Appendix N Community feedback – community consultation on the Draft EIS for the enlarged Cotter Dam
Environmental impact statement February 2009
Community Feedback Community Consultation on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement for the Enlarged Cotter Dam February 2009
Contents
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1 1 INTRODUCTION 3 1.1 Background 3 1.2 Enlarged Cotter Dam project 3 1.3 Community consultation program 3
2 CONSULTATION FRAMEWORK 5 2.1 Purpose 5 2.2 Statutory Consultation 5 2.3 Consultation context 6
3 CONSULTATION STRATEGY 7 3.2 Stakeholder groups 7 3.3 Consultation activities 8 3.4 Complementary consultation 9 3.5 Promotion and advertising 10 3.6 Potential audience 11
4 DELIVERY OF THE CONSULTATION PROGRAM 13 4.1 Implementation of consultation activities 13 4.2 Participation in consultation activities 15 4.3 Data capture 15
5 KEY ISSUES AND CONCERNS 16 5.1 Government agency consultation 21 5.2 Non-government organisations 21 5.3 General Public 23 5.4 Submissions received by ACTPLA 23
6 CONCLUSION 24 6.1 Consideration of consultation outcomes 24 6.2 Future opportunities for the community to comment 24
Appendix A Organisations and community groups contacted Appendix B Promotional examples Appendix C National Capital Planning Authority letter of support Appendix D Register of comments made and ACTEW’s response
Executive summary
The Enlarged Cotter Dam is an important project in ACTEW’s long term plan to ensure a secure and sustainable water supply for the ACT and region.
The enlargement of the Cotter Dam has been the subject of discussion and planning by ACTEW and the ACT Government for many years and therefore community discussion and associated media attention has extended over a long period. It is important that the community continue to be engaged throughout this project including the preparation of the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS).
This document details the stakeholder and community engagement activities undertaken during the consultation on the draft EIS for the Enlarged Cotter Dam and reports on the outcomes of the community consultation. This program complemented the ACT Planning and Land Authority’s (ACTPLA) formal public notification of the Draft EIS. Consultation The Cotter Dam holds particular significance in the Canberra community as a well-loved recreation area and as such plans to enlarge the reservoir have the potential to impact on the local community, raising questions that relate not only to the construction project and associated water security, but also to the possible impacts on the Cotter recreation area.
Building on a long term commitment by ACTEW to involve the broader community and key stakeholders in the planning stages to secure a future water supply for Canberra, the preparation of the EIS included a detailed community consultation program.
Further to the formal statutory requirements to display the draft EIS for public comment (to ‘publicly notify’), ACTEW sought to draw the community’s attention to the release of the document and encourage community feedback and contribution to the process of preparing the final EIS.
This was promoted through a substantial media campaign and a range of community presentations and information sessions. While there were 47 specific representations made during the consultation period, through the extensive media and promotion campaign, it is estimated that a potential audience in excess of 330,000 was made aware of the project and the opportunity to comment, with over 200 people participating in a presentation, attending a community information session on the draft EIS or calling the information hotline.
Representations made during the consultation period covered a wide variety of issues, the most common issues raised were:
• impact on Cotter Road; in particular traffic impacts and possible road closures during construction
• impact on equestrian communities; in terms of access to relevant properties, behavior of traffic and large trucks during construction
• impact on endangered fish species; while the investment in fish protection strategies, including the establishment of artificial fish habitats was acknowledged, there is concern about the options that exist if the fish protection strategies don’t work • terrestrial biodiversity; suggestions of additional areas of study or analysis.
• construction impacts and processes; including comments about the establishment and on-going monitoring of work method statements, construction environmental management plans and dam safety matters;
In addition to the above regular issues, other comments included consideration of planning alternatives to enlarging the Cotter Dam; consultation; bushfire management; noise, odour or dust impacts; water quality, heritage, water restrictions and greenhouse offsets.
COMMUNITY FEEDBACK COMMUNITY CONSULTATION ON THE ENLARGED COTTER DAM DRAFT ENV RONMENTAL MPACT STATEMENT 1
While there were several representations during the consultation period expressing opposition to the Enlarged Cotter Dam project, the majority of comments were supportive. Most of the feedback received dealt with the process or nature of construction of the project. All representations received during the consultation period has been responded to and details of any amendments or clarification made in preparation of the final EIS are provided in Appendix D to this report. Consultation commitment The consultation undertaken during the preparation of the EIS forms part of an ongoing community engagement program that will continue throughout the life of the project. If the project proceeds, the continuing community engagement program will feature regular community updates through the ACTEW website, media and newsletters. The establishment of viewing platforms and information signage in the completed Cotter area is also being investigated.
Community groups that have expressed a particular interest in the project, including recreational groups, local residents of Cotter Road and professional or industry groups will be encouraged to play an ongoing part in the successful construction of the Enlarged Cotter Dam. Planning pathway The EIS will form an attachment to the development application (DA) that will be submitted by ACTEW to ACTPLA as part of the next phase of planning approvals. This development application will also be available for public comment as required by the ACT Planning and Development ACT 2007. ACTEW will be encouraging community groups and key stakeholders to provide further comment on the project at this stage.
WATER SECURITY – MAJOR PROJECTS 2 NOVEMBER 2008
1 Introduction
1.1 Background One of the key challenges for the ACT and region in the short, medium and long term is to build additional water supply assets that can cope with reduced average inflow into the reservoirs and longer, more frequent droughts, without having to impose higher level water restrictions for extended periods.
The enlargement of the Cotter Reservoir will deliver a more secure water supply for Canberra and Region and was chosen as a high priority because of its ability to deliver economic benefit to the community, reliability of water supply and low environmental impacts.
The decision to proceed with the Enlarged Cotter Dam as a priority is based on extensive work over many years including:
• The ACT Government water resources strategy Think water, act water – a strategy for sustainable water resources management on 28 April 2004. • The detailed assessment and evaluation of environmental, social, economic and technical issues of the options as part of ACTEW’s 2004 Future Water Options project
• A review of the water supply options in 2007; the results of which are detailed in Water security for the ACT and region – Recommendations to the ACT Government, July 2007
A complete discussion of the rationale for proceeding with the Enlarged Cotter Dam Project is included in the Environmental Impact Statement. 1.2 Enlarged Cotter Dam project The EIS was prepared to assess the impacts associated with the proposed Enlarged Cotter Dam and is an important statutory requirement in the process of gaining approval for the project. The EIS provides an overview of the project, assesses potential impacts, discusses the significant impacts and proposes mitigation strategies to address them.
The existing Cotter Dam lies on the Cotter River in the Lower Cotter Catchment approximately 18 kilometres (km) due west of Canberra. It is just upstream of the confluence of the Cotter, Paddys and Murrumbidgee rivers, near the Cotter Avenue, Cotter Bend and Casuarina Sands recreation areas, Cotter Campground and Cotter Pumping Station.
The new dam will be constructed approximately 125 metres (m) downstream of the existing dam. The project comprises a main dam with two adjacent earth rockfill saddle dams. The new dam will be approximately 80m high and the adjacent saddle dams will be built to approximate heights of 11m and 16m. The storage capacity will increase from approximately 4 gigalitres (GL) to 80GL.
Subject to approval, construction of the Enlarged Cotter Dam is planned to commence in spring of 2009, with completion expected in 2011. Construction of the Enlarged Cotter Dam is being delivered through an alliance framework by ACTEW’s Water Security - Major Projects team. 1.3 Community consultation program The Community Engagement and Stakeholder Management Plan for the Enlarged Cotter Dam forms part of a hierarchy of community engagement plans and activities that help to inform the community about projects across the Water Security – Major Projects within ACTEW. These plans include the overarching Water Security Major - Projects Community Engagement and Stakeholder Management Plan as well as plans for specific projects such as the My Cotter My Place consultation program that was undertaken during 2008. Public communication campaigns are also delivered by ACTEW Corporation with respect to Water Security - Major Projects and the activities of the Water Conservation Office.
COMMUNITY FEEDBACK COMMUNITY CONSULTATION ON THE ENLARGED COTTER DAM DRAFT ENV RONMENTAL MPACT STATEMENT 3
The community consultation program associated with the preparation of the EIS was conducted from 6 October to 17 November 2008, extending the formal public notification period which was from 10 October to 10 November 2008. This period of formal consultation was a continuation of regular and on-going engagement by ACTEW with the community and key stakeholders on issues relating to water consumption and associated long-term water security for the region. Engaging with the community during the approval phase of the project is not only part of the statutory process, but also a key component in the development of a sound EIS to support the planning for construction of the new dam.
WATER SECURITY – MAJOR PROJECTS 4 NOVEMBER 2008
2 Consultation framework
The consultation program for the Enlarged Cotter Dam Draft EIS met the statutory requirements for consultation as set out in the ACT Planning and Development Act 2007 and associated regulations. The consultation program sought to engage with key government agencies and stakeholders throughout the process, as well as provide opportunities for the community to provide feedback outside the ACT and Commonwealth statutory processes. 2.1 Purpose The purpose of the consultation on the Enlarged Cotter Dam Draft EIS was: • To provide information on the draft EIS to the general public and key stakeholders in the project. • To provide opportunities for the community to provide feedback on key issues that should be considered as part of the EIS process.
• To ensure this feedback was comprehensively and accurately recorded for consideration in preparing the final EIS. • To ensure that the final EIS appropriately responded to community and key stakeholder concerns. • To meet the statutory requirements and encourage community participation in the statutory process. 2.2 Statutory Consultation ACT The statutory requirements for the preparation of an EIS in the ACT are described in the Planning and Development Act 2007 (the Act) and the Planning and Development Regulations 2008 (the Regulations). With respect to consultation, the Act requires the following steps:
• The proponent prepares a draft EIS to address the requirements as stipulated in the scoping document provided by the planning authority. • The draft EIS is lodged with the planning authority.
• The draft EIS is put on public display by the planning authority with agencies, stakeholders and the community given the opportunity to comment on the project, the possible impacts and the proposed mitigation measures or controls.
• The proponent prepares a final EIS and a consultation report that responds to all of the issues raised during public display.
• The EIS is considered by the planning authority and the Minister. There are opportunities for the authority to seek responses, or for the Minister to conduct an inquiry about the EIS.
ACTPLA released the draft EIS for public comment on 10 October 2008. The public notification period closed on Monday 10 November 2008. Commonwealth The proposal to enlarge the Cotter Dam triggered the requirement for referral to the Commonwealth Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts, under the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (the EPBC Act). A referral was lodged with the Commonwealth Government on 29 September 2009. The Commonwealth referral was placed on the Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts website for public comment for a period of 10 days.
COMMUNITY FEEDBACK COMMUNITY CONSULTATION ON THE ENLARGED COTTER DAM DRAFT ENV RONMENTAL MPACT STATEMENT 5
2.3 Consultation context The public consultation on the draft EIS for the Enlarged Cotter Dam coincided with a major media campaign by ACTEW's Water Security - Major Projects which included information on the Enlarged Cotter Dam project. This media campaign included television and newspaper advertising as well as distribution of a brochure via the Canberra Times newspaper. The My Cotter My Place consultation program on the Cotter Precinct was also being conducted during the draft EIS consultation period. This allowed information on the draft EIS to be brought to the attention of people participating in workshops and other activities relating to the Cotter recreational area.
Participants in community activities were able to comment on both the Cotter recreational area and the Enlarged Cotter Dam Draft EIS at the same time.
WATER SECURITY – MAJOR PROJECTS 6 NOVEMBER 2008
3 Consultation strategy
The community consultation program was developed within the broader framework of ACTEW’s Water Security - Major Projects activities. If the Enlarged Cotter Dam project is approved, the project will require community involvement and stakeholder engagement throughout its construction phase.
The Enlarged Cotter Dam Community Engagement and Stakeholder Management Plan identifies activities that will facilitate a flow of information between ACTEW and community and government partners throughout the life of the project. The Plan is recognised as an iterative process that continues to be shaped and adapted to reflect the needs of the community and key stakeholders as the partnership grows and changes and new issues emerge. The on-going review and refresh approach to community engagement and stakeholder management is demonstrated by the diagram below.
Figure 3.1 Community engagement and stakeholder management (CESM) planning cycle
The consultation program for the Enlarged Cotter Dam Draft EIS was an integral component of the community engagement and stakeholder management planning cycle and built on relationships with the community and specific stakeholder groups to ensure a seamless engagement with the community. 3.2 Stakeholder groups The consultation strategy for the draft EIS was developed with consideration for key stakeholder groups and consultation activities were directly targeted to these groups.
COMMUNITY FEEDBACK COMMUNITY CONSULTATION ON THE ENLARGED COTTER DAM DRAFT ENV RONMENTAL MPACT STATEMENT 7
Within the context of the broader Water Security – Major Projects’ community engagement program and the statutory requirements for public exhibition of the Enlarged Cotter Dam projects by both the ACT and Commonwealth Governments, ACTEW recognised that there are a number of stakeholder groups that are particularly important. While the importance of communicating directly with the general public was recognised, it was also considered important to engage those groups that had a particular interest in, or had the potential to be directly impacted by the project. These key stakeholder groups were identified and targeted to ensure they had an appropriate opportunity to comment and to allow their comments to be taken into consideration when preparing the final EIS. These stakeholder groups were broadly defined as: • Government agencies. • Recreation groups/users of the Cotter precinct and Cotter Road. • Tourism groups. • Residents and businesses along Cotter Road and near the work site.
• Environment groups including catchment management groups and heritage organisations. • Indigenous groups. • Community organisations, including the Community Councils across the ACT.
• Surrounding Shire Councils. • Water users. • Elected representatives.
• Media.
Stakeholder groups identified included those prescribed in the Enlarged Cotter Dam EIS Scoping Document as provided by ACTPLA. 3.3 Consultation activities Consultation activities were developed to maximise awareness among the general public and stakeholder groups of the opportunity to contribute to the EIS process by commenting on the draft EIS. These activities were complemented by an advertising and media campaign, across radio, television and newspaper, to raise broad awareness of the draft EIS and the opportunity to comment.
The consultation activities undertaken during the consultation on the Enlarged Cotter Dam Draft EIS are outlined in detail in Chapter 5 and listed below:
• Draft EIS publications, including a boxed set of the three publications, user-friendly CD and an easy to read summary document.
• Direct mail campaign. • Stakeholder group or one-on-one meetings and presentations. • Four information sessions and associated community feedback forms.
• ACTEW website ‘Have your say’ pages. • ACTEW email and telephone hotline number.
These activities were additional to the statutory public notification and call for submissions and the ACT and Commonwealth Governments’ periods of public display.
The relationship between the consultation activities, undertaken prior to and during the consultation period, and the particular stakeholder groups is detailed in Table 1.
WATER SECURITY – MAJOR PROJECTS 8 NOVEMBER 2008
3.4 Complementary consultation In addition to the specific consultation on the draft EIS for the Enlarged Cotter Dam, on-going community engagement and stakeholder management activities have been conducted since the project formally commenced in late 2007. These included 3.4.1 Preparation of the scoping document Prior to submitting a formal request to ACTPLA for a scoping document for the EIS, ACTEW undertook key stakeholder engagement with a range of key government agencies and interest groups. This was to provide key agencies with the opportunity to provide timely advice on the matters that should be considered in the EIS prior to it being formally scoped by ACTPLA. Feedback from 10 agencies and organisations was taken into consideration in the preparation of the request for scoping document submitted to ACTPLA. 3.4.2 Preparation of the draft EIS During the preparation of the draft EIS several of the technical consultants involved in its development undertook targeted consultation with community groups, businesses and government agencies in the preparation of their reports. In particular this included the socioeconomic analysis and the cultural heritage survey where the specialists met with more than 30 community groups. 3.4.3 ACTPLA public notification In accordance with the statutory planning approvals process ACTPLA placed the draft EIS on the ACTPLA website for a period of 20 working days and accepted written comments from the community, government agencies and other stakeholder organisations during this time.
