Dion Hobcroft although the study area was described as being quite biodiverse considering the level of human impact. There is potential to create and attract more species to the study area through careful rehabilitation and regeneration. In April 2009, a tree management plan for the Priory was decided on by Integrated Vegetation Management, which describes the Priory’s trees, the significance of them and the landscape character they create. All of the naturally significant items identified require protection since they define the look and feel of the Riverglade Reserve. The ecosystems and biodiversity of the reserve are significant locally and regionally, given the decline of natural areas within greater Sydney. The presence of this remnant bushland on Sydney Harbour with such a high variety of ecosystems is increasingly rare. The need of protection is increased due to the recreational use of the area, especially because of the increasing urbanisation occurring on the periphery of Riverglade Reserve.


Plan of Management

Riverglade Reserve


2.2 VISION

The Riverglade Reserves Trusts vision for the Riverglade Reserve is: “Through community empowerment, management of Riverglade Reserve for community recreation, ecological and cultural heritage sustainability”. In developing the vision, we have drawn on the visions of the past two plans of management and broadly consistent with what has occurred at the reserve in the past.

2.3 MISSION

Our Mission is to: “To retain the existing ambience, character, range and balance of conservation, recreational and sport opportunities for the enjoyment of the community”

2.4 MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVES

The management objectives for the Riverglade Reserve Trust, in terms of the Vision and Values outlined above, are as follows:

o To ensure that the ongoing use and management of the Riverglade Reserve significantly contributes to the environmental, social and cultural sustainability of the Hunters Hill community;

o To preserve and enhance the values of the Riverglade Reserve for future generations;

o To enhance & ensure ongoing community involvement in the planning and management of the

Riverglade Reserve.

o To work with the community and other agencies to ensure effective management of the Riverglade Reserve.

o To identify, and develop strategies to manage environmental issues that affect the site (i.e. Water

& Land Use Catchment Issues, Wildlife Corridors Enhancement, Weed Management and Visitor Use)

o To ensure facility provision & activities conducted at the Riverglade Reserve address identified

community needs, are in keeping with the Reserve Values, are feasible & operationally viable and meet required risk management principles & practice (i.e. OH&S, Duty of Care, Insurance etc.).


Plan of Management

Riverglade Reserve


2.5 GUIDING PRINCIPLES

As mentioned in Section 1 above, the planning and management of the Riverglade Reserve will be guided by the provisions of the Crown Lands Act 1989. Overarching Principles of Crown Land Management are outlined in Section 11 of the Act, and cited in Volume Two of this Plan of Management. Council, as the Riverglade Reserve Trust, has developed guiding principles for the future management of the Riverglade Reserve, incorporating the Principles of Crown Land Management, the unique characteristics of the Riverglade Reserve use, culture, environmental and recreational planning principles. The principles guide how the Riverglade Reserve Trust approach future planning, development & management of the Reserve and to which all strategy initiatives tie back to and help realise. There are 11 overall principles as follows: 1. Working together, within the Trust, with key users and stakeholder, the community, the region,

government & non-government organisations, creating the ongoing structures, links and partnerships to maintain & enhance sense of ownership & identity, increase involvement, levels of usage & financial viability.

2. Balancing community & user needs with operational imperatives. 3. Outcome focussed planning, management & funding priorities assessed against strategy direction,

identified need and appropriate triple bottom line benchmarks 4. Leadership by the Trust in the planning, management, co-ordination, funding and resource

allocation to realise the vision & implement strategy initiatives. This will require attention to good governance principles of equity, fairness, transparency and accountability.

5. Facility provision based on increased shared and multi-use, high quality and safety standards,

environmentally sustainable and flexible design 6. Where appropriate & achievable improvement of existing facilities, before provision of new

facilities 7. Recognise & continue to support high levels of use by a broad & diverse range of users in

developing policies, systems and infrastructure. 8. Business orientated management to ensure sustainable & viable operations 9. Communicating with the community, potential “customers” and marketing networks about what’s

on offer and involving the community & stakeholders in the planning and development. 10. Evaluation and monitoring performance on a regular basis (assessed against recognised and

relevant benchmarks and levels of customer satisfaction). 11. Sustainable, environmentally responsible and enhancement based approach to facility & service

planning and development.


Plan of Management

Riverglade Reserve


The vision, objectives and guiding principles form the basis and guide for the range of future strategy initiatives, as the diagram below indicates.

MARKET RESEARCH AND CONSULTATION FINDINGS

VALUES & NEEDS IDENTIFIED

VISION

OBJECTIVES & GUIDING

PRINCIPLES

STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS

ACTIONS


Section Three: Strategy & Action Plan


Plan of Management

Riverglade Reserve


3.0 BLUE PRINT FOR MANAGEMENT The key findings from the Study's research and consultation have been developed into the Plan of Management Strategy, Recommendations, Action Plan and Concept Masterplan which is detailed on the following pages.

The following “Plan in Brief” provides a “Blue Print” for managing Riverglade Reserve in the future. The Plan in Brief summarises the overarching direction, approach and the intent which is born out in the detailed action planning. It is the plan “at a glance” and is provided to help Council as the Trust & key stakeholders to understand and to clearly communicate the way forward.

The Plan in Brief The Management Approach

• Retain existing ambience, character, range and balance of conservation, recreational and sport opportunities at the Reserve.

• Expand the Reserve purpose, to take account of the addition of the Priory to the Reserve and future management needs and objectives.

• Work within Council’s limited resources - prioritise maintaining existing improvements to a high

standard over new improvements.

• Improved community & stakeholder involvement & engagement Protect Reserve Values and associated attributes

• Responsible environment & heritage management in line with existing strategies (i.e. EVRAP, CMP).

• Work with neighbours to minimise neighbourhood impacts, enhance corridor development. – Secure future of Villa Maria remnant bushland – Manage vegetation to minimise neighbourhood impacts

• Development of interpretation/orientation plan to encourage understanding & responsible use of

the Reserve

• Maintain balanced access and opportunities for local sport, including: – Limited hours, days and persons per hour – Provision of minimal infrastructure to support use & minimise neighbourhood impacts

• Continue to allow and improve management of dogs on-leash & off-leash

• Improve paths within the Reserve and neighbourhood linkages

• Provide new infrastructure to support local use and meet identified needs: – Playground/Playspace – New on reserve and off reserve car parking & joint use of the Priory car-park – Small toilet


Plan of Management

Riverglade Reserve


3.1 STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS, ACTIONS & RECOMMENDATIONS The following diagram identifies the key strategic initiative areas, which have guided the plan directions & action planning, as detailed in the tables below.

