SifiRE OF DENMARK
TOWN PLANNING SCHEME No. 3 AMENDMENT No.24
Lots bounded by Peace Street, Hardy Street and South Coast Highway
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
Prepared by: Harrington Consultants in association with Ayton Taylor & Burrell and Wood & Grieve Engineers
October 1997 711.58(941) HAR 11111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111 Copy A 980020/1
Department of Environmental Protection Ubrary HIUd '33V883j S3O1I09 j 1t'i 002 0 F 3JVflOs VIlVIdj.s3M N0I133I08d lVIN31AJNOj;AJQ 1N31.Vrj:. SLURE OF DENMARK
TOWN PLANNING SCHEME No. 3 AMENDMENT No.24
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
INVITATION
Shire of Denmark invites people to make a submission on this Scheme Amendment.
The Scheme Amendment proposes:
Rezoning Part Reserve 34209, Reserves 25961 and 25348 and Lot 953, bounded by Peace Street, Hardy Street and South Coast Highway, from the Public Use reserve to the Residential zone with an R20 density coding; Transferring Part Reserve 34209 from the Public Use reserve to the Parks and Recreation reserve; Rezoning Part Reserve 35774 South Coast Highway from the Parks and Recreation reserve to the Residential zone with an R20 density coding; and Rezoning Reserve 42271 Teesdale Street from the Public Use reserve to the Parks and Recreation reserve.
This Environmental Review has been prepared by the Shire of Denmark to ftilfil requirements of both environmental and planning legislation, in accordance with the Instructions issued by the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) on 27th May 1997.
This Environmental Review is available for a public review period of 42 days from ...... closing on .R' ...J.!1. . 13 and all submissions should be sent to the Shire of Denmark.
Comments, in the form of submissions, from government agencies and from the public regarding environmental factors relevant to the scheme amendment will be forwarded by the Shire of Denmark to the EPA. This will assist the EPA in the preparation of an assessment reportin-which it will make recommendations to government and the Minister for the Environment.
The Environment Review document forms part of the Scheme Amendment Report. It includes a copy of the advertised scheme amendment as well as a copy of the EPA's Instructions. Other parts of the Scheme Report are available for viewing at the office of the Shire of Denmark during normal office hours.
Why write a submission
A submission is a way to provide information, express your opinion and put forward your suggested course of action - including any alternative approach. It is useful if you indicate any suggestions you have to improve the scheme amendment.
All submissions received by the Shire of Denmark will be acknowledged. Submissions will be treated as public documents unless provided and received in confidence subject to the requirements of the - ... Freedom of Information Act, and may be quoted in full or in part in each report. .
Our Ret 95.87.11 NA Why not join a group?
If you prefer not to write your own comments, it may be worthwhile joining with a group or other groups interested in makfng a submission on similar issues. Joint submissions may help to reduce the workload for an individual or group, as well as increase the pool of ideas and information. If you form a small group (up to 10 people) please indicate all the names of the participants. If your group is larger, please indicate how many people your submission represents.
Developing a submission
You may agree or disagree with, or comment on, the general issues discussed in Environmental Review, the proposed zonings and reservations show on the scheme map or the scheme provisions. It helps if you give reasons for your conclusions, supported by relevant data. You may make an important contribution by suggesting ways to make the scheme amendment environmentally more acceptable.
When making comments on specific proposals in the Environmental Review:
clearly state your point of view; indicate the source of your information or argument if this is applicable; and suggest recommendations, safeguards or alternatives.
Points to keep in mind
By keeping the following points in mind, you will make it easier for your submission to be analysed:
attempt to list points so that issues raised are clear. A summary of your submission is helpful; refer each point to the appropriate section, the scheme map or the scheme provisions in the Environmental Review; if you discuss different sections of the Environmental Review, keep them distinct and separate, so there is no confusion as to which section you are considering; and attach any factual information you may wish to provide and give details of the source. Make sure your information is accurate.
Remember to include:
your name; address; date; and whether you want your submission to be confidential.
The closing date for submissions is ......
Submissions should be addressed to:
Shire of Denmark P0 Box 183 DENMARK WA 6330
Attention: Mr Peter Duncan
Submissions which relate to this Environmental Review or have environmental concerns will be forwarded to the EPA by the Shire of Denmark.
Our Ref. 95.87.11 NA SHIRE OF DENMARK
TOWN PLANNING SChEME No. 3 AMENDMENT No.24
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
1.0 INTRODUCTION
Following initiation of Amendment No. 24 to the Shire of Denmark's Town Planning Scheme No. 3, the amendment was referred to the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) for consideration in accordance with the Town Planning and Development Act (1928) as amended.
The EPA subsequently advised the Shire of Albany that the amendment will be subject to an assessment by the EPA under Section 48A of the Enrionmental Protection Act 1986 as the proposal raises significant environmental concerns. In particular, the fact that the land has been filled and used as a depot by Council and the Water Corporation, raises concerns as to whether the land has been contaminated.
