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PLANNING ASSESSMENT REPORT
PROPOSAL:
Material Change of Use Application (Code Assessable)
To install a new Optus Telecommunications Facility at;
41 Evans Ave, North Mackay, QLD 4740 (LOT 1 / M91200)
Prepared for
Mackay Regional Council
Prepared by
Metasite Pty Ltd
Author: Phil Hull
Address: Level 2, Suite 202, 20 Clarke Street, Crows Nest, NSW, 2065
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +61 43 1328 606
On behalf of
Optus Mobile Pty Ltd
CONTENTS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 02
1. INTRODUCTION 03
2. PROCESS FOR IDENTIFYING NEED FOR / PLANNING A MOBILE BASE STATION 04 2.1 Background 04 2.2 Optus Coverage Objectives 04 2.3 Candidate Sites 06 2.4 Preferred Nominated Candidate 09 2.5 Site Description and Context 10
3. PROPOSAL 12 3.1 Equipment to be Installed 12 3.2 Utility Service Details 12 3.3 Access and Parking Details 12
4. LEGISLATIVE CONTEXT 13 4.1 Commonwealth Regulatory Framework 13
4.1.1 Telecommunications Act 1997 13 4.1.2 Telecommunications Code of Practice 1997 14 4.1.3 The Telecommunications (Low-Impact Facilities) Determination 1997 14 4.1.4 The Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act 1999 14 4.2 Queensland Planning Legislation and Guidelines 14
4.2.1 Sustainable Planning Act 2009 15 4.2.2 State Planning Policies 15 4.2.3 Referral Agencies 15 4.3 Local Government Regulatory Framework 15
4.3.1 Mackay City Planning Scheme 2006 15
5. OTHER ENVIRONMENTAL CONSTRAINTS AND OPPORTUNITIES 23 5.1 Heritage 23 5.2 Access, Transport and Traffic 23 5.3 Construction and Noise 24 5.4 Electrical Interference and Grounding of the Facility 24 5.5 Erosion, Sedimentation Control and Waste Management 24 5.6 Social and Economic Impacts 24 5.7 Public Safety 25
5.7.1 Electromagnetic Emissions 25 5.7.2 Access 26 5.8 The Public Interest and the Benefits of Telecommunications 26
5.8.1 Commonwealth Government Policy 26 5.8.2 Other Benefits of Telecommunications 27
6. CONCLUSION 28
APPENDICES
Appendix A – Candidate Photos
Appendix B – Proposal Plans
Appendix C – Site photographs
Appendix D – Photomontage
Appendix E – Policy, overlay and code compliance
Appendix F – ARPANSA / EME Report
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DOCUMENT REVIEW SHEET
CLIENT: Optus Mobile Pty Ltd
PROJECT: Cremorne North
TITLE: Planning Assessment Report
DOCUMENT REFERENCE NO: B1204
PROJECT MANAGER: Julia Hall FILE NO: B1204
SPELL CHECK (WP OPERATOR) BY: SECTION:
Document Details Preparation
& Self
Check
Independent
Review By:
Corrective
Action
/Approved
by:
Sent To/
Date:
REV A Name:
P Hull
T Brosnan 07-10-2014
Reviewers Comments: N/A
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Proposal:
Optus proposes to construct a new telecommunications facility within a fenced compound area. This facility will consist of:
One (1) 30.0 metre monopole, with three (3) panel antennas mounted
on a small circular headframe together with fifteen (15) Remote Radio
Units (RRU’s).
One (1) Optus prefabricated equipment shelter, painted ‘Pale
Eucalypt” with a floor area less than 7.5 square metres; and,
Two (2) Parabolic dishes at 27.0 metres on the monopole, with a
diameter of 1.2 metres.
Ancillary equipment associated with operation of the facility, including
cable trays, cabling, safe access methods, bird proofing, earthing,
electrical works and air-conditioning equipment. All equipment will be located within a compound area (enclosed by a 2.4 metre high chainlink fence) of 9.4 x 7.4 metres (70 square metres). Not including any construction variations, the facility should not exceed a total height of 31.4 metres above ground level.
Purposes:
The telecommunications facility is necessary to meet increased customer demand by Optus for voice coverage and data technology (2G, 3G & 4G mobile and wireless broadband coverage) in the North Mackay area.
Site Information:
Lot and Plan Number: LOT 1 / M91200 Address: 41 Evans Ave, North Mackay, QLD 4740 Proposed Optus lease area: 70 square metres
Town planning scheme:
Mackay City Planning Scheme 2006 Zoning: Commercial Use Definition: Telecommunications Facility
Application:
Code Assessable Material Change of Use Development Application (MCU) seeking a Development Permit for the installation of a Telecommunications Facility.
Applicant:
Optus Mobile Pty Ltd C/- Metasite Pty Ltd Level 2, Suite 202 20 Clarke St Crows Nest NSW 2065 Contact Person: Phil Hull Our Ref: B1204
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1.0 INTRODUCTION
Metasite Pty Ltd acts on behalf of Optus Mobile Pty Ltd (Optus) for the deployment of their
telecommunications base station sites. As part of this deployment process, Optus has
identified a need for increased digital mobile telephone coverage and capacity improvements
in the north Mackay area. Optus has an existing network which continues to require on-going
investment to address improved coverage and capacity demands. As part of this program of
works, Optus are seeking to improve voice and data capabilities in major regional and holiday
centres such as Mackay. North Mackay is currently experiencing high levels of customer usage.
To achieve these objectives, the proposed facility is designed to accommodate both voice and
data technologies which will relieve the congestion that the current network is experiencing
and provide additional coverage and capacity in the north Mackay area.
In response to this identified need, we are seeking to obtain planning consent for the
installation of a new mobile base station at 41 Evans Ave, North Mackay, QLD 4740
(Lot 1 / M91200). An in-depth site selection process was undertaken in the area prior to
confirming the land to the rear of 41 Evans Avenue as our preferred location. This process
matched potential candidates against four key factors, namely:
Construction feasibility;
Town planning considerations (such as zoning, surrounding land uses, environmental significance and visual impact);
The ability of the site to provide acceptable coverage levels to the area; and finally,
The ability for Optus to secure a lease agreement with the landowner.
The land to the rear of 41 Evans Ave (‘the site’) was found to be the most suitable in the study
area. According to the applicable Mackay City Planning Scheme 2006, the subject site is
designated as being within a Commercial area. This report provides an assessment of the
matters relevant to a Code Assessable Material Change of Use (MCU) development application
for a ‘Telecommunications Facility’, including:
A detailed analysis of the site selection process;
A full description of the proposal, in relation to the facilities location, design, access, visual impact, etc; and,
An assessment of the proposal against the relevant planning provisions/objectives of all levels of Government (i.e. National, State, Regional and Local);
This information will demonstrate to Mackay Regional Council that the proposed development
is appropriate and justified, in order to obtain approval and the subsequent development
permit for the proposed works.
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2.0 PROCESS FOR IDENTIFYING NEED FOR / PLANNING A MOBILE BASE STATION
2.1 Background
Mobile phone networks and mobile phone use have become an integral part of the everyday
functioning of business and society. Mobile telecommunications systems work on a cellular
principle, whereby a network of base stations provides coverage to an area. Depending on the
site location and coverage objectives, the shape, number and size of the base station and its
associated infrastructure of shelter and antenna, will vary for each location. Each base station
transmits and receives signals to and from devices in the area. Each base station also has a
restricted capacity in terms of the number of calls it can receive & transmit and capacity for
users to upload & download data/browse the web. Therefore, networks located in areas
where a large number of calls are made and greater reliance on internet is required, will need
an increased number of base stations to accommodate the excess traffic. This is currently the
scenario that the north Mackay area is experiencing. The existing nearby base stations in the
area demands high levels of customer usage and is operating at full capacity i.e. slow upload &
download speeds/internet browsing and a high number of “drop calls”. The proposed facility
will relieve this congestion in the north Mackay area and also provide additional coverage and
capacity in the northern area of Mackay which is seen as a black-spot with poor connectivity to
the network.
2.3 Optus Coverage Objectives
Planning for a new mobile telecommunications base station is a complex process, which in this
case involved the following activities:
Identification of areas with poor service and / or performance Optus use a number of methods to identify those parts of the network that require improved
coverage, capacity and call performance. These methods include: physical surveys, statistical
measures, computer modelling of coverage, and the evaluation of customer complaints. When
an area within the Optus network is identified as providing poor levels of service and
performance, investigations are undertaken to determine the measures required to rectify
these service and performance deficiencies. In this case Optus has identified the North Mackay
area as requiring improved data and call services, as there are significant deficiencies in
existing coverage.
Remedial measures Optus Radio Frequency (RF) engineers assess deficiencies in coverage, and devise measures
necessary to address this problem. The first stage of the process is to examine whether the
deficiency may be improved through optimisation of the existing network infrastructure (i.e.
by modifying existing facilities to enhance local coverage) to avoid the need for additional
infrastructure. In this instance, optimisation could not deliver a satisfactory outcome and new
site candidates were investigated. The initial research undertaken in this area is then used to
define the scope of the network deficiency and the performance objective of the proposed
new facility.
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Site Parameters Optus identifies an area where the requirement for a telecommunications facility would be
highest (the ‘search ring’) and undertakes a preliminary investigation in conjunction with its
planning / environmental and property consultants, RF engineers and designers in order to
identify possible locations and options to locate a telecommunications facility.
Whilst the operational and geographical aspects of deploying new mobile base stations are
primary factors, there are many other critical issues that have to be effectively resolved in
parallel that also influence network design. Some of the issues which need to be considered
are visual amenity, potential co-location opportunities, the availability and suitability of land
and a willing site provider, occupational health and safety, construction issues (including
structural and loading feasibility and access for maintenance purposes), topographical
constraints, legislative policy constraints, environmental impacts, and cost implications.
The number, type and height of facilities required to provide additional capacity and coverage
to the network are largely determined by the above operational, geographical and other
factors discussed that influence final network design. These compounded factors often
severely restrict the available search area within which a facility can be established. In this
instance, the proposed facility seeks to relieve congestion from nearby Optus base stations
and provide additional coverage and capacity to the north Mackay area. Optus have proposed
a search ring (highlighted in the red polygon below), within which it sought to identify
potential candidate sites for the proposed facility – refer Image 01 below.
Image 01: Search Ring Area – red polygon
Source: Google Earth
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2.3 Candidate Sites
A number of candidate sites were examined within the search ring and surrounding area, with
regard to the ability of each to meet the coverage objectives. The site considerations are listed
in Section 2.2 of this report. In this instance, a total of five (5) candidates were investigated –
refer to Image 02 below.
Image 02: Candidate Sites Location Plan
Source: Google Maps
There are 3 land uses within the search area: Commercial, Urban Residential and Public
Purposes As illustrated in Image 03 on the following page. The area occupied by residential
dwellings is unsuitable for a telecommunications facility. As evident from the locations above,
the majority of candidates are located to the rear of existing commercial properties along
Evans Avenue.
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Image 03: Search Ring Zoning
Source: Mackay City Planning Scheme 2006 – Online Mapping Service
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Table 01 on the below offers a detailed summary of each candidate, including a description of
the opportunities/constraints that each presented. Please refer to Appendix A for photos of
each of these candidate sites.
Candidate Type of Development Address
A New monopole 4 Malcomson St, Cremorne North
The site is zoned Commercial, however the surrounding buildings are only one storey and only provide minimal screening as far as visual impact is concerned. It is also near a busy road junction and can be easily seen from all roads surrounding the site. The proposed monopole would be prominent in the locality and was therefore discounted from a town planning perspective.
Candidate Type of Development Address
B New monopole 41 Evans Ave, North Mackay
Candidate ‘B’ involves the construction of a new 30 metre monopole at the rear of the property. The site is under the ownership of two business partners who are willing to enter into an agreement with Optus. The site is underutilised and the proposed location will not interfere with the business activities. The site is zoned Commercial and the proposed location at the rear of the property is well screened from the road by existing commercial buildings along Evans Avenue.
Candidate Type of Development Address
C New monopole 37 Evans Ave, North Mackay
The site is zoned Commercial. The proposal to locate the facility to the rear of the site would be well screened; however the site is currently subject to a lease which will not allow the proposal to proceed.
Candidate Type of Development Address
D New monopole 35 Evans Ave, North Mackay
The site is zoned Commercial. The proposal to locate the facility to the rear of the site would be well screened; However the site is currently subject to a lease which will not allow the proposal to proceed.
Candidate Type of Development Address
E New monopole 33 Evans Ave, North Mackay
The site is zoned Commercial. The proposal to locate the facility at the rear of the site would be well screened; however the sites current use as a medical centre was seen as incompatible with the facility.
Table 01: Candidate Site Analysis
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2.4 Preferred Nominated Candidate
A preferred nominated candidate was selected for the proposed facility, based on the
radiofrequency objectives, planning and environmental issues, potential community sensitive
uses, and engineering criteria, as noted in Section 2.2 of this report.
There were a number of key considerations supporting this decision:
The site is technically feasible, and can achieve Optus’ coverage and capacity objectives for the
area. It will provide a high quality 2G, 3G & 4G mobile and wireless broadband service, which
will greatly improve access to mobile telecommunications services for the local community
and also provide voice coverage.
The site is zoned as Commercial, which is considered a suitable location for the proposed pole.