3.2 ACTION PLAN The Action Plan tables include the following sections & key headings:

Summary of the study findings

Strategic Directions

Recommendations/Actions

Priorities

Resourcing

The Priority column within the tables indicates a time line for each recommendation and includes the following key.

Immediate 1-3 yrs High (H)

Medium 4-7 yrs Medium (M)

Long 7+ yrs Low (L)

Continual Ongoing (ON)

•Vegetation

•Fauna

•Catchment

Biodiversity & Conservation

•European Heritage

•Aboriginal Heritage Cultural Heritage Conservation

•Passive Recreation

•Sport

•Access & Amenities

•Orientation & Interpretation

Recreation & Vistor Services

•Funding & Resources

•Communication & Involvement Management & Operations

STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS, ACTIONS &

RECOMMENDATIONS

CONCEPT MASTERPLAN


Plan of Management

Riverglade Reserve


KEY ISSUES, STATEGY, ACTIONS & RECOMMENDATIONS

CONSERVATION & BIODIVERSITY MANAGEMENT

AREA KEY ISSUES STRATEGY DIRECTION RECOMMENDATIONS/ACTIONS PRIORITY ESTIMATED

COST

PARTNERS/ OTHER LINKED DOCUMENTS

Catchment & Neighbourhood Impacts

Riverglade Reserve connects with Tarban Creek Reserve to the north west and Betts Park to the south east. There is a need to secure adjacent and local remnant bushland areas, where possible to increase the size and value of the reserve for conservation and to enhance the wildlife corridor.

Implement the EVRAP and Parramatta River Estuary Coastal Zone Management Plan (CZMP).

Work with RMS, UNSW Rowing Club & Huntley’s Cove Body Corporation & residents to secure long-term conservation and enhance habitat values of the adjoining remnant bushland on adjacent properties.

M N/A

RMS, Huntley’s Cove Body Corp, UNSW, Habitat

Network

The Marist Brothers Villa Maria bushland is highly important to the future integrity of the remnant bushland, maintenance of biodiversity and aesthetic & scenic values of the Riverglade Reserve. The site has been recently zoned E2 in Council’s Draft LEP.

Enhance long-term security and conservation of Villa Maria bushland areas.

Work with Marist Brother’s Order to develop bushland management plan for their bushland, adjoining the reserve. Consider options for reinstating walking track access to Richmond Crescent.

Investigate options/mechanisms to ensure the Villa Maria bushland is conserved for future generations. Consider: Heritage Protection as one protection mechanism.

H In house staff

resources Habitat

Network

Activities of reserve neighbours have encroached upon the reserve and degraded remnant bushland areas, particularly around the old farm cottage and UNSW Rowing Club.

Improve management of reserve boundaries

Work with neighbours to improve understanding of encroachment issues

Improve on-ground delineation of reserve boundaries

Implement EVRAP with respect to encroachment areas.

M $10K Cap. Ex.

$1 K pa

Riverglade Reserve contains three highly significant estuarine vegetation communities.

Estuarine Mangrove Forest

Estuarine Saltmarsh (EEC)

Coastal Freshwater Swamp Forest (EEC- component of Sydney

Freshwater Wetlands)

Manage threats to highly significant estuarine communities

Regularly clean & maintain, and upgrade gross pollutant traps as per SWMAP for LGA.

Investigate feasibility of providing artificial habitats to assist migration of these communities to the southern

H L

See Delivery Plan

Grant Funding

EVRAP, Ecological

Assessment of Saline Wetlands at Tarban Creek and Tambourine

Bay Creek


Plan of Management

Riverglade Reserve




COST


EECs are listed under the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995. Key neighbourhood and catchment threats include:

Stormwater & run-off issues resulting in weed infestation, gross pollution & nitrification and sedimentation

Inhibited migration resulting from sea wall and in-stream barriers, and

Impacts of sea level rise resulting from climate change.

side of the creek.

Continue regular water quality monitoring of Tarban Creek.

Regularly clean sediment ponds in line with design specifications (10 yrs)

Investigate options and feasibility of regrading turf area adjacent intertidal zone or making changes to seawall to accommodate sea level rise.

ON

M L

Existing Operational

Plan

$60 K

Grant Funds (Biodiversity)

(Pulkownik, 2010),

Parramatta River Estuary

Processes Study

OEH

Occasional Illegal dumping has the potential to introduce weeds and other contaminants to the site and should be discouraged.

Educate on impacts & discourage residents from illegal dumping activity

Education of local community

Continue council Litter & Illegal dumping action plan

ON Existing Operational

Plan

Body Corporate OEH

Garden plants (escapees) are a significant source of weeds and make up a large proportion of invasive weeds at the reserve.

Educate on impacts & encourage removal of weed species in neighbouring suburbs

Educate local residents of “garden escapees’ and impacts on reserve.

Encourage removal of weed spp.

ON Existing Operational

Plan

Sydney Weeds Committee

Harbour and Foreshore Views are important to immediate neighbours particularly in Fryar Place & Mortimer-Lewis Drive), not only for their scenic value, but for their impact on property values and perception of safety & security.

Manage reserve vegetation & wildlife corridors to take account of neighbour view lines & security.

Implement EVRAP wildlife corridor as defined in EVRAP report”, with intent to maintain sight lines, through plant selection & location,

Review species planting list to minimise canopy heights & plantings in neighbour view lines. Consider: Maximum Height 1.5m at Fryar Place

H Existing Cap. Ex.

$5K pa

Operational

EVRAP, Habitat

Network


Plan of Management

Riverglade Reserve




COST


and Waruda Place.

Develop Schematic Elevation Diagram for consultation with neighbours prior to planting

Review planting plans for compliance with Safer by Design Principles to maximise, where practical, passive surveillance from within reserve and by neighbours.

There is concern amongst some community members that a small section of the reserve on the Southern Slopes, adjacent Huntley Cove, contains exposed hazardous materials that have not been removed or appropriately capped. Previous contamination reports for the reserve indicate there was some contamination, however Council records indicate this material was removed and remediated as part of the Huntley Cove development.

Undertake more detailed site investigations into contamination issues and remediate as required.