2.0 ENVIRONMENT REVIEW PROCESS
Where an amendment to Council's Town Planning Scheme is subject to an assessment by the EPA, the responsible authority, in this case, the Shire of Denmark, is required to produce an Environmental Review addressing the environmental factors relevant to the amendment. The EPA issues instructions for the scope and content of the Environmental Review and these are attached in Appendix A.
The primary function of the Environmental Review is to provide information about the environmental factors related to the proposed scheme to the EPA to enable it to evaluate the significant affect on the environment and provide independent environmental advice to Government.
An additional function of the document is to clearly communicate details of the proposed amendment and its future implications to the public so that the EPA can obtain informed public comment on relevant environmental factors and their areas. Effective public information and involvement is an essential part of environmental impact assessment.
The Environmental Review is made publicly available during the advertised period for the amendment and submissions from other agencies are sought. Any environmental submissions received are forwarded to the EPA, together with a response to the environmental issues raised. The EPA then reports to the Minister for the Environment based on information provided and its own investigations.
An outline of the Environmental Review Process is shown in the process flow chart in Appendix B.
3.0 SUMMARY OF AMENDMENT
The Shire of Denmark has initiated an amendment to its current Town Planning Scheme No. 3 to:
Rezone Part Reserve 34209, Reserves 25961 and 25348 and Lot 953, bounded by Peace Street, Hardy Street and South Coast Highway, from the Public Use reserve to the Residential zone with an R20 density coding; Transfer Part Reserve 34209 from the Public Use reserve to the Parks and Recreation reserve; Rezone Part Reserve 35774 south Coast Highway from the Parks and Recreation reserve to the Residential zone with an R 20 density coding; Rezone Reserve 42271 Teesdale Street from the Public Use reserve to the Parks and Recreation reserve.
The land is located immediately to the west of the Denmark Town Centre and is bounded by Peace Street to the north, Hardy Street to the west and South Coast Highway to the south. Figure 1 refers.
The purpose of the amendment is to rezone the land to the Residential zone and Parks and Recreation reserve in order to facilitate the development of low density aged persons' housing, rationalise the Parks and Recreation reserve to retain existing Karri trees where possible and retain a vegetated buffer adjacent to the seasonal drainage line. Figure 2 is an indication of the overall concept plan.
It is noted that the Shire's Commercial Strategy has recently been advertised for public comment and it is possible that a portion of the land abutting South Coast Highway may be used for connërcial s.Subject to appropriate design, such uses can provide for an effective buffer between the housing and South Coast Highway.
The following section provides background information in relation to surrounding landuse, zonings, topography, soils, vegetation, ground and surface water and the proposed development concept.
4.0 BACKGROUND INFORMATION
4.1 Existing and Surrounding Landuse and Zoning. (Figure 3 refers)
With the exception of a former Water Corporation storage shed on Reserve 25348, the land is undeveloped. The western portions of the site have largely been cleared and some landfill has occurred to create flat sites adjacent to
PE AC this hidicafive Concept Plan does not foni part of Amendmatt No 14 5 TR.- but has been incbdet for bifori,iatfon purposes only, so as to bsdlcate how the land could be developed for aged person's hovsbig. Separate approvals are necessary for any addftk.ial developnent on the land which may or may not result bi changes to This layout.
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Significant remnant vegetation (arti) to be retained. Firebreak/footpath.to be prouided around relsuiant vegetation. Encourage development to front Hardy Sfreetaiid Peace Street. No direct lot access to be pensiitted onto South Coast Highway. Prior to development approval a Gwtechrdcai report will be required for the southern portion of the land.
INVICATIVE CONCEPT PLAN AYTON , TAYLOR & BURRELL ComItants in Town Parnrng and Cvc Desçn eserves 34209,2596125348,35774,42211 and Lot 953 11 Duke Skeet. Nbany. Western Austrotia 6330 FiqureZJ Phone 098 422304 Fax 098421340 Peace Street, Uardy Street and South Coast Highway, 9ejirpark
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Exiflbig Veqetatiopt 936 6397m° edkS te 761 762 () FURPOM AYTON TAYLOR & BURRELL Site Fldvi r Surrouiidiiiq Laiduse Figure Hardy Street. These areas have been used as depot and storage sites by both Council and the Water Corporation. Uses included vehicle parking, maintenance and the stockpiling of sand, gravel, bluemetal and limestone for road making. Council advises that the land has not been used for waste disposal.
Buildings were removed and activities associated with maintenance ceased and when the site was vacated in 1982-4, limited soil storage continued until 1992.
A single residence is located on Lot 270 in the north west corner. The other main feature of the site is the band of Redgum and Karri trees which is concentrated adjacent to the drainage line which runs from south to north through the site. Immediately to the east of the vegetation is a mix of single residential housing and aged persons' housing.
To the north of Peace Street, land is zoned Residential with an R10/20 density code and the Denmark Hospital is located to the north east. On the western side of Hardy Street; the land is zoned Residential with an RiO density code and on the southern side of the South Coast Highway, there is a mix of single residential housing, commercial and public uses.