Table 3.1 Consultation activities and stakeholder groups
Stakeholder group Socioeconomic assessment interviews Cultural heritage assessment Preparation of forRequest Scoping Document publications EIS Draft mail campaignDirect Stakeholder group meeting / presentation Information sessions ACTEW website, email address & phone hotline
Local/potentially affected residents
Government agencies
Recreation users and businesses on Cotter Road
Tourism groups
Specific interest groups
Broader ACT community
Indigenous representatives
Community organisations including ACT Community Councils
Environmental organisations
COMMUNITY FEEDBACK COMMUNITY CONSULTATION ON THE ENLARGED COTTER DAM DRAFT ENV RONMENTAL MPACT STATEMENT 9
Stakeholder group Socioeconomic assessment interviews Cultural heritage assessment Preparation of forRequest Scoping Document publications EIS Draft mail campaignDirect Stakeholder group meeting / presentation Information sessions ACTEW website, email address & phone hotline
Surrounding shire councils
Water users
Elected representatives
Media
3.5 Promotion and advertising To maximise the success of the consultation program it was essential that the community was well informed about the Enlarged Cotter Dam project and in turn the release of the draft EIS for public comment. An advertising and media campaign was used to raise awareness of the consultation program across the broader community.
The advertising and media campaign included: 3.5.1 Water Security – Major Projects public information campaign – television and press The ACTEW Water Security - Major Projects media campaign commenced on 5 July 2008 and was designed to raise awareness of each of the water security projects. The campaign comprised of 20 print media and 388 Enlarged Cotter Dam television advertisements. The Enlarged Cotter Dam project advertisement comprised one 30 second and one 15 second commercial. The Enlarged Cotter Dam advertisement was the primary advertisement of the campaign and as such received the greatest airtime across Water Security - Major Projects. 3.5.2 Media coverage Two media releases were distributed by ACTEW during the draft EIS consultation period, promoting the release of the draft EIS and in particular community information sessions. ACTPLA also issued a media release on 10 October 2008 to coincide with the placement of the draft EIS on the ACTPLA website for public comment. Media coverage of the draft EIS was considerable and is summarised in Table 2. 3.5.3 Advertising Advertisements were placed in the Canberra Times and the Chronicle specifically promoting the community information sessions. Information on the Enlarged Cotter Dam information session at Uriarra was also included in the advertisements promoting the Uriarra Community Open Day on 19 October 2008. Copies of these advertisements can be found at Appendix B.
ACTPLA advertised the public notification of the draft EIS in the Canberra Times on Saturday 11 October and again on 18 October 2008. 3.5.4 Community festivals and ACTEW information stands During the public consultation period of the draft EIS representatives of ACTEW Water Security - Major Projects participated in two community events speaking broadly about the range of projects, including the Enlarged Cotter Dam. CD copies of the draft EIS and the summary document were distributed at the following community events:
WATER SECURITY – MAJOR PROJECTS 10 NOVEMBER 2008
• Woden Community Festival – 25 October 2008 • Belconnen Community Festival – 15 November 2008 3.5.5 Direct mail Over 130 packages of information, including the CD and EIS summary, were distributed to individuals and key stakeholders during the consultation period. In addition to this an electronic letter was sent to members of the Friends of the Cotter group, which at that stage, consisted of approximately 40 individuals.
A list of the organisations and groups of individuals that received these packages of information is included at Appendix A. 3.5.6 ACTEW website The ACTEW Corporation website, www.actew.com.au, was used to promote the consultation program, featuring a copy of the draft EIS and an invitation to provide comment. The draft EIS was also available for download from the ACTPLA website. 3.6 Potential audience Based on the promotion and advertising campaign summarised above, the potential audience exposed to information on the Enlarged Cotter Dam project during the consultation period can be calculated as in excess of 330,000. This calculation is detailed in the table below.
Table 3.2 Potential audience from promotion of consultation activities (numbers are based on detail provided by media outlets)
Media Potential audience
ACTEW’s Current newletter October 98
Canberra Times editorial day 11 October 2008 34,068
Radio 2CC 17 October 3,800
Radio National (Canberra) 17 October 3,800
Canberra Times advertising 18 October 63,155
Canberra Times editorial 19 October 34,316
Canberra Times advertising 20 October 34,068
Radio 2CC 20 October 6,900
Canberra Times National Water Week 20 October 34,068 Feature
Northside Chronicle advertising 21 October 40,277
Southside Chronicle advertising 21 October 51,554
ABC Radio 666 22 October 7,500
Radio 2CC 23 October 6,100
Radio 2CC 24 October 3,800
Radio 2CC 24 October 7,200
Woden Community Festival 25 October 1,500
COMMUNITY FEEDBACK COMMUNITY CONSULTATION ON THE ENLARGED COTTER DAM DRAFT ENV RONMENTAL MPACT STATEMENT 11
Media Potential audience
Belconnen Community Festival 15 November 1,200
ACTEW’s Current newletter November 100
direct mail campaign October 130
ECD EIS on the ACTEW website October 109 hits
Total potential audience 333,743
WATER SECURITY – MAJOR PROJECTS 12 NOVEMBER 2008
4 Delivery of the consultation program
The consultation program generated interest from across the community, although the number of comments submitted to ACTEW or ACTPLA during the consultation period were minimal. The draft EIS consultation program attracted active participation from 200 representatives of the public, government agencies and stakeholder organisations. This figure includes those who participated in a presentation on the draft EIS, visited a drop-in session, called the information line or provided a written submission. 4.1 Implementation of consultation activities The consultation activities were delivered between 9 October and 20 November 2008. Details on the delivery of each activity is outlined below. Draft EIS publications To increase access opportunities for the community the draft EIS was published as both a three volume printer version and on CD. The CD version featured an HTML interface that used chapter menus to allow the user to easily move through the document, whilst still maintaining the search function to enable readers to electronically search for areas or matters of key interest. To complement the draft EIS a 13 page summary document was produced that provided a summary of the EIS process, discussed the key issues identified in the EIS and invited the community to obtain further information as required and to make a comment during the consultation period.
Direct mail campaign
Once the draft EIS was released it was important to distribute the documents in a timely fashion to a wide range of stakeholders. In addition to documents being made available on request, information on the draft EIS, including CDs and summary documents were distributed to the following groups:
• 13 directly affected residents on the Cotter Road (hand delivered by an ACTEW representative). • 22 senior Government and industry representatives.
• All ACT Community Councils.
• 52 potential recreational user groups of the Cotter Precinct. • 13 environment organisations.
• 40 members of the Friends of the Cotter group established by ACTEW during the Cotter Precinct consultation program. • Seven indigenous representative groups. A complete list of these groups can be found at Appendix A. Stakeholder meetings and presentations
Organisations receiving packages of information on the draft EIS were invited to contact ACTEW to arrange a presentation to their government agency, community, recreational or environmental group. Meetings and/or presentations were held with the following stakeholder groups and government agencies: • ACT Government Senior Executives Water Group.
• ACT Health. • ACT Heritage Council. • Commonwealth Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts. • Conservation Council of the South East Region and the ACT.
COMMUNITY FEEDBACK COMMUNITY CONSULTATION ON THE ENLARGED COTTER DAM DRAFT ENV RONMENTAL MPACT STATEMENT 13
• Cotter Road Landcare Group. • Gungahlin Community Council. • Molonglo Catchment Group. • National Equestrian Centre. • National Capital Authority (letter of support included at Appendix C). • Representative Aboriginal organisations. • Territory and Municipal Services – Parks, Conservation and Lands. • Territory and Municipal Services – ACT Roads. • Territory and Municipal Services – Community Advisory Group. • Several residents with the potential to be directly impacted by the project. Information sessions
Four information sessions were held to provide the members of the public with the opportunity to learn more about the project, the draft EIS and to provide comments or feedback on what was proposed in the draft EIS. Information sessions were held at various locations across Canberra and at differing times of the day to allow a variety of opportunities to participate. One of these information sessions was targeted at affected residents and was held to coincide with the Uriarra Community Open Day. The Watson information session was held in conjunction with the National Water Week activities at Rosary Primary School.
Information sessions were held on: • Sunday 19 October between 12 – 4pm, Uriarra Picnic Day
• Tuesday 21 October 10am – 12 noon, Civic
• Thursday 23 October 6 – 8 pm, Woden • Saturday 25 October 10am – 2pm, Watson
The Uriarra Picnic Day and National Water Week drop-in sessions attracted passer-bys that took the opportunity to learn more about the Enlarged Cotter Dam project, without necessarily expressing a particular comment or view.
ACTEW email address and hotline
To allow members of the public to provide feedback easily the Water Security - Major Projects email address [email protected] and the information hotline were promoted throughout the consultation period. The hotline received calls throughout the public consultation period, many from stakeholders requesting copies of the draft EIS. Of those calls, five formal comments were recorded with respect to the draft EIS.
WATER SECURITY – MAJOR PROJECTS 14 NOVEMBER 2008
4.2 Participation in consultation activities Although extensive media and marketing activities were undertaken to promote interest in the draft EIS for the Enlarged Cotter Dam, with an estimated viewing audience of in excess of 330,000 people, participation in the consultation program for the draft EIS was very low. In total 207 organisations or individuals chose to participate in the consultation program either by attendance at one of the drop-in sessions, participation in a presentation or meeting, or by providing a comment in response to the draft EIS.
It could be concluded that such a low participation rate comparative to the extensive media campaign is as a result of the community being fairly comfortable with the idea of construction of the Enlarged Cotter Dam. The breakdown of where these 207 people participated is detailed in the Table 3.
Table 4.3 Participation rates in consultation activities
Activity Participation rate
Drop in sessions 51 Watson – 21 Woden – 2 Uriarra – 20 Civic - 8
Presentations 135
Submissions to ACTPLA 14
Submissions to ACTEW 2
Calls to the community information line 5
Total participants 207
4.3 Data capture Community and stakeholder feedback was recorded by ACTEW in a consultation database that allows comments to be accurately recorded and key issues to be monitored and reported upon. For meetings and presentations, detailed minutes of the meetings were taken to capture the comments and opinions of those involved.
At the community drop-in sessions community feedback forms were used to encourage the public to officially record their comments or queries. Not everyone who visited a drop-in session took the opportunity to complete a community feedback form.
Throughout the consultation period, feedback received from consultation activities was recorded in the consultation database and has been used in the preparation of this report.
COMMUNITY FEEDBACK COMMUNITY CONSULTATION ON THE ENLARGED COTTER DAM DRAFT ENV RONMENTAL MPACT STATEMENT 15
5 Key issues and concerns
A complete list of issues raised during the consultation period is included at Appendix D. This appendix contains comments received via:
• Written submission to ACTPLA. • Written submission to ACTEW. • Feedback obtained during a meeting or presentation by ACTEW representatives. • Discussion at one of the public information sessions. • Feedback received via the Water Security-Major Projects Information hotline. While there were several submissions during the consultation period expressing opposition to the Enlarged Cotter Dam, overwhelmingly respondents were supportive of the project and recognised the importance of water security. While the responses were largely positive about construction of the Enlarged Cotter Dam, there were still comments, concerns and issues raised across all aspects of the project. The key issues raised during the consultation period were: • Impact on Cotter Road; in particular traffic impacts and possible road closures during construction.
• Impact on equestrian communities; in terms of access to relevant properties, behavior of traffic and large trucks during construction.
• Impact on endangered fish species; while the investment in fish protection strategies, including the establishment of artificial fish habitats was acknowledged, there is concern about what alternatives exist if the fish habitats are not as successful as anticipated. • Terrestrial biodiversity; suggestions of additional areas of study or analysis.
• Construction impacts and processes; including comments about the establishment and on-going monitoring of work method statements, construction environmental management plans and dam safety matters.
In addition to the above issues, other comments included consideration of planning alternatives to enlarging the Cotter Dam; consultation; bushfire management; noise, odour or dust impacts; water quality, heritage, water restrictions and greenhouse offsets.
Table 4 includes a full listing of the issues raised by each representation received during the consultation period.
WATER SECURITY – MAJOR PROJECTS 16 NOVEMBER 2008
construction construction
No concerns - support for for support - concerns No
Community consultation consultation Community
• conservation conservation
Water restrictions and and restrictions Water
• Heritage Heritage
•
• Recreational activity activity Recreational
•
Noise, dust, odour odour dust, Noise,
• • Pollution Pollution
or offsets offsets or
Energy use/greenhouse gases gases use/greenhouse Energy
• • Dam safety safety Dam
• • Terrestrial biodiversity biodiversity Terrestrial
• • Visual impact impact Visual
• • Bushfire management management Bushfire
• • • Fish Fish
• • •
water quality quality water
•
environmental river flow flow river environmental
Impacts on Murrumbidgee/ Murrumbidgee/ on Impacts Construction impacts impacts Construction
• • • • Cotter Road Road Cotter
• • • • Equestrian community community Equestrian
• • • Traffic Traffic
• • • •
Planning other options options other Planning
• Scope of the EIS/process EIS/process the of Scope
Summary of issues raised ACT Equestrian Association Association ACT Equestrian 1 Association Riders ACT Endurance Submission 2 Association Riders ACT Endurance Health ACT East of South Council Conservation and Canberra Region – Canberra Australia Engineers Division Management Resource Natural Committee Advisory ACT Scouts Centre Equestrian Stromlo and Recreation – Environment TAMS 1 Individual Table 5.4 Stakeholder group Submissions 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
[TITLE] [SUBTITLE] 17 construction construction
No concerns - support for for support - concerns No
•
Community consultation consultation Community
conservation conservation
Water restrictions and and restrictions Water Heritage Heritage
Recreational activity activity Recreational
• • •
Noise, dust, odour odour dust, Noise,
Pollution Pollution
or offsets offsets or
Energy use/greenhouse gases gases use/greenhouse Energy
Dam safety safety Dam
Terrestrial biodiversity biodiversity Terrestrial
Visual impact impact Visual
Bushfire management management Bushfire
Fish Fish water quality quality water
environmental river flow flow river environmental
Impacts on Murrumbidgee/ Murrumbidgee/ on Impacts
• Construction impacts impacts Construction
• • • Cotter Road Road Cotter
• • • Equestrian community community Equestrian
• Traffic Traffic
• • • • •
Planning other options options other Planning
• • Scope of the EIS/process EIS/process the of Scope Individual 2 2 Individual 3 Individual 4 Individual 1 5 Individual Uriarra 2 6 Individual – Uriarra Session – Information Session Information 3 – Uriarra Session Information 4 – Uriarra Session Information 5 – Uriarra Session Information 6 – Uriarra Session Information 7 – Uriarra Session Information 8 – Uriarra Session Information Stakeholder group 12 13 14 15 16 Information sessions and hotline 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24
WATER SECURITY – MAJOR PROJECTS 18 [REPORT DATE]
construction construction
No concerns - support for for support - concerns No
Community consultation consultation Community
• • conservation conservation
Water restrictions and and restrictions Water
• Heritage Heritage
• •
Recreational activity activity Recreational
•
Noise, dust, odour odour dust, Noise,
Pollution Pollution
or offsets offsets or
Energy use/greenhouse gases gases use/greenhouse Energy
Dam safety safety Dam
Terrestrial biodiversity biodiversity Terrestrial
Visual impact impact Visual
Bushfire management management Bushfire
Fish Fish water quality quality water
environmental river flow flow river environmental
Impacts on Murrumbidgee/ Murrumbidgee/ on Impacts
• • • • •
Construction impacts impacts Construction
• • Cotter Road Road Cotter
Equestrian community community Equestrian
• • Traffic Traffic
• •
Planning other options options other Planning
• • • • • Scope of the EIS/process EIS/process the of Scope Information Session – Uriarra 9 Uriarra – 11 Session Uriarra Information – 10 – Uriarra Session Information Session Information 1 – Civic Session Information 2 – Civic Session Information 3 – Civic Session Information 4 – Civic Session Information 5 – Civic Session Information 1 – Woden Session Information 2 – Woden Session Information – Watson 1 Session Information Information Line– Call/Email 1 Information Line– Call/Email 2 Information Line– Call/Email 3 Stakeholder group 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38
[TITLE] [SUBTITLE] 19
construction construction
No concerns - support for for support - concerns No
Community consultation consultation Community
•
conservation conservation
Water restrictions and and restrictions Water Heritage Heritage
• • Recreational activity activity Recreational
• • • •
Noise, dust, odour odour dust, Noise,
• Pollution Pollution
or offsets offsets or
Energy use/greenhouse gases gases use/greenhouse Energy • • Dam safety safety Dam
Terrestrial biodiversity biodiversity Terrestrial
• •
Visual impact impact Visual
• Bushfire management management Bushfire
Fish Fish
• •
water quality quality water
• environmental river flow flow river environmental
Impacts on Murrumbidgee/ Murrumbidgee/ on Impacts
• • • Construction impacts impacts Construction
• • • Cotter Road Road Cotter
• • Equestrian community community Equestrian
•
Traffic Traffic
• • Planning other options options other Planning
Scope of the EIS/process EIS/process the of Scope
• Information Line – Call/Email 4 Call/Email – Line Information 5 – Line Call/Email Information Health Tourism ACT Capital Australian East of South Council Conservation & Molonglo and Canberra Region Group Catchment Group Landcare Cotter Water, of Environment, Depart and (DEWHA) Arts the Heritage Community Equestrian Council Community Gungahlin Stakeholder group 39 40 Meetings 41 42 43 44 45 46 47
WATER SECURITY – MAJOR PROJECTS 20 [REPORT DATE]
While this consultation report specifically addresses the issues raised during the consultation period for the draft EIS, the comments received do not differ significantly to issues raised with ACTEW since the project formally commenced in late 2007 and as such ACTEW has taken many of these issues into consideration when preparing the draft EIS. 6.1 Government agency consultation Government agencies accounted for significant proportion of the representations received during the consultation period. This included through direct submissions and through specific meetings. The following government agencies provided comments during the consultation period:
• ACT Health. • Australian Capital Tourism. • Natural Resource Management Advisory Committee. • Department of Territory and Municipal Services (TAMS) – Environment and Recreation. • Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts. Key issues raised by Government agencies were:
• impact on endangered fish species and potential success of proposed mitigation measures. • Construction impacts and associated mitigation processes.