H Existing Budgets

EPA

Vegetation Management, Recovery & Expansion

The management of native & exotic vegetation communities is imperative to the long-term protection & survival of native flora & fauna species currently inhabiting the area. Consultation with community and stakeholders indicates the importance of different vegetation communities, particularly exotics, and the strategic management directions as outlined in the EVRAP are not well understood. In order to achieve good outcomes, council, the community and stakeholders will need to understand and work together towards a shared vision for vegetation & fauna habitat conservation. Council has limited resources to manage and improve vegetation communities, which strongly influences the recommended vegetation management strategies identified in the EVRAP. Any future revegetation work needs to be of a high quality to replicate the

Manage vegetation communities in following priority order, as identified in the EVRAP:

Remaining areas of remnant bushland which have had minimal soil disturbances and have had relatively intact soil profiles and seed banks.

Isolated remnant canopy trees

Rehabilitated areas surrounding & adjoining

Continue to implement relevant EVRAP Actions.

Develop & Implement ongoing communication with local community & stakeholders (see also Reserve Management & Operations)

ON Existing Budgets

Habitat Network


Plan of Management

Riverglade Reserve




COST


species assemblage and density and to avoid long-term operational/maintenance costs.

remnant bushland

Current & future rehabilitated areas comprised of local indigenous species

Rehabilitated areas comprised on non-local indigenous species with areas that are heavily weed infested

Revegetate Coastal Sandstone Foreshore Forest based on EVRAP recommended density (i.e. 3 trees, 50 shrubs, 80 groundcovers per 10 sq. m).

Weed Management

The reserve has five weeds of national significance (WONS) - Boneseed (Chrsanthemoides monilifera), Blackberry (Rubus fruticocus), Asparagus Fern Asparagus aethiopicus; Lantana Lantana camara; Madeira Vine Anredera cordifolia The Reserve has 15 noxious weeds. Noxious weeds must be controlled or eradicated as required by the Noxious Weeds Act 1993. Council has limited resources to manage weed infestations and some weeds provide important fauna habitat (i.e. Lantana) and both these factors this strongly influences the recommended strategies in the EVRAP.

Manage weeds in following priority order, as identified in the EVRAP:

Noxious weeds, within & nearby remnant bushland areas, followed by rehabilitated areas.

Implement EVRAP Actions ON Existing Operational

Plan

EVRAP, Sydney Weeds

Committee


Plan of Management

Riverglade Reserve




COST


Fire Management

The history of fire management practices in Riverglade Reserve is not well understood. There is a need to implement a fire management regime for two main reasons: the protection of human life & property & for conservation of biodiversity. Some communities in Riverglade reserve require fire to maintain species diversity and for their long-term viability (i.e. Coastal Sandstone Foreshore Forest). Others do not (i.e. Estuarine Communities, Coastal Freshwater Swamp Forest, Exotics)

Ecological or quasi-hazard reduction burning of between 12-20 years regularity, to maintain diversity in vegetation communities and fauna habitats.

Implement relevant EVRAP actions with respect to Coastal Sandstone Foreshore Forest remnant bushland areas.

Exclude rehabilitated areas, estuarine communities and exotic areas recommended to be maintained for fauna habitat.

L N/A (post 2022)

EVRAP, NSW Fire & Rescue

Fauna Management

Riverglade Reserve is notable for its diverse range of fauna species, many of whom are locally extinct or listed vulnerable species under the NSW Threatened Species Act. This diversity is a result of the diverse range, age and structural complexity of habitats and vegetation communities, both native & exotic, existing in the reserve. The last full fauna species survey was completed in 1999, the results of which can be found in the EVRAP report. A summary of fauna types & associated habitats include: Exotic weeds around Tarban Creek

The last local populations of small passerine birds,

Arboreal Mammals (Ring-tail possums)

Ground mammals (Short beaked echidna, Brown Antechinus, Rattus Fuscipes)

Remnant bushland & Coastal Sandstone Foreshore Forest

Reptiles including the Eastern Water Skinks, Eastern Blue Tongue Lizard

Manage vegetation communities and habitats (including exotics) for diversity & complexity (mosaic) and to take account of Fauna management needs. Provide artificial habitats to assist fauna migration and population growth. Continue to enhance the wildlife corridor within and between reserves.

Implement Relevant EVRAP Action Plans.

Maintain nesting/feeding habitat trees (including exotics) for Grey-headed Flying Fox in and around reserve (subject to public liability priorities and environmental impact assessment).

Encourage fauna population growth by installing artificial habitat

- Nesting boxes for large birds/mammals

- Sandstone rock piles/boulders for reptiles

- Fish ladders in weir

- Create artificial reefs at base of seawall (boulders or habitat dumps)

Maintain exotic vegetation in mosaic pattern as habitat for small birds

Establish wildlife corridors as per EVRAP recommendations within the

ON Existing Operational Plan Budgets

EVRAP, Habitat

Network, River to River Project

Partners


Plan of Management

Riverglade Reserve




COST


Large sized Parrots & Cockatoos

Micro-Chiropteran bats Camphor Laurel, Ficus & Open Forest Communities

The Grey-headed Flying Fox Openspaces & Turfed Areas

Lapwing Plovers & Welcome Swallows Constructed wetlands/Stormwater Retention

Amphibians, fish, water birds & insects Freshwater habitat

Eastern snake necked turtle

Fresh water fish species Estuarine Communities & seawalls

Invertebrates, molluscs, gastropods, fish & wading birds

Intertidal organisms It is important to ensure the existing diversity of native species, and where possible re-introduced native species are assisted to retain viable & healthy populations at the reserve. Council has limited resources to manage and improve vegetation communities, which strongly influences the recommended fauna management strategies identified in the EVRAP.

reserve

Further enhance wildlife corridor linkages with reserves along the Parramatta River

Install wires signage at key locations (i.e. Manning Road)

Investigate options to re-introduce small mammal populations

Maintain old stags and forest debris


Plan of Management

Riverglade Reserve


CULTURAL HERITAGE MANAGEMENT


COST PARTNERS

Cultural Heritage Conservation

Riverglade Reserve inclusive of the Priory is highly culturally significant. The Priory itself is registered with the National Trust for retention within a defined curtilage inclusive of the entire Riverglade Reserve. In setting the site curtilage the State Heritage Office considered that the curtilage protects aboriginal heritage sites of significance, the remnant bushland to the north of Tarban Creek and significant Vistas/Views to and from the Priory. As the Priory and the entire reserve are listed, any future development works or major changes to the landscape proposed within the immediate vicinity of the Priory must involve the Heritage Office. The Priory Conservation Management Plan provides the authoritative overarching guiding document for the Priory’s future conservation and management, and the recommendations are brought to this plan. The Conservation Management Plan identifies a range of future potential uses as compatible with the Priory’s heritage and conservation status including:

Art exhibition & workshop

Local history museum

Café/tea room

Temporary space for outdoor space, cinema, festivals, music

Education

Private Residence

Community Open Days

Functions These uses are largely drawn from Councils Cultural Precinct Plan which seeks to encourage both community and commercial activities at the site to ensure its ongoing use, conservation and operational viability.