The character of the area will not be detrimentally affected by the proposal;
The proposal will be partially screened from the road by existing buildings along the road frontage and will be set back within the site.
There are no residential dwellings within the immediate vicinity of the proposed pole location.
The landowner is supportive of the Optus proposal and its associated benefits for increased telecommunications services in the local area.
The site is not located within an environmentally or culturally significant area, and will not require the clearing of any trees.
The site has a readily available access to the electricity supply network.
The proposed facility will not prejudice the existing or anticipated future use of the site, as the proposal is set back at the rear of the site.
The costs associated with delivering the site and constructing the facility are considered by Optus to be reasonable.
Metasite Pty Ltd, as planning and site acquisition consultants for Optus, then undertook a
detailed assessment of the preferred candidate. This involved an investigation of the
compliance of the proposed facility with the relevant processes and objectives of the
applicable Commonwealth, State and Local Government planning and environmental
legislation, policies, standards and guidelines. It also involved an investigation of the possible
impacts of the proposed facility on areas potentially affected by the proposal.
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2.5 Site Description and Context
The proposed site is located at 41 Evans Avenue, North Mackay QLD (described as Lot 1 on
M91200) – refer Appendix B for proposed plans. According to the Mackay City Planning
Scheme 2006, the site is located within a Commercial Zone.
Contextually, the north Mackay area is located approximately 2 kilometres north of Mackay
City Centre. The main vehicular access into the town is along Evans Avenue, which runs into
Mackay – Slade Point Rd which connects to the Mackay City Centre – refer Image 04 below.
The Radio Frequency National Site Archive (RFNSA) database was used to search nearby sites.
This database allows users to search for Australian base stations to find Electromagnetic
Energy (EME) Reports, site locations, carrier contact details for existing sites and community
consultation information for new sites. A search of the RFNSA found that there is only one (1)
other telecommunications facility within reasonable proximity of the preferred candidate site
– refer Image 05 on the following page. This location was also reviewed as a potential co-
location opportunity. The closet blue pointer (identified as ‘4740044’) identifies the Telstra
facility at 22-26 McCulloch St. However, due to a combination of location, height, coverage and
structural capacity this candidate was rejected – refer Image 05 on the following page.
Image 04: Site Aerial map – orange pin represents proposed location
Source: Google Maps
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Image 05: Existing Telecommunication Facilities in the Area marked with a grey pin. Proposed location shown in blue
Source: RFNSA/Goggle Maps
The site itself has a total area of 1833 square metres, with no easements in place which would
prevent the proposal from taking place. It is privately owned and is currently used for the
storage and sale of stone. The below survey plan extract (Image 06) illustrates the shape of the
lot.
Image 06: Survey Plan Extract. Proposed location shown with red arrow
Source: Queensland Government Spatial Portal – Google Earth
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There are several low rise buildings separating the commercial area to the north east from the
proposed lease area. These buildings help to screen the facility from the road.
This position was selected for several reasons: it would require no clearing of vegetation,
achieves good setbacks from the majority of other buildings in the surrounding area and will
achieve the desired coverage objectives for Optus. A number of site photographs have been
taken and are included in Appendix C. A photomontage of the proposal is also included in
Appendix D.
3.0 PROPOSAL
3.1 Equipment to be installed
Optus proposes to construct a new telecommunications facility within a fenced compound
area. This facility will consist of:
One (1) 30.0 metre monopole, with three (3) panel antennas mounted on a small circular headframe;
One (1) Optus prefabricated equipment shelter, with a floor area less than 7.5 square metres;
Ancillary equipment associated with operation of the facility, including cable trays, cabling, safe access methods, bird proofing, earthing, electrical works and air-conditioning equipment.
All equipment will be located within a compound area (enclosed by a 2.4 metre high chainlink fence) of 9.4 metres x 7.4 metres (70 square metres). Not including any construction variations, the facility should not exceed a total height of 31.4 metres above ground level.
Please refer to Appendix B for proposed plans showing further technical detail in respect of
the Optus equipment to be installed.
3.2 Utility Service Details
Electricity will be sourced from a power pole on Evans Avenue.
3.3 Access and Parking Details
Access to the site will be along the existing access track off Evans Avenue. No formal parking is
proposed, given the facility will function on a continuously unmanned basis, and will typically
require only once-yearly maintenance. There is sufficient space onsite for a vehicle to park
during these times.
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4.0 LEGISLATIVE CONTEXT
4.1 Commonwealth Regulatory Framework
As a licensed telecommunications carrier, Optus must operate under the provisions of the
Telecommunications Act 1997 and the following supporting legislation:
• The Telecommunications Code of Practice 1997;
• The Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 1997 (as amended); and;
• The Australian Communications Alliance - Industry Code (C564:2011) for Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment.
4.1.1 Telecommunications Act 1997
The Telecommunications Act 1997 (the Act) came into operation on 1 July 1997. The Act
provides a system for regulating telecommunications and the activities of carriers and service
providers.
Under the Act, telecommunications carriers are no longer exempt from State and Territory
planning laws except in three limited instances:
There are exemptions for inspection of land, maintenance of facilities, installation of “low impact facilities”, subscriber connections and temporary defence facilities. These exemptions are detailed in the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 1997 and the Amendment No. 1 of 1999 and these exceptions are subject to the Telecommunications Code of Practice 1997;
A limited case-by-case appeals process exists to cover installation of facilities in situations of national significance; and
There are some specific powers and immunities from the previous Telecommunications Act 1991.
The proposal is for a freestanding monopole, associated antennas and equipment. Therefore
the facility cannot be considered low impact, as defined by the Telecommunications (Low
impact Facilities) Determination and thus the proposal is not exempt from State planning laws
in this instance.
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4.1.2 Telecommunications Code Of Practice 1997
The Telecommunications Code of Practice 1997 (The Code) authorises a carrier to enter land,
inspect land and install and maintain a facility. The Code emphasises “best practice” design,
planning and installation of facilities, compliance with industry standards and minimisation of
adverse impacts as much as practicable, particularly in terms of degradation of the
environment and visual impact. It is considered that the subject proposal is “best practice”
given that the proposal will:
Provide improved telecommunications and wireless internet coverage in the Mackay area;
Be located on a non-residential site within the local area;
Comprise the smallest scale configuration possible for the site to reduce the visual impact of the proposal.
4.1.3 The Telecommunications (Low-Impact Facilities) Determination 1997
The Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 1997 identifies both the type
of facilities that can be “Low-impact”, and the areas in which these facilities can be installed.
Importantly, this current facility is not defined as a “low impact facility” and is therefore
subject to State and Territory Planning Laws and regulations. In this specific instance, the
provisions of the Sustainable Planning Act 2009 and the Mackay City Planning Scheme 2006
are applicable.
4.1.4 The Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act 1999
The EPBC Act 1999 obliges telecommunications carriers to consider “matters of national
environmental significance”. Under this legislation, an action will require approval from the
Minister of Environment if the action has or is likely to have an impact on a matter of “national
environmental significance”. According to the EPBC Act 1999, there are seven matters of
national significance, which must be considered. These matters were considered and the
subject site is not affected by EPBC.
4.2 Queensland Planning Legislation and Guidelines
As identified in Section 4.1.3 of this report, the proposed facility does not fall within the
definition of the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 1997. It is
therefore subject to State Planning Instruments and regulations in addition to the
Commonwealth regulatory framework. There are a number of State Government provisions
which could potentially apply to the proposed Optus facility. These include:
The Sustainable Planning Act 2009;
State Planning Policies;
Referral Agencies
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4.2.1 The Sustainable Planning Act 2009
The Sustainable Planning Act 2009 (SPA) has the overall aim of achieving ecological
sustainability, through:
Managing the process by which development takes place, including ensuring the process is accountable, effective and efficient and delivers sustainable outcomes;
Managing the effects of development on the environment, including managing the use of premises; and
Continuing the coordination and integration of planning at the local, regional and State levels (section 1.2.3 SPA).
Pursuant to Chapter 6 of the Sustainable Planning Act 2009, this application has been prepared
to form part of a Code Assessable Material Change of Use application, seeking a development
permit under the Mackay City Planning Scheme 2006. This application will be subject to the
Integrated Development Assessment System (Chapter 6 of SPA 2009 – IDAS).
4.2.2 State Planning Policies (SPPs) There are SPPs applicable to this application but none of which are relevant.
4.2.3 Referral Agencies There are no referral agencies applicable to this application.
4.3 Local Government Regulatory Framework
In addition to relevant Commonwealth and State Government regulatory requirements, the
proposed facility is also subject to the Local Government regulatory framework. In this
instance, the relevant Local Government regulatory framework is the SPA compliant Mackay
City Planning Scheme 2006.
4.3.1 Mackay City Planning Scheme 2006
Under the Mackay City Planning Scheme 2006, the proposal is identified as a
Telecommunications Facility. This application is seeking to obtain a development permit for a
‘Telecommunications Facility’ which, under the planning scheme, is defined as:
“Any premises used for the purpose of providing telecommunications services, which
does not fall within the Schedule of Facilities and Areas under the Telecommunications Act
1997, telecommunications (low Impact Facilities) Determination 1997 as amended. The term
may include, but is not limited to:
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(i) A telecommunications tower more than 5m in height; and
(ii) An equipment shelter of more than 7.5 sq m in area and 3m in height.”
The land upon which the development is planned is within a Commercial Zone. Part 5, Division
3, Table 5.1 of the Mackay City Planning Scheme outlines the assessment levels and relevant
assessment criteria for a particular proposal within this land use designation. It shows that a
Telecommunications Facility is Code Assessable within this zone and the below listed overlays
and codes are applicable to the application and therefor needs to be assessed against these
outcomes. Appendix E demonstrates how the development meets the criteria of each code
and overlay. It is considered that the proposal is generally in compliance with all codes,
overlays and polices within the Mackay City Planning Scheme 2006 and its specific outcomes.
Apart from these specific assessment criteria, this proposal will also consider the wider Desired
Environmental Outcomes for the north Mackay area which is included in Appendix E.
Zoning
Under the provisions of the Planning Scheme, the site is located in the Mackay Frame Locality
and the Goosepond Creek precinct. The land use zoning for the site is identified as Commercial
zone (see Image 3 on page 7). No general outcomes for the Mackay Frame Locality or the
Goosepond Creek precinct are identified in the Planning Scheme. Specific Outcomes are
however addressed in Appendix E.
Overlays
The following Overlay Codes from the Mackay City Planning Scheme 2006 have been identified
as being applicable to the application;
Flood and Inundation Management Overlay Code
Wetland Communities Overlay Code
Landscape Character Overlay Code
Acid Sulphate Soils Overlay Code
Airport Obstacle Limitation Surface Overlay Code; and
Airport Development Distance Overlay Code
Codes
The following additional Codes from the Mackay City Planning Scheme 2006 have also been
identified as being applicable to the application;
Telecommunications Facility Code
Mackay Frame Locality Code
Environment & Infrastructure Code
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Flood and Inundation Management Overlay
The site is identified as subject to flooding (Riverine Inundation Limits) according to the Flood
and Inundation Management Overlay, see Image 7 below. As a result, the application is subject
to assessment against the Flood and Inundation Management Overlay Code. The overall
outcomes sought for the Flood and Inundation Management Overlay Code are outlined in the
Mackay City Planning Scheme 2006. Below is a response as to how the propose facility
complies with this overlay.
Image 07: Flood and Inundation Management Map
Source: Mackay City Planning Scheme 2006 – Online Mapping Service
Response:
It should be noted by reference to the overlay above that virtually the whole of North Mackay
is subject to this overlay. It should also be noted that the facility covers a very small footprint
and that it is unmanned. The risk of flooding to the proposal is therefore minimal and the
impact of the proposal on any potential flooding is also minimal. Should this be a requirement
of Council however, appropriate mitigation measures would be put in place. It should be noted
that the facility will not involve the storage of any hazardous substance. A more detailed
assessment against the Flood and Inundation Management Overlay Code is provided in
Appendix E.
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Wetland Communities Overlay Code
The Wetlands Communities is dealt with under the Coastal Management and Biodiversity
Overlay Code. The site is identified as subject to this overlay according to wetlands
communities overlay - see Image 8 below. The overall outcomes sought for the Coastal
Management and Biodiversity Overlay Code are outlined in the Mackay City Planning Scheme
2006. Below is a response as to how the propose facility complies with this overlay.
Image 08: Wetland Communities Overlay Map
Source: Mackay City Planning Scheme 2006 – Online Mapping Service
Response:
The proposal will have minimal impact on biodiversity. There will be no loss of vegetation and
the proposal will have no impact on significant coastal wetland communities. There will be no
impacts on the coastal zone. A more detailed assessment against the Wetland Communities
Overlay Code is provided in Appendix E.
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Landscape Character Overlay
The site is adjacent to but not in an area of Landscape Character in accordance with the
Landscape Character Overlay Code - see Image 9 below. Therefore the site is subject to
assessment against the Landscape Character Overlay Code are outlined in the Mackay City
Planning Scheme 2006 which is outlined in Appendix E. The overall outcomes sought for the
Landscape Character Overlay are outlined in the Mackay City Planning Scheme 2006. Below is a
response as to how the propose facility complies with this overlay.