• Impact on terrestrial biodiversity and appropriateness of study areas and analysis.
• Comments about the scope or framing of the EIS. • The importance of maintaining high levels of water quality.
• Potential impacts on downstream Murrumbidgee River.
• Possible opportunities to enhance the recreational facilities in the area.
Engagement with key government agencies was important to ensure a holistic approach to the consultation program. The program invited all ACT Government agencies to comment and specially sought to consult with those agencies with a key interest in the management of the Cotter. ACT Roads and Parks, Conservation and Lands were actively involved in community meetings during the consultation period to encourage an understanding of the issues that were shared by these community representatives, ACTEW and TAMS.
A presentation was also provided to ACT Government Senior Executive Water Group which included representatives from many of the ACT Government Departments and agencies. 5.2 Non-government organisations Non-government organisations, including community groups, professional and business organisations as well as environmental groups were encouraged to comment on the draft EIS, many through direct written invitation.
The following organisations were involved during the consultation period and have had their comments recorded and incorporated into the issues considered by this consultation report.
COMMUNITY FEEDBACK COMMUNITY CONSULTATION ON THE ENLARGED COTTER DAM DRAFT ENV RONMENTAL MPACT STATEMENT 21
Table 5.5 Representations from non-government organisations
Organisation Meeting with Submission Submission ACTEW to ACTPLA directly to ACTEW
ACT Equestrian Association
ACT Endurance Riders Association x2
Conservation Council of South East Region and Canberra
Cotter Landcare Group
Engineers Australia ACT Division
Gungahlin Community Council
Scouts ACT
Stromlo Equestrian Centre
Issues raised by non-government organisations were diverse, reflecting the wide range of interests covered by the groups. It is possible to identify two clear groupings of comments, those of the residents, businesses and recreational users located on Cotter Road who have specific concerns and those with a boarder focus on the environment and Canberra’s water infrastructure.
Sample issues raised within these two broad groupings included:
• Cotter Road Responses – Negative impacts of traffic on Cotter Road during construction and with respect to the site office located at Mount Stromlo. There was concern about the impacts of increased traffic flow on residents and businesses along Cotter Road and ensuring appropriate safety for motorist, cyclists and equestrian users.
– Noise impacts on residents and businesses on Cotter Road. This includes noise from traffic, in particular the 24 hour truck deliveries to the Cotter Dam site as well as construction related noise such as blasting and the operation of heavy machinery.
– Construction impacts on equestrian activities in the vicinity of Cotter Road and Stromlo Forest Park, including the safety of horses and riders crossing the road, safety of traffic including horse-floats on road and the impact of noise. The equestrian community was particularly interested in being involved in planning associated with an upgrade of Cotter Road to ensure that it was upgraded in a ‘horse-friendly’ way with respect to width of grassed verges and crossing points.
– Concern regarding the visual impacts of an Enlarged Cotter Dam was expressed by some residents along with calls for this impact to be minimised wherever possible.
• Canberra wide comments
WATER SECURITY – MAJOR PROJECTS 22 NOVEMBER 2008
– Concern was raised that the draft EIS implied that the Territory Listed Species was less significant than those listed by the Commonwealth, particularly with respect to the two-spined blackfish.
– Appropriate greenhouse gas offsets that relate directly to the construction of the dam were considered important.
– The importance of appropriate catchment management including sediment controls and bushfire mitigation measures were highlighted.
– There were suggestions that this is an opportunity to upgrade the Cotter recreation area and retain construction infrastructure that is sensitive to the future needs of Canberrans. – The opportunity for hydro-electric power generation associated with environmental discharges from the dam was raised. 5.3 General Public Members of the public provided comments through the drop-in sessions, calls to the information hotline or by direct submission to ACTPLA or ACTEW. There were 31 responses received from general members of the public, with over 60% of these being received at an information session.
The issues raised by the general public during the consultation period were wide a varied and are replicated in full in Appendix D. Comments or issues that were raised repeatedly by the community were: • Impact on Cotter Road and importance of maintaining appropriate safety measures on the road.
• Importance of exploring the opportunities for hydro power-generation as part of the dam project.
• Interest in the potential impact on the recreation area during the construction period. • The potential impact on downstream users and the broader Murray Darling Basin.
• Support for the project more often than opposition to it. 5.4 Submissions received by ACTPLA Submissions received by ACTPLA during its public notification period have legislative rights under the ACT Planning and Development Act 2007 and these submissions become part of the public record relating to the approval process of the Enlarged Cotter Dam. There were fourteen submissions received by ACTPLA.
ACTEW has chosen to treat all submissions and representations made during the consultation period equally and as such the submissions by ACTPLA have been collated with all the other submissions into the complete table of comments made at Appendix D.
COMMUNITY FEEDBACK COMMUNITY CONSULTATION ON THE ENLARGED COTTER DAM DRAFT ENV RONMENTAL MPACT STATEMENT 23
6 Conclusion
6.1 Consideration of consultation outcomes It is a requirement of the ACT Planning and Development Act 2007 that ACTEW respond to all representations made to ACTPLA during the public consultation (notification) period. ACTEW has responded to all representations as detailed in Appendix D. This table also indicates whether the representation was submitted to ACTPLA or not.
Where appropriate these responses detailed in Appendix D have then been translated into amendments and/or clarifications in the EIS. References to the relevant sections of the EIS are also detailed against the particular representation.
The final EIS, including details of the comments received and the associated responses will be lodged with ACTPLA for consideration prior to proceeding with the next stages of the planning approval process. 6.2 Future opportunities for the community to comment ACTEW is committed to maintaining regular communications with government and non-government stakeholders as well as the broader community.
The information hotline and email address remain open and the website continues to be kept up to date with project developments. As detailed earlier in this document, a comprehensive community engagement and stakeholder management program will continue throughout the delivery of the Enlarged Cotter Dam project.
If approved, the EIS will form an essential attachment to a formal development application to be lodged with ACTPLA during 2008. This development application will provide more detail on the detailed design and construction methodology of the Enlarged Cotter Dam. It will be the subject of a further round of public consultation.
WATER SECURITY – MAJOR PROJECTS 24 NOVEMBER 2008
Appendix A Organisations and community groups contacted
Stakeholder Direct mail Offer to give a presentation Presentation campaign was made was given
Commonwealth Government and agencies
Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government
Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts
National Capital Authority
ACT Government and agencies
ACT Health
ACT Planning and Land Authority
Chief Minister’s Department and Office
Department of Education and Training
ACT Emergency Services
Territory and Municipal Services • community and infrastructure services • Roads ACT • Environment and Recreation • Parks Conservation and Lands ACT Policing
Department Housing and Community Services
Treasury
Relevant Members of Parliament – Commonwealth, NSW and ACT
Residents / businesses near work site
Uriarra Village • Residents • Village Building Company • ACT Department of Housing and Community Services
Stakeholder Direct mail Offer to give a presentation Presentation campaign was made was given
Public housing tenants • Pierces Creek • Cotter Avenue • Cotter House Cotter businesses • Campground PCL • PCL Depot & Rangers • Cotter Pump Station Cotter Road residents
Mt Stromlo households / businesses
Community Organisations
ACT and region Chamber of Commerce and Industry
Canberra Business Council
Community Councils
Master Builders Association ACT Division
Property Council of Australia, ACT Division
Environment
ACT Historical Society
National Trust of Aust. Canberra Division
Greening Australia
ACT Landcare
Upper Murrumbidgee Landcare Committee
National Parks Association of the ACT
Conservation Council of the South East Region & Canberra
Murray-Darling Basin Commission
ACT for Trees
ACT Herpetological Association (ACTHA)
Australian Native Plants Society Canberra Region
Stakeholder Direct mail Offer to give a presentation Presentation campaign was made was given
Canberra Ornithologist Group
Friends of Tidbinbilla
Recreation
PCL Recreation Users Group
Stromlo Forrest Park
Corin Forrest Recreational Park
Canberra Off Road Cyclists (CORC)
Cycling ACT (ACT Cycling Federation)
Canberra Cycling Club
Vikings Cycling Club
ACT Veterans Cycling Club
Pedal Power ACT
Canberra BMX Club
ACT Motorcycle Club
Motorcycle Riders Association of the ACT
Canberra Harley Owners Group
Veteran and vintage car club of Australia
ACT Four Wheel Drive Club
Family Bushwalkers Inc
Canberra Bushwalking Club
Orienteering ACT
MTBO ACT
ACT Rogaining Association
ACT Cross Country Club
Australian Mountain Running Association
Australian National University Mountaineering Club
Canberra Climbers’ Association
ACT Fly Fishers Inc
Canberra Fisherman’s Club
Stakeholder Direct mail Offer to give a presentation Presentation campaign was made was given
ACT Sport & Recreational Fishing Council Inc
Canberra Angler’s Association
Rowing Club
Canberra Canoe Club
Kayakcanberra.com
Burley Griffin Canoe Club
Australian Trail Horse Riders’ Association
ACT Equestrian Association
ACT Endurance Riders Association
Canberra Riding Club Pony Club
National Equestrian Centre Kerrabee
Hillview Riding Club
National Capital Equestrian Club Inc. (formerly Jerrabomberra Riding Club)
Monaro Horse Trekkers
National Equestrian Centre Vaulting & Riding Club
Pegasus Riding for the disabled of the ACT
Canberra Speleological Society
Birds Australia Southern NSW & ACT
Canberra Dog Sled Club
ACTsport
Scouts Association of Australia ACT Branch
Australian Outward Bound Foundation (National Office)
ACT Deaf Sports & Recreation Association
ACT & Region Disabled Sport and Recreation Association
Stakeholder Direct mail Offer to give a presentation Presentation campaign was made was given
Leapfrog Corp for Sport and Recreation Activities
Duke of Edinburgh Award
Indigenous groups
ACT Heritage Council RAO– Buru Ngunawal Aboriginal Corporation
ACT Heritage Council RAO– Little Gudgenby tribal Council
ACT Heritage Council RAO–Consultative Body Aboriginal Corporation on Indigenous Land and Artefacts in the Ngunnawal Area
ACT Heritage Council RAO– Ngarigu Currawong Clan
United Ngunnawal Elders Council
ACT Heritage Council Aboriginal Taskforce
Tourism
Australian Capital Tourism
Capital Tourism Operators Association
Tourism Industry Council (ACT Region)
Surrounding Council areas
Queanbeyan Council
Other
Friends of the Cotter
Appendix B Promotional examples
Appendix C National Capital Planning Authority letter of support
Appendix D Register of comments made and ACTEW’s response
No. Representation or comment made Changes Written Response
1 ACT Equestrian Association (ACTEA)
Section 2.3.2 Project scope (p23) "Design and construction of Information has been A traffic impact assessment was commissioned by upgrade works required for site access routes, which may added in Section 5.1and ACTEW. Infrastructure works to Cotter Road are the include improvements to Cotter Road". There is no discussion Appendix U responsibility of TAMS. in the EIS of what "improvements to the Cotter Road" might Upgrading Cotter Road is outside the scope of the EIS. entail. TAMS are currently undertaking works intended to address anticipated growth in daily traffic and to incorporate road infrastructure measures to address safety issues on Cotter Road.
ACTEA requests that ACT Roads discuss the upgrade of Information has been TAMS are currently undergoing works intended to address Cotter Road with the local users, none of who have been added in Section 5.1and anticipated growth in daily traffic and to incorporate road consulted about proposed changes to the road surface and Appendix U infrastructure measures to address safety issues on Cotter the road verges, and take into account their needs over the Road. two year dam construction period. Traffic matters will be addressed under an approved Traffic Management Plan.
ACTEA requests that ACT Roads improve Cotter Road No changes made to EIS Noted: Responsibility of Tams, not within the scope of the verges between Riverview and Eucumbene Drive to keep EIS. horse rider traffic as far from the road pavement as possible.
No. Representation or comment made Changes Written Response
ACTEA does not believe that the Bulk Water consortium has Information included in ACTEW commissioned a traffic impact assessment that a proper understanding of traffic flows on the Cotter Road or Section 5.1 and studied traffic flows. The assessment gave the Nature of the vehicles that use the road. Traffic count Appendix U recommendations. Traffic matters will be addressed under data used in the EIS (5.1.2 Access Routes) is that collected an approved Traffic Management Plan. for the Cotter Road at the Murrumbidgee Bridge and at the Stretton Drive intersection. This traffic count is inadequate for two reasons. Firstly, it assumes that the majority of the traffic on the Cotter Road is heading to the Cotter River and beyond. Secondly, it assumes that no traffic enters the Cotter Road from either Eucumbene Drive or Uriarra Road. Many equestrians live in the Weston Creek area and access the Cotter Road twice a day, every day, from Eucumbene Drive. The Coppins Crossing/Uriarra Road is very busy these days, especially at peak hour. There are all sorts of potential safety issues for these intersections with the Cotter Road once heavy vehicles become involved. The EIS also takes no consideration of people travelling east from Uriarra Road to Forest Park Riding School and the Equestrian Park at Yarralumla.