As the area is adjacent to the existing Denmark Town Centre, both the Denmark Residential Expansion Strategy and Commercial Strategy anticipate and recommend some change to the existing landuse. Residential land which is or can be sewered is recommended for medium density housing and an extension of commercial zoning along both sides of the South Coast Highway is proposed.
The existing and proposed landuses are considered compatible with the proposed rezoning amendment which entails the development of aged persons' housing and rationalisation of the existing Parks and Recreãiioi rèsèrve.
4.2 Topography & Soils
The site is 5.8235hs in area and slopes from the south east to the north east with an average slope of approximately 5%. The natural contours of the site have been altered by landfill creating level sites adjacent to Hardy Street with steeper margins on the edge of the fill. Soil conditions have been investigated by Wood & Grieve Engineers and are detailed in their reports in Appendix A.
4.3 Vegetation
The western portion of the site has largely been cleared or has scrubby regrowth. There are two small groups of Karri which may be able to be incorporated within the design of the proposed housing development. The eastern portion of the site adjacent to the drainage line is well vegetated with a tall Karri association in the north and a Redgum dominated association in the south. Apart from the peripheiy of the north eastern Karri association which has been invaded by exotic plants, the remainder of the understorey is in relatively healthy condition. Very little of the Redgum understorey remains.
Given the extensive representation of the Karri and Redgum associations in the Denmark area, the main value of the vegetation on the subject land is its contribution to Denmark's urban and nutrient management in association with the drainage line.
The proposed concept plan proposes to consolidate the vegetation in the north east in order to maximise its protection and to retain it adjacent to the drainage line.
4.4 Ground & Surface Water
Surface drainage of the site is dominated by a small seasonal creekline running from the Teesdale Road Reserve northerly to the creek which flows easterly through the grounds of the Denmark Hospital.
Uphill from Teesdale Street, ground cover points to the likelihood of this area having high groundwater levels and/or being the subject of seepage or ill defmed overland flow.
Western portions of the site seem well drained. Site investigations carried out by Wood & Grieve Engineers indicate that the highest groundwater was located at 1.6 metres depth on the lower lying land adjacent to Peace Street. Elsewhere groundwater was located at.approxijnately 3 metres depthor more.
4.5 Proposed Development
The purpose of the rezoning amendment is to consolidate the public reserves for the development of aged persons' housing. A development concept plan is indicated in Figure 2. With a developable site area of 5.82ha and a yield of 121 single and two- bedroom attached and detached dwelling units, the average area per unit is approximately 481m2. While it is recognised there are potential density bonuses available in providing aged persons' accommodation, in the interests of providing a relatively spacious living environment and retaining significant stands of Karri and other locally important endemic vegetation, such density bonuses should not be required. Other important components of the concept plan include:
walkway system linking units to the surrounding road network and town. retention of significant Karri and other vegetation. dwelling orientation which, provides many units with views to the north east and provides the opportunity for solar design. centrally located community centres, co-located with park areas suitable for low intensity uses such as barbecues, bowls, croquet and the like. direct unit access to Hardy Road is proposed so as to create a streetscape for the RiO development of lots further west. the requirement for a geotechnical report to support development particularly in terms of excavation and fill required for the western precinct and in terms of groundwater drainage of the south eastern precinct. vegetated buffers are provided to South Coast Highway and the Tourist Information bay. the development of the Water Corporation depot site precinct can be delayed with no impact on other stages until the existing use is replaced.
Other issues that could be addressed include:
the formation of a community group charged with exotic and invasive control be investigated; several different unit designs be built along a cottage theme; curtilage fencing and landscaping be of a uniform style; community members be encouraged , to become involyed in the village management; and low fuel buffers be provided between development precincts and vegetation retention areas.
It should be noted that the concept plan is a preliminary demonstration of what can be achieved on the site. Detailed feasibility assessment will need to be undertaken and the Commercial Strategy may also result in some commercial development being proposed adjacent to South Coast Highway. 5.0 ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS RELEVANT TO THE PROPOSED AMENDMENT
In assessing the proposed Scheme Amendment, the Environmental Protection Authority identified two areas of concern which needed to be addressed:
the possibility that soil on the site may have been contaminated by past use of the land; and
the possibility that water quality may be affected if the soil on the site has been contaminated.
5.1 Environmental Factor: Soil Contamination
5.1.1 Current State of the Environment
The subject land is largely undeveloped with only a shed located on Reserve 25.48. Approximately two thirds of the land has been cleared and filled to create relatively flat sites for the previous use of the land as depot sites for Council and the Water corporation. The eastern portion of the site consists of remnant vegetation which runs in a band ranging in width from 60 to 100 metres from the South Coast Highway to Peace Street. A seasonal drainage line is located within this area of remnant vegetation, running north from the Teesdale Road reserve. The Scheme Amendment report, sections 2.0, 3.0 and 4.0 provide further background information.
5.1.2 Relevant Policies
EPA assessment of landfill sites is triggered when there is a proposed landuse change. Imthis case, former depot sites are proposedtobe utilised for aged person housing.