Image 09: Landscape Character Overlay Map
Source: Mackay City Planning Scheme 2006 – Online Mapping Service
Response:
As seen from the Landscape Character Overlay above, the site abuts an area of Landscape
Character however the proposal itself is not within the area of Landscape Character. The
proposal is to be located to the rear of the existing commercial yard where it will have limited
impact on the existing landscape character of the area. It is well screened from the road by the
existing commercial buildings and is not readily viewable from other public access points. A
more detailed assessment against the Landscape Character Overlay Code is provided in
Appendix E.
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Acid Sulphate Soils Overlay
The site is identified as being subject to the Acid Sulphate soils Overlay Code in accordance
with the Acid Sulphate Soils Overlay - see Image 10. Therefore the proposal is subject to
assessment against the Acid Sulphate Soils Overlay Code. The overall outcomes sought for the
Acid Sulphate Soils Overlay are outlined in the Mackay City Planning Scheme 2006. Below is a
response as to how the propose facility complies with this overlay.
Image 10: Acid Sulphate soils Overlay Map Source: Mackay City Planning Scheme 2006 – Online Mapping Service
Response:
The proposal will have no create no environmental harm and there will be no environmental
impacts. The proposal is on a flat area of land and will not require any off-site earth removal.
There will be minimal disturbance to the soil. A more detailed assessment against the
Landscape Character Overlay Code is provided in Appendix E.
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Development within the Vicinity of Mackay Airport Overlay
The site is identified as being subject to the obstacle limitation surface in accordance with the
Development in the Vicinity of Mackay Airport Overlay - see Image 11. Therefore the proposal
is subject to assessment against the development within the Vicinity of Mackay Airport Overlay
Code. The overall outcomes sought for the development within the Vicinity of Mackay Airport
Overlay Code are outlined in the Mackay City Planning Scheme 2006. Below is a response as to
how the propose facility complies with this overlay.
Image 11: Development within the Vicinity of Mackay Airport Overlay Map
Source: Mackay City Planning Scheme 2006 – Online Mapping Service
Response
The proposed telecommunications facility is located between the 60 and 70 metre obstacle
limitation surface as identified in Image 11. It should be noted that the proposed
telecommunication facility is not located within the prescribed air space/flight path and as a
result will not pose a safety risk for the functioning of the air services. In addition the proposed
the AHD contours at the subject site is 4.5 metres according to Mackay City Planning Scheme
online mapping service. Therefore the facility will have an overall height of (31.4 height of
facility + 4.5 contours) 36.9 metres which is below the obstacle limitation surface indicated for
the site. Furthermore, prior correspondence with aviation operations management at Mackay
Airport has stated they have no issue with the proposal and the overall height of the structure.
The proposed telecommunications facility is unmanned and does not include any activity that
may result in any noise, air or light emissions that may cause air traffic confusion and safety
risks to the public. A more detailed assessment against the Development within the Vicinity of
Mackay Airport Overlay is provided in Appendix E.
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Airport Development Distance Overlay
The proposal is located between 3 to 6 km from the airport and is identified as being subject to
the Airport Development Distance Overlay– see Image 12 and therefore is subject to
assessment against the Airport Development Distance Overlay Code. A more detailed
assessment against the Development within the Vicinity of Mackay Airport Overlay is provided
in Appendix E.
Image 12: Airport Development Distance Overlay Map
Source: Mackay City Planning Scheme 2006 – Online Mapping Service
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5.0 OTHER ENVIRONMENTAL CONSTRAINTS AND OPPORTUNITIES
5.1 Heritage
In order to determine any possible natural or cultural values of state or national significance
associated with the site, a search was conducted through the relevant Heritage Registers.
Searches have indicated that there are no items of cultural heritage significance located in the
vicinity of the proposal site.
5.2 Access, Transport and Traffic
Access to the site will be off Evans Avenue. This access is considered to be appropriate given
the Optus facility will not be a significant generator of traffic. Once operational, the facility will
require once annual maintenance visits, but will remain unattended at all other times. As the
facility generates so few trips per year, it is not considered that a more formal access track will
be required.
During the construction phase, a truck will be used to deliver the equipment and a crane will
be utilised to lift most of the equipment into place. Any traffic impacts associated with
construction will be of a short-term duration and are not anticipated to adversely impact on
the surrounding road network. If road closure is required, Optus will apply to Council for
permission.
A total construction period of approximately ten weeks (including Civil works and network
integration and equipment commissioning) is anticipated. Construction activities will involve
four basic stages:
Construction activities will involve four basic stages:
Stage 1 (Week 1)
Site preparation works, including field testing, excavation and construction of
foundations;
Stage 2 (Weeks 2, 3 and 4)
Construction of the monopole;
Stage 3 (Weeks 5 and 6)
Construction of the equipment shelter and fences;
Stage 4 (Weeks 7 – 10)
Installation of antennas and radio equipment, as well as equipment testing.
Once operational, the facility will operate on a continuously unstaffed basis and will typically
only require maintenance works once a year.
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5.3 Construction and Noise
Noise and vibration emissions associated with the proposed facility will be limited to the
construction phase outlined above. Noise generated during the construction phase will be of
short duration and will be in accordance with the standards outlined in the Environmental
Protection Regulation 1998 and Environmental Protection (Noise) Policy 1997. Construction
works will only occur between the hours of 7.00am and 6.00pm Monday - Saturday. Given the
site’s location away from other land uses, construction noise should not impact local amenity.
There will be some low level noise from the ongoing operation of air-conditioning equipment
associated with the equipment shelter, once installed. Noise emanating from the air-
conditioning equipment is comparable to levels from domestic air-conditioning installations,
and will generally accord with the background noise levels prescribed by Australian Standard
AS1055.
5.4 Electrical Interference and Grounding of the Facility
The Optus mobile Network is licensed by the Australian Communications and Media Authority
(ACMA) for the use of UMTS900, UMTS2100, LTE700 and LTE2600 frequency bands. As Optus
is the exclusive licensee of these sub-bands, emissions from Optus equipment within the
frequency bands will not cause interference. These frequencies have the ability to provide 2G,
3G & 4G data and also provide voice coverage.
Filters also ensure that each mobile phone base station meets the ACMA specifications for
emission of spurious signals outside the Optus frequency allocations. Optus will promptly
investigate any interference issues that are reported. The facility is also grounded to the
relevant Australian Standards; that is, the facility will be ‘earthed’.
5.5 Erosion, Sedimentation Control and Waste Management
All erosion and sediment control mitigation measures will be detailed in construction plans and
will comply with the Building Code of Australia and local Council standards. In addition,
contractors must comply with the 'Optus Construction Specification' that requires contractors
to undertake the necessary erosion and sediment control measures in order to protect the
surrounding environment. On completion of the installation, the site will be restored and
reinstated to an appropriate standard. No waste which requires collection or disposal will be
generated by the operation of the facility.
5.6 Social and Economic Impacts
Mobile telecommunications is a necessary service in a modern society. The proposed
development will provide enhanced digital mobile telephone coverage within the immediate
north Mackay area, providing 2G, 3G & 4G technology and GSM for voice. The site will also
free congestion from neighbouring base stations (particularly that in town centre) which is
MCU for Telecommunications Facility LOT 1 / M91200
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currently a problem due to excess traffic operating the network in the highly dense areas.
Usage of 2G, 3G and 4G services continues to widen as new technologies, like more advanced
4G capable mobile handsets, become progressively more affordable and accessible for the
wider community. Many of these new devices, like the iPhone and other ‘smart’ handsets, are
also data-intensive, meaning they place much more demand on the mobile network than an
older 2G capable phone would – meaning that base stations must have the capacity to provide
these services.
The proposed development will provide significantly enhanced digital mobile telephone
coverage to the north Mackay area. The addition of a new base station in this area will provide
the community with a far greater range of mobile phone services. These will include the ability
to make video calls, wireless access to the internet from mobile phones, and enable computers
more reliable access to e-mails and secure access to internet sites for tasks such as online
banking. Reliable mobile phone coverage is important to ensure the economic growth of
communities in rural towns such as Mackay, and in this regard the facility will have significant
social and economic benefits for the local community.
There are not expected to be any adverse social or economic effects as a result of the
development. Indeed it is anticipated that there would be positive impacts only as outlined
above.
5.7 Public Safety 5.7.1 Electromagnetic Emissions
In relation to public safety and specifically Electromagnetic Emissions (EME) and public health,
Optus operates within the operational standards set by the Australian Communication and
Media Authority (ACMA) and Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency
(ARPANSA). ARPANSA is a Federal Government agency incorporated under the Health and
Ageing portfolio and is charged with the responsibility for protecting the health and safety of
both people and the environment from the harmful effects of radiation (ionising and non-
ionising).
All Optus installations are designed and certified by qualified professionals in accordance with
all relevant Australian Standards. This ensures that the Optus facility does not result in any
increase in the level of risk to the public. This facility is to be operated in compliance with the
ACMA mandatory standard for human exposure to EME – currently the Radio communications
(Electromagnetic Radiation Human Exposure) Standard 2003. The EME Report associated with
this site is attached at Appendix F. The report shows that the maximum predicted EME will be
0.42% of the ACMA mandated exposure limit. This is the substantially less than the maximum
allowable exposure limit (where 100% of the limit is still considered to be safe).
Moreover, all Optus equipment has the following features which minimise the amounts of
energy used and emitted:
MCU for Telecommunications Facility LOT 1 / M91200
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Dynamic/Adaptive Power Control is a network feature that automatically adjusts the
power and hence minimises EME from both the base station and the handset;
Adjustment of the number of transmitters in use to meet the active telephone traffic
minimises EME from the network;
Varying the base station’s transmit power to the minimal required level, minimising EME
from the network; and
Discontinuous transmission is a feature that reduces EME emissions by automatically
switching the transmitter off when no speech or data is being sent.
5.7.2 Access
The proposed facility will have restrictions aimed at preventing public access, including a secured compound fence with a locked gate and warning signs placed around the facility. 5.8 The Public Interest and the Benefits of Telecommunications
The proposed Optus facility will have significant benefits for the communities within and
around Mackay. Optus believe that the public interest would be served by the approval of the
proposal, given benefits for enhanced mobile telephone coverage and the provision of the
latest 4G broadband network in the area. The facility will have benefit for local residents,
businesses and visitors to the district.
5.8.1 Commonwealth Government Policy
This new facility by Optus will provide quicker data transfer times and should be seen in the
context of current Australian Government policy and studies undertaken in relation to the
“digitalisation” of Australian society and economy. The network rollout is clearly supported by
Federal Government policy and backed up by significant consumer demand.
In its Broadband Blueprint (2006), the Australian Government cites an estimate that universal
availability of broadband could produce economic benefits of $12 billion to $30 billion per
annum. Indeed, the first wave of information and communications technology (ICT) delivered
an immense boost to Australian productivity, accounting for up to 70 per cent of productivity
growth between 1984-85 and 2001-02. Given the importance of telecommunications in an
increasingly knowledge-based economy, a world-class telecommunications network is
essential. (Infrastructure Australia Report to Council of Australian Governments December
2008)
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5.8.2 Other Benefits of Telecommunications
Other benefits of telecommunications include:
Enabling emergency calls to those in need;
Medical Benefits – Using the various technology services, vital medical monitoring data
can be sent to hospital based specialists by local doctors or emergency services
personnel in the field. This allows for immediate and continuous medical assessments,
which were not possible previously;
Educational benefits such as curriculum sharing, data-sharing, easier links to outside
experts via web links, virtual classrooms etc. This is particularly useful at a tertiary
education level;
Emergency Services such as the fire department use 4G phones and technology to
conduct on-site assessments and send them instantly back to base;
Telecommuting presents another option for workers – with high quality 4G coverage,
workers may be able to work from home instead of travelling to work. This trend is
heavily reliant upon wireless communication, and is anticipated to continue increasing
in popularity; and
Enabling business to conduct correspondence online which saves time, resources and
money. Improved telecommunications provision effectively removes physical
distance/travel time as barrier to business.
The public benefits of telecommunications provision have been widely acknowledged
for many years. Telecommunications is now more than ever an integral component of
society, so much so that its absence is considered a social disadvantage.
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6.0 CONCLUSION
Optus propose to install a new telecommunications facility at 41 Evans Avenue, North Mackay
(described as Lot 1 M91200). The facility seeks to provide additional coverage to the North
Mackay area with the aim of it becoming an integral element within the digital mobile
telephone network that Optus is establishing throughout Queensland and across Australia.
In conjunction with Metasite Pty Ltd, Optus have undertaken an assessment of the relevant
planning and technical matters, as required by Commonwealth, State and Local legislation,
environmental, operational, radiofrequency and public safety requirements.
As a result of this process, we consider that the proposed facility is suitable for its location,
given the following reasons:
The development proposal is generally compliant with the relevant planning
considerations within the Mackay City Planning Scheme 2006;
The site has been assessed as a viable option for the effective delivery of Optus
coverage and radiofrequency objectives for the search area, in accordance with the
‘Precautionary Principle’, and will greatly improve access to mobile
telecommunications for residents of North Mackay and choice of provider.
The facility will operate within the regulatory framework of Commonwealth, State and
Local Governments;
The facility will operate within all current and relevant Australian Standards;
The development proposal is the most appropriate option from a town planning
perspective, given its location within a Commercial Area, its location within the lot and
the subsequent setbacks from the majority of buildings in the surrounding area.