The EIS does not consider the implications for: The EIS does Information included in ACTEW has commissioned a traffic impact assessment. not consider the implications for: Section 5.1 Appendix U ACTEW acknowledges the high level of use of Cotter Road • fully laden trucks coming upon an almost stationary horse by agisters. The Traffic Management Plan recommends float on a blind corner, or initiatives including the establishment of equestrian walking routes and crossing points. • fully laden trucks coming upon a car or float that is stopped on a blind corner because it is giving way to oncoming traffic, or • worse still, fully laden trucks coming upon a horse and rider attempting to cross the Cotter Road at a point that is a combination of a blind corner, a busy entrance and exit point for two agistment properties, and the obvious and customary crossing point for horseback access to Stromlo Forest Park. ACTEA requests that a proper study of the characteristics of the traffic on the Cotter Road between Eucumbene Drive and Riverview be undertaken in consultation with the equestrian user group.
No. Representation or comment made Changes Written Response
The EIS does not recognise the fact that horse riders actually Information included in A Traffic Management Plan will be implemented. cross the Cotter Road in several places to access Stromlo Section 5.1 and Forrest Park. Appendix U
The EIS proposes a ‘shared road’ policy that seems to be Information included in ACTEW acknowledges the high level of use of Cotter Road limited to an induction guide for drivers, signage and a Section 5.1 and by agisters. community complaints number to report any incidents of Appendix U The Traffic Management Plan recommends a number of unacceptable behaviour. However it is the number of trucks, initiatives including the establishment of equestrian walking as well as their nature, which is the problem. No horse rider routes and crossing points. wants to be the subject of an “incident report”.
Equestrians were told at a presentation by ACTEW and ACT No changes made to EIS Cotter Road is a TAMS project and outside the scope of Roads on 6 November 2008 that because of the volume of the EIS. traffic and its status as a country road the Cotter Road did not qualify, even temporarily, for traffic management measures such as zebra crossings or traffic lights. This reflects a complete disregard for the special characteristics of the local user group. ACTEA requests that ACT Roads institute practical traffic management measures, such as zebra crossings or manually operated traffic lights, to protect equestrian users at critical crossing points on the Cotter Road.
It was also made clear during the above presentation that Information included in Noted: A Traffic Management Plan will be implemented. development of a Traffic Management Plan is not normally Section 5.1 and subject to a public consultation process. ACTEA Welcomes Appendix U Bulk Water's offer to consult closely in the development of its Traffic Management Policy and looks forward to contributing to an effective driver education program that encourages respect for equestrian traffic.
The Stromlo Road is winding with poor sightlines. Two Information included in ACTEW acknowledges the high level of use of Cotter Road entrances to the Stromlo Forest Park require crossing the Section 5.1 and by agisters. Mount Stromlo Road. ACTEA requests a specific driver Appendix U The Traffic Management Plan will recommend a number of education program for staff that will be using the Stromlo initiatives including the establishment of equestrian walking office to ensure that they understand the implications of their routes and crossing points. driving practices on horse riders accessing the Stromlo Forest Park.
No. Representation or comment made Changes Written Response
ACTEA is concerned that there has been no consultation with No changes made to EIS The Lower Cotter Catchment Management Plan is a TAMS the equestrian community in the development of the Lower strategy; the management thereof is out of the scope of the Cotter Catchment Management Plan. ACTEA strongly EIS. supports the suggestion made in the Interim Recreation Strategy that 'there is scope [in the Cotter Precinct] for redesign and incorporation of a horse yard and float parking area and it could become a base for horse riders to use for day or overnight rides to more distant locations in ACT Forest such as Laurel Camp and Pierces Creek.
Finally, we note that the ACT Equestrian Association is listed Dates have now been Specific details of who this meeting was with have been as a party consulted on the socioeconomic impact of the inserted into the tables provided to ACTEA. enlargement of the Cotter Dam. ACTEA is unaware of this into Chapter 7 of the EIS consultation and would like to know with whom the which outlines consultation took place. consultation meetings.
2 ACT Endurance Riders Association 1
I want to draw your attention to the heavy use of Cotter Road Changes made to ACTEW acknowledges the high level of use of Cotter Road by equestrians. Other agisters at my paddock and I use Section 5.1and Appendix by agisters. The Traffic Management Plan recommends Cotter Road frequently to access the areas specifically U initiatives including the establishment of equestrian walking established for equestrians on Mt Stromlo. In addition, routes and crossing points. children and adults frequently ride their horses along the verges of Cotter Road; some coming from the Cotter Road agistment properties to attend Equestrian Park while others attend equestrian activities at properties along the Cotter Road. Heavy truck use of this road will create an extremely dangerous environment for horse riders, including children, unless steps are taken to make this area safer while work on the Cotter Dam is taking place.
3 ACT Endurance Riders Association 2
It is currently fairly safe to cross Cotter Rd, although traffic Changes made to ACTEW acknowledges the high level of use of Cotter Road has increased due to the cycle facilities and downhill track. Section 5.1and Appendix by agisters. But I would not feel comfortable allowing my teenage U daughter (who is currently 1st junior endurance rider in NSW The Traffic Management Plan recommends initiatives for the second year in a row), for example, to ride that way in including the establishment of equestrian walking routes her own or with friends, during school holidays, knowing that
No. Representation or comment made Changes Written Response
trucks would be racing along there meeting urgent deadlines and crossing points. at great frequency.
I am also very concerned to hear that the existing verges - Comment answered in Traffic Management Plan will be implemented the only refuge for horse - are likely to be reduced or response given above. completely taken over. This is a matter of safety and amenity. I believe that strict speed limits should be put on trucks using Cotter Rd - and enforced - if this proposal goes ahead, and that horse riders should be given every opportunity to review the proposals and comment on their likely impact.
4 ACT Health
The Preliminary Assessment notes areas of concern to be No change to EIS This comment relates to a Preliminary Assessment for the sediment runoff, fuel and chemical spills, and use of construction of fire trails in the Namadgi National Park. It herbicides and chemical during construction. The Health does not relate to the Draft EIS for the Enlargement of the Protection Services requests that the EIS fully assesses the Cotter Dam. potential impact of these concerns and mitigation practices.
The Health Protection Service notes that construction No change to EIS This comment relates to a Preliminary Assessment for the activities have the potential to provide short term impacts construction of fire trails in the Namadgi National Park. It upon the water quality. The EIS should clearly identify does not relate to the Draft EIS for the Enlargement of the procedures to prevent any impact on water quality. Cotter Dam.
It was raised in the draft EIS that heavy metals may be found Added Commitment to Initial landscape studies in 2004 highlighted the potential of in the Winslade Fault and may leach into the water. ACT test aggregate and the dam to submerge areas where the bedrock is affected Health notes that the draft EIS states that crushed products quarry site if necessary - by the Winslade Fault. It was noted that this could lead to (aggregate) will be analysed to ensure they are innocuous. It Section 5.2 increases in metals leached in submerged areas. More would be appropriate that, if faults are found in the quarried detailed landscape studies (Appendix D of Draft EIS) areas, the quarried materials are tested for a range of heavy located the fault outside the future inundation of the ECD metals and appropriate remedial actions identified to mitigate and concluded that there is a low probability that this fault any potential public health risks occurring. will provide any risk to the backwaters of the reservoir. At its closest point it is 700 metres from the dam.
The new enlarged Uriarra development is on the edge of the No Change to EIS The decision to renew and enlarge Uriarra Village was Lower Cotter Catchment. The EIS should address how taken in the knowledge that it lies on the boundary of the pollution from domestic activity will be contained, as at this Lower Cotter Catchment and that the Cotter Reservoir may stage there is unrestricted access from the Uriarra Village be enlarged Uriarra Village is located outside the directly into the catchment and the water. catchment. The Cotter Catchment is managed by PCL
No. Representation or comment made Changes Written Response
using the Lower Cotter Catchment Strategic Management Plan. This strategy restricts recreational use of the catchment including the use of the water body for recreation activities. This proposal does not propose any amendments to these restrictions.
The draft EIS states that a recreational demand analysis is Support for catchment The Lower Cotter Catchment Management Plan restricts being undertaken on the recreational potential of the area and management reinforced recreation activities in the areas surrounding the dam and that, recreational demand may increase with the enlarged in EIS, Section 6.11 prohibits activities in the reservoir. ACTEW supports this dam. ACT Health recognises that recreational activities in and policy and this project does not propose any changes to around the Cotter Precinct is an important factor for this Plan. maintaining physical activity and emotional well being. However, to protect the water quality a closed catchment policy should be maintained.
5 Conservation Council
The EIS seems to assume that a species listed under the Commitment to both There is no intention to diminish the importance of the Commonwealth's Environment protection and Biodiversity species has been added Nature Conservation Act. ACTEW will meet all of its Conservation (EPBC) Act is of more ecological significance in Section 6 of the EIS statutory obligations in relation to both Territory and than one listed under the ACT's Nature Conservation (NC) and Appendix I. Commonwealth Acts. Act.
By adopting an incorrect distinction between national and Commitment to both The EIS recognises the listing of the Two-spined Blackfish territory significance of listed threatened species, the draft species has been added as vulnerable under the NC Act and that suitable habitat is EIS falls into the trap of elevating those species that are listed in Section 6 of the EIS present in the Cotter River upstream of the existing dam. under the EPBC over those listed under the NC Act. The EIS and Appendix I. ACTEW acknowledges that a licence is required under the therefore is heavily biased towards the (nationally listed) Nature Conservation Act to undertake acts that disturb Macquarie Perch and seems to discount the (ACT listed) listed species. ACTEW's Fish Management Plan and Two-spined Blackfish. This is particularly evident in the fish research has been expanded to include the Two-Spined management plan where nearly all actions are directed Blackfish. towards the Macquarie Perch.
No. Representation or comment made Changes Written Response
The Conservation Council recommends that the EIS should Commitment to both ACTEW has committed to equal attention to both the assess the impact of the Cotter enlargement against the species has been added Macquarie Perch and the Two-Spined Blackfish. Research actual statements of threat and endangerment for both in Section 6 of the EIS has been expanded to take into account the Two-Spined species, and the associated issues that need to be and Appendix I. Blackfish, and attempts to maintain the two species in the addressed. Both species need equal attention in terms of Enlarged Cotter Dam are being addressed through the research commitment and programs so that the threats to Fish Management Plan. These commitments have been both species are addressed in mitigation measures. added to the EIS and the Fish Management Plan in The work being carried out at the University of Canberra on Appendix I. Macquarie Perch needs to be extended to include the Two- spined Blackfish, and the fish management plan needs to be amended to adequately address management requirements for this species. The minimum aim should be to prevent the Two-spined Blackfish from moving from a Vulnerable listing under the NC Act to a more critical listing of Endangered. To this end, the fish management plan should also better cross-relate with the conservation actions as detailed for this species in the ACT Government's Action Plan 29: Aquatic Species and Riparian Zone Conservation Strategy.
Thus, it is not surprising that the EIS fails to respond to this Edits made in Section Expert advice indicated the potential for significant loss of issue appropriately - by misusing the concept of offsets. It is 6.3 vegetation; as a result they have recommended offset pleasing that the proposal has raised the idea of offsets. works that ACTEW has committed to. These are in addition What is required is for any offsets related to enlargement of to those already being undertaken in the Lower Cotter the Cotter Reservoir to be authentic. Catchment. The use of the concept of 'offsets' is misleading as currently applied in the EIS because it claims that the revegetation work in the Lower Cotter Catchment and subject to the ACT Government's Clean Water Landscapes draft Strategic Management Plan (May 2006) constitutes the offset. However, the ACT Government and ACTEW had already committed to revegetating the Lower Cotter Catchment in order to protect Canberra's water supply drawn from the existing dam. Thus, this revegetation was already committed, separate to the intended development action to enlarge the Cotter Reservoir – and offsets must apply to new work that is a direct and intended action in response to the specific development action.
No. Representation or comment made Changes Written Response
6 Engineers Australia - Canberra Division
The History of adopting a hazard classification and specific Additional detail provided The ECD project is rated by the ANCOLD guidelines with a design flood inflow during the design phase of a large dam in Section 5.12 risk assessment of 'high A', for the design of the dam. shows that over time the key parameters of "Population at ACTEW has designed the dam to meet the highest Risk" and estimate of precipitation associated with a design ANCOLD risk rating which is 'extreme'. This design flood will change as our knowledge of rainfall and runoff standard takes into account the likely downstream impact increases with enhanced local, regional and global data on users and uses and sets requirements in place for the collection. preparation of management and action plans associated These issues will affect any large dam located near a major with flooding and dam failure events. The dam design is urban population, as has been demonstrated with being peer reviewed by two independent expert panels to augmentation works undertaken to several large dams ensure these standards are met. around Australia over recent years, including Googong Dam. Consequently it is believed that a thorough and detailed risk assessment be undertaken on these parameters and either a conservatively high Hazard Classification be adopted for the new dam or the dam be designed such that the wall structure and secondary spillway are capable of augmentation with minimum disruption and cost in the future.
Following construction, the infrastructure developed in Section 6.11 has been ACTEW has a commitment to address these aspects in the support of the construction phase such as, roads, land revised design process. These issues are best addressed at the clearing, power and water reticulation, should be sensitive to Development Application stage where ACTEW has policies future needs and be retained as far as practicable. in place that prohibit recreational activities within the The need for future recreation opportunities should not be catchment for water quality reasons. underestimated and appropriate access into sympathetically managed areas within the catchment would be an ongoing benefit to Canberra residents and to ACT tourism.
Another need also arises from the known consequences of Information on Bushfire ACTEW has provided additional information on bushfire extreme bushfire events and the requirement for management has been management including potential to cause bushfires as well management of the catchment to prevent or minimise the added, Section 5.12 as impacts of bushfire on construction activities and the impact of bushfire in the future. engineering infrastructure. Bushfire management within the Although the recently augmented Stromlo water treatment catchment is under the authority of PCL in accordance with facility had been designed to manage increased turbidity and the Lower Cotter Catchment Strategic Management Plan. contaminants during the treatment process, there is a risk This is acknowledged in the EIS. Any works associated that an extreme fire event could destroy this facility as well. with the Mt Stromlo Water Treatment facility is outside the
No. Representation or comment made Changes Written Response
Therefore the ability to prevent re-occurrences of the 2003 scope of the EIS. bushfire will be underpinned by a well designed road network within the catchment, the management of fuel loads within the forested areas and the establishment of water tanker refilling points and helicopter landing sites at strategic locations.
The control and management of sediments from catchment Section 5.3 has been ACTEW will be including adequate sediment control in the runoff requires that the existing system of sediment control revised form of on-site controls for construction works. structures be augmented and be operationally maintained This will be coordination with the continuing mitigation such that they do not discharge retained sediments during programs carried out by TAMS. These controls will high precipitation events. continue throughout the project development.
An earlier discussion paper raised the option of hydro-electric No change to EIS The current scope of the project includes conducting a power generation during environmental discharges from the feasibility study for hydro-electric power generation that is enlarged Cotter Dam. This option should be further ongoing. investigated, specifically in relation to the three dams in the Cotter River catchments. Integration with wind turbine power generation for example for return flows to the Bendora and/or Corin Dams from the enlarged Cotter Dam can be used as a hydro-electric energy reservoir to provide peak load power back to the national grid to benefit Canberra through increased 'green' energy generation and reduced peak load energy costs.