The following documents set the policy framework for the assessment and management of contaminated sites:
Australian and New Zealand Environment and Conservation Council, National Health and Medical Research Council (1992). Australian and New Zealand Guidelines for the Assessment and Management of Contaminated sites;
Department of Environmental Protection (1997) Contaminated Sites: Assessment and Management of Contaminated Land and Groundwater in Western Australian. A Public Position Paper. 5.1.3 Preliminary EPA Objective
The EPA's preliminary objective for soil contamination is outlined below.
"Ensure the rehabilitation of the site to an acceptable standard that is compatible with the intended land use, consistent with appropriate criteria. Contaminated material should be treated on-site or disposed of off-site at an appropriate land fill facility. Where this is not feasible, contaminated material should be managed on-site to prevent (further) groundwater contamination or risk to public health".
5. 1.4 Potential Impacts
A detailed health and environmental risk assessment of the site has been undertaken by Harrington Consultants and is attached in Appendix B.
The assessment confirms that the soil is not contaminated, consequently there will be no impact on the proposed use of the land for residential purposes.
5.1.5 Proposed Management
As the soil is not contaminated, no specific management initiatives are required other than those normally required for construction.
5.1.6 Proposed Outcome
Given that there is no contamination of the soil, the EPA's objective to eiisure the site is rehabilitated to an acceptable standard can be met.
5.2 Environmental Factor: Water Quality
5.2.1 Current State of the Environment
Surface drainage of the site is dominated by a small seasonal creekline running from the Teesdale Road Reserve northerly to the creek which flows easterly through the grounds of the Denmark Hospital.
Uphill from Teesdale Street, ground cover indicates that this area has high groundwater levels in winter and is subject to seepage or ill defmed overland flow. Western portions of the site are relatively well drained. Site investigations carried out by Wood & Grieve Engineers indicate that the highest groundwater was located at 1.6 metres depth on the lower lying land adjacent to Peace Street. Elsewhere groundwater was located at approximately 3 metres depth or more.
5.2.2 Preliminary EPA Objective
The EPA's preliminary objective is outlined below:
"Maintain or improve the quality of surface water and groundwater to ensure that existing and potential uses, including ecosystem maintenance are protected, consistent with the draft WA Guidelines for Fresh and. Marine Waters (EPA, 1993) [and the NHMRC / ARMCANZ Australian Drinking Water Guidelines - National Water Quality Management Strategy".
5.2.3 Potential Impacts
The detailed health and environmental risk assessment of the site is attached in Appendix B.
The assessment confirms that water quality is not contaminated, consequently there will be no impact on the proposed use of the land for residential purposes or any down stream impacts.
5.2.4 Proposed Management
No specific management initiatives are required, other than those hoimally required for construction as the water quality is not contaminated.
Retention of the remnant vegetation adjacent to the drainage line and poorly drained area of the site will minimise any potential for the export of nutrients in the waterways and ultimately into Wilson Inlet. The Scheme amendment proposes to incorporate the renmant vegetation into a Parks & Recreation reserve which will provide further protection. The width of this proposed reserve will vaiy from fifty to one hundred metres which is well in excess of the EPA's guideline for seasonal drainage lines.
5.2.5 Proposed outcome
As there is no contamination of the water quality on the site, the EPA's objective can be met. 6.0 SUMMARY OF SCHEME PROVISIONS
Detailed site investigations reveal that the site does not pose a health or environmental risk to the proposed use of the land for residential purposes. No specific recommendations or responses are necessary other than those normally associated with construction.
Wood & Grieve Engineers' report recommends that for construction purposes, the following procedures should be followed:
Strip kikuyu from the site and topsoil containing root matter.
Where clay is encountered underneath the topsoil this should be removed.
In the low lying area (around test hole 10) the peat layer should be removed.
Sub-grade should then be sloped to allow for drainage of the subsoil and proof rolled with a heavy duty vibratoiy roller.
A minimum of 500mm of clean sand fill should be placed over the site. This should be placed in layers not exceeding 300mm and compacted to achieve 95% MMDD.
Footings should be designed in accordance with AS2870. 1-1988 for a site classification of P.
The aged persons housing complex will be fully serviced with deep sewerage, ...... consequetly on site effluent disposal will not bean issue. The consolidation.of the Parks & Recreation reserve to incorporate the most significant areas of remnant vegetation adjacent to the seasonal drainage line will also provide greater protection for the vegetation and minimise the potential for the export of nutrients from the site. APPENDICES APPENDIX A.