The facility is not anticipated to have an adverse impact on local environmental values
for the subject site and surrounding area;
No vegetation will need to be removed and the existing commercial buildings along
the Evans Avenue road frontage will provide good screening of the proposal from the
surrounding land uses;
The proposed development will not prejudice the existing and future uses of the site;
The proposed facility will provide a structure on which other telecommunications
carriers can co-locate in future, if required;
The installation will address a number of identified customer issues relating to mobile
coverage, network capacity and the quality of mobile telephone calls; and
The proposed development will have a number of significant economic and social
benefits as outlined in previous sections of this planning report.
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Based upon the above, we respectfully request that Mackay Regional Council approve the
application and issue a Development Permit for a Material Change of Use for a
Telecommunications Facility at this location, subject to reasonable and relevant conditions,
and in accordance with the plans attached in Appendix B.
Appendix A
Candidate Photos
Candidate A - 4 Malcomson St
Candidate B - 41 Evans Avenue
Candidate C - 37 Evans Avenue
Candidate D - 35 Evans Avenue
Candidate E - 33 Evans Avenue
Appendix B
Proposed Plans
LEVEL 2, 20 CLARK STREET, CROWS NEST, NSW, 2065T +61 2 9439 1006
WWW.METASITE.COM.AU
MOBILE NETWORK
Revision Details
Client: Project: Drawing Title:
RevisionDrawing No.
AUSTRALIA
Drawing Status:
DateRev ApproverVerifierDesignerConsultant CAD
COPYRIGHT © OPTUS MOBILES PTY LTD ABN 65 054 365 696. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. VERSION 2.0 NOVEMBER 2013
B1204BCREMORNE NORTH
41 EVANS AVENUE
DRAFT SITE LAYOUT
B1204B-P1 01FOR APPROVAL
SITE NO. -
©
LEVEL 2, 20 CLARK STREET, CROWS NEST, NSW, 2065T +61 2 9439 1006
WWW.METASITE.COM.AU
MOBILE NETWORK
Revision Details
Client: Project: Drawing Title:
RevisionDrawing No.
AUSTRALIA
Drawing Status:
DateRev ApproverVerifierDesignerConsultant CAD
COPYRIGHT © OPTUS MOBILES PTY LTD ABN 65 054 365 696. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. VERSION 2.0 NOVEMBER 2013
- -B1204BCREMORNE NORTH
41 EVANS AVENUE
DRAFT SITE ELEVATION
B1204B-P2 01FOR APPROVAL
SITE NO.
Appendix C
Site Photos
Site Photo - From Evans Avenue
Site Photo - Location of Proposed Facility
Site Photo - Looking from rear of yard to Evans Avenue
Site Photo - Looking into rear of yard from Evans Avenue
Appendix D
Photomontage
Appendix E
Policy, overlay and
code compliance
Mackay Frame
Locality
Mackay Frame Locality Code
Specific Outcomes Acceptable / Probable Solutions
Assessment of Proposal
Assessable Development
P1 Commercial development is located in the commercial zone and does not detract from the network of centres referred to in the Desired Environmental Outcomes.
S1 No solution specified. Not applicable:
The proposal is not for a commercial activity.
P2 Residential development where residential use is the predominant activities (as distinct from farming for example) occurs on land located within the Village zone, Urban Residential zone and the Rural Residential zone.
S2 No solution specified. Not applicable:
The proposal is not for a residential development.
P3 Tourist development sites generally exhibit a number of the following characteristics:
(i) proximity to infrastructure and services adequate to meet the day-to-day needs of the tourist population likely to be generated by development on the site; and
(ii) proximity to a natural attraction without the potential for adverse effects upon the attributes or values which give rise to the attractiveness of the site; or
(iii) an area of land sufficient to contain fully the extent of the proposed development and the potential impacts likely to flow from it;
(iv) land suitable in its physical characteristics to accommodate the form, scale and intensity of development proposed without imposing unnecessary or unacceptable impacts upon the surrounding area; or
(v) are not located within established residential areas or accessed only via residential street.
S3 No solution specified. Not applicable:
The proposal is not for a tourist development.
P4 Land uses adjacent to industrial areas and key extractive resources areas which are incompatible with those areas include a buffer which mitigates any adverse impacts from the industrial use on the new use.
S4 No solution specified. Not applicable:
The proposal is not incompatible with the neighbouring commercial land uses.
P5 Residential development on land zoned for residential uses, adopts or creates new traffic and transport systems which:
(i) are based on the hierarchy of roads;
(ii) are appropriate to the transport and traffic tasks required by the proposed development, having regard to its scale, intensity and character;
(iii) are linked efficiently and safely with the existing road network;
(iv) promote the safe movement of traffic, cyclists and pedestrians throughout the development area; and
(v) minimises the potential for through traffic and local traffic conflicts and for
S5 No solution specified. Not applicable:
The proposal is not for a residential development.
Specific Outcomes Acceptable / Probable Solutions
Assessment of Proposal
industrial and non-industrial traffic conflicts.
P6 Rail infrastructure corridors in the City are protected from the constraining effects of proximate, sensitive land uses by seeking buffers, acoustic screens or other forms of physical separation. Where development occurs in close proximity to a rail corridor, appropriate mitigation measures in the design and siting of buildings and recreation space are provided.
S6 No solution specified. Not applicable:
The proposal is not in close proximity to a rail corridor.
P7 New uses and development within the rail corridor, including rail freight yards, stations and shunting yards, has regard for the environmental impacts upon adjacent and adjoining properties.
S7 No solution specified. Not applicable:
The proposal is not in close proximity to a rail corridor.
P8 The network of cane tramways throughout the City is protected from the effects of incompatible development. New estate development for urban residential, rural residential or village purposes is planned to minimise the potential for tramway traffic to conflict with vehicular, bicycle or pedestrian traffic through a combination of careful design and maintaining adequate buffers or separations.
S8 No solution specified. Not applicable:
The proposal is not in close proximity to a cane tramway.
P9 New development is serviced by the full range of urban infrastructure in an orderly, efficient and equitable manner as established in the priority infrastructure plan.
[7]
S9 No solution specified. The proposal for an unmanned telecommunications facility does not require any infrastructure other than an electricity supply which is available.
It should be noted however that the new facility when operational will make an important contribution towards communications infrastructure to the north Mackay area.
P10 Land fronting the Bruce Highway has limited direct access, if any, to the highway in accordance with the requirements and specifications of the Department of Main Roads.
S10 No solution specified. Not applicable;
The proposal does not have access to the Bruce highway.
P11 The route of the possible future Port Access corridor linking the industrial areas of the City with the Mackay seaport is preserved.
S11 No solution specified. Not applicable;
The proposal is not affected by the proposed link.
P12 The use and development of port land subject to freehold lease or similar title, or land adjacent to the airport, includes mechanisms to minimise, mitigate and manage any environmental impacts on the freehold land which may arise from the port operations.
S12 No solution specified. Not applicable;
The proposal is not affected by port land.
P13 The operational efficiency of the major road transport routes serving the Mackay seaport, the airport, the railway and the Paget industrial area is maintained by:
(i) ensuring adequate buffers or separations between noise and traffic sensitive
S13 No solution specified. Not applicable;
The proposal will have no impact on these routes.
Specific Outcomes Acceptable / Probable Solutions
Assessment of Proposal
activities and these major routes; and
(ii) planning development according to the road hierarchy illustrated on the Information Map – Key Infrastructure.
P14 Open space areas are protected from the adverse affects of development through:
(i) limiting development within open space areas to low impact activities, facilities and works that maintain the value of the area;
(ii) locating development on adjoining land in parts of the site less likely to have adverse effects;
(iii) providing buffers to open space areas of sufficient width to mitigate any adverse effects; and
(iv) adopting impact mitigation and management measures for development likely to cause adverse effects.
S14 No solution specified. Not applicable:
The proposal will have no impact on open space areas.
P15 Open space and recreation areas are preserved by providing that development of land in proximity to high use areas (e.g. the racecourse at Ooralea) is designed and sited to take into account:
(i) noise;
(ii) lighting; and
(iii) traffic impacts of activities and major events.
S15 No solution specified. Not applicable:
The proposal will have no impact on open space areas.
Coastal
Management &
Biodiversity
Overlay Code
Coastal Management Areas and Biodiversity Overlay Code
Specific Outcomes Acceptable / Probable Solutions Assessment of Proposal
Assessable Development
Development in Coastal Areas
P1 Urban expansion into non-urban zones does not locate within, or impact on:
(i) significant coastal wetlands;
(ii) riparian areas;
(iii) sites containing important coastal resources of economic, social, cultural and ecological value (including significant dune systems and endangered regional ecosystems); and
(iv) areas identified as having, or the potential to have, unacceptable risk from coastal hazards.
S1 No solution specified. The proposal is not for an
urban expansion.
Nature Conservation Areas
Specific Outcomes Acceptable / Probable Solutions Assessment of Proposal
Assessable Development
Habitats of Rare, Threatened or Endangered Species
P1 Ecological values and functions are protected, on:
(i) land abutting shorebird habitat areas is developed in a manner consistent with the protection of the use of the habitat by shorebirds; and
(ii) land within 500 m of turtle nesting beaches are protected from
S1.1 Where development is proposed on land within or abutting habitat areas development other than for conservation purposes is minimised.
S1.2 Where land is abutting shorebird habitat areas:
(i) a vegetated buffer is maintained to prevent conflict;
(ii) public access is minimised and managed to avoid adverse impacts on habitat;
(iii) operational or building works are avoided during September to April; and
(iv) only native endemic species are planted.
S1.3 Development within 500m of Turtle nesting beaches:
(i) maintains a vegetated area adjacent to the beach free of any
The proposal will have no impact
on habitat areas.
Specific Outcomes Acceptable / Probable Solutions Assessment of Proposal
incompatible development. development;
(ii) ensures lighting does not spill into beach areas;
(iii) maintains a buffer of a minimum of 200m adjacent to turtle nesting areas;
(iv) minimises public access;
(v) uses sodium vapour lamps (or equivalent) for all outdoor lighting during turtle nesting season; and
(vi) provides lighting including street lighting that is no higher than the buffering vegetation and is turned away from the beach or lighting with characteristic wavelengths that do not affect turtles.
Connectivity and Vegetation Protection
P2 The genetic dispersal of flora and fauna species, is facilitated by maximising the retention and enhancement of connectivity between vegetated areas. In particular, the site incorporates:
(i) fauna movement corridors; and
(ii) existing riparian vegetation.
S2.1 Areas of existing remnant vegetation are retained and enhanced on the site such that vegetation linkages are created.
S2.2 Riparian vegetation is retained within 100m of the high bank of a watercourse.
S2.3 Riparian vegetation is replanted in disturbed or cleared areas of riparian corridors.
No vegetation will be removed.
P3 The biodiversity and habitat values of riparian systems are protected from:
(i) increased nutrient or sediment levels; or
(ii) changed flow or hydrologic regimes of watercourses, including seasonal, temporal, chemical or thermal changes.
S3.1 Sediment and nutrient loadings of watercourses are minimised through:
(i) provision of stormwater run-off controls; and
(ii) on-site and off-site erosion controls.
S3.2 The natural flow regime is maintained by:
(i) no interference with a natural watercourse except for rehabilitation purposes; and
(ii) the retention and restoration of native riparian zones to improve bank stability and in-stream ecological values and restrict weed growth.
The proposal will not impact on
water courses.
P4 The release of stormwater into partially or fully enclosed systems with low water exchange rates such as coastal wetlands, lagoons or coastal estuaries is minimised
S4 No solution specified. The proposal will not generate any
stormwater.
Specific Outcomes Acceptable / Probable Solutions Assessment of Proposal
by utilising:
(i) recycling of water;
(ii) re-use after treatment; or
(iii) alternative discharge points.
Note: Supporting information that may
be required in order to demonstrate compliance is set out in the Erosion Prone Area Planning Scheme Policy.
Coastal Wetland Communities
Specific Outcomes Acceptable / Probable Solutions Assessment of Proposal
Assessable Development
P1 Development within 100m of coastal wetland communities as identified on the Coastal Management and Biodiversity Overlay Map is minimised.
S1 No solution specified. The proposal will have no impact
on coastal wetland communities.
P2 Development, including reconfiguring a lot, within 100m coastal wetland communities as identified on the Coastal Management and Biodiversity Overlay Map – Coastal Wetland Communities:
(i) Maintains an area between the wetland and development of a width and with characteristics that will safeguard the functions of the wetland and allow for natural fluctuations of location;
(ii) has no significant impact on the natural characteristics of the wetland, including the topography, ground water
S2.1 Development for Reconfiguring a lot provides for the retention of land as open space where it is located within 100m of a wetlands area.
S2.2 Stormwater runoff from development within 100m of a coastal wetlands and watercourses is subject to quality improvement and flow velocity reduction to ensure that the water quality in the wetlands is maintained and considers the cumulative effect of runoff.
S2.3 Specifically heavy metals, litter, hydrocarbons, sediment and nutrient loadings of waterways are minimised through:
(i) provision of stormwater run-off controls;
(ii) on-site and off-site erosion controls; and
(iii) maintenance and restoration of vegetative riparian buffer areas.
S2.4 Development complies with the requirements of the Planning Scheme Policy 15.07 Engineering Design Guidelines, D7 Soil and Water Quality Management.