No. Representation or comment made Changes Written Response
The water pricing model places the entire cost for this new Section 5.11 has been Noted. Section 5.11 outlines the framework in which the infrastructure onto the Canberra community through revised water pricing policy is regulated by the Independent increased water rates. Increasingly, water resources within Competition & Regulatory Commission. the ACT are likely to be seen as a regional resource, particularly in the context of the Murray-Darling Basin strategy and the Commonwealth's Water Act 2007. These influences may work to reduce the estimated yield from the enlarged Cotter Dam to ACT residents and thereby increasing the unit price of water. There is also a substantive argument that places the need for this infrastructure, in part, onto the Commonwealth as a consequence of their workforce expansion since the commencement of ACT self government. The water pricing model should take into account the net implications of an increasing Commonwealth presence in Canberra and potential adjustments through the Commonwealth Grants Commission and funding from the Federal Infrastructure fund or other external sources and minimise the charge to ACT resident ratepayers.
Notwithstanding the construction of an enlarged Cotter Dam, Increased discussion of ACTEW is actively introducing policies relating to re-using the emphasis on efficient water use and conservation through the options for increasing and recycling of water. These policies are being re-use and recycling should remain a priority within the ACT water security is included coordinated outside but parallel to the ECD project. in Section 1.2 of the EIS. Recent water demand projections still conclude that the enlargement of Cotter Reservoir is required.
7 Natural Resource Management Advisory Committee
The NRMAC particularly supports the approach of planning Commitment Added at The enlargement of the Cotter Dam is part of the suite of for a worst case scenario in terms of climate change (see EIS 5.10 (Also added Water Security - Major Projects which includes continued pages 8 and 187). However the Committee notes it is objective relating to water conservation and demand management programs. important for Canberrans to continue to develop and maintain supply reliability with The following commitment has been added; ACTEW will a culture of water use where water is considered a scarce respect to Health) continue to support a culture that considers water to be a (rather than an abundant) resource and recognize that scarce commodity through education, appropriate water ongoing water conservation measures will be necessary in restrictions and support of government policy. the future and may continue to include some restrictions (cf para 4 under section 5.10.2, page 107).
No. Representation or comment made Changes Written Response
The NRMAC supports the development of the Construction No Change to EIS The preparation of an Environmental Management Plan for Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) in consultation with the Construction works is required by the EPA. The plan relevant stakeholders (p. 30) provided these stakeholders will be prepared to the satisfaction of the EPA as per the include recognised professional experts. requirements in the Environmental Protection Act.
Given the fact that the Work Method Statements (WMSs, see Added commitment for As with the preparation of the EIS itself, ACTEW is willing page 31) will include much of the ‘fine detail’ of measures to peer review of EMP and to source expert advice in relation to specialist issues, and mitigate potential impacts (e.g. see page 82), it would also be WMS Section 2.4 to have their work peer reviewed. The statement in the EIS appropriate for relevant expert stakeholders to be involved in that the CEMP will be developed in consultation with the development of the WMSs and/or included in a ‘quality stakeholders and regulatory authorities have been assurance’ process for them. strengthened to clearly include relevant experts and peer review, and it has been highlighted as a stand alone commitment.
Similarly the Committee considers that it would be Added detail to existing The commitment relating to the Safety Committee has appropriate for the EIS to include a commitment to the Safety commitment in Section been extended to make it clear that the Committee will and Environmental Committee seeking advice, if required, 2.4 have the opportunity to seek independent advice if from such experts for specific scientific/technical matters. necessary.
The Committee notes that the EIS considers only the risks of Additional detail provided The ECD project is rated by the ANCOLD guidelines with a dam failure in the immediate vicinity of the enlarged Cotter in Section 5.12 risk assessment of 'high A', for the design of the dam. Dam, and does not consider the potential impacts on ACTEW has designed the dam to meet the highest downstream areas of the Murrumbidgee River and associated ANCOLD risk rating which is 'extreme'. This design uses (e.g. pastoral or agricultural land and facilities in NSW standard takes into account the likely downstream impact that might be affected by flooding resulting from catastrophic on users and uses and sets requirements in place for the failure of the enlarged Cotter Dam). These potential impacts preparation of management and action plans associated need to be addressed (even if just to rule them out as a with flooding and dam failure events. The dam design is possibility, if that is the case). being peer reviewed by two independent expert panels to ensure these standards are met.
The Committee notes that the flora surveys were carried out Appendix I has been This matter is addressed in the Terrestrial Flora and Fauna predominantly in November and December, with additional revised study (Appendix I) no recommendation for further surveys work from March to May (see section 3.4 in Appendix G of has been made. the EIS) and hence many annual species and perennial species with underground organs that have above-ground stems and foliage only in spring would have been missed.
No. Representation or comment made Changes Written Response
The NRMAC supports the proposed referral of Pomaderris No Change to EIS Terrestrial Flora and Fauna assessment included an pallida and the Pink-tailed Worm Lizard under the EPBC Act assessment of these species under Territory and (see section 6.3.5), and considers that further survey work for Commonwealth Legislation including the likely occurrence these species in suitable habitat is warranted, with adequate and impact should the ECD proceed. The project has safety precautions taken in areas considered more been referred to the DEWHA under the EPBC Act and has inaccessible (see p. 136). been classified as a controlled action requiring a PER assessment with specific reference to these species.
The Committee questions the logic used to rule out the need Information in relation to The Terrestrial Flora and Fauna Assessment (Appendix G) to refer the threatened plant Muehlenbeckia Tuggeranong this threatened plant has recommended that additional targeted surveys should be under the EPBC Act. Table 6.3 (page 129) indicates that been included in Section conducted for the species to confirm that it does not occur suitable vegetation types for the species occur within the 6.3 in the study area. ACTEW has made a commitment to study area and hence the species may be present there. carry out additional surveys that may be required. While it is true that “the [enlarged Cotter Dam] study area is outside the known distribution of the species” (Table 6.3), it is highly unlikely that detailed searches for it have been carried out along the Cotter River, even though they have been carried out along parts of the Murrumbidgee
The Committee considers that the last commitment in the No changes required ACTEW is committed to ongoing health of the Lower Cotter table needs to include a commitment to monitor the success Catchment, including areas to be disturbed. Catchment of replantings over time, to determine if the planted management practices will continue to be delivered in this populations become self sustaining (i.e. plants grow to area under the Lower Cotter Catchment Strategic maturity, set seed, seeds germinate and juveniles develop) management Plan. (see also last dot point on page 139 before the heading 6.3.8).
The Fish Management Plan clearly includes applying the Additional detail has EIS Section describing impacts on aquatic ecology results of the research projects during the various stages of been provided on the including fish has been updated with regard to the the development of the enlarged Cotter Dam and using an Fish Management Plan comments raised. Results from phase 1 of the Fish adaptive management approach. The Committee supports explaining the various Management Plan have been taken into consideration in this approach, and considers it should be better reflected in stages of the projects. the final revision of this EIS. A copy of the Phase 1 is the EIS itself. However the proposed timing of auditing within See section 6.5.The included as an appendix. the Fish Management Plan does not appear to allow any report on the Fish contingency in terms of the timing of the Enlarged Cotter Dam Management Plan stages (see section 6.5.15, page 155 and Appendix I) if the Phase 1 is also included research turns up negative results (e.g. if project 1 is unable in the EIS. to come up with options for suitable artificial habitats for Macquarie Perch and the Two-spined Blackfish; if project 7
No. Representation or comment made Changes Written Response
shows that there will not be sufficient food available in the long-term to support the Macquarie Perch fish population). The NRMAC is not completely convinced by the residual risk assessment of the various factors in this section, and suggests a stronger precautionary approach may be warranted.
Section 6.8 (page 159) of the EIS addresses only upstream Additional detail provided This risk has been present since the Cotter Dam was first invasion and expanded populations of existing alien fish. in relation to non-native constructed and the enlargement of the dam does not There is no assessment in the EIS of the intentional (illegal) fish in Section 6.5 - 6.8 change the probability of it occurring. It is considered highly introduction of non-native species, for example by people with unlikely that residents of Canberra would travel as far as aquariums who wish to get rid of their fish and might feel the the Cotter Dam to deliberately release aquarium fish. The enlarged Cotter Dam provides an ideal place to do so. more likely scenario of the accidental introduction of fish species by fishermen will be managed through the ongoing restriction on recreational activity, including fishing in the reservoir. Ban on fishing in the dam.
The degree to which source references are provided for Referencing has been The referencing was revisited in preparation of the final factual information in the EIS itself is very variable, and revisited EIS. substandard in many sections. While many of these references are included in the text of the various appendices (although many references referred to in the text of Appendix G are absent from its list of references at the end), it would provide more veracity to the EIS itself if these references were also included within its text.
On page 26, the first dot point under Commitment reworded, The commitment has been reworded. Commitments/Specifications reads “the main dam will be Section 2.3 constructed of RCC and the saddle dams are likely to be constructed of earth and rock-fill”. As it is not possible to commit to something that is only “likely”, the wording of this commitment may need reviewing.
On page 43, the objective for the element “Bushfire” Objective reworded, The objective has been reworded. presumably is “To reduce the impact of bushfires on the Section 2.9 catchment with regard to water supply” rather than just reducing the impact on the catchment per se.
No. Representation or comment made Changes Written Response
On page 188, section 6.12.4, the third line reads Reworded Section, This has been redrafted. “Implementing the recommendations above”. It is not clear Section 6.12 however just what recommendations these refer to.
8 Scouts Australia
Section 5.3.2 of the draft EIS specifically mentions Camp Changes made to Information on the visual impact of the Enlarged Cotter Cottermouth as one of the "sensitive visual receptors" for the Section 5.3 Dam and associated works on Camp Cottermouth has new dam. We note that "The construction of the new dam been added. Comments regarding remedial works in wall and saddle dams will permanently change visual outlook relation to Camp Cottermouth have also been inserted. from this location" and that "Changes to the landform and the Construction site area has been amended to reduce introduction of linear elements (saddle dams) into the visual impact to Camp Cottermouth. landscape will be visually prominent" and except this will occur. However we also note the objective "To minimise negative impacts on visual amenity" and trust that the construction and remediation works undertaken will take into account the visual impact on Camp Cottermouth.
Section 5.5.3 of the draft EIS specifically mentions Camp Changes Made to Greenhills Camp and Conference Centre have been added Cottermouth as one of the "sensitive receivers" for noise. The Section 5.3 to the sensitive receivers in the noise amended noise acoustic modelling done on the Greenhills Camp and assessment. Noise impacts will be managed. Conference Centre site would also apply to Camp Cottermouth. We note the assurances given in the draft EIS and wish to state that this is a sensitive issue for Camp Cottermouth, especially the commitment made as to work hours.
Scouts notes that Sections 5.1.1 to 5.1.3 of the draft EIS No changes to EIS Noted. Response to concerns provided below. predicts up to additional 700 vehicles per day, 6 days per week on Cotter Road, with up to 100 of these vehicles being heavy trucks delivery either cement, fly ash or sand. Whilst we accept the statement made in the draft EIS that this is below the safe operating capacity of the road, we have the two concerns listed above, especially as regards the heavy trucks. We do not believe that the measures proposed in Section 5.2.3 will adequately address our concerns.
No. Representation or comment made Changes Written Response
Large vehicles such as coaches (and also delivery trucks, Changes made to A traffic impact assessment was commissioned by gas tankers, garbage trucks, and private vehicles with Section 5.1 ACTEW. trailers) have to enter and leave Cotter road very slowly to TAMS is undertaking works intended to address safely negotiate the entrance. It should also be noted that anticipated growth in daily traffic and to incorporate road Scouts is a youth organisation with a very active group of infrastructure measures to address safety issues on Cotter members in the 16-19 year age group, including many young Road. and new drivers who will have little experience with dealing Improving road infrastructure is beyond the scope of the with heavy vehicles on a rural road. We are very concerned Alliance. that the heavy vehicle traffic predicted in the draft EIS, on a steep gradient, could lead to a rear end collision with a The assessment gave recommendations that address vehicle leaving Cotter Road, or side a side on collision with a safety. Traffic matters will be addressed under an vehicle entering Cotter road. approved Traffic Management Plan.
To alleviate this concern we believe that some addition of Cotter Road is a TAMS project and outside the scope of "slip lanes" and widening of the uphill side of the road to the EIS. assist vehicles entering and leaving Cotter Road, via the A Traffic Management Plan will be developed and common Camp Cottermouth/Greenhills entrance, is essential. incorporate traffic safety. Scouts ACT does not believe that merely reducing the speed limit on this section of Cotter Road from 80kmh to 60kmh will provide an adequate solution to this potential problem.
The draft EIS states that during the peak construction period Changes made to The design of the Enlarged Cotter Dam wall is such that up to 100 heavy trucks per day will deliver cement, fly ash Section 5.5 and there are periods of construction that are necessary 24hr. and sand down Cotter Road. As these vehicles pass Camp Appendix H The necessary approvals will be acquired for this period. Cottermouth / Greenhills they will be on a downhill gradient and could reasonably be expected to be using engine braking. Section 5.1.1 of the draft EIS does not specify the A full acoustic assessment and other assessments have time of the day for sand deliveries, but says that over the 12 been carried out, including the effects of heavy vehicle month peak construction period the 20 loads per day of movements on Cotter Road and in particular Camp cement and fly ash will be delivered "around the clock". Cottermouth Managers residence. Field testing was Significant parts of Camp Cottermouth including the main undertaken that established that night time truck cabin accommodation, the manager's residence, and some movements would not cause significant sleep disturbance. campsites are located within 100m-150m of Cotter Road, and within direct line of sight of the road. Scouts anticipates that truck engine noise, both under braking laden downhill, and unladen uphill on the gradient, will be significant. Various parts of the draft EIS mention standards and regulations which limit construction noise to periods such as 7am to 6pm or 7am to 8pm.
No. Representation or comment made Changes Written Response
Whilst accepting that truck movements on Cotter Road may EIS has been amended. not be subject to the same standards and regulations, it seems reasonable to Scouts ACT that these movements should be restricted in some way to certain times of day. The quiet enjoyment of the bush setting of Camp Cottermouth is one of the aspects which our users value highly. To alleviate this concern we believe that cement and fly ash deliveries should not be conducted around the clock for a 12 month period. Ideally, restricting heavy truck movements on Cotter Road to the designated working hours of 7am to 6pm on Monday to Friday and 7am to 4pm on Saturday is desirable. If this is not possible for some reason, we believe that at a minimum a "quiet period" from 9pm or 10pm to 7am should be imposed.
9 Stromlo Equestrian centre
I have no resources to make a detailed study of the issue, but Changes made to A Traffic Management Plan will recommend initiatives to I am acutely aware of the fact that my business is dependent Section 5.1and address traffic safety and access. on safe access of my customers from the Cotter Road. I urge Appendix U you to take all steps to ensure that safe and convenient access to my business and home is maintained.
10 TAMS - Environment and Recreation
For clarity, there should be a list of Appendices in the List Added The list of appendices has been added. Contents
Appendices D, D1, D2, D3 are all parts of the “Cotter Edits made to Section Amendments have been made to reflect the work carried Catchment Landscape Analysis” which was prepared by 4.8 & 5.3 and Appendix out by Parks, Conservation and Lands. Changes have also Ecowise Environmental. This document seeks to present a D been made to address any inaccuracies. detailed history of historical catchment land use and management. It contains some inaccurate, incomplete or misleading information, particularly in relation to post-2003 land management. No consultation with PCL was undertaken in the development of this document, and many aspects of PCL’s work in the lower catchment is not acknowledged or reported on properly.
No. Representation or comment made Changes Written Response
Environment ACT is mentioned in several parts of the Edits Made at 5.3.3 & Edits made to the document however the reference to document including section 4.7.6 and section 5.3.3. Where 4.8 Environment ACT at 4.7.6 refers to PCL and has been reference to Environment ACT is made and the matter relates corrected to reflect this (Section 4.8). to Environment Protection matters, the referring agency is Environment Protection Authority.