Expand Reserve Purpose Implement the Priory CMP

Seek Ministerial approval for the expansion of the reserve purpose to include “community” and “preservation of historic sites and building” to support future adaptive re-use of the Priory

Ensure the Heritage Office is informed of all future development proposals in the vicinity of the Priory.

Continue to implement CMP.

Continue to sensitively manage aboriginal cultural heritage sites

H

ON

ON

Existing Operational

Plan Budgets

Heritage Office, LPMA


Plan of Management

Riverglade Reserve


Council has limited resources to conserve and develop the site and therefore requires commercial investment to assist with the conservation process. Council has recently adopted a draft EOI seeking ideas and investment lessees for the Priory. The current reserve purpose “public recreation” is unlikely to be sufficiently broad to allow such activities to occur, and therefore consideration needs to be given to broaden the reserve purpose to include purposes more suitable to the conservation of the Priory being “Community” and “Preservation of Historic Sites and Buildings”. The Reserve is known to contain significant aboriginal heritage sites.


Plan of Management

Riverglade Reserve


RECREATION & VISTOR FACILITIES


COST PARTNERS

EXISTING RECREATION FACILITY IMPROVEMENTS

Community consultation indicates there is little or no desire for major change to the reserve. The overwhelming desire for the future management of the reserve, indicated by the community consultation was for passive recreation and to maintain the existing ambience, character, range and balance of recreational and sport opportunities offered at the Reserve. Further community & key stakeholders indicated they felt existing park areas and infrastructure should be maintained before developing new infrastructure. Community and stakeholders did however indicate a limited range of existing park visitor facilities that they would like to see improved or upgraded including but not limited to:

Provide more seating, shade and water bubblers

Interpretation & Orientation Signage

Pathways & Reserve Linkages

Dog Exercise Areas

Manage park to retain existing ambience, character, range and balance of recreational and sport opportunities offered at the Reserve.

Park Furniture Community & stakeholder consultation indicates a need and high priority for more park furniture and elements that support safe usage and enjoyment of the park such as seating, shade and water bubblers. Industry trends indicate parks and reserves are well used when there is a high level of amenities, particularly by families with small children and older people. Market research indicates the reserve is highly used by both of these groups. Future provision should be considered particularly adjacent the main walkway, sports field area and proposed future playground/playspace.

Encourage high levels of usage amongst families and older age groups through the provision of park furniture

Provide additional seating, shade and water bubblers, bike racks and possible BBQ at key activity hubs. Consider:

Key interest points on Main Walkway

Future playground/play space

Pond Area

M $15K


Plan of Management

Riverglade Reserve




COST PARTNERS

Orientation & Interpretation Consultation with park users and stakeholders indicates the current park orientation and directional signage is confusing, inconsistent from one sign to the next and often vandalised. A key example of this is the inconsistent signage informing park users of dog exercising areas. There is a need to provide clear and consistent signage within the park to ensure park users know and understand park rules and to minimise user conflicts. Likewise there is a need to manage vandalism of park signage. Riverglade Reserve has an impressive historical context, array of local stories and many cultural and natural heritage features that underpin the Reserves values and should be interpreted to facilitate understanding, empathy and desire to protect values and enjoyment of the Reserve by park visitors. Consultation with community and stakeholders indicated high levels of support to provide interpretation of the parks history and heritage. Interpretation could be delivered through a range of mediums including traditional mediums such as signage, through public art, heritage/cultural trails and physical design of place amongst others.

Improve park orientation signage & interpretation

Develop a park orientation signage & interpretation plan. Consider:

- Commissioning interpretive specialist.

- Signage points identified in the concept masterplan.

Investigate funding options to develop and implement an interpretive strategy.

H $20K Heritage Office, LPMA, Sydney Metro Land

Council

Pathways & Reserve Linkages Current pathways within the reserve include:

The main walkway/bike route from Manning Rd to Waruda Place,

Access & footbridge from Joly Parade,

Service lane from Manning Road adjacent the Priory, Key linkages include the Victoria Road bikeway under pass and informal linkages into Huntleys Cove. There is a linkage to the Gladesville Hospital Site, which would reinforce the historical connection of the two sites and facilitate use of both reserves. Public

Upgrade main walkway to meet appropriate standards for multi-use pathways Activate pedestrian linkage to Gladesville Hospital

Upgrade main walkway in a staged approach. Consider possible options to meet climate change and biodiversity requirements at the same time. Investigate options for provision of alternative cycle route south of sports fields to Waruda Pl. Council to continue to ensure tunnel is open during daylight hours and signage to be provided to improve access to the

M $150K


Plan of Management

Riverglade Reserve




COST PARTNERS

access to the Victoria Rd underpass through Huntleys Cove property was included as a condition of consent for the development. Public access is permitted. Background research and consultation indicates the key issues with pathways and reserve linkages include:

Safety concerns related to the narrow width of the main walkway to adequately accommodate bike riders, walkers, children and dogs and the close proximity to Tarban Creek without a barrier.

Lack of compliance with shared path standards of main walkway/cycle route

Need to provide formal entry into the reserve from Huntley’s Cove/Fryar Place

Provide path to proposed toilet block Future opportunities include: Activating the linkage to Gladesville Hospital Reserve via the existing Victoria Road underpass. Providing walking loops within the Reserve to encourage walking and physical activity

entrance from Huntleys Cove. Provide formal pathway from Riverglade Reserve to Fryar Place. Investigate options to provide pedestrian pathway on Manning Road.