1. Environmental factors relevant to the scheme CONTENT SCOPE OF WORK Preliminary Site Preliminary EPA Work required for Additional Environmental specific Objective the environmental comments Factors factor review POLLUTION MANAGEMENT
Soil Past landuse Ensure the rehabilitation of Thorough AppTi —to contamination indicates the site to an acceptable investigation for the any area contamination standard that is compatible presence of sofl where potential at with the intended land use, contamination. Where l&idfilV this site. consistent with appropnate necessary, indicate the Upping Nature and crireria. nature and extent of potentially extent Contaminated material contamination, occurred. unknown. should be treated on-site or remediation strategy, disposed of off-site at an timing, disposal appropriate land fill actions and validation facility. Where this is not progranune. feasible, contaminated material should be managed on-site to prev ent (further) groundwater contamination or risk to public health. Water quality Past landuse Maintain or improve the Demonstrate that water Area of indicates quality of surface water quality will not have investigation contamination and groundwater to ensure any adverse impact on will be potential at that existing and potential any watercourses, the determined this site. uses, including ecosystem Tn let, or downstream through the Nature and maintenance are protected, users through a results of extent consistent with the draft thorough investigation Sa.fllpliflg. unknown. WA Guidelines for Fresh for the presence of and Marine Waters (EPA, groundwater 1993) (and the N1-[MRC / contamination. Where ARMCANZ Australian necessary, indicate the Drinking Water Guidelines nature and extent, - National Water QuaLity remediation strategy, ---..-. . Management Strategyl. irning, disposal actions and validation programme.
2. Deferred environmental factors - none identified at this stage APPENDIX,.B., 4. Preparation and environmental assessment of local schemes and amendments (see page 10)
LG resolves to adopt/prepare scheme or amendment
LG prepares scheme/amendment and submits I EPA deddes need for copies to WAPC for recommendation on environmental assessment advertising approval and refers scheme or amendment to EPA
EPA dedes NO YES -EPA dedes EPA informs LG and Miii Env EPA informs LG 1 ______assessment needed j [assessment needed j that Scheme/amendment is unacceptable I ______IF Min Env I Ministers I Ministers directs I agree with LIOt agree EPA to J assess J
Minister rater to Governor Vy EPA issues environmental I 1A_Mp.al to_E it ry a_ng! V Y review instructions content of instructions for environmental review
WAPC recon,mends to Miii WAPC/Mirm Plan grants Plan that advertising advenisrig approval with or LG undertakes environmental approval be withheld without modifications review
Min Plan directs - V tin Pian WAPC to vine LG tcr.narcs report on the review Witi'.hald$ adverhs:r5 _._ LG Settles r.cditicatior.s advertsng approval with or approval i with0ot LG request rrcditcatm:rrs EPA checks that environmental ( consultation review Sccords with instructions \.AFC organises gazettal of between Miii Errv (compliance check) advertising and tiun Plan V LG calls for public submissions LG forwards environmental submissions and LGs responses to EPA I LG reqaesis Miii Plan extension i of lime ra consider subwissians LG considers submissions lprior to expiry of sabirriesians period) EPA reports to Miii Env on scheme/amendment LG resolves to either adcpt or that itdoes not wish to proceed wppeal to Mmii cmv regarding contents Miii Env publishes report I of report
LG incorporates conditions in Scheme or F amendment —Th Min Env consults with Miii Plan
LG submits scheme/amendment to V WAPC for recommendation to Min Plan Miii Env sets conditions
V Miii Plan I Publication of sttement Miii Plan grants approve) with refuses Miii Plan requires substantial I of cOnditions or without modifications approval I modifications to be readvertised I
LG may request review of cond. Ministerial LG calls for public submissions I at any time prior to final approval of josu1tation Scheme or amendment J
LG resubmits Scheme/amendment to WAPC for recommendation to Key Minister LG = Local government LG submits Scheme/amendment to EPA I = Environmental Protection Authority WAPC and Minister for endorsement WAPC =Western Australian Planning I Miii Plan reconsiders Commission V Scheme/amendment & grants Min Env = Minister for Environment approval Scheme or amendment published in Gazettej I Min Plan = Minister for Planning APPENDIX C.
Environmental & Land Management
HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL RISK ASSESSMENT
DENMARK TOWN PLANNING SCHEME NO 3
AMENDMENT 24
HARRJNGTON CONSULTA}gS DENMARK TPS 3 SITE ASSESSMENT 10Sep97
SITE ASSESSMENT
DENMARK TOWN PLANNING SCHEME No 3
RETIREMENT DEVELOPMENT - HARDY STREET
INTRODUCTION
The Shire of Denmark propose to undertake Amendment No 24 to Town Planning Scheme No 3 in order to rezone land for the development of retirement accommodation in the town. The Environmental Protection Authority has judged that the amendment may have a significant environmental impact and the proponent is required to produce an Environmental Review. The Department of Environmental Protection has identified pollution management as a possible environmental factor which may be relevant to the proposal.
This report provides an assessment of the environmental and health risk potential for the proposal and should form part of the proponent's Environmental Review.
THE SITE
The land comprises of reserves 34209, 25961, 25343, 35774, 42271 and lot 953 or portions thereof, located variously on Peace Street, Hardy Road and South Coast Highway, Denmark.
2.1 Land Use
The land use history has been confu-rned with the Shire of Denmark. The site comprised of a council depot with activities including vehicle parking, maintenance and the stockpiling of sand, gravel, blue metal and limestone for road making. It can be assumed that some fill was placed for building pads for sheds or garages at the site. The site has not been used as a waste disposal site.