Section 2.4.2, 5.5.2 and 5.5.3 indicates construction working Edits made to 5.1 and The matter of 24 hour construction has been addressed hours will be between 7am and 6pm Monday to Friday and 5.5 and specific noise modelling and field surveys conducted. 7am to 4pm Saturday, excluding public holidays. However, All construction works will be done in accordance with EPA section 2.4.2 indicates that the placement of Rolled approvals, including 24 hour operation. Compacted Concrete will require continuous operation. Under the Environment Protection Regulation 2005, noise from building work is permitted to exceed the noise standards during the hours of 7am and 6pm Monday to Saturday, excluding public holidays. Any noise generated outside these hours must comply with the noise standards. Consultation with the potentially affect persons and the EPA is required if works are required outside the hours specified above. Consideration should also be given to section 5.5.3 which recommends that construction activities are not carried out during the night.
Section 2.4.5 – the following activities are to be included in Section 2.4 has been The EIS states ACTEW's commitment to development an either the Construction Environment Management Plan updated Environmental Management Plan that will be submitted for (CEMP) or Work Method Statements in addition to items approval with the relevant authority. already detailed: • Site maintenance • Storage and transportation of material, including the maintenance of haul roads • Contact details for project and site management personnel
No. Representation or comment made Changes Written Response
Section 2.4.6 identifies works which may commence, subject List of necessary This comment is noted and a list of licensing requirements to approval. Where works are undertaken in a waterway or licences and approvals and approvals has been added to the EIS. near a waterway the proponent would be required to seek has been added in approval from the Environment Protection Authority prior to Section 3.2 commencing. Where Native timber or vegetation is removed as a result of the works a licence under the Nature Conservation Act 1980 will be required before the works start. The construction of minor access roads should be carried out in accordance with the ACT Code of Forest Practice (2005) and the ACT Roading Manual.
Section 4.7.3 indicates that works will trigger environmental List of necessary This comment is noted and a list of licensing requirements authorisations and an environmental protection agreement. A licences and approvals and approvals has been added to the EIS. public consultation period is associated with an application for has been added in an environmental authorisation. The applicant should allow Section 3.2 sufficient time between the application and the granting of the authorisation. The timeframe from application to grant for an environmental authorisation is approximately 30 days.
The following activities trigger the requirement for an List of necessary This comment is noted and a list of licensing requirements environmental authorisation: licences and approvals and approvals has been added to the EIS. • the extraction of material (other than water) from a has been added in waterway Section 3.2 • the acceptance of more than 100m3 of soil for placement on land as the land is in an area identified in the Territory Plan as Mountains and Bushlands • The production of concrete or concrete products at a facility designed to produce more than 7000m3 of concrete per year • the operation of a facility for the crushing, grinding or separating of materials (including sand, gravel, rock, minerals, slag, road base, concrete, bricks, tiles, asphaltic material, metal or timber) into different sizes, if the processing facility is designed to produce more than 10,000t of processed materials per year. Note that the person conducting the activity must hold the authorisation.
No. Representation or comment made Changes Written Response
Section 5.5.2 indicates that lighting will be required. Information regarding Noted. ACTEW will adopt all of the appropriate Australian Temporary and operational lighting should comply with lighting standards, Standards for the works to be conducted. Australian Standard 4282: Control of the Obtrusive Effects of impacts and mitigation Outdoor Lighting. has been included in Section 5.5
The recommendation to refer the development to the No Change to EIS The project was referred to DEWHA in October 2008. Commonwealth to assess its potential impact on Pomaderis pallida and Aprasia parapulchella, under the EPBC Act is supported.
All of the recommendations and offsets presented in Edits made in Section Expert advice indicated the potential for significant loss of Appendix G – Terrestrial Flora and Fauna Impact 6.3 vegetation , as a result they have recommended offset Assessment (Chapter 6) are supported, including the general works that ACTEW has committed to. These are in addition recommendations and those relating specifically to offsets. to those already being undertaken in the Lower Cotter The 376 hectares of direct offsets should be incorporated into Catchment. the conditions for approval of the development. There should be no reduction of this area as it is probably at the lower end of what would be required for approval in other jurisdictions. The offset sites must be targeted at improving the vegetation and habitat condition of degraded sites within the Cotter Catchment as suggested in the report. Retention of existing native vegetation must not be considered as a trade off in future negotiations.
Biosis Research undertook the fauna surveys and compiled No change to EIS Noted and agreed. the report in Appendix G, much of which is repeated verbatim in Chapters 5 and 6 of the EIS. For some of the faunal groups the survey effort was cursory rather than detailed. However, it is unlikely that a more intensive survey effort would change the overall conclusions about impacts from the enlarged dam.
No. Representation or comment made Changes Written Response
There are a number of projects that the EIS does not clearly check commitment has ACTEW's committed to the implementation of the Fish commit to. A number of fish projects have been committed or been updated Management Plan including all recommendations therein. have been commenced e.g. artificial habitat, crayfish, and This commitment has been included in the EIS. The Cotter River barriers projects, etc. Results are not yet implementation will be scheduled in accordance with available for these projects, especially for the artificial habitat recommendations by expert consultants. project. Two important projects that have not been clearly committed to in the EIS are the fish translocation project and the food sources and draw down effects project. In addition to a clear commitment, a timeline also needs to be provided for the implementation of all the aquatic projects, in association with key development milestones for the development of the dam. The commencement of these projects needs to be tied to the approval of the on going development phases of the dam. The further explanation of the additional projects also needs to include project outline and scope, resources, and reporting commitments. There also needs to be commitment to implementing the outcomes of the projects, including blackfish, not just providing guidelines.
This section has relied upon the results of an Aquatic Ecology There were no changes The Aquatic Ecology study (Appendix H of the ECD EIS) Study undertaken in 2005 (Appendix H). The 2005 aquatic made to the Revised EIS was deemed to be still an appropriate source documented ecology study is outdated and needs to be updated to as experts in the field still as: consider the current proposal, and not the scoping of the deemed the study • The 2005 report provides an extensive and robust future water options. The aquatic ecology study should also current and appropriate. assessment of the key aquatic ecology issues related to include an analysis of emergent and submergent macrophyte an enlarged Cotter dam. These issues have not habitat for the enlarged dam, the potential loss of this changed significantly, or become outdated over the past important lentic habitat and effects upon the overall aquatic 3 years. ecology of the dam. Development or use of an existing • The 2005 report (as well as other Future Water Options aquatic ecosystem health index to monitor the changing lentic studies), indicated that fish management is the key environment should be considered. aquatic ecology issue with an enlarged Cotter dam. Fish management was therefore expanded and updated over the past 3 years, resulting in: – ECD Fish Management Plan (Appendix I of the ECD EIS), and its associated studies (a number of which have now been completed).
No. Representation or comment made Changes Written Response
• The 2005 report provides information not just on an enlarged Cotter dam but on other major options. This provide valuable comparisons between the main options (in terms of aquatic ecology), and helps place issues at Cotter into an overall context.
In section 5.3 of the hydrological operations expectations A clear commitment has A coordinated management program to investigate, section, an apparent commitment is made to investigate been made to control monitor and mitigate the negative impacts of alien fish reservoir operations in relation to Macquarie Perch and alien fish species in the populations is included in the Fish Management Plan. Blackfish requirements. The section quotes “Measures to table of commitments in Project 6 of the Fish Management Plan will be provide shelter to migrating fish, or to mitigate cormorant Section 6.8 implemented to determine the management approach to predation have yet to be developed or investigated, and alien fish populations both within and upstream of the further research into potential management solutions will be Cotter Reservoir. carried out before the reservoir fills”. A clear commitment needs to be made to undertake this work and then act upon it when the dam becomes operational.
Develop a Conservation Management Plan in conjunction EIS updated section 6.9 ACTEW has updated the EIS and added a commitment to with the Heritage Unit for all sites detailing management conduct a CMP as per the Heritage Assessment requirements for their development, conservation and/or recommendations. future use. The Conservation Management Plan (CMP) should accord with aims of the archaeological investigation of the Cotter Dam area, by providing a comprehensive profile of the extent and nature of the cultural material in the study area. The CMP must provide adequate recording and analysis of the archaeological material to meet the requirements of the ACT Heritage Act 2004 by identifying the heritage values of the area. Specifically, the impact of proposed development on identified heritage values and appropriate mitigation strategies should be addressed.
No. Representation or comment made Changes Written Response
In relation to fire management the EIS confines its Information on Bushfire ACTEW has provided additional information on bushfire assessment to the risk of bushfires on the dam construction management has been management including potential to cause bushfires as well but does not consider strategies for mitigation of the risk. added, Section 5.12 as impacts of bushfire on construction activities and the It needs to fully address: engineering infrastructure. Bushfire management within the • The risk of bushfires impacting on the development and catchment is under the authority of PCL in accordance with strategies for mitigating against this risk; the Lower Cotter Catchment Strategic Management Plan. This is acknowledged in the EIS. • The impact of the development on the bushfire risk to adjacent areas/assets and strategies for mitigating any increased risk that the development may cause; • Access in and around the enlarged dam to enable fire suppression and hazard reduction – submerged roads will need to have alternatives built.
11 Individual 1
The traffic estimates in section 5.1 should identify the types of Changes made to A traffic impact assessment commissioned by ACTEW has vehicles as well as numbers. The expected traffic loads do Section 5.1and included a breakdown of traffic flows, loads and types of not attempt to quantify the traffic generated by trade, service Appendix U traffic generated by the proposal. It also outlines present and project vehicles. Also there is no breakdown of the traffic details. existing traffic types which currently and into the future include many buses (to and from Greenhills and Camp Cottermouth) as well as trade and bulk vehicles servicing the Uriarra Village development.
For many years residents on the Cotter Road have been Changes made to A traffic impact assessment commissioned by ACTEW lobbying ACT Roads to address the safety issues of lack of Section 5.1and assessed these concerns and made recommendations. space when overtaking cyclists, and dangerous property Appendix U Traffic matters will be addressed under an approved Traffic entrances. Both these concerns will be considerably Management Plan that will take account of the heightened by the Cotter Dam enlargement traffic; neither of recommendations. these concerns are addressed in the EIS.
No. Representation or comment made Changes Written Response
We are not satisfied that the 'Shared roads' policy combined Changes made to TAMS is undertaking works intended to address with 'traffic management plan' will satisfactorily cause: Section 5.1and anticipated growth in daily traffic and to incorporate road inadequate geometry of the road itself. Traffic management Appendix U infrastructure measures to address safety issues on Cotter methods such as changing speed limits, traffic lights, queuing Road. Cotter Road is a TAMS project and outside the systems, and calming devices will not provide extra space for scope of the EIS. Traffic matters will be addressed under passing cyclists, and will not make it safer to enter and exit an approved Traffic Management Plan that will take our properties. account of the recommendations made in the traffic impact The mitigation measures proposed are only short term at assessment. best. The opportunity should be taken in conjunction with Roads ACT to make solid improvements to the Cotter Rd and its precinct so that a lasting legacy remains for the user community from the dam project.
The geometry of the road causing lack of visibility of Changes made to Traffic assessments have concluded that Cotter Road has approaching traffic, combined with not having turning lanes, Section 5.1and the capacity to accommodate additional traffic. This is in currently makes entering and exiting properties dangerous. Appendix U line with the Austroads Guide to Traffic Engineering Agistors and residents use the Kerabee and Bibaringa Practice. entrances, and vehicles frequently tow horses in floats, requiring slow and smooth acceleration and braking onto and Traffic matters will be addressed under an approved Traffic off the road. The shape (blind corner uphill) of the road at the Management Plan. fairvale entrance (at 1127) is particularly dangerous for large vehicles entering and exiting, for example cattle and fodder TAMS is undertaking works intended to address trucks. Over the past 10 years there have been 6 vehicles anticipated growth in daily traffic and to incorporate road leave the road on this corner with most going through the infrastructure measures to address safety issues. This is fences and into livestock paddocks. The Greenhills and TAMS project and outside the scope of the EIS. Camp Cottermouth entrance is similarly dangerous due to the shape of the road and lack of turning lane. This entrance is used almost daily by large buses taking children in and out of town. For all these reasons, we believe that the current geometry of the road does not meet Austroads guidelines set out in "AP-G1/03: Rural Road Design - A Guide to the Geometric Design of Rural Roads".
No. Representation or comment made Changes Written Response
The problematic relationship between the Alliance There is no "problematic relationship" between the Alliance constructing the dam enlargement and Roads ACT needs to and Roads ACT. The two entities are working on different be clarified in the scope of the EIS. Safely managing the projects. increased traffic on the Cotter Road is a pre-requisite for the Upgrading Cotter Road is a TAMS project and outside the project to proceed. Yet the only safe solution to the increased scope of the EIS. traffic load (upgrading the road) is not within the jurisdiction of Traffic matters will be addressed under an approved Traffic the Alliance, nor seems to have adequate funding by Roads Management Plan. ACT.
The analysis also overlooks possible increased traffic due to No changes to EIS Traffic expected due to sight-seers viewing the dam is to sight-seers coming to view the dam construction. be no more than generated on a normal weekend. The expected loss of picnickers during construction will balance the number of possible sight-seers.
The Cotter Dam enlargement construction should not Changes made to A Traffic Impact Assessment was commissioned by proceed until the traffic safety impacts are adequately Section 5.1and Appendix ACTEW and included in the Revised EIS. The Assessment addressed. We request that a special traffic impact study be U is attached in the Appendices and takes into account public commissioned for the EIS to ensure that changes in the use comments made to ACTEW on the Draft EIS. of the road during construction do not compromise the safety of all road users. This would be similar in scope to the other studies contained in Appendices D-J, with input from all users of the road, including local residents and on-farm workers, horse owners, cyclists, walkers, commuters, and tradespeople.
12 Individual 2
The draft EIS (page 110) acknowledges the impact on No changes to EIS Noted. A traffic impact assessment commissioned by cyclists and landholders, including agistment providers, but ACTEW assessed traffic safety and made not on horse agisters and riders and equine service providers recommendations. such as farriers, veterinarians, saddlers and feed merchants. Traffic matters will be addressed under an approved Traffic Agisters visit the properties each morning (usually between Management Plan that will take account of the 6am and 9am) and evening (usually between 4pm and 7pm) recommendations. to care for their horses but there is also a regular flow of traffic during the day comprising agisters and service providers.
No. Representation or comment made Changes Written Response
For vehicles entering Bibaringa, on the northern side of the Changes made to A traffic impact assessment was commissioned by road, this is already an issue because these vehicles must Section 5.1and Appendix ACTEW. turn right, across the inbound lane of the Cotter Road. When U TAMS is undertaking works intended to address there is ongoing traffic, vehicles turning into Bibaringa may anticipated growth in daily traffic and to incorporate road need to slow substantially or stop completely, blocking the infrastructure measures to address safety issues on Cotter outbound lane and making them vulnerable to being hit by Road. other vehicles approaching from behind, particularly as Improving road infrastructure is beyond the scope of the visibility for such vehicles is limited due to a hill and bend. If Alliance. the turning vehicle is towing a horse float, it will be slower to become mobile again once the oncoming traffic has passed. The assessment gave recommendations that address For agistment properties on the south of the Cotter Road safety. Traffic matters will be addressed under an (Kerrabee, Riverview) access is generally not a problem approved Traffic Management Plan. because most vehicles will be travelling outbound on the Cotter Road and turning left into the property entrance. However, these vehicles also sometimes need to slow or stop in order to give way to cyclists whose path they are turning across. A substantial number of cyclists use Cotter Road, especially on weekends.