The proposal is not to reconfigure
a lot.
hydrology, water quality[6]
, and plant and animal species;
(iii) provides open space areas on the site for conservation purposes; and
(iv) provides open space within the site as well as linking corridors of open space between the site and adjoining conservation significant areas.
P3 Any rehabilitation or re-establishment of coastal wetland communities does not result in the loss or detriment to other naturally occurring coastal wetland communities.
S3 No solution specified.
Landscaping
P4 Landscaping within 100m of coastal wetland communities or adjacent to natural waterways as identified on the Coastal Management and Biodiversity Overlay Map – Coastal Wetland Communities:
(i) consists of entirely local native species; and
(ii) enhances the ecological values and habitat significance of the particular area.
S4 Landscaping within 100m of coastal wetland communities or adjacent to natural waterways as identified on Coastal Management and Biodiversity Overlay Map – Coastal Wetland Communities:
(i) retains all existing local native vegetation on the site; and
(ii) uses only locally endemic species in new plantings.
No landscaping is proposed.
Coastal Hazards
Specific Outcomes Acceptable / Probable Solutions Assessment of Proposal
Assessable Development
P1 Areas subject to risk from coastal hazards are retained undeveloped or are identified for non-residential or community purposes.
S1 No solution specified. The proposal is not subject to risk
from coastal hazards.
Water Courses
Specific Outcomes Acceptable / Probable Solutions Assessment of Proposal
Assessable Development
P1 Development adjoining natural watercourses provides buffer areas to minimise any adverse impacts on the adjacent watercourses.
S1 A vegetated buffer is provided, adjacent to a natural watercourse, above the extent of the highest astronomical tide (HAT) free of physical disturbance having a minimum width of:
(i) 100m in tidal areas; and
(ii) 50m adjacent to non-tidal areas.
The proposal does not adjoin any
natural watercourses.
P2 Watercourses are protected, whilst maintaining flood conveyance, water quality and habitat functions.
S2 No solution specified. The proposal will have no impact on
watercourses.
Public Access
Specific Outcomes Acceptable / Probable Solutions Assessment of proposal
Assessable Development
P1 Public access to the coast is not limited by development and does not adversely affect coastal environmental values.
S1 No solution specified. The proposal is not near to the
coast.
Buildings and Other Structures
P2 Structures (building and works) do not impede public access to and along the foreshore except where the restriction of access is necessary to protect environmental values.
S2 No solution specified. The proposal is not located near to
the foreshore.
Reconfiguring a Lot
P3 Development involving reconfiguring a lot (subdivision) provides an area of land adjacent to the coast and waterways sufficient to permit for safe public access, which also minimises adverse impacts on the coastal environment.
S3 Development involving reconfiguring a lot (subdivision) where located in the coastal zone, provides for access that:
(i) avoids roads running parallel to the coast or waterway;
(ii) sites spur roads in locations that minimise impacts on coastal resources by:
(a) utilising areas of low environmental sensitivity; and
(b) avoiding areas that increase storm tide hazard.
The proposal does not involve
reconfiguring a lot.
Public Access Infrastructure
P4 Public access infrastructure is located to minimise risks to public safety and impacts on the coastal resources, process and habitats.
S4.1 Access infrastructure is located away from areas where:
(i) potential erosion of dunes and banks is likely to be increased;
(ii) tidal regimes and coastal processes could be affected; and
(iii) significant aquatic or terrestrial habitats value exist.
S4.2 Access infrastructure is designed to:
The proposal does not include any
public access infrastructure.
(i) maintain natural movement of sand and sediment;
(ii) avoid contributing to surface or geological instability or erosion of the foreshore;
(iii) utilise single access points wherever possible;
(iv) direct people away from sensitive areas; and
(v) be compatible with the scenic coastal landscape and topographic conditions.
P5 Pedestrian access areas: (i) Locate paths away from sensitive
habitat and areas; (ii) Ensure users remain on the
footpath and walkways to minimise physical impacts on the local environment through appropriate signage and fencing.
S5 No solution specified.
Infrastructure
Specific Outcomes Acceptable / Probable Solutions Assessment of Proposal
Assessable Development
P1 Infrastructure, including infrastructure of state economic significance including maritime transport facilities, and including pontoons, ramps and jetties, is designed, located and constructed to:
(i) avoid locating in areas included within a Coastal Wetland Area or within the 100 m Buffer Area except where there is a net benefit for the state as a whole;
(ii) minimise adverse impacts on coastal wetlands, particularly in relation to hydrology, disturbance of habitat and surface water flow, through appropriate engineering (i.e. culverts, exclusion fencing, bridges and pylons); and
(iii) ensure no adverse impacts on coastal resources resulting from rural infrastructure such as dams.
S1 No solution specified. The proposal is for the provision of
new telecommunications infrastructure. It is
located within the Coastal Wetland Buffer
Area, however it will have no impact on
coastal wetlands.
Extractive Industry in Coastal Areas
Specific Outcomes Acceptable / Probable Solutions Assessment of Proposal
Assessable Development
P1 Except where there is a net benefit to the state as a whole, development for extractive industry purposes is located outside of Coastal Wetland Areas or 100m Buffer Area in order to:
(i) maintain beach and foreshore stability;
(ii) maintain the stability of extraction areas;
(iii) maintain natural coastal processes, including those that supply sand to beaches, and habitats;
(iv) maintain the quality of fisheries, fishing grounds, spawning areas and nursery areas;
(v) maintain water quality, ground water levels, and the local drainage regime of the site and the adjoining areas;
(vi) not cause unacceptable risk to existing land uses from coastal hazards; and
(vii) not cause unacceptable impacts on coastal resources and their values due to disturbance of contaminated sediments.
S1 No solution specified. The proposal is not for extractive
industry.
P2 Where development for extractive industry purposes is undertaken within a Coastal Wetland Area or 100m Buffer Area the site is:
(i) rehabilitated to facilitate the natural ecological processes of the site; or
(ii) returned to a state that prevents adverse impacts on adjacent coastal resources (e.g. silt fencing and re-grassing to prevent sediment runoff).
S2 No solution specified.
P3 Where development for extractive industry purposes is undertaken within a watercourse, the operation does not contribute to increased erosion (in terms of the extraction area and the upstream and downstream environment).
S3 No solution specified.
P4 Where development for extractive industry purposes is undertaken within a tidal waterway, sediment supply is maintained to support coastal ecosystems and processes.
S4 No solution specified.
P5 Development for extractive industry purposes maintains the coastal habitats including regionally important coastal habitats, beaches and inter-tidal areas providing habitat for shorebirds and turtles and the diversity of in-stream habitat.
S5 No solution specified.
Development in
the Vicinity of
Mackay Airport
Overlay Code
Development in the Vicinity of Mackay Airport Overlay Code
Specific Outcomes Acceptable / Probable Solutions Assessment of Proposal
Assessable Development
Height Limitations
P1 The height of any building, structure or trees that can reach a significant height located in the obstacle limitation surface (OLS) area of the airport is restricted so that the safe and efficient operations of the airport is protected.
S1 The maximum height of any building, structure or tree is below the height of the OLS height indicated for the particular site.
The height of the proposal is below the
height of the OLS.
Assessable Development
Intrusive Lighting
P2 The fixing, operation, strength and direction of any lighting, including any external lighting fixed to a building or other structure within 6 km of an airport runway does not interfere with air navigation essential for the safe movement of aircraft at night.
S2.1 The fixing of any external lighting, other bright light sources or straight parallel lines of lighting 500 m to 1000 m long, within 6 km of an airport runway are avoided; or
S2.2 External lighting is designed so that it does not increase the risk of an aircraft incident and has regard to the CASA guideline “Lighting in the vicinity of aerodromes: Advice to lighting designers”.
There will be no lighting at the facility.
Gaseous Plumes
P3 Development does not cause the emission into the OLS of any potentially hazardous gaseous plumes which create an air turbulence hazard.
S3 Development does not cause the emission into the OLS of any gaseous plumes at a velocity exceeding 4.3 m per second.
The facility does not emit gaseous
plumes.
Airborne Particulates
P4 Development does not utilise practices which involve emission of airborne particulates (smoke, dust, ash or steam), that create a hazard for aircraft.
S4 Development does not utilise practices which involve emission of airborne particulates (smoke, dust, ash or steam), such as:
(i) non-green harvesting of sugar cane; or
(ii) burning (rather than mulching) cleared vegetation.
The facility does not give off any airborne
particles.
Transient Aviation Activities
P5 Development involving aviation activities, such as hot air ballooning, are not located beneath the OLS.
S5 No solution specified. The proposal does not involve any
aviation activities.
Specific Outcomes Acceptable / Probable Solutions Assessment of Proposal
Effects of Airport Operations on Surrounding Development
Specific Outcomes Acceptable / Probable Solutions
Self-Assessable and Assessable Development
Protection of Uses from Aircraft Noise
P1 The effective and safe use of the site is not unduly affected by aircraft noise and the continued operation of the airport is not limited by the encroachment of uses which are sensitive to the effects of aircraft noise.
S1.1 Land uses proposed on premises avoid the following:
(i) intense residential use, other than a dwelling house, where located on land within the 20 ANEF contour;
(ii) long term residential use (occupation exceeding 4 months in a calendar year), or community use where located on land within the 25 ANEF contour or greater;
(iii) short term residential use (occupation 4 months or less in calendar year) where located on land within the 25 – 30 ANEF contour; and
(iv) commercial uses where located on land within the 35 ANEF contour.
S1.2 In assessing development involving the construction of buildings within the 20-25 ANEF contour, Council will have regard to the provisions of AS2021 Acoustics – Aircraft Noise Intrusion – Building Siting and Construction.
The facility is unmanned.
Assessable Development
Air Safety Zones
P2 New development is located to minimise the potential effects in the event of an aircraft crash resulting from takeoff and landing.
S2 New development within the Airport Safety Zone does not introduce or intensify residential, community, commercial, industrial or other uses or result in the use of premises for the manufacture or bulk storage of hazardous (explosive or noxious) or flammable materials.
The facility is unmanned.
P3 Any new development in the indicated Airport Safety Zone ensures there is no significant increase in the number of people living, working or congregating in the Airport Safety Zone.
S3 No solution specified. The facility is unmanned.
Specific Outcomes Acceptable / Probable Solutions Assessment of Proposal
Bird or Bat Attracting Development
Specific Outcomes Acceptable / Probable Solutions Assessment of Proposal
Self-Assessable and Assessable Development
P1 Uses involving the management of waste and food production do not locate within 3 km of an airport runway.
S1 The following uses are not located within 3 km or an airport runway:
(i) agriculture (only where involving fruit tree or turf production);
(ii) animal Husbandry (only where involving stock handling or slaughtering, pig production, or the keeping or protection of wild-life outside enclosures);
(iii) aquaculture;
(iv) industries involving food handling or food processing; and
(v) stable, riding schools or race tracks.
The proposal is not for any of these
uses.
P2 Uses, if located between 3 km and 8 km of an airport runway, manage waste/food sources to minimise wildlife attraction.
S2 The following uses located between 3 km and 8 km of an airport runway manage food and waste sources and otherwise control activities to minimise wildlife attraction;
(i) agriculture (only where involving fruit tree or turf production)
(ii) animal Husbandry (only where involving stock handling or slaughtering, pig production, or the keeping or protection of wildlife outside enclosures);
(iii) aquaculture;
(iv) industries involving food handling or food processing; and
(v) stables, riding schools or race tracks.
The proposal is not for any of these
uses.
P3 Uses involving the disposal of putrescible waste do not occur within 13 km of an airport runway.
S3 No solution specified. The proposal does not involve the
disposal of waste.
Specific Outcomes Acceptable / Probable Solutions Assessment of Proposal
Effects on Development on Aviation Facilities
Specific Outcomes Acceptable / Probable Solutions Assessment of Proposal
Self-Assessable and Assessable Development
P1 The functioning of navigation, communication or surveillance facilities are protected from the following:
(i) ‘physical’ line of sight obstructions;
(ii) significant electrical or electro-magnetic emissions;
(iii) structures containing a reflective service; and
(iv) significant radio frequency interference.
S1.1 For a NDB Facility:
(i) the area within 60m radius of a NDB facility is free of all buildings, structures, trees and fences and other physical obstructions;
(ii) development within 150m radius of a NDB facility comprises small non metallic buildings less than 2.5m in any dimension; and
(iii) development comprising steel masts and towers within 500m radius ensure height is restricted to no more than 6m.
S1.2 For a DME facility:
(i) the area within a 10m radius and within 1m below the base of the antenna of the DME facility is free of all buildings, structures, trees, fences and other physical obstructions; and
(ii) development within 10m to 1500m radius of the DME facility is free of buildings, trees, power and telephone lines and fences beneath the profile of a line beginning at a point 1m below the base of the antenna and graduating in height at an angle 0.5 degrees where it reaches a height of 12m above the base of the antenna at 1500m radius.
S1.3 For a VHF and UHF communication facilities the area within a 500m radius of the VHF or UHF facility is free of all buildings, structures, trees, fences and other physical obstructions unless it is demonstrated that the structure does not reflect or attenuate signals from existing aeronautical facilities
[13].