Buildings were removed and activities associated with maintenance ceased and when the site was vacated in 1982-4 and limited soil storage continued until 1992.
2.2 Soils and Groundwater
Soil profiles were logged from a series of backhoe excavation test holes (April 1996) and auger holes (July 1997). The profiles are included at Appendix 1. The profiles show a developed topsoil layer with sand over grey clay and orange loam.
Groundwater level was recorded from the above and shows seasonal variation. The data shows the site to have a variable groundwater level with a mean winter depth of 3m and a range of 0.1 to >5.Om below ground level. Summer groundwater levels can be expected to be lower. The presence of the clays on the site suggest that the aquifer may be shallow and confined or perched. HARRINGTON CONSULTANTS DENMARK IFS 3 SITE ASSESSMENT 10 Scp 97
2.3 Vegetation
The site has been variously cleared although reserves A34209 A35774 and have some ren,narlt native vegetation including karri, marri and associated undergrowth. Weed invasion, particularly Kikuyu grass, is rife as can be expected for such a site. It is understood that provision has been made in the development plans for the retention of healthy trees were safety and building permits. It is unlikely that the balance of remnant vegetation has a high conservation value, given the site history and urban setting.
3 SITE ASSESSMENT
Subject to concerns that the site may have landfill possibly containing contaminants, an assessment was undertaken to determine the nature and extent of any contamination.
3.1 Site Investigation
The land use history was determined (section 2.1 above) and a number of site inspections were undertaken by the engineer. Following this, twelve backhoe test pits to I .8m have been excavated and soil profiles logged. In addition, five test bores have been drilled, their profiles logged and soil samples taken for analysis.
Results from site inspections show several small stockpiles of mixed soils containing small quantities of assorted timber, textiles and scrap metal.. The site has been reported by. the shire to have not been used as a landfill site and or for waste disposal. No significant quantity of waste material has been detected below the surface.
All foreign material including the above will be removed during standard site preparation prior to building as outlined in section 6.
To verify data from the site surveys, an analysis of soil samples has been undertaken. Sites to be sampled were selected to provide locations both up- and down grade on the site. This can provide a means ofdtecting contaminants càrri ed in the groundwater from an adjacent or remote site.
3.2 Sampling and Analysis
Following liaison with the Department of Environmental Protection, a list of chemicals for analysis was agreed. The tests would cover the range of possible contaminants which could reasonably be expected on the site as a result of the land use history. These consisted of nutrients, hydrocarbons, heavy metals and pesticides.
Soil samples were taken from the auger holes at nominated locations on the subject land. These were stored and transported to avoid contamination and analysed by a NATA certified laboratory. No groundwater samples were taken due to the unreliable nature of the aquifer. Any contaminants will be reflected in soil samples.
HARRINGTON CONSULTANTs DENMARK TPS 3 SITE ASSESSMENT 10Sep97 2 3.3 Results
The results are summarised in Table 1 and are presented in full in Appendix 2.
Table I Soil Test Results
TEST M ean ndgu _ Investiga tion Deviation Levels Level I Copper <5 <5 1 11190* 60* Lead 20 47 18 2200* 300* Zinc <5 <5 ( 2-180 200* TotaiN 137 390 169 [ 10-5000 Total P <5 <5 Organochlorines <0.1 f 0.1 a 0.5 Hydrocarbons <20 f 20 a boa C6-C14 <50 { boa_[ 10003
* ANZECC, NHMRC (1992). a Dutch levels.
Nitrogen
The data from analysis of soil samples generally show total nitrogen to be within agricultural soil nitrogen levels. While one sample returned an elevated analysis (390mgN/kg), this can be expected due to its location on a drainage line which collects urban runoff and which has considerable vegetation and a soil with a high organic content. A reasonable agricultural wheatbelt soil has a level of 120mgN/Kg while those for wetland sediments can reach 10,000mgN/L. Samples from other locations at the site returned nitrogen levels below expected background levels.
The soil nitrogen in the samples will largely reflect that of organic nitrogen tied up in vegetative and other organic material and not reflly available. Available nitrogen which may leach to groundwater represents a small proportion of this.
Phosphorus
Soil phosphorus levels were not elevated and below agricultural soil levels.
Heavy Metals
Soil lead levels were above those of other heavy metals but within background levels and below the investigation level. Furthennore, they are within limits expected for soils within an urban setting affected by road drainage. copper and zinc were below background and investigation levels.
HARRINGTON CONSULTANTS DENMARK TPS 3 SITE ASSESSME4T 10 Sep 97 3 Hydrocarbons
Soil samples were tested for light, medium and heavy hydrocarbons (C6 to Cs). All results are below the background and investigation levels when compared to the Dutch criteria.
Organochiorines
Results are below the background and investigation levels.
4 HEALTH RISK CONSERATIONS
The probability that an adverse health risk will occur to a resident of the site is dependent on two factors:
the level of contamination or toxicity; the level of exposure.