The increased volume of traffic will increase the risk of collisions with turning vehicles. For vehicles turning onto the Cotter Road from Bibaringa, there is generally not a problem because they are on the outside curve in the road, have a reasonable view of oncoming traffic in both directions and are usually turning left. Access from Kerrabee, however, is problematic due to very limited visibility in both directions and the fact that most vehicles will be turning right, and so needing to cross the outbound lane. This is a problem for cars alone but more so for cars towing horse floats, which for safety reasons need to avoid sudden changes in speed or direction and so need to move out slowly onto the road.
No. Representation or comment made Changes Written Response
Due to a combination of poor visibility for oncoming traffic Traffic Management Plan Traffic Management Plan will be implemented from either direction, speed (the speed limit is 80km/h but will be implemented many vehicles, particularly motorbikes, travel at well over that) and the lack of any advisory signage, this is already a dangerous intersection and with the increased volume of traffic associated with the Cotter Dam Enlargement, it will become much worse. A speed restriction zone from a few hundred meters east of the bushfire brigade entrance to a few hundred meters west of the Kerrabee entrance, plus advisory signage (e.g. 'trucks and horse floats entering') would complement the Shared Roads Policy and help to keep this area safe.
For most agisters along the Cotter Road, access to riding Noted ACTEW will address traffic safety in an approved Traffic tracks in the Stromlo recreation area involves crossing the Management Plan. Cotter Road and in some cases, riding some distance alongside it. I am sure the submission by the ACT Equestrian Association will deal with the issues involving horses and traffic and the implications of the increased volume of vehicle traffic on the Cotter Road for horse riders, so I will not go into details here. However I do want to stress that horse riders are a key group of stakeholders whose needs and safety must be taken into account in the Traffic Management Plan for the Cotter Dam Enlargement.
13 Individual 3
The draft EIS does not address the issue of how drivers of Changes made to The Traffic Impact Assessment outlines the access routes heavy vehicles (and light) vehicle traffic associated with Section 5.1and Appendix to the construction site. These include Cotter Road and works will be prevented from using residential street, U Brindabella Road. Residential streets are not proposed for Eucumbene Drive, Duffy, as an alternative route from use by heavy vehicles associated with the proposed works. Hindmarsh Drive to Cotter Road.
The draft EIS does not address how covering of loose loads No changes to EIS Traffic matters associated with the ECD will be addressed e.g. sand will be enforced. Based on our observation of by an approved Traffic Management Plan. Covering of earthmoving truck movements in Woden, Hindmarsh Drive loads is a matter for the EPA and Police. and Eucumbene Drive it is common practice in the ACT not to cover loads.
No. Representation or comment made Changes Written Response
14 Individual 4
Turning right out of Riverview, heading back into Canberra Information added to A Traffic Management Plan will recommend initiatives to can be hazardous, particularly when towing a float, due to a Section 5.1 address traffic safety. bend in the road blocking sight of oncoming traffic - this hazard will be exacerbated by increased traffic on the road and should be taken into account in the planning process.
15 Individual 5
I realise that this is a draft EIS matter, but are the government No changes to EIS The need for this proposal has been addressed in the EIS. and ACTEW absolutely sure this work is necessary?
16 Individual 6
The Cotter Road is currently a narrow, winding country road. Changes made to TAMS is undertaking works intended to address It is, in general, poorly maintained with large potholes, Section 5.1and Appendix anticipated growth in daily traffic and to incorporate road uneven surfaces and crumbling bitumen edges. One of the U infrastructure measures to address safety issues on Cotter few straight sections, where motorists tend to accelerate and Road. pass slower traffic, occurs along the frontage of Riverview. At present this is one of the most dangerous sections of the Upgrading Cotter Road is a TAMS project and outside the Cotter Road as each end of the straight section is preceded scope of the EIS. by a blind corner making entering or exiting the property a risky procedure. It is worse on the weekends when the A Traffic Management Plan will be developed to volume of recreational traffic going to the Cotter increases. incorporate traffic issues and mitigation measures. Access is doubly dangerous when towing a horse float. Also, most agisters use the road before and after work, at dawn and dusk when visibility is low. I am concerned that the predicted increase in traffic during the Cotter Dam upgrade will increase the danger of road users to unacceptable levels. Strategies must be put in place to minimise any escalation of the current risks to drivers using the Cotter Road, including, for example, a curfew on Dam traffic during daily peak traffic hours.
No. Representation or comment made Changes Written Response
The last speed sign on the Cotter Road travelling west is on Comment answered in Traffic Management Plan will be implemented the left hand side just past the National Equestrian Centre. response given above. This may mean that drivers are unaware of the speed limit which I presume to be 80kph for the length of the Cotter Road. I would suggest that travelling faster than 80kph is dangerous because of the current condition of the Cotter Road and yet I have frequently experienced aggressive behaviour from other users (tail gaiting, rude gestures, aggressive overtaking), particularly by those driving in trucks, ACTEWAGL vehicles and trade vehicles. I am concerned that these problems will escalate with even more traffic on the road unless: - speed restrictions are reviewed; signage is improved and a proactive driver education program for all Cotter Road users is undertaken
At present there are very few traffic signs along Cotter Road. Changes made to Traffic Management Plan will be implemented Drivers are given little information about the location of Section 5.1and Appendix property access roads, blind corners, horses crossing, places U where overtaking is dangerous, wildlife activity or speed signs. I would suggest, at a minimum, that signs addressing all these matters be erected along the Cotter Road. I would also suggest that mirrors be installed to enhance safe access to properties whose driveways are situated on blind corners.
While the Cotter Road is narrow the verges in many places Changes made to ACTEW acknowledges the high level of use of Cotter Road are quite wide, although they are frequently interrupted by Section 5.1and Appendix by agisters. drains and other obstructions making it necessary for horse U The Traffic Management Plan recommends initiatives riders for example, to have to go up onto the road itself for including the establishment of equestrian walking routes brief distances. Any increase in traffic would increase the and crossing points. dangers of riding horses along the Cotter Road.
There are few places, other than property driveways, where No changes to EIS A Traffic Management Plan will be developed to address drivers can safely pull off and park on the side of the Cotter safety. Issues with road rules are a law enforcement Road and yet it is not unusual to come around a bend and matter. find a car or van stopped half on and half off the road with the driver talking on a mobile phone or urinating behind a tree. While this is already dangerous I can only imagine that such
No. Representation or comment made Changes Written Response
incidences will increase with more traffic on the road.
At present an Australian Post contractor delivers mail along No changes to EIS A Traffic Management Plan will be developed to address the Cotter Road each morning. Even though I am familiar with safety. Issues with road rules are a law enforcement the contractor's timing and route, I have had several heart matter. stopping encounters with this driver over the years as he zips from one side of the Cotter Road to the other accessing the post boxes. Obviously this practice would be even more dangerous with more traffic on the road.
At present there is a substantial threat to wildlife from traffic Information added on Interactions with traffic and wildlife are a common danger on the Cotter Road, particularly kangaroos and wombats. mitigation measures in along rural roads. The Traffic Management Plan will This will only be exacerbated with an increase in traffic unless Section 5.1 and address traffic safety issues. steps are taken to minimise these interactions Appendix U
The Cotter Road is very popular with recreational and semi Information added on ACTEW acknowledges the high level of use on Cotter professional bike riders and their presence on the road mitigation measures in Road by cyclists. Traffic matters will be addressed under means extra care must be taken by motor vehicles. Regular Section 5.1and Appendix an approved Traffic Management Plan. drivers are currently aware of and considerate of bike riders, U however the winding nature of the road and the slow speed at which bike riders travel would make interactions with higher volume of traffic considerably more hazardous.
Mobile phone coverage is intermittent along the Cotter Road. No changes to EIS Communication for the Alliance is likely to be via radio. Any In the event of an accident calling for assistance is not changes to mobile phone coverage is outside the scope of straightforward. Unless mobile coverage is improved the Alliance. consideration should be given to installing roadside emergency phones.
The Cotter Road is a popular area for dumping rubbish and No changes to EIS A Traffic Management Plan will be developed to address stolen cars and for joy riding, speeding, destroying road signs safety. Issues with road rules are a law enforcement and other acts of vandalism. I don't know what this might matter. mean in terms of predicted increases in road usage but the possibility of a car load of teenagers slamming head on into a truck carrying sand or cement in the early hours of the
No. Representation or comment made Changes Written Response
morning should be taken into consideration.
Will the community be consulted about the changes to the Changes made to Upgrading Cotter Road is a TAMS project and outside the Cotter Road which I imagine will be irrevocably changed from Section 5.1 and scope of the EIS. its pleasant rural status to something much less attractive? Appendix U
17 Information Session Uriarra - 19 October 2008 - 1
Predominantly interested in the precinct recreational area. Section 6.11 has been In addition to consultation on the EIS, ACTEW has recently opportunities particularly walking trails to the dam wall very revised engaged in consultation with the community on the broader supportive of the project ECD Cotter Precinct. Future plans for this area will be developed in consultation with Parks Conservation and Lands as the custodians of the land. Recreation areas are discussed in Section 6.11 of the EIS.
18 Information Session Uriarra - 19 October 2008 - 2
local resident who is keen to have it built, feels it is a good No Change to EIS Noted. idea - not worried about blasting etc
19 Information Session Uriarra - 19 October 2008 - 3
No name provided - Purchasing a block at Uriarra. interested Section 6.11 has been In addition to consultation on the EIS, ACTEW has recently in the impacts of construction - traffic, noise etc. interested in revised engaged in consultation with the community on the broader whether Kiosk will be put back at the cotter Cotter Precinct. Future plans for this area will be developed in consultation with Parks Conservation and Lands as the custodians of the land. Recreation areas are discussed in Section 6.11 of the EIS.
20 Information Session Uriarra - 19 October 2008 - 4
What impacts will this leave on the Uriarra village? - not Sections 5.1 and 5.3 Uriarra Crossing is not listed as one of the main access overly concerned about the travel to the village via Uriarra have been revised. See routes. crossing -questioned about the village water supply also Appendix U & Appendix H
21 Information Session Uriarra - 19 October 2008 - 5
No. Representation or comment made Changes Written Response
interested if providing water to settlement and impact of Information on traffic is ACTEW has no plans to source water for Uriarra Village traffic/noise included in Section 5.1; from Cotter Dam. Information on traffic and noise impacts Noise detail is provided is included in the EIS. in Section 5.5
22 Information Session Uriarra - 19 October 2008 - 6
Local resident - query about: -distance of dam to Uriarra -any Sections 5.1 and 5.3 Uriarra Village is located outside the water catchment of impacts on the village? Changes to catchment management have been revised. See the ECD. Future inundation will be approximately 1km from ECD? also Appendix U & the village. Noise and traffic studies are discussed in Appendix H Section 5.1 and 5.5. The Cotter Catchment is managed by Parks Conservation and Lands using the Lower Cotter Catchment Strategic Management Plan.
23 Information Session Uriarra - 19 October 2008 - 7
had civil construction experience, interested in potential work No Change to EIS Noted on offer, supportive of project
24 Information Session Uriarra - 19 October 2008 - 8
Already pumping water from Murrumbidgee - thinks we don't Increased discussion of Noted need the dam. we should be saving our money the options and need for increasing water security is included in Section 1.2 of the EIS.
25 Information Session Uriarra - 19 October 2008 - 9
Interested in the timeframe of ECD and the time to fill. No change to EIS. Details on this are included in Chapter 2 of the EIS. Question - percentage of water supply from Canberra, how much extra water?
26 Information Session Uriarra - 19 October 2008 - 10
Interested in increase traffic on cotter road - lives on cotter Information on traffic is ACTEW has commissioned a traffic impact assessment. In road. Discussed the cotter precinct recreational opportunities. included in Section 5.1 addition to consultation on the EIS, ACTEW has recently Mentioned long family history associations with cotter and Section 6.11 engaged in consultation with the community on the broader avenue. no opposition to project Cotter Precinct. Future plans for this area will be
No. Representation or comment made Changes Written Response
developed in consultation with Parks Conservation and Lands as the custodians of the land. Recreation areas are discussed in Section 6.11 of the EIS.
27 Information Session Uriarra - 19 October 2008 - 11
New resident to Uriarra - -thinks new dam will make Uriarra Information on traffic is ACTEW commissioned a traffic impact assessment that nicer -interested in restrictions on catchment use -friends of included in Section 5.1 studied traffic flows. The assessment gave Jason at pierces creek -asked about truck numbers nears and Section 6.11 recommendations. Traffic matters will be managed under Jason's house an approved Traffic Management Plan. The Lower Cotter Catchment is managed by PCL under the Lower Cotter Catchment Management Plan. This restricts recreation activities in the areas surrounding the dam and prohibits activities in the reservoir. ACTEW supports this policy and this project does not propose any changes to this Plan.
28 Information Session Civic - 21 October 2009 -1
Stakeholder lives just down stream from Molonglo treatment Discussed in Section 6.4 E-flow releases are required by the EPA in their the e-flow plant on the Murrumbidgee. The stakeholder was interested Guidelines. ACTEW is bound by its licence to release e- in the impact on the Murrumbidgee. Suggested pumping from flows in accordance with the agreement. An expected e- Murrumbidgee just below the treatment plant to Googong. He flow arrangement will be set by the regulator for ECD. is supportive of the project
29 Information Session Civic - 21 October 2009 -2
Downstream resident - interested on the impact on Section 4.7 has been Under the Murray Darling Basin Agreement, the ACT downstream users and who owns the water, how does the revised. adheres to a Water Abstraction Cap of 42GL/ year net. cap work. This amount will not change as a result of either the Enlarged Cotter Dam.
30 Information Session Civic - 21 October 2009 -3
Cotter Road back into the city where will traffic go? E.g. Traffic section has been Detail on traffic flow is included in Section 5.1. ACTEW Adelaide avenue - number of trucks per day? updated - section 5.1. has agreed to keep residents on Cotter Road informed. Forrest Park Riding school - keep the groups informed i.e. See also Appendix U equestrian association and clubs. They have good email networks.
No. Representation or comment made Changes Written Response
31 Information Session Civic - 21 October 2009 -4
Downstream resident- interested on the impact on Section 4.7 has been Under the Murray Darling Basin Agreement, the ACT downstream users and who owns the water, how does the revised. adheres to a Water Abstraction Cap of 42GL/ year net. cap work This amount will not change as a result of either the Enlarged Cotter Dam.
32 Information Session Civic - 21 October 2009 -5
Supportive of process and projects. He is interested in detail No change in EIS. Detail is included in section 5.2 of construction including type of walls, timeframes etc
33 Information Session Woden – 23 October 2008 - 1
Interested in technical aspects of the project and construction Concept designs have Technical aspects are still being finalised for the details - retired engineer. been included in the EIS submission of the Development Application. Concept Why Cotter instead of Corin? Appendices. designs are attached to Appendix D. Stakeholder also keen on environmental balance and Justification for the enlargement of the Cotter Reservoir physical environmental river flows. has been documented in Future Water Options, and the EIS and associated reports and is summarised in Section 1.2. E-flow releases are required by the EPA in their the e- flow Guidelines. ACTEW is bound by its licence to release e-flows in accordance with the agreement.
34 Information Session Woden – 23 October 2008 - 2
Raised questions about all projects Whole of system issues These issues are addressed through out the EIS, in - Whole system issues are addressed particular options explored in Section 1.2. The current - Operating rules for storage throughout the EIS. No scope of the project includes conducting a feasibility study - Tantangara Tunnel - better option than run of river specific changes to EIS. for hydro-electric power generation. However, the - Mini-hydro on Lower Cotter proposed operating regime of the new dam makes the development of this form of power generation incapable.