Dog Exercise Areas Riverglade Reserve is a dog friendly reserve. Dogs are allowed in most areas of the reserve on-leash and “off-leash” from the ponds to, and including, the western half of the sports playing fields. Sports playing fields are time-shared with competitive sport. Dogs are not allowed on playing fields if sport is being played. This is self enforced and monitored by local users. Market research and consultation indicates dog walking/exercising are amongst the most popular activities undertaken at Riverglade Reserve and highly valued. Dog

Continue to allow dogs in the Reserve More clearly define dog friendly and off-limit zones within the park Improve awareness of dog lead and on-lead areas and responsibilities

Increase the “off leash” dog area to encompass the whole “basin” area Update Council policies and off-site communication about dog exercise areas and etiquette within the reserve Update & replace dog exercise area signage and “dog exclusion zones”

H $12K FERR


Plan of Management

Riverglade Reserve




COST PARTNERS

owners indicate that the activity is beneficial for owner health, socialisation and being part of the local community. Riverglade Reserve is highly important to dog owners as is one of only a few Reserves in Hunters Hill where dogs can be “off-leash”. Whilst there was initial concern by park users about the co-use of the sports field playing areas for health reasons, sports users have indicated no real issues that could not be managed with vigilance. Similarly, dog owners have expressed no lasting concerns around sports usage, except for the increased intensity of sport in last 12 months. Key issues raised with respect to dogs included their potential impacts on wildlife if accessing wildlife corridors and remnant bushland areas and the potential conflict with children around play areas and on the main walkway, due to the limited width of the path and close proximity to the water’s edge. Key issues raised by dog owners included a lack of clear signage as to where the off-leash area is in the park, causing confusion and conflict amongst dog and non-dog owners, the impractical nature of the dog leash area only encompassing part of the sports field area. Dog owners also expressed a desire for a “dog accessible cafe” at the Priory.

“Harden” the edge of priority remnant bushland and wildlife corridor areas to minimise dog access.

SPORT FACILITIES & MANAGEMENT

Sport has long been a part of the use of Riverglade Reserve, in the mid 20th century the site was a Golf Course and St Josephs College have been using the playing fields for two decades. Background research indicates Riverglade Reserves sports fields are an important asset in the overall levels of provision of sports fields locally and at a regional level and are required to meet current and future projected demand for sports fields based sport. Hunters Hill Draft Recreation Strategy indicates levels of participation in sport and

Future directions for facility provision and management of sport at Riverglade Reserve are: Manage sports facilities and usage to ensure balance between sport and community use of the reserve “basin” and to limit neighbourhood impacts.

Provide a maximum of one full size & one ¾ size rectangular playing fields for competitive sport. Continue to maintain and upgrade sports playing fields in line with Council asset management plan and draft Recreation Strategy. Limit sports usage by time and number of

H Existing budget

All Saints Hunters

Hill Football

Club Schools


Plan of Management

Riverglade Reserve




COST PARTNERS

recreation in Hunters Hill is high – residents are highly active. Furthermore levels of participation in sports field based sports such as soccer and rugby are played at rates 2-3 times the state average and that demand for these sports and other sports field based sports such as Cricket and AFL are projected to grow. This is placing considerable demand pressures on existing sports fields. A review of sports field usage, capacity and occupancy undertaken for the recreation strategy indicates existing Hunters Hill sports fields are at or near capacity for their standard and near full occupancy at peak times. The study found a lack of sports fields in Hunters Hill and across the region and recommends the provision of new sports fields and/or synthetic sports fields over the coming decade, as well as improved management of existing sports fields. Background research & consultation indicates that changes during 2011 season in usage of the playing fields, predominantly by the All Saints junior soccer club, saw a large increase in the number of people attending per hour and the length of time the sports fields are used over the weekend greatly extended. Similarly the number of sports fields has increased and expanded across the entire “basin” area. In 2012, sports usage of the reserve was reduced and the reserve provided 1 full size outdoor sports playing field, 1 ¾ size playing field and 1 mini field as required. Consultation with community and stakeholders indicates whilst a majority of residents are happy for sport to be played at the reserve, they do not support sport displacing other passive recreational uses/users of the reserve, nor is their support for major new club facility development. Community consultation indicates the recent increase in the intensity of sports usage has displaced local community and recreational users of the park and caused a number of issues for local residents including:

Traffic and Carparking issues around Joly Parade, Waruda Place and Manning Road.

Noise Impacts

Provide minimal level of amenities, storage & parking facilities to facilitate sports use and minimise neighbourhood and reserve impacts.

users per hour, including spectators, except on occasions where extenuating circumstances can be demonstrated. As follows:

No Sunday use, apart from very limited preseason usage during Feb & March on one field only.

No more than the equivalent of 2 senior/mid senior games to use the reserve at any one time. (i.e. this equates to 60 players, plus organisers & spectators).

Intent is to reduce ground area used by soccer pitches by moving them closer together, to maximise opportunity for other users to use the basin area, whilst sport in play.

(See also site concept masterplan & new facility development recommendations)


Plan of Management

Riverglade Reserve




COST PARTNERS

Inability to use the main walkway due to congestion from soccer spectators

Other park management issues include:

Degradation of bushland and impacts on wildlife resulting from people defecating in bushland areas due to a lack of toilets;

Reserve degradation resulted from sports users driving onto the reserve due to a lack of storage and associated facilities for equipment

OH&S issues associated with lack of access for emergency service vehicles

Environmental issues associated with balls entering Tarban Creek Industry trends indicate multi-pitch multi-sport and multi-use venues located in community and/or sporting precincts are the most operationally efficient and financially viable facilities. Other attributes include: high profile & easily accessible location, adequate car parking, social & support facilities, expansion zones, minimal neighbourhood impacts. Whilst Riverglade Reserve is one of the few sporting reserves in Hunters Hill that is able to provide multiple soccer pitches, the background research & consultation with key stakeholders indicates the reserve has many constraints that limit its further development, particularly when compared against other development options available to Council including:

Lack of access & car parking

Limited expansion capacity

OH&S concerns related to proximity to Creek/Harbour & main walk/cycle way

Considerable neighbourhood impacts limiting high intensity and extended hours of operation (i.e. lighting, noise etc.)

Surveillance & Vandalism concerns Sports user groups have indicated a desire for toilets, a small storage area and more car parking, although not absolutely necessary to facilitate their use.