4.1 Contamination Assessment
Soil contaminant levels fall into three criteria.
Background levels. The background levels are a range of values for a substance defined by widespread testing.
Investigation levels. An investigation level is the concentration of a contaminant above which further investigation will be required.
* Response levels These are-levels-at which some form of response or management to protect the public or environment is required. This is above the investigation level.
The levels of all potential contaminates on the subject site fall within the background levels. The contaminant levels are shown in section 3.3. The results are below the investigation and response levels and hence the potential for toxicity is such that no management or "response" is necessary.
A contaminated site is defmed by Saadi & Langley (1991) as "a site where the level(s) of hazardous substances are above response levels." Since this not the case, the subject land is not a contaminated site.
Nitrogen has been reported to have an organoleptic effect at levels above lOmgfL in drinking water. The groundwater at the site is not within a designated water extraction catchment and is not intended for human consumption on or off the site. The limited aquifer under the site is expected to drain to the watercourse and then to the Denmark River. No significant health impacts are expected from this.
HARRINGTON CONSULTANTS DENMARK TPS 3 SITE ASSESSMENT 10Sep97 4 4.2 Exposure Assessment
The potential for health risks relates to the potential by people to become exposed to contaminated environmental soil, air or water compartments. This is largely dependent on proposed activities at the site. Since the site is not contaminated, there is no potential for this to occur.
Notwithstanding, the subject site will be zoned for residential use and specifically for retirement dwellings. Activities associated with this land use are not consistent with the recognised oral, dermal or inhalation pathways for contamination. The retirement complex will comprise mostly a built environment with hardstand areas which prevent potential for the above contacts, although this is not an issue.
Hence, it can be concluded that a health risk for the nominated land use at the subject site does not and will not exist.
5 ENVifiONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS
In addition to risks to the health of people, an assessment of risk to environmental systems can be undertaken. This should include the subject land as well as adjacent land and any receiving waters. The subject land drains to the Denmark River and in turn to Wilson Inlet.
Environmental systems in receiving waters are known to be affected by nutrient buildup and this is often reflected in algal buildup This has been recorded in Wilson Inlet and is generally considered to result from excess phosphorus runoff from rural areas.
Levels of phosphorus recorded in soils at the site are low. The clay and loam content of the soils in addition to the high organic content of the site will result in almost all phosphorus being adsorbed and hence not available. Furthermore, there has been no activity or import of foreign material to the site for a considerable time which would further allow assimilation of nutrients. It can be concluded from the above that nutrient export from the site will be minimal.
Due to the low organochiorine content of the soils it is apparent that there has not been any significant site treatments.
Similarly, there was no significant level of hydrocarbons detected.
No adverse environmental impacts to adjacent land from the site can be expected.
HARRINOTON CONSULTANTS DENMARK TPS 3 SITE ASSESSMENT 10Sep97 6 MANAGEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS
The site does not pose a health or environmental risk and, as a result, no recommendations or responses are necessaiy other than those normally associated with construction.
Wood & Grieve Engineers' preliminary report recommends that topsoil, undergrowth and root matter should be removed prior to construction. This is recommended and it is expected that this would include all foreign material.
Construction would also comprise a minimum of 500mm of clean fill be placed over the site for engineering purposes.
7 REFERENCES
Australian and New Zea1and'Einiirijñijnf and Conservation Council, Kational Health & Medical Research Council (1992). Australian and New Zealand Guidelines for the Assessment of Contaminated Sites.
Australian and New Zealand Environment and Conservation Council, (1992). Australian Water Quality Guidelines for Fresh and Marine Waters.
El Saadi, 0, & Langley, A. (1991). The Health Risk Assessment and Management of Contaminated Sites. Proceedings of a National Workshop on Health Risk Assessment and Management of Contaminated Sites. South Australian Health Commission.
HARRJNGTON CONSULTANTS DENMARK TPS 3 SITE ASSESSMENT 10Sep97 6 (ID
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. 1-i 'TD'X DETAflS CASQE?g .. STATIC WATER LEVEt •. .v'. . *...... NATER DISQ . . . •.•• . 0;.. . •.... ~M ENQUIRIES: TRE\'OR MACKELL Wood & Grieve PROJECT NO: 14640A EN G I NE E PS
Wood & Grieve Ply Ltd A.C.N. 008 808 786 30 April 1996 11 Duke Street. Albany Western Australia 6330 Facsimile (098) 12 1340 Telephone (098) 41 1182
Ayton, Taylor & Burrell 11 Duke Street ALBANY WA 6330
Attention: NICK AYTON
Dear Nick
RE: PROPOSED LIONS VILLE AGED PERSONS HOMES RESERVE 34209 DENMARK SOILS INVESTIGATION
Dear Nick.
As requested, a soils investigation was carried out Reserve 34209 Denmark (corner 1-lardy & Peace Sis) on lSth April 1996.
The site is an old Council fill site which has had various quantities & quality of fill placed on it over the last 25 years.