36 Information Session Watson - 25 October 2008
Called for vision, commitment and tenacity. Urgent need to No changes to the EIS Noted. Revenue and pricing models are discussed in increase storage capacity to supply our long term needs. section 5.11 Suggest revision of alternative financing models.
No. Representation or comment made Changes Written Response
Information line call/email
36 Was concerned that she was not aware of the ACT Dates have now been Specific details of who this meeting was with has been equestrian association being consulted with in preparation of inserted into the tables provided to ACTEA. the draft EIS into Chapter 7 of the EIS which outlines consultation meetings.
37 There will be great water pressure pushing behind the outlet No changes in the EIS The current scope of the project includes conducting a piper from the Enlarged Cotter Dam. I have seen no mention feasibility study for hydro-electric power generation that is of this in any publicity regarding this work, but, considering ongoing. the desperate need to generate more 'green power', I am wondering whether in the design specifications, you are including a Power Generation Turbine, so that more use (and revenue) can be made from this ready-made source?
38 Are you going to install a mini hydro power plant at the No changes to the EIS The current scope of the project includes conducting a Enlarged Cotter Dam? (Green Power) (Your article in the feasibility study for hydro-electric power generation that is ESSENTIALS spring 2008 page 7) As the federal ongoing. Government is giving money for major capital works and water storage, would it be possible to use the environmental flow from the Enlarged Cotter Dam to drive a mini hydro power plant like the one installed at LAKE ARGYLE near Kununurra Western Australia? If installed it would look good for Canberra community and ACTEW. Carbon Credits?
39 Interested in whether the Picnic Ground will be closed or not. Exclusion zones during The picnic ground will be closed for only short periods blasting are detailed in during specific construction activities such as blasting. Section 5.10.
40 I have reviewed the website, it does have some great info on No change to the EIS. Under the Murray Darling Basin Agreement, the ACT there however I can’t seem to find any info on the amount of adheres to a Water Abstraction Cap of 42GL/ year net. water that will no longer flow down the river when both the This amount will not change as a result of either the projects are finished. Do you have historical figures of the Enlarged Cotter Dam. flow from the Cotter into Burrinjuck?
41 ACT Health
No. Representation or comment made Changes Written Response
Interested in the minerals and metals in the quarry. Want o Testing of quarry materials will be conducted as required. ensure that there is both upfront testing and on-going testing This will be address in the Environment Management Plan. throughout construction.
Has the site been checked for agricultural dumps, The area to be inundated (including land subject to the contamination from previous construction work? building engineering infrastructure and quarrying areas) are not known contaminated and are not included in the contaminated lands register.
Is there likely to be any leeching of materials from the old ACTEW guarantees there will be no leeching of materials dam, e.g.pipes, valves, grease, etc? from the old dam. All mechanical equipment will be removed corresponding to a decommissioning plan that is being developed for the existing dam wall.
Where will the water proposed for the dust settlement come During the construction period any water needed will be from? acquired from the existing reservoir in accordance with an agreement between ACTEW and TAMS.
What are the construction impacts on the picnic ground? Exclusion zones during The picnic ground will be closed for only short periods blasting are detailed in during specific construction activities such as blasting. Section 5.10.
Are the residents in the Cotter area briefed on what is Chapter 7 provide details Residents in the Cotter have been briefed and will continue proposed and any impacts on them? to be provided information on the project.
ACT Health would like to be involved with the early No change to EIS Initial discussions have progressed with Health on these establishment of the site sheds. Health would prefer if the matters. sewage was not to be a pumped-out solution.
42 Australian Capital Tourism
No. Representation or comment made Changes Written Response
Australian Capital Tourism believe an opportunity from a Information on recreation In addition to consultation on the EIS, ACTEW has recently tourism perspective at the Cotter, is the enhancement of river areas has been added at engaged in consultation with the community on the broader flows not only for obvious visual reasons but to encourage Section 6.11 Cotter Precinct. Future plans for this area will be passive recreation in the area and active use of the river. developed in consultation with Parks Conservation and The expansion of the reservoir doesn't seem to offer any Lands as the custodians of the land. Recreation areas are tourism opportunities, except if recreation activities on the discussed in Section 6.11 of the EIS. reservoir were ever going to be considered. But it its believed more value would be achieved through the enhancement of the Cotter Precinct and river corridor areas, through infrastructure to accommodate for users of the area, for example camping facilities, picnic facilities and walking path infrastructure including interpretative signage and brochures to promote the recreation opportunities at the Cotter. From a tourism perspective the potential for the local event market and recreation users to benefit from legacy projects such as infrastructure (for example improved roads) would be a mutually beneficial opportunity. In regards to events it is important ACTEW consults with local event organisers or recreation sports to ensure that construction does not affect their activity.
43 Conservation Council of South East Region and Canberra and Molonglo Catchment Group
The treatment and language surrounding the Territory Listed Commitment to both There is no intention to diminish the importance of the Species versus the national threatened species implies that species has been added Nature Conservation Act. ACTEW will meet all of its one is more important than the other, as a result the same in Section 6 of the EIS statutory obligations in relation to both Territory and level of attention has not been given to the two-spined and Appendix I. Commonwealth Acts. blackfish.
There should be a greater connection with the Aquatic Act All relevant legislation (The Fisheries Act and Water Act) and the associated actions planned in the ACT. have been addressed in the final EIS.
Interested in what is being proposed and suggested. It is not Edits made in Section ACTEW has committed to the revegetation projects. The appropriate to claim existing revegetation work in the lower 6.3 Lower Cotter Catchment revegetation works will not be Cotter as off-sets against construction and inundation. claimed as part of the offsets associated with the Enlarged Cotter Dam.
Once construction infrastructure has been established, will it Infrastructure (i.e. site office, amenities) will remain for stay and therefore open up the area for further development. approximately the period of construction. Further
No. Representation or comment made Changes Written Response
The meeting was keen to not change the character of the development in the area has not been considered as an area. option.
If there is a need to transport sand, could it be taken out of Sand from the Murrumbidgee will not be used due to the some of the plugs in the Murrumbidgee, for example, Lanyon risk of introducing EHN fish virus not yet present in the Shores? This would help with the fish movements. Cotter Reservoir.
It was suggested that a presentation or meeting with the No change in EIS. Fish expert has met with the Commonwealth in January appropriate fish representatives may be useful prior to 2009 Commonwealth finalising this phase of the assessment.
44 Cotter Landcare Group
The group had a number of safety concerns regarding Additional details on the TAMS is undertaking works on Cotter Road intended to increased road traffic during dam construction including drive Traffic Management Plan address anticipated growth in daily traffic and to way access to properties, safety of cyclists and increased have been provided in incorporate road infrastructure measures to address safety delays in access to town as surface is re-cambered prior to Section 5.1 issues on Cotter Road. Cotter Road is a TAMS project and work starting. outside the scope of the EIS. Traffic matters will be managed under an approved Traffic Management Plan that will take account of the recommendations made in the traffic impact assessment.
45 Commonwealth Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts
There is no need to wait for ACT Govt. approval before No changes to the EIS Noted. obtaining Commonwealth approval under the EPBC Act.
Where are the artificial fish habitats going to be located? Discussed in Section 6.4 Outcomes of Fish Management Plan Phase 1 have been What is the timing of the results of the Fish Management and Appendix L included in the EIS at Appendix L. Other matters are Plan? What are the contingency plans if the Fish addressed in 6.4 Management Plan fails? What are the plans with respect to fish barriers and therefore crossings further upstream.
Was suggested that a presentation or meeting with the No change to EIS Presentation was given during January 2009 appropriate fish representatives may be useful prior to the Commonwealth finalising this phase of assessment.
No. Representation or comment made Changes Written Response
What are the plans with regard to the flows of the Discussed in Section 6.4 E-flow releases are required by the EPA and ACTEW will Murrumbidgee as a result of taking the water into the Cotter. continue to meet these requirements.
Has work commenced? No change to EIS Preliminary design and planning work has commenced, but construction will not commence until approval has been given (both Commonwealth and Territory).
46 ACT Roads, Equestrian Community
What will happen to any waste products generate by the Section 5.2 Waste will be recycled on site or disposed of in accordance concrete batching plant? with the Development Control Code for Best Practice Waste Management in the ACT.
How far away will we hear or feel the blasting, over what time Section 5.5 and Specific details of the blast exclusion zone and noise period will the blasting occur and at what time of the day? Appendix H impacts are included at Section 5.5 and the Acoustic assessment (Appendix H).
How does the timing of the construction fit in with the Cotter No change in EIS. TAMS is currently undertaking road infrastructure work on Road upgrade the Cotter Road. Timeframes it is anticipated this current will be completed before construction of the Enlarged Cotter Dam starts. This is outside the scope of this EIS.
Although the upgrade to Cotter Road is the responsibility of No change in EIS. ACTEW will ensure that Cotter Road remains in the same ACT Roads the construction of the Dam is the reason for the condition as prior to the commencement of construction. considerable increase in traffic. What responsibility will ACTEW take?
Upgrade of the road needs to include safe crossing areas for Section 5.1 has been ACTEW acknowledges the high level of use of Cotter Road horses as well as suitable room for turning vehicles with amended to include by agisters. The Traffic Management Plan will recommend horse floats. reference to equestrian initiatives including the establishment of equestrian walking activities. routes and crossing points.
Will part of the Cotter Road be realigned? No change to the EIS. Cotter Road upgrade is the responsibility of TAMS.
Will the verge be reduced? Good for cyclists but not for horse No change to the EIS. Cotter Road upgrade is the responsibility of TAMS. riders.
No. Representation or comment made Changes Written Response
Culverts need to be designed to allow horses to cross safely No change to the EIS. Upgrading Cotter Road is the responsibility of TAMS. ACTEW acknowledges the high level of use of Cotter Road by the equestrian community. The Traffic Management Plan recommends initiatives including the establishment of equestrian walking routes and crossing points.
What does it include? Does it include speed? Additional details on the The Traffic Management Plan will address safety issues, Traffic Management Plan including speed. have been provided in Section 5.1
Plan should incorporate traffic up to Mt Stromlo - There are Additional details on the Noted several equestrian trials that cross Mt Stromlo Road Traffic Management Plan have been provided in Section 5.1
Inadequate count due to the missing traffic entering from Section 5.1 has been New traffic impact assessment has been undertaken by Eucumbene Drive amended. See also ACTEW. Appendix U.
Where will trucks come from to get on to Cotter Road? Section 5.1 has been Access routes have been address in the Traffic Impact revised. See also Assessment (Appendix U). Appendix U.
What exactly is a "Shared Roads Policy?" Section 5.1 has been The shared road policy is a component of the Traffic amended. See also Management Plan relating to the interaction between the Appendix U. many road users.
The opportunity to have an input into the plan before it is Chapter 7 outlines A commitment was given to continue this dialogue and finalised was seen as very important. consultation plans consult with this group before finalizing the Traffic Management Plan.
Needs to take into account the wildlife. Information added on Interactions with traffic and wildlife are a common danger mitigation measures in along rural roads. The Traffic Management Plan will Section 5.1. See also manage safety issues. Appendix U.
How many vehicles will be travelling [along Cotter Road] per Section 5.1 has been A Traffic Impact Assessment has been undertaken by day and how many of those will be B-doubles? updated. See also ACTEW. Appendix U.
No. Representation or comment made Changes Written Response
There are suggestions that trucks will have difficulty No change to the EIS. The round-a-bout outside the Defence College is of an navigating the round-a-bout outside the Defence College. acceptable standard. Navigating this round-a-bout will cause no difficulties.
What is the time frame for the development of the Traffic No change to the EIS. This management plan will be completed as part of the Management Plan? Environmental Management Plan (EMP) and implemented before construction begins.
Where will the site office be? As It is at the dam what is up at See Figure 2.3 in the EIS There will be a temporary site office located at the Dam Mt Stromlo, this development has resulted in significant noise construction site. The Mt Stromlo design office will continue and light pollution to the western side of Mt Stromlo. to operate throughout the various projects design and construction.
The Bicentennial Equestrian Trial crosses Cotter Road, Section 5.1 has been Upgrading Cotter Road is the responsibility of TAMS. suggestions of signage, traffic lights or a zebra crossing were updated. See also ACTEW acknowledges the high level of use of Cotter Road made. Appendix U. by the equestrian community. The Traffic Management Plan recommends initiatives including the establishment of equestrian walking routes and crossing points.
It was suggested that one the good outcomes of this project Information on recreation In addition to consultation on the EIS, ACTEW has recently would be a better area for horses to travel around the Cotter areas has been added at engaged in consultation with the community on the broader Road district. What is required to justify the installation of Section 6.11 Cotter Precinct. Future plans for this area will be these outcomes? developed in consultation with Parks Conservation and Lands as the custodians of the land. Recreation areas are discussed in Section 6.11 of the EIS.
Should be looking at traffic and horse management practices No change in the EIS Noted. Cotter Road upgrade is the responsibility of TAMS. in other countries, such as England ACTEW acknowledges the high level of use of Cotter Road by the equestrian community. An approved Traffic Management Plan will manage safety matters. Equestrian walking routes and crossing points are some initiatives being considered.
How does the dam fill? Is it full now? What contour line will it Addressed in the EIS. These matters are addressed in the following sections of fill to? Does the catchment include Corin Dam? Will you see the EIS; 2.3 and 5.3. the Dam wall from Cotter Road?
No. Representation or comment made Changes Written Response
Will Sunday really be a work free day? Clarified in Section 2.4 Generally, Sunday will be a work free day other than minor maintenance work. Some periods will require 24hr/7 day operation while the main dam is being constructed. The appropriate provisions and approvals will be negotiated prior to this work commencing.
What are the impacts on the Murrumbidgee River Corridor? Discussed in Section 6.4 E-flow releases are required by the EPA and ACTEW will Will the same amount of water flow down the Murrumbidgee? continue to meet these requirements.
Need to explore the issue of National Parks restricting access No change in the EIS This is the responsibility of TAMS. ACTEW has recently for horses and also the ability of horses to ride down into the engaged in consultation with the community on the broader Cotter Picnic ground. Cotter Precinct. Future plans for this area will be developed in consultation with Parks Conservation and Lands as the custodians of the land. Recreation areas are discussed in Section 6.11 of the EIS.
47 Gungahlin Community Council
With regard to the level of revegetation that will be required in Section 2.3 and Section There are a variety of reasons for the locations of the the area impacted by construction, why aren't the stockpiles 5.3 have been revised. stockpiles. Some relate to matters of sedimentation and being located below the water line or at the non-preferred water quality control for the current reservoir. quarry site to reduce the area of native vegetation cleared? ACTEW is committed to the rehabilitation of the areas affected by the construction including all associated works.
If sand cannot be produced on site, where will it come from? Section 2.3 has been Sand will not be extracted from local rivers due to the Will sand be sourced from local rivers? revised. presence of EHN virus. This virus is not yet present in the Cotter Reservoir. This material will be environmentally sourced.
The Cotter recreation areas have not been upgraded as their No change to EIS ACTEW is currently undergoing investigations into the use increases. Are there plans to modify the Cotter recreation Cotter recreational areas. This is generally the role of the area? ACT Parks, Conservation and Lands (PCL), and not directly part of the EIS. However, ACTEW sees this as an opportunity to leave a legacy from the project.
No. Representation or comment made Changes Written Response
Will the project be 100% carbon neutral? Section 5.5 ACTEW has committed to offsetting GHG emissions associated with the project. The operation of the Dam will be 100% carbon neutral.
It was suggested that a community solar farm could be used No change to the EIS. Noted: Outside the scope of this project. as offsets.