S1.4 For a VOR facility, the area within 1000m radius of a VOR facility is free of all buildings, structures, trees, fences and any other physical obstructions, other than:
(i) between 60 m and 150 m radius of a NDB facility, wire fences less than 1.2 m in
any dimension are compatible; (ii) between 150 m radius and 300 m radius, single trees and wire fences are
compatible; and (iii) between 300 m radius and 1000 m radius, structures, low tension power lines,
groups of trees, telephone lines, taxiways, roads, railway lines and other obstructions are compatible when they remain below the following height (expressed as a vertical
The proposed facility is located outside
this area.
The proposed facility is located
outside this area.
Specific Outcomes Acceptable / Probable Solutions Assessment of Proposal
angle from the base of the VOR): 0.5 degree - fences 1.0 degree - overhead lines 1.5 degrees - metallic structures 2.0 degrees - trees and open lattice towers 2.5 degrees - wooden structures"
The proposed facility is located
outside this area.
Flood and
Inundation
Management
Overlay
Flood and Inundation Management Overlay Code
Buildings & Access
Specific Outcomes Acceptable / Probable Solutions Assessment of Proposal
Assessable Development
Building Floor Levels
P1 Development maintains the safety of people on premises from all floods up to and including the DFE, or the defined “Minimum Level”, whichever is the greater.
S1.1 Development is located on land above the level of flooding during the DFE, or the defined “Minimum Level”, whichever is the greater; or
S1.2 Where development is located on land below the level of flooding during the DFE, or the defined “Minimum Level”:
(a) there is no increase in the number of people living or working on the site except on a short-term or intermittent basis (e.g. by construction workers, seasonal agricultural and forestry workers); and
(b) for all premises listed in Table 8-11, the minimum building floor level is the greater of:
(i) at least 300mm above the DFE; or
(ii) the defined ‘Minimum Level’ for the location of the site.
(c) in addition to the above requirements, the building floor level shall be a minimum of 225mm above natural ground level and will be sufficient to allow for relevant plumbing fixtures and minimum floor levels noted above.
(d) in addition to the above requirements, the building floor level shall be a minimum of 300mm above the top of the kerb level or crown of the adjacent bitumen road, whichever is greater.
(e) in addition to the above requirements, an allowance of an additional 600mm is made for higher wave effects and run up in the foreshore area. The foreshore area shall be taken as extending inland for a minimum of 100 metres from the toe of the frontal dune or HAT whichever is the highest.
(f) buildings are located and designed so that there is at least one evacuation route
[22] that remains passable for emergency
evacuations during all floods up to and including the DFE.
S1.3 Where new residential premises are proposed to be located on land in an existing area that is below the level of flooding, during the DFE,
The proposal is located on land above the
defined “Minimum Level”.
In any event the facility is unmanned.
or the defined “Minimum Level”, the minimum building floor level is the greater of:
(a) at least 300mm above the DFE; or
(b) the defined “Minimum Level” for the location of the site.
S1.4 Where existing residential premises, located on land below the level of flooding during the DFE, or the defined “Minimum Level”, are proposed to be extended by the addition of a Habitable Room (or rooms), the minimum building floor level of the new “Habitable Room” (or rooms) is the greater of:
(a) at least 300mm above the DFE; or
(b) the defined “Minimum Level” for the location of the site.
S1.5 Where filling of more than 400mm above natural ground level is required to achieve the minimum floor levels, forms of construction other than “slab on ground” are provided.
Ground Levels, Operation Works & Hazardous Materials
Specific Outcomes Acceptable / Probable Solutions Assessment of Proposal
Assessable Development
Ground Levels for Lots
P1 Reconfiguring a lot where located in an area identified in the Flood and Inundation Management Overlay Map, provides that each lot created has a ground level which has flood immunity such that persons and property are not placed at unreasonable risk of injury or damage caused by flooding or inundation.
S1.1 The minimum finished ground level for lots in new areas is the greater of; (i) at or above the DFE, or (ii) not less than 400mm below the defined
‘Minimum Level’ for the location of the site. S1.2 For lots in existing areas the existing ground level is
not altered outside the existing building footprint[23]
. S1.3 For lots in new areas, filling levels ensure that there is
no net loss of floodplain storage. S1.4 In the Rural and Rural Residential zone, lots are:
(i) immune from inundation by flooding during the DFE; or
(ii) include at least 1000m² within each lot above
the DFE level and there is access to the elevated area constructed with a 50 year ARI trafficability.
The facility is located above theDFE The facility is unmanned.
Operational Works (Earthworks)
P2 Development does not result in adverse impacts on people’s safety or the capacity to use land within the flood plain.
S2.1 Development: (i) complies with any applicable development
criteria set out in a floodplain management plan
[24]; or
(ii) where a floodplain management plan does not exist, either: (a) minimises reductions of on-site flood
storage capacity and contains within the subject site any changes to depth/duration/velocity of floodwaters of all floods up to and including the DFE; or
(b) does not change the flood characteristics of the DFE outside the subject site in ways that result in: (1) loss of flood storage (2) loss of/change to flow paths; (3) acceleration or retardation flows; or (4) reduction in flood warning times
elsewhere on the floodplain.
The proposal will have no impact on the flood plain.
Specific Outcomes Acceptable / Probable Solutions Assessment of Proposal
S2.2 In the Industry (High Impact) and Industry (Low Impact) Zones, hard-standing and outdoor storage areas are constructed to finished levels at least the height of an inundation or flood event with a 2% AEP (50 year ARI), provided that these works do not cause an increased risk of inundation in other parts of the City.
P3 Where located on land identified in the Flood and Inundation Management Overlay Map, the existing ground level is not altered outside the footprint of a building by the excavation or filling of land.
S3 No solution specified. The ground level will not be altered.
P4 Public safety and stream flows in areas identified in the Flood and Inundation Management Overlay Map are maintained by limiting the extent and nature of development.
S4 No solution specified. The proposal is unmanned.
The proposal will have no impacts on stream flows.
P5 Essential Services infrastructure, such as on-site electricity, gas, water supply, sewerage and telecommunications maintain their functions during a DFE.
S5.1 Any components of infrastructure that are likely to fail to function or may result in contamination when inundated by flood waters (e.g. electrical switch gear and motors, water supply pipeline air valves) are:
(i) located above the DFE and/or
(ii) designed and constructed to exclude floodwater intrusion and infiltration.
S5.2 Infrastructure is designed and constructed to resist hydrostatic and hydrodynamic forces as a result of inundation by the DFE.
The proposed telecommunications
Antennas are located at the top of a 30m monopole.
The equipment shelter is designed to exclude
floodwater.
Hazardous Materials
P6 Public safety and the environment are not adversely affected by the detrimental impacts of floodwater on hazardous materials manufactured or stored in bulk on the site.
S6.1 The manufacture of hazardous materials takes place above the DFE flood levels.
S6.2 Structures used for the manufacture or storage of hazardous materials in bulk are designed to prevent the intrusion of flood waters.
S6.3 The storage of hazardous materials is contained within a bunded area where the bund wall has a height of 300mm or more above the DFE, or the defined ‘Minimum Level’ for the location of the site, whichever is
No hazardous materials are stored
at the facility.
Specific Outcomes Acceptable / Probable Solutions Assessment of Proposal
the greater, provided that these works do not cause an increased risk for the inundation in other parts of the City.
Building Floor Levels
P7 A Dwelling House is provided on a floor level which has flood immunity such that persons and property are not placed at unreasonable risk of injury or damage caused by flooding or inundation.
S7 Building Floor Levels are provided in accordance with the minimum building floor levels as provided in Acceptable Solutions S1.1 to S1.5 of the Flood and Inundation Overlay Code.
The proposal is not a dwelling
house.
Landscape
Character
Overlay Code
Landscape Character Overlay Code
Landscape Character Areas
Specific Outcomes Acceptable / Probable Solutions Assessment of Proposal
Self-Assessable and Assessable Development
Design and Siting of Buildings
P1 Development is sensitive to the existing landscape character by:
(i) avoiding intrusion into existing view-lines and vistas through inappropriate siting and excessive height;
(ii) siting buildings and structures to avoid loss of remnant vegetation;
(iii) avoiding intrusion of any structure above the ridgeline or tree canopy and into the sky line; and
(iv) finishing buildings, other structures and fences with materials and colours with blend with the natural landscape.
S1.1 Subject to S1.2 below, buildings and structures have:
(i) a maximum height of 8.5m;
(ii) external walls of the building finished with non-reflective glazing.
S1.2 All buildings and structure have a maximum height of 4.5 m where located in the Offshore Islands Locality.
The proposal is to locate the facility at
the rear of the site in the existing commercial
yard. The site is not identified as being of any
landscape character. The proposal by way of its
siting will limit any visual impact on the
surrounding landscape.
The proposal will have no impact on view –
lines and vistas, it will not lead to the loss of
vegetation, it is set back from any tree canopies
and its colour will blend with the landscape. If
Council require appropriate colour matching of
the facility this will be agreed to.
Reconfiguring a lot
Assessable Development Assessment of Proposal
P2 Development involving the reconfiguring a lot in a landscape character area is designed to:
(i) avoid locating access ways or road ways in areas of remnant vegetation; and
(ii) maximise retention of existing vegetation through increased road reserve widths, reduced pavement widths, provision of passing bays and meandering pavements.
S2 Roads within a landscape character area are designed to retain vegetation except for the development of road pavement and other infrastructure, and access to lots.
The proposal is not within a landscape
character area.
Operational Works
P3 Operational works on land in character areas is minimised such that any filling or excavation does not
S3.1 Excavation and filling works is not undertaken within the edge of the
Specific Outcomes Acceptable / Probable Solutions Assessment of Proposal
visually dominate the streetscape or result in the loss of existing vegetation.
canopy of existing vegetation to be retained on the site.
S3.2 Operational works are rehabilitated immediately on completion, with:
(i) re-grading and draining of disturbed surfaces to form even profiles;
(ii) spreading topsoil suitable for planting; and
(iii) dense plantings of endemic, native, plant species.
Landscaping Works
P4 Landscaping works on land in character areas enhances the landscape character values of the locality
[36].
S4 Premises incorporate landscape planting to site boundaries.
Note: Council will refer to the Engineering
Standards Planning Scheme Policy and the Landscaping Standards detailed in the Landscaping Planning Scheme Policy.
Image Corridors
Specific Outcomes Acceptable / Probable Solutions Assessment of Proposal
Self-Assessable and Assessable Development
P1 Buildings and Structures located on land adjacent to an image corridor have a minimum building setback of 10 m to the road frontage.
S1 Buildings and Structures located on land adjacent to an image corridor have a minimum building setback of 10 m to the road frontage.
The proposal is not located within an
image corridor.
Assessable Development
P2 The views and vistas available from the main image corridors as identified on the Information Maps (A & B) – ‘Image Corridors’, are protected and enhanced by:
(i) providing a high standard of building design which blends into the associated urban or rural setting; and
(ii) incorporating landscape treatments for development sites that provide a continuous (no
S2 No solution specified. The proposal is not located within an
image corridor.
Specific Outcomes Acceptable / Probable Solutions Assessment of Proposal
gaps) vegetated strip where the vegetation is not less than 2 metres high at the development edge of the setback with lower shrubs between the tall (>2m) vegetation and the road frontage;
(iii) there are no advertising signs within the 10 m setback area; and
(iv) all signs and advertising devices on land adjacent to an image corridor 10 m setback area:
(a) do not include projecting roof or sky signs;
(b) have a height of no greater than 6 m where a free standing sign; and
(c) do not incorporate flashing neon lights or animated elements.
Note: Image corridors include both Entry Corridors and Tourist Corridors as shown on Maps (A & B).
Acid Sulfate
Soils Overlay
Code
Acid Sulfate Soils Overlay Code
Specific Outcomes Acceptable / Probable Solutions Assessment of Proposal
Assessable Development
P1 Where excavation or filling is to be undertaken in areas of Acid Sulfate Soils, a comprehensive approach to acid sulfate soil management is taken to:
(i) maintain water quality at more than 5.5 pH;
(ii) maintain the health and ecological health of the receiving environmental;
(iii) avoid adverse effects on environmentally sensitive areas; and
(iv) avoid accelerated corrosion of assets such as buildings, structures, road and other infrastructure.
Note: Where S1.1 is not complied with
or where between 100m³ and 1000m³ of acid sulfate soil with either >0.03% oxidisable sulphur or >18 moles H+/tonne TPA or TAA is to be disturbed, then:
(i) an Acid Sulfate Soils Investigation Report is supplied to Council as part of the development application and prepared with reference to the guidelines which accompany State Planning Policy 2/02 and the Queensland Acid Sulfate Soil Technical Manual – Soil Management Guidelines (2002), and in particular contains the following information:
(a) the sampling and technical analysis procedures adopted in the investigation;
(b) the location, area, depth and volume of acid sulphate soil to be disturbed and details on the water table;
(c) the proposed method of treating/managing disturbed acid sulfate soil and surface drainage waters from areas
S1.1 Development:
(i) does not disturb Acid Sulfate Soils; or
(ii) less than 100m³ of acid sulfate soil is to be disturbed (including filling).
S1.2 Avoid the release of acid and metal contaminants by:
(i) neutralising existing acidity; and
(ii) preventing the release of surface or groundwater flows containing acid and metal contaminants into the environment.
The proposal will not require any off
site earth removal. A 150mm cut will
need to be made to lay the pole
foundation and the earth will be
placed back into the hole. There will
be minimal disturbance to the soil.