Plan of Management

Riverglade Reserve




COST PARTNERS

NEW FACILITY DEVELOPMENT

Whilst the overall community desire for the future management of the reserve is to maintain its existing ambience, character, range and balance of recreational opportunities offered at the Reserve, there was considerable support for the following key new facility/Recreational developments:

Children’s Playground/Play space

Toilets

Park accessible Cafe at the Priory

Water Access - Pontoon The background and market research undertaken for the project support these new facility developments, as summarised below: Playground/Playspace Previous Plans of Management for the reserve and other Council strategy plans have indicated a need to provide a playground/play space at the Reserve. Previous Council plans have recommends the development of a playground at Riverglade Reserve. The market research undertaken for the PoM indicates the reserve has high existing use for children’s play activities and by user groups that would benefit by the addition of children’s play spaces. The household survey results indicate:

Most people (59.7%) come to the reserves with family, a further 33% come with friends.

“Taking children for play” (43.8%) as the second most popular recreational activity undertaken at the Reserve, behind “Going for a walk” (46.6%).

Other popular activities likely to involve children include “Play recreational/casual sport” (35.5%), “Meet with family and friends” (22.1%), “Ride a bike” (21.0%).

Provide new children’s playground or informal play space.

Investigate funding options for appropriately designed playground/play space. (Refer to concept masterplan. Please note – masterplan location indicative vicinity only actual location will be determined in detailed design phase) Consider following components & design elements:

Natural feature &/or character play spaces

Picnic, Seating, Water provision etc.

ESD principles

Accessible & bike paths to & from playground

L Est. capital cost $100K Operations $3,000 pa

The Priory Lessee,

Heritage Office


Plan of Management

Riverglade Reserve




COST PARTNERS

The main reason people use the reserve is it is “close to home” (53.1%) followed by the “walk/run/cycle paths” (39.3%).

Approximately, one quarter (24.5%) of survey respondents indicated they would like to see a children’s playground provided. There was also reasonable support for likely associated facilities such as BBQ/Picnic areas (20.3%) and shade areas (19.3%). The most suitable location identified by users and stakeholders was in the vicinity of the Priory, where there is potential opportunity to provide associated amenities, such as toilets, due to the close proximity neighbouring residents most likely to use the facilities, access to car parking, passive surveillance from future Priory users and potential cafe. A key issue will be the need to ensure a playground or play space does not impact the future use of the Priory and in conserving the values of the Priory.

Toilets Whilst there were mixed views and the provision of toilets, the market research and consultation indicates a majority of current users would like to see public toilets provided at the Reserve, provided they are small, non-obtrusive and actively managed to ensure they are cleaned to a high standard and closed at night. The most suitable location for toilets identified by the community and stakeholders were in the high activity areas being:

Adjacent the playing fields

Adjacent the proposed playground/play space as part of the Priory Sports club users have expressed a need for further equipment storage and for toilet facilities to be used for change facilities.

Provide new toilets adjacent the sports playing fields. Support the provision of publically accessible toilets at the Priory.

Investigate feasibility of providing publically accessible toilets at the Priory, with future lessee. Construct a small Ecologically Sustainably Designed (ESD) designed toilet and small storage space adjacent the sports playing fields. . (Refer to concept masterplan. Please note – masterplan location indicative vicinity only actual location will be determined in detailed design phase) Consider following components & design elements:

Family change

Disability access

Small Storage

H Est. capital cost $60K Operations $6,000 pa

Prior Lessee


Plan of Management

Riverglade Reserve




COST PARTNERS

ESD Principles

Contemporary design in keeping with the character of the Reserve.

Located in discreet location or through design & plantings to minimise view impacts within the park

Utilise current Section 94 funding allocation to fund the development. Update operational budgets to accommodate maintenance & asset lifecycle costs of new amenities.

Park Cafe Consultation with community and stakeholders indicate high levels of support for a cafe service offered to park users, as part of the Priory redevelopment/lease. Previous PoM has also identified the Priory as a possible location for a cafe, accessible by park users. The Priory Conservation Management Plan has identified a cafe as a potential use for the Priory. The draft EOI for the lease of the Priory, adopted by Council in March 2012, identifies cafe/restaurant or functions venue as potential uses of the Priory. Depending on the outcomes of the EOI process and commercial feasibility analysis undertaken by potential lessees, possible options to provide a “cafe” style service includes a servery located in the old kitchen provided as an add-on service to the main cafe, or park access to a cafe from the main building.

Encourage the provision of a park accessible cafe and or service by future lessee of the Priory.

Encourage future potential Priory lessees to offer a park accessible cafe/service as part of future commercial operations of the Priory, subject to commercial feasibility analysis.

ON N/A The Priory Lessee


Plan of Management

Riverglade Reserve




COST PARTNERS

Water Access Consultation with the community indicates a high degree of support for provision of a small pontoon to facilitate access to the harbour for canoes and kayaks, and for safety reasons (if someone fell into the harbour), to be located in the “basin” area. Local residents believe the provision of a pontoon was agreed and approved some time ago (approx. 10 yrs) by Council and the State government (SHFA) and funding allocated, however it was never built. Another issue raised by community consultation and stakeholders was the impact of dinghy’s stored on the ground in the reserve. Previous Council plans have also identified growing demand for water based recreation and a need to provide greater water access to facilitate greater participation in water based recreation activities such as canoeing and kayaking.

Improve water access Provide small pontoon for recreational canoeing & kayaking in the “basin” area. Investigate possible external funding options.

M $60K

$1,000 Operational

SHFA

CAR PARKING & ACCESS

Riverglade Reserve has a lack of car parking. Increasing use of the reserve for recreation and in particular sport has placed significant pressure on existing designated Reserve and on street parking in neighbouring streets. It is likely more car parking will be required in the future as usage of the reserve grows in line with population around urban development trends and as the Priory becomes an activity hub within the reserve, once leased. Current car parking provision includes approximately 20 designated car parks on Manning Road and a small car park associated with the Priory. Further on street parking is available on Manning Rd, Rocher Ave/Joly Pde, Mortimer Lewis Drv/Waruda Place. Background research and community consultation indicates the lack of adequate car parking and poor access to the reserve through the narrow local residential streets that run adjacent the Reserve is one of the key detrimental impacts of the increased intensity of sport at the reserve.

Provide more on reserve and off-reserve car parking. Encourage shared car parking access to the Priory car park. Maintain and/or designate emergency & service vehicle access to the park.

Investigate options to improve access and carparking in the local area. Ensure future lease agreements for the Priory include provisions for car parking and park emergency/service vehicle access. Work with sports clubs to reduce carparking requirements.