Specific Outcomes Acceptable / Probable Solutions Assessment of Proposal
containing disturbed acid sulphate soil;
(d) the proposed method of maintaining water table levels in and adjacent to disturbed areas, or management of ASS if the water table is lowered below the ASS layer; and
(e) the proposed monitor procedures;
or
(ii) where more than 1000m³ of acid sulfate soil with either >0.03% oxidisable sulfur of > 18 moles H+/tonne TPA or TAA is to be disturbed or the water table is to be affected, development is in accordance with a detailed Acid Sulfate Soil Management plan and which also includes the information required under (i) above.
Flood and
Inundation
Management
Overlay
Flood and Inundation Management Overlay Code
Buildings & Access
Specific Outcomes Acceptable / Probable Solutions Assessment of Proposal
Assessable Development
Building Floor Levels
P1 Development maintains the safety of people on premises from all floods up to and including the DFE, or the defined “Minimum Level”, whichever is the greater.
S1.1 Development is located on land above the level of flooding during the DFE, or the defined “Minimum Level”, whichever is the greater; or
S1.2 Where development is located on land below the level of flooding during the DFE, or the defined “Minimum Level”:
(a) there is no increase in the number of people living or working on the site except on a short-term or intermittent basis (e.g. by construction workers, seasonal agricultural and forestry workers); and
(b) for all premises listed in Table 8-11, the minimum building floor level is the greater of:
(i) at least 300mm above the DFE; or
(ii) the defined ‘Minimum Level’ for the location of the site.
(c) in addition to the above requirements, the building floor level shall be a minimum of 225mm above natural ground level and will be sufficient to allow for relevant plumbing fixtures and minimum floor levels noted above.
(d) in addition to the above requirements, the building floor level shall be a minimum of 300mm above the top of the kerb level or crown of the adjacent bitumen road, whichever is greater.
(e) in addition to the above requirements, an allowance of an additional 600mm is made for higher wave effects and run up in the foreshore area. The foreshore area shall be taken as extending inland for a minimum of 100 metres from the toe of the frontal dune or HAT whichever is the highest.
(f) buildings are located and designed so that there is at least one evacuation route
[22] that remains passable for emergency
evacuations during all floods up to and including the DFE.
S1.3 Where new residential premises are proposed to be located on land in an existing area that is below the level of flooding, during the DFE,
The proposal is located on land above the
defined “Minimum Level”.
In any event the facility is unmanned.
or the defined “Minimum Level”, the minimum building floor level is the greater of:
(a) at least 300mm above the DFE; or
(b) the defined “Minimum Level” for the location of the site.
S1.4 Where existing residential premises, located on land below the level of flooding during the DFE, or the defined “Minimum Level”, are proposed to be extended by the addition of a Habitable Room (or rooms), the minimum building floor level of the new “Habitable Room” (or rooms) is the greater of:
(a) at least 300mm above the DFE; or
(b) the defined “Minimum Level” for the location of the site.
S1.5 Where filling of more than 400mm above natural ground level is required to achieve the minimum floor levels, forms of construction other than “slab on ground” are provided.
Ground Levels, Operation Works & Hazardous Materials
Specific Outcomes Acceptable / Probable Solutions Assessment of Proposal
Assessable Development
Ground Levels for Lots
P1 Reconfiguring a lot where located in an area identified in the Flood and Inundation Management Overlay Map, provides that each lot created has a ground level which has flood immunity such that persons and property are not placed at unreasonable risk of injury or damage caused by flooding or inundation.
S1.1 The minimum finished ground level for lots in new areas is the greater of; (i) at or above the DFE, or (ii) not less than 400mm below the defined
‘Minimum Level’ for the location of the site. S1.2 For lots in existing areas the existing ground level is
not altered outside the existing building footprint[23]
. S1.3 For lots in new areas, filling levels ensure that there is
no net loss of floodplain storage. S1.4 In the Rural and Rural Residential zone, lots are:
(i) immune from inundation by flooding during the DFE; or
(ii) include at least 1000m² within each lot above
the DFE level and there is access to the elevated area constructed with a 50 year ARI trafficability.
The facility is located above theDFE The facility is unmanned.
Operational Works (Earthworks)
P2 Development does not result in adverse impacts on people’s safety or the capacity to use land within the flood plain.
S2.1 Development: (i) complies with any applicable development
criteria set out in a floodplain management plan
[24]; or
(ii) where a floodplain management plan does not exist, either: (a) minimises reductions of on-site flood
storage capacity and contains within the subject site any changes to depth/duration/velocity of floodwaters of all floods up to and including the DFE; or
(b) does not change the flood characteristics of the DFE outside the subject site in ways that result in: (1) loss of flood storage (2) loss of/change to flow paths; (3) acceleration or retardation flows; or (4) reduction in flood warning times
elsewhere on the floodplain.
The proposal will have no impact on the flood plain.
Specific Outcomes Acceptable / Probable Solutions Assessment of Proposal
S2.2 In the Industry (High Impact) and Industry (Low Impact) Zones, hard-standing and outdoor storage areas are constructed to finished levels at least the height of an inundation or flood event with a 2% AEP (50 year ARI), provided that these works do not cause an increased risk of inundation in other parts of the City.
P3 Where located on land identified in the Flood and Inundation Management Overlay Map, the existing ground level is not altered outside the footprint of a building by the excavation or filling of land.
S3 No solution specified. The ground level will not be altered.
P4 Public safety and stream flows in areas identified in the Flood and Inundation Management Overlay Map are maintained by limiting the extent and nature of development.
S4 No solution specified. The proposal is unmanned.
The proposal will have no impacts on stream flows.
P5 Essential Services infrastructure, such as on-site electricity, gas, water supply, sewerage and telecommunications maintain their functions during a DFE.
S5.1 Any components of infrastructure that are likely to fail to function or may result in contamination when inundated by flood waters (e.g. electrical switch gear and motors, water supply pipeline air valves) are:
(i) located above the DFE and/or
(ii) designed and constructed to exclude floodwater intrusion and infiltration.
S5.2 Infrastructure is designed and constructed to resist hydrostatic and hydrodynamic forces as a result of inundation by the DFE.
The proposed telecommunications
Antennas are located at the top of a 30m monopole.
The equipment shelter is designed to exclude
floodwater.
Hazardous Materials
P6 Public safety and the environment are not adversely affected by the detrimental impacts of floodwater on hazardous materials manufactured or stored in bulk on the site.
S6.1 The manufacture of hazardous materials takes place above the DFE flood levels.
S6.2 Structures used for the manufacture or storage of hazardous materials in bulk are designed to prevent the intrusion of flood waters.
S6.3 The storage of hazardous materials is contained within a bunded area where the bund wall has a height of 300mm or more above the DFE, or the defined ‘Minimum Level’ for the location of the site, whichever is
No hazardous materials are stored
at the facility.
Specific Outcomes Acceptable / Probable Solutions Assessment of Proposal
the greater, provided that these works do not cause an increased risk for the inundation in other parts of the City.
Building Floor Levels
P7 A Dwelling House is provided on a floor level which has flood immunity such that persons and property are not placed at unreasonable risk of injury or damage caused by flooding or inundation.
S7 Building Floor Levels are provided in accordance with the minimum building floor levels as provided in Acceptable Solutions S1.1 to S1.5 of the Flood and Inundation Overlay Code.
The proposal is not a dwelling
house.
Telecommunication
Facilities Code
Telecommunication Facilities Code
Visual Impact
Specific Outcomes Probable & Acceptable
Solutions
Assessment of Proposal
Assessable Development
P1 Telecommunication facilities are to be designed and located to minimise their visual impact by:
S1 No solution specified. The proposed facility has been designed and located to
integrate with the surrounding commercial uses. structure is
The
n
(i) providing finishes on structures compatible with the surrounding environment;
(ii) providing facilities in residential areas whose bulk, scale and height is consistent with the bulk, scale and height of the surrounding buildings and structures; and
(iii) providing facilities in areas included in the character/heritage overlay code that are compatible with the overall and specific outcomes of that code.
The facility will be located at the rear of the site, set well back from the road and will be screened from the road by the existing commercial buildings. The finish of the structure can be selected to meet requirements of Council it is suggested that dull grey would be the most appropriate).
Environmental Impact
Specific Outcomes Probable & Acceptable Solutions Assessment of Proposal
Assessable Development
P1 Premises are installed and operated to minimise the adverse impacts on the natural environment by:
S1 No solution specified. The proposed facility has been designed and located to be significantly removed from any areas where it would have any potential impact on the natural environment.
be
(i) avoiding impacts on locations containing remnant vegetation, fauna habitat, watercourses or sites of natural or cultural heritage;
The need for earthworks will be minimized during the construction process, and noise and dust emissions will be controlled. No vegetation will be removed. The facility will be located at the rear of the site to reduce impact. (ii) minimising the need for earthworks through careful
siting and design of facilities;
(iii) noise and dust emissions during construction and operations of the facility are minimised;
(iv) ensuring vegetation clearing associated with establishment of the facility does not extend beyond the installation site, associated power links and associated parking and access areas;
(v) minimising vegetation loss on steep land;
(vi) minimising alterations to key landforms
or landscape character to avoid the facility dominating the landform and landscape character;
(vii) being designed to be architecturally integrated with buildings on which the facility is mounted; and
(viii) being positioned and designed to minimise visibility to pedestrians.
P2 Landscaping is low maintenance and semi-mature upon establishment.
S
2
No solution specified. The proposal is
located at the rear of the site. It
is not considered that landscaping
is required.
Development Abutting Residential Uses
Specific Outcomes Probable & Acceptable Solutions Assessment of Proposal
Self Assessable and Assessable Development
P1 Appropriate setbacks and buffering are provided between telecommunication facilities and any
S1.1 The facility is setback at least 50m from any dwelling unit or rooming unit.
The proposal is set back from both residential and commercial uses.
adjoining residential development or any residential area or land included within the Open Space Zone to maintain the amenity of adjoining residential properties in terms of:
S1.2 A landscaped buffer strip 2m in width and including screen fencing is provided and maintained adjacent to any free-standing structures.
It is set back at the rear of the site and will have no impacts on nearby properties.
(i) visual impact;
(ii) acoustic privacy; and
(iii) access to sunlight.
S1.3 All potential noise sources (such as air-conditioning and other mechanical plant) are oriented away from any dwelling unit or rooming unit.
S1.4 Residential open space areas or living areas are not overshadowed at any time.
S1.5 Overshadowing of open space or activity areas associated with childcare centres, public areas, local parks and schools is limited to 3 hours on any day.
Co-Location
Specific Outcomes Probable & Acceptable Solutions Assessment of Proposal
Assessable Development
P1 Premises are co-located with other telecommunications facilities or on buildings or other structures wherever feasible on the basis there is no existing adverse environmental or public health and safety impact.
P2 Co location will reduce cumulative visual impacts associated with the establishment of telecommunications facilities.
S1 Facilities are located on a new site only where co-location options are exhausted and proven not to meet Specific Outcome 1 and 2.
There were no suitable co-location opportunities in the search area.
Public Health & Safety
Specific Outcomes Probable & Acceptable Solutions Assessment of Proposal
Assessable Development
P1 Telecommunication facilities are established, operated and maintained so as to minimise risks to public health and safety.
S1.1 Telecommunication facilities which include “climbable’ structures are enclosed by secure perimeter fencing to preclude unauthorised access.
The facility will be enclosed by a security fence. Warning signs will be visible from outside of the fence.
S1.2 Safety and warning signage is used to provide information on facility related safety issues and to discourage unauthorised access to facility sites.
S1.3 Decommissioned or obsolete facilities are removed from facility sites at the conclusion of their operational life.
P2 Facilities are appropriately fenced to preserve public safety.
S2 A 2m high security fence, appropriately landscaped, is provided around all free-standing facilities.
A 2m high security fence will be constructed around the facility. Landscaping is not required given the distance from any buildings.
Separation from Incompatible Uses
Specific Outcomes Probable & Acceptable Solutions Assessment of Proposal
Assessable Development
P1 Telecommunication Facilities are separated from any incompatible uses on the same site or neighbouring premises by a distance sufficient to minimise impact on amenity.
S1 No solution specified. There are such uses nearby.
Shadowing
Specific Outcomes Probable & Acceptable Solutions Assessment of Proposal
Assessable Development
P1 A telecommunications tower does not cast
shadows such that the amenity of surrounding premises or the useable area of public open space is reduced.
S1 No solution specified. There will be no shadowing.
Desired
Environmental
Outcomes
(DEOs)
DEOs aim to guide development within the Mackay City Planning Scheme area, and are based on the ecological sustainability principles established by the SPA. While these DEOs make no specific reference to telecommunications infrastructure, the following outlines how the proposed development is assessed against each outcome: DEO (a) Biodiversity and Habitat/Natural Features (i) significant natural features1 are conserved and their values are not
compromised in order to sustain ecological processes and maintain biodiversity in the City for present and future generations.
(ii) adverse effects on the natural environment including remnant vegetation, coastal and inland wetlands, habitat and biodiversity, clean air, and water resources are minimised or prevented for their greenhouse, environmental health and amenity implications.