M In house

OEH, RMS


Plan of Management

Riverglade Reserve




COST PARTNERS

Whilst sport organisers have tried to encourage club members to carpool and park in the designated car park in Manning Road it has had limited impact on car parking behaviour due to the severely limited number of car parks and the distance between the car park and the sports playing fields. Managing sports use will provide some relief to car parking demand but will not solve the overall lack of provision. Consultation with key stakeholders indicates there is a lack of adequate access to the reserve for emergency & service vehicles. There is a need to provide emergency and service vehicle access routes to meet risk management obligations and for operational efficiency. Future park layout and access planning should identify & establish designated access routes particularly to high activity & risk areas, such as the sports playing fields and the proposed playground/play space.


Plan of Management

Riverglade Reserve


RESERVE MANAGEMENT & OPERATIONS


COST PARTNERS

RESERVE MANAGEMENT

Background research and consultation indicate most people are largely happy with the Reserve physically, the way it is managed and the balance of uses and activities undertaken at the Reserve (The exception was the increased intensity of soccer use in 2011). The main reserve management issues identified through the consultation were:

Lack of adequate funding to maintain existing park improvements and to undertake bushland management activities

Lack of consultation and involvement of the community in the planning and management of the reserve

The desire to see a management approach that maintains existing bushland and park improvements and infrastructure before funding new development or bushland management activities

Prioritise management of existing facility & park improvements over new facilities Ensure ongoing community involvement in park planning and management Increased Funding & Resources in line with Action Plan

Council adopt Draft PoM and Concept Layout Masterplan. Establish an annual PoM review process linked to Council’s annual strategic planning review process. Ensure community consulted in the future when development or management changes proposed. Establish a social media/or internet based Reserve users/stakeholder group to enable ongoing engagement with interested community members and organisations.

H Existing Resources

Reserve user groups Crown Lands Department


Plan of Management

Riverglade Reserve


Plan Abbreviations

The following abbreviations are used in the Management Strategy & Action Plans: LPMA – Land & Property Management Authority HHC – Hunters Hill Council OEH – Office of Environment & Heritage FERR – Friends Environment of Riverglade Reserve RMS – Roads Maritime Services


Plan of Management

Riverglade Reserve


3.3 ZONING PLAN

To ensure future development & management of the reserve provides for a range of recreation experiences and areas to protect the key cultural, heritage & environmental assets & values of the reserve, we have developed a zonings overlay for consideration of the Hunter’s Hill Council. A more detailed list of components for incorporation into the future concept masterplan is provided in the next section and following table.

Table 3.1 Riverglade Reserve Landscape Concept Design Zones

ZONES DETAILS PURPOSE/RATIONALE

Biodiversity & Conservation Zones

Includes areas for :

Saltmarsh & Wetlands

Wildlife Corridors

Protected Species/Habitats

Significant Viewing/Sight Lines

Significant Trees

Buffer Zones

The primary purpose of this zone is to conserve and enhance the areas unique wildlife, green corridors, vegetation communities and importance in the water catchment key areas.

Access is not encouraged to these areas or may be excluded.

Refer to LEP & EVRAP

Active Outdoor Sport Zone

Includes experiences/areas for:

Outdoor sports field based sport competition & training

Outdoor Playing fields

Amenities

Access & Car parking

The primary purpose of this zone is to maintain access for sport to the reserve & provide suitable areas for lower level competition & training

Priority of access is for sport during designated times only

Playing fields & amenities can be used by other park users during non-sport times

Informal/ Passive Recreation Zones

Includes experiences/areas for:

Bike Riding, Walking,

Dog Walking/Socialising,

Nature Observation,

Solitude & Relaxation etc.

The primary purposes of these zones are for informal recreation, exercise & health activities, solitude and relaxation.

These areas make up the balance of the reserve, not zoned for other specific purposes.

Formal Play/Family Recreation Zone

Includes areas for:

Play Spaces &/or equipment

Park Furniture – Seating, Shade, Water, Bike Racks etc.

Informal areas for picnics, learn to play sport, children’s activities etc.

Toilets

The primary purpose of this zone is to provide spaces for children and their families/friends to socialise, play and have fun.

These areas are generally for more intensive use and larger groups.

Incompatible uses such as off-leash dog walking are excluded from these zones

Cultural Heritage Zones

Key experiences/areas includes:

The Priory

Significant Priory Surrounds (i.e. Old farm site etc.)

The primary purposes of these zones are to protect & enhance significant cultural heritage sites and their


Plan of Management

Riverglade Reserve


ZONES DETAILS PURPOSE/RATIONALE

The Priory Sight/Viewing Lines

Indigenous Sites

Significant Land based/ maritime features & Sites

Significant cultural/social event sites

surrounds (i.e. context) for education & enjoyment.

Water Based Activity Zone

Key experiences/areas includes:

River/Estuary access in the Basin Area

Infrastructure to allow access to the water for canoes, kayaks, dinghy’s

The primary purpose of these areas is to provide access to the harbour for small craft and suitable storage.

The site zoning plan is provided on the following page.


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Riverglade Reserve


3.4 CONCEPT LAYOUT MASTERPLAN The project team have developed a Landscape Concept Masterplan design brief and layout plan that brings together all of the key findings of the Study, Strategic Directions and recommendations, as they relate to physical development and management of the Reserve. The table below provides a development component brief to guide the landscape concept Masterplan for the reserve for consideration by Hunters Hill Council. The Landscape Concept Masterplan is provided following the component brief. A contextual plan highlighting location in relation to key landmarks and neighbourhood environment is also provided.

Table 3.2 Riverglade Reserve Landscape Concept Design Component Brief

COMPONENT DETAILS RATIONALE LOCATION ISSUES

The Priory Maintain adequate curtilage to protect the Priory and significant heritage features, the values & ambience of the Priory for future commercial & community activities

Ensure public access to carpark & service road to park.

Investigate options to provide improved disabled access with minimal impact on the park.

Investigate options for park accessible cafe and toilets

Ensure suggested playground is of adequate distance and location to minimise impact on view lines and ambience of the Priory.

Priory an Integral part of the Reserve

Conservation Management Plan in place

Refer to CMP

Refer to EOI

Active Outdoor Sports Area

Provide for two sports playing fields, 1 x Senior and 1 x ¾ size pitch.

Relocate to minimise take-up area.

Investigate options to separate - provide natural barrier to people/balls going onto main walkway and entering waterway.

Aim: Provide a mulit-use, multi-pitch venue suitable for up to district competition.