(iii) the use of land and resources: (A) takes into account the direct and indirect, short and long-term, and cumulative consequences of a use; and (B) has regard for the multiple use and values of land and resources for present and future generations. (iv) community safety and buildings, structures and other physical infrastructure are not jeopardised by unacceptable risks due to natural hazards such as bushfire, excessive erosion and land slippage, disturbance of acid sulfate soils, or inundation by flood waters. (v) the interface between developed and undeveloped areas is managed to maintain remnant ecosystems and areas of natural, landscape or cultural importance to the community. (vi) a balance is achieved between the conservation and use of natural resources in order to achieve sustainable economic, social and ecological outcomes.
Comment: The proposal will have no impact on Biodiversity and Habitat/Natural features. The site will occupy a small area of land (63 sq m) at the rear of the yard of an existing commercial building. The yard itself has makes no contribution to biodiversity and the proposal will not result in the loss of any items which currently make a contribution to either habitat or natural features. The proposal however will assist towards achieving sustainable economic and social outcomes as it will permit the use of enhanced radio communications use both in the home and workplace, thereby reducing the need to travel.
DEO (b) Cultural Heritage & Landscape Character (i) the aesthetic and amenity values of significant cultural heritage places and areas2, as well as notable features of landscape character3, are retained and enhanced for the benefit of present and future generations. (ii) places of cultural heritage are recognised and conserved. Comment: The proposal will have no impact on the Cultural heritage & Landscape Character of the area. There are no items of significant cultural heritage nearby nor any notable features of landscape character that will be impacted by the development.
DEO (c) Economic Development (i) economic resources such as good quality agricultural land, forests, fisheries,
extractive materials, water and land resources are protected from the adverse or limiting effects of proximate, incompatible activity for future ongoing use. Good quality agricultural land is made available for urban uses only with a demonstration of overriding community need.4
(ii) diverse employment opportunities are available in accessible locations both north and south of the Pioneer River, and include home-based businesses, business ‘incubators’, technology centres and the like.
(iii) the continued development and lawful operations of the Port of Mackay and
the Mackay Airport are facilitated and their operational efficiency protected by:
(A) limiting development on land directly affected by Seaport and Airport operations; and (B) the inclusion of buffers on adjoining land to mitigate potential impacts of Port and Airport operations. (iv) A network of centres is established and maintained according to a hierarchical arrangement of roles and functions to meet the needs of the population, and includes the following elements, as shown on the Information Map – Network of Centres5 (A) the Mackay City Centre (including a core area and a frame area) as the principal centre for all multi-purpose centre activities in the City and the region; (B) the Mt Pleasant Sub-Regional Centre, including Greenfields, Sams Road and Heaths Road, as the second major focus for shopping, commercial and entertainment in the City, functioning as a supporting role to the City Centre; centres in the network are shown in an indicative manner on Information Map – Centres Network, whereas the Zone Maps provide more definitive centre boundaries. Existing centres not shown on the Centres Network Map are not intended to expand. (B) is maintained in agricultural use, where possible, in order to ensure the viability of the sugar industry in the City; and (C) provides opportunities for use for a wide range of economic activities including extractive industries, forestry, grazing, intensive animal husbandry and water supply development. (xii) changing trends in the tourism, hospitality and business services sectors in the City are recognised and supported to ensure each industry is able to evolve and grow. (xiii) mixed use development and higher intensity residential development is located within the City Centre and possibly at transport nodes and some of the tourism nodes. Comment: The small area of land proposed for the facility is currently not in productive economic use. It lies to the rear of the yard of the existing commercial facility, the majority of which is not currently in use. More than sufficient land remains within the site for storage and car parking to support the existing commercial use. The proposal will assist in the development of diverse employment opportunities in the North Mackay area, including home-based businesses and business ‘incubators’, as the enhanced telecommunications facilities which it will offer in the area are ideally suited to the success of these types of business. It will be particularly beneficial to the mixed use centre at north Mackay and local centres in North Mackay. It will help contribute towards the efficient provision of infrastructure to local commercial areas.
DEO (d) Amenity and Community Well-Being
Community identity is established through the following: (i) a wide range of affordable and accessible housing is available which is suitable for the climate, meets the needs of the City's population and is convenient to community facilities, employment and recreation opportunities. (ii) convenient access is provided to a range of community facilities and services, including health care, education, shopping and business services, cultural and entertainment facilities, and recreation and sporting facilities to achieve a standard of living coincident with residents’ expectations. (iii) the City's population has a high level of mobility through an efficient and viable transport system, including public transport and pedestrian and cycle transport. (iv) a diverse range of public open spaces and recreation opportunities is provided in generally accessible locations or in locations and settings suitable for the desired range of recreational experiences and for the appreciation of the City's habitat and biodiversity values. (v) a wide range of living and lifestyle options are available to residents including urban, rural residential, village, rural and island living. (vi) the open space network of the City is established and enhanced for the continued use and enjoyment of the City's population.
Comment: The proposal will help contribute towards Amenity and Community Well-Being. Improved telecommunications coverage will assist in providing convenient access to information about community facilities and services.
DEO (e) Infrastructure and Urban Growth
(i) the pattern and rate of urban development meets, in a timely manner, the needs of the Mackay community with respect to housing, commercial services, industrial activities, recreation and cultural pursuits, and includes the efficient provision and use of urban infrastructure. (ii) the sequence of urban growth within the City is based on achieving the most efficient and equitable use of land and making greatest use of the existing network of development, transport and community infrastructure. (iii) new development in the City is directed and consolidated into areas presently serviced or areas able to be serviced efficiently and economically. (iv) ‘in sequence’ urban growth occurs in the following pattern: Comment: The proposal will help contribute towards the efficient provision of urban infrastructure and contribute towards the needs of local commercial services. The proposal can help to contribute towards reducing travel – to – work demands by increasing the ability to work from home.
Appendix F
ARPANSA / EME Report
Environmental EME report (v11.3, Feb 2014) Produced with RF-Map 2.0 (Build 1.18) NAD (v1.0.50157.25148)
Environmental EME Report
41 Evans Avenue, NORTH MACKAY QLD 4740
This report provides a summary of Calculated RF EME Levels around the wireless base station
Date 1/10/2014 RFNSA Site No. 4740060
Introduction
The purpose of this report is to provide calculations of EME levels from the existing facilities at the site and any proposed additional facilities.
This report provides a summary of levels of radiofrequency (RF) electromagnetic energy (EME) around the wireless base station at 41 Evans Avenue NORTH MACKAY QLD 4740 . These levels have been calculated by Visionstream using methodology developed by the Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA).
The maximum EME level calculated for the proposed systems at this site is 0.42% of the public exposure limit.
The ARPANSA Standard
ARPANSA, an Australian Government agency in the Health and Ageing portfolio, has established a Radiation Protection Standard specifying limits for general public exposure to RF transmissions at frequencies used by wireless base stations. The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) mandates the exposure limits of the ARPANSA Standard.
How the EME is calculated in this report
The procedure used for these calculations is documented in the ARPANSA Technical Report “Radio Frequency EME Exposure Levels - Prediction Methodologies” which is available at http://www.arpansa.gov.au.
RF EME values are calculated at 1.5m above ground at various distances from the base station, assuming level ground.
The estimate is based on worst-case scenario, including:
wireless base station transmitters for mobile and broadband data operating at maximum power
simultaneous telephone calls and data transmission
an unobstructed line of sight view to the antennas.
In practice, exposures are usually lower because:
the presence of buildings, trees and other features of the environment reduces signal strength
the base station automatically adjusts transmit power to the minimum required.
Maximum EME levels are estimated in 360° circular bands out to 500m from the base station.
These levels are cumulative and take into account emissions from all mobile phone antennas at this site. The EME levels are presented in three different units:
volts per metre (V/m) – the electric field component of the RF wave
milliwatts per square metre (mW/m²) – the power density (or rate of flow of RF energy per unit area)
percentage (%) of the ARPANSA Standard public exposure limit (the public exposure limit = 100%).
Results
The maximum EME level calculated for the proposed systems at this site is 3.071 V/m; equivalent to 25.024 mW/m² or 0.42% of the public exposure limit.
Environmental EME report (v11.3, Feb 2014) Produced with RF-Map 2.0 (Build 1.18) NAD (v1.0.50157.25148)
Radio Systems at the Site
There are currently no existing radio systems for this site.
It is proposed that this base station will have equipment for transmitting the following services:
Carrier Radio Systems
Optus WCDMA900 (proposed), LTE700 (proposed), WCDMA2100 (proposed), LTE2600 (proposed)
Calculated EME Levels
This table provides calculations of RF EME at different distances from the base station for emissions from existing equipment alone and for emissions from existing equipment and proposed equipment combined.
Distance from the antennas at 41 Evans Avenue
in 360 circular bands
Maximum Cumulative EME Level – All carriers at this site
Existing Equipment Proposed Equipment
Electric Field V/m
Power Density mW/m²
% ARPANSA exposure limits
Electric Field V/m
Power Density mW/m²
% ARPANSA exposure limits
0m to 50m 50m to 100m
100m to 200m 200m to 300m 300m to 400m 400m to 500m
2.92 2.72 3.048 3.071 2.41 1.8
22.6 19.64 24.64
25.024 15.47 8.59
0.3% 0.24% 0.42% 0.42% 0.24% 0.13%
Maximum EME level 3.071 25.024 0.42
201.2 m from the antennas at 41 Evans
Avenue
Calculated EME levels at other areas of interest
This table contains calculations of the maximum EME levels at selected areas of interest that have been identified through the consultation requirements of the Communications Alliance Ltd Deployment Code C564:2011 or via any other means. The calculations are performed over the indicated height range and include all existing and any proposed radio systems for this site.
Additional Locations Height / Scan
relative to location
ground level
Maximum Cumulative EME Level All Carriers at this site
Existing and Proposed Equipment
Electric Field V/m
Power Density mW/m²
% of ARPANSA exposure limits
Medical Centre Nearest 2 storey residential dwelling on... St Joseph's Primary School Combined OS...
0m to 5m 0m to 6m 0m to 4m
2.35 4.71 1.9
14.61 58.83 9.61
0.31% 0.94% 0.16%
Environmental EME report (v11.3, Feb 2014) Produced with RF-Map 2.0 (Build 1.18) NAD (v1.0.50157.25148)
RF EME Exposure Standard
The calculated EME levels in this report have been expressed as percentages of the ARPANSA RF Standard and this table shows the actual RF EME limits used for the frequency bands available. At frequencies below 2000 MHz the limits vary across the band and the limit has been determined at the Assessment Frequency indicated. The four exposure limit figures quoted are equivalent values expressed in different units – volts per metre (V/m), watts per square metre (W/m²), microwatts per square centimetre (µW/cm²) and milliwatts per square metre (mW/m²). Note: 1 W/m² = 100 µW/cm² = 1000 mW/m².
Radio Systems Frequency Band Assessment Frequency
ARPANSA Exposure Limit (100% of Standard)
LTE 700 758 – 803 MHz 750 MHz 37.6 V/m = 3.75 W/m² = 375 µW/cm² = 3750 mW/m²
WCDMA850 870 – 890 MHz 900 MHz 41.1 V/m = 4.50 W/m² = 450 µW/cm² = 4500 mW/m²
GSM900, LTE900, WCDMA900 935 – 960 MHz 900 MHz 41.1 V/m = 4.50 W/m² = 450 µW/cm² = 4500 mW/m²
GSM1800, LTE1800 1805 – 1880 MHz 1800 MHz 58.1 V/m = 9.00 W/m² = 900 µW/cm² = 9000 mW/m²
LTE2100, WCDMA2100 2110 – 2170 MHz 2100 MHz 61.4 V/m = 10.00 W/m² = 1000 µW/cm² = 10000 mW/m²
LTE2300 2302 – 2400 MHz 2300 MHz 61.4 V/m = 10.00 W/m² = 1000 µW/cm² = 10000 mW/m²
LTE2600 2620 – 2690 MHz 2600 MHz 61.4 V/m = 10.00 W/m² = 1000 µW/cm² = 10000 mW/m²
LTE3500 3425 – 3575 MHz 3500 MHz 61.4 V/m = 10.00 W/m² = 1000 µW/cm² = 10000 mW/m²
Further Information
The Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA) is a Federal Government agency incorporated under the Health and Ageing portfolio. ARPANSA is charged with responsibility for protecting the health and safety of people, and the environment, from the harmful effects of radiation (ionising and non-ionising).
Information about RF EME can be accessed at the ARPANSA website, http://www.arpansa.gov.au, including:
Further explanation of this report in the document “Understanding the ARPANSA Environmental EME Report”
The procedure used for the calculations in this report is documented in the ARPANSA Technical Report; “Radio Frequency EME Exposure Levels - Prediction Methodologies”
the current RF EME exposure standard
Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA), 2002, ‘Radiation Protection Standard: Maximum Exposure Levels to Radiofrequency Fields — 3 kHz to 300 GHz’, Radiation Protection Series Publication No. 3, ARPANSA, Yallambie Australia. [Printed version: ISBN 0-642-79400-6 ISSN 1445-9760] [Web version: ISBN 0-642-79402-2 ISSN 1445-9760]
The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) is responsible for the regulation of broadcasting, radiocommunications, telecommunications and online content. Information on EME is available at http://emr.acma.gov.au
The Communications Alliance Ltd Industry Code C564:2011 ‘Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment’ is available from the Communications Alliance Ltd website, http://commsalliance.com.au .
Contact details for the Carriers (mobile phone companies) present at this site and the most recent version of this document are available online at the Radio Frequency National Site Archive, http://www.rfnsa.com.au.