Limiting number of pitches and reduce players/spectators (i.e. intensity) and reduce carparking & access issues

Current pitches 1x full size and 1x ¾ size pitch to remain.

Locate to minimise take-up of basin area

Set back from main walkway as far as practical

Investigate options

Put close to centre to form a barrier between play and informal spaces and more active and higher intensive use and visitor zones.

Active Outdoor Sports Area Amenities

Male and female toilet to service active sports area. Possible family/disabled to allow for change area.

Provide basic amenities for Reserve users

Locate amenities discreetly within southern slopes adjacent sports


Plan of Management

Riverglade Reserve



Provide a small storage area for park maintenance & sports user equipment storage associated with toilets.

Provide drinking water access.

High quality and reflects “Local Character” & ESD principles to ensure facility uses sustainable technology and is non-obtrusive in the park setting.

Provide service vehicle access to this area to enable approved vehicles to access this zone for security & lock-up, equipment drop off, cleaning and maintenance.

fields

Ensure easily accessible from main park walkway, and for use by public when sport being played

Ensure area is well lit at night

Formal Play Spaces

Provide District Level Playground to cater for a wide age range, with shade

High quality “natural & local character inspired” playground using ESD & products.

Primary Park Value – passive/informal recreation

Possible Location near Manning Rd & the Priory.

Location not to impact on Priory site line.

Ensure playground is located where there are good viewing lines from road for informal security and to minimise vandalism.

Play Service Areas

Provide appropriate levels of seating, shade, access to water, bike storage etc.

Provide access to toilets.

No BBQ’s – as insufficient car parking to provide for high non-resident use it will attract

Locate close to Priory amenities so has dual use.

Locate in area to allow easy connection to services

Close to car park area

Social Spaces for reflection and rest

Aim: Provide quiet spaces to take advantage of environs and vistas/views.

Provide landscaped and planted areas that are away from active sport and noisy play spaces in the park

Provide minimal level of seating and some sunshade shelter in key locations.

Locate away from main roads and main thoroughfares (main bike path).

Ensure areas are able to be visually


Plan of Management

Riverglade Reserve



Consider community art and sculpture as part of some key social and relaxation zones. This could include dual environmental features to provide park lighting or water harvesting.

supervised.

Bike/Walking Trails & Linkages

Aim: Provide a network of bike and walking trails that link to main park entry points, activity areas and also neighbourhood/precinct linear trails.

Ensure main walkway is sealed and meets dual purpose cycle & pedestrian code requirements or alternative cycle route provided

Provide as much separation as possible between walkway and active sports zone

Locate cycle racks at key locations throughout park

Investigate options for “looping/circular” walk/cycle trails network/routes within park

Link provide “looping/circular” walk/cycle routes through-out precinct.

Key Linkages include:

Gladesville Reserve & Hospital Site

Gladesville Bridge Cycle Route

Manning Rd - Tarban Creek Reserve

Huntleys Cove

A key aspect of the design philosophy for the precinct is “non-vehicular” based transport.

It is important to provide trails both within the park setting & throughout the precinct that link key residential areas, community, retail/commerce and recreational/social facilities, so as to encourage non-vehicular residential movements throughout the precinct.

“Family Friendly” Cycle Routes are a priority for Council

Where possible Locate or physically separate main cycle route away from active sports area/formal play areas/The Priory

Cycle racks to be provided at key locations including the formal play area, active outdoor sports area and near entrance Priory.

Park Signage & Interpretation

Provide key orientation/instructional signage at all main internal intersections and key outdoor activity zones

Provide interpretive signage and features that tell the stories of the history of the park area, heritage & environment.

Develop an interpretive strategy.

Ensure interpretation imbedded in physical design of the park (i.e. could be sculpture, physically represented in park feature design such as the playground, within pathways, park furniture, planting plans and conservation zones.

Ensure The Priory is

Locate as required


Plan of Management

Riverglade Reserve



available for interpretation tours from time to time.

Conservation Zones

Protect, Restore & Extend High Value Conservation Areas. Including:

Saltmarsh and wetlands

Marist Brothers Site (maintained)

Bushland to the North of Creek (Richmond Cres) (Non-Accessible Area)

Mangrove Community North of Creek

Mangroves/Aboriginal Middens near Rowing Club

EVRAP defined Wildlife Corridor

Constructed Wetlands

Aim: Enhance green corridor in Parramatta River Catchment

Restore/Improve biodiversity corridors/ small bird habitat

Restore/Improve water quality

Refer to LEP & EVRAP

Events infrastructure

Future events planned for the park might include community heritage events and festivals, art & cultural exhibitions & shows, major functions linked to the Priory.

Aim: Provide for local community events focussed around the Priory

Support infrastructure – PA, lighting, power, water, drainage, temporary toilets & sewer connections

Consideration of event containment, management heavy vehicle & emergency access & security.

Linked to public transport

Impacts of high use zones to residential zones

Linked to the Priory

Linked to permanent public toilets

Storm Water Gross Pollutant Retention

Create within park setting Draft Parramatta River Estuary Coastal Zone Management Plan;

See EVRAP & Stormwater Management Action Plan

TBD


Plan of Management

Riverglade Reserve


Access & Car Parking

Play Zone and The Priory supported by street side parking

Sports Zone supported by in park parking for service & emergency vehicles.

Aim: Encourage non-vehicular access to reserve and provide increased car parking in high use locations

Investigate options to increase street side car parking at Manning Road and in Park parking off Manning Rd.

River/Estuary Access

Provide a small pontoon suitable for dinghies, canoeists, kayakers, fishing etc.

Ensure access when active sport being played

Aim: Provide a multi-purpose river access point for water based activities.

Locate in Lower Park Basin Area

Separate as far as practical from main cycle/ walkway

Dog Exercise Areas

All areas dog accessible on-lead, except exclusion zones.

Dog Exclusion Zones/Times:

Active Playing fields – when sport being played

Formal Play areas

Designated Conservation

Heritage Zones – The Priory

Provide maximum “off-leash” dog exercise areas without impacting conservation, active sport, heritage and play zones

Strengthen edges around conservation zones to provide deterrent to dogs

Aim: Riverglade Reserve a dog friendly park.

Off –leash zone east of the ponds to end of basin or active sports playing area

All other areas On-lead, except exclusion zones


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plan of management for riverglade reserve · 2019-08-08 · hunters hill council plan of management...

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