The site stopped being used for this purpose approximately 5 years ago. The rear of the site (away from Hardy St) is uncleared and vegetated with large karri & redgum trees with bracken, blackberry, and rushy bushes in the low lying areas. The fill area is covered in thick kikuyu and has several stockpiles of assorted rubbish fill material including timber and scrap metal.
Twelve test holes were dug across the site using a Case 580E backhoe. The approximate location of the test holes is shown on the attached plan. The soil profile from these test holes is tabled below.
SOIL PROFILE
TEST E{OL.E No. DEPTH SOlE, PROFJLF: MNLNIENTS
0-800MM - grey silty sand/gravel fill No groundwater 800-1100 previous topsoil (some root matter) encountered. 1100-1500 grey silty sand 1500-1800 white sand 0-100 topsoil white sand No groundwater 100-300 gravel encountered 300-1300 white sand 1300-1800 1 loamy grav&
Wood & Grieve Pty Ltd as trustee for the Wood & Grieve Unit Trust trading as Wood & Grieve ENGINEERS and as Wood & Grieve Verge ENGINEERS Perth: 16 Altona Street. West Perth. W.A. 6005 Sydney: Level 31. Suite 3103, 100 Miller Street. North Sydney. N.S.W. 2060 0-150 sandy gravel fill . No groundwater 150-1600 light yellow sand encountered 1600-1800 grey/orange sandy clay 0-200 topsoil. No groundwater 200-1000 grey silty sand encountered 1000-1400 loamy gravel 1400-1800 light orange sandy clay 0-100 top soil No groundwater 100-400 limestone rubble encountered 400-900 clay (sample no. 1) 900-1100 limestone rubble 1100-1300 grey silty sand (some root matter) 1300-1600 light grey sand 0-100 gravelly topsoil No groundwater - 100-1000 assorted fill (varying layers of sand & encountered gravel) 1000-1800 loamy gravel 0-100 gravelly topsoil No groundwater 100-500 assorted fill (varying layers of gravel, encountered sand, limestone) 500-1800 loamy gravel 0-300 topsoil No groundwater 300-600 grey silty sand encountered 600-1800 . orange/grey clay (sample No 2) 0-100 topsoil No groundwater 100-500 clay (sample No 3) encountered 500-700 topsoil (some root matter) 700-1200 grey silty sand 1200-1800 orange clay 0-200 topsoil Groundwater 200-1000 assorted fill (clay, sand) encountered 1000-1200 peat at 1.6m. 1200-1600 light grey sand 0-200 assorted fill (sand, gravel, grey clay, No groundwater 200-1000 laterite boulder) encountered. 1000-1800 gravelly sand Small amount of rubbish (carpet sps) at1:Om 0-300 clayey gravel No groundwater 300-450 grey silty sand encountered 450-1800 assorted fill (sand, granite, gravel, timber)
Soil Sample Test Results
Samples of clay were taken from test hole no's 5, 8 & 9 and tested to determine their reactivity. The tests were in accordance with As 1289 and the results are attached. The results show the clay to be moderately active.
The site is classified P in accordance with AS2870.1-1988. This classification, for sites containing uncontrolled fill, should be used in the design of the footing systems. Recommendations
The following earthworks procedures should be followed for all areas where units are to be constructed.
Strip kikuyu from the site and topsoil containing root matter.
Where clay is encountered underneath the topsoil this should be removed.
In the low lying area (around test hole 10) the peat layer should be removed.
Sub-grade should then be sloped to allow for drainage of the subsoil and proof rolled with a heavy duty vibratory roller.
A minimum of 500mm of clean sand fill should be placed over the site. This should be placed in layers not exceeding 300mm and compacted to achieve 95% MMDD.
Footings should be designed in accordance with AS2870.1 - 1988 for a site classification of P.
If you have any queries please contact me directly on 411 182.
Yours faithfully
/A.
TREVOR MACKELL for WOOD & GRIEVE ENGINEERS
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PLASTIC PROPERTIES - SUMMARY OF TEST RESULTS
LIMITS, INDEX, SHRINKAGE:- - AS 1289 C1.1, C2.1, C3.1, C4.1
LABNo. 9 SAMPLE IDENTIFICATION
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DATE REPORTED: REPORTED BY: 4~ ASCT 100% Recycled Paper DOC:C:WGE:.14640A11 527A.TM.10&ApH
Enquiries: Trevor MacKell Project No: Wood & Grieve 1464 0A115327A E N G I N E E P S
Wood & Grieve Pty Ltd A.C.N. 008 808 786 22 September 1997 11 Duke Street, Albany Western Australjp 6330 Facsimile (08) 9842 1340 Telephone (08) 98.42 3700 Ayton Taylor & Burrell 11 Duke Street ALBANY WA 6330
Attention: Nick Avton
RE: DENMARK AGED PERSONS HOMES SOILS INVESTIGATION
Dear Nick
Following the previous soils investigation that was carried Out on Reserve 34209 Denmark (corner Hardy & Peace Streets) on 18th April 1996, 5 additional boreholes were drilled on 22 July 1997 to confirm the soil profiles and investigate the DEP's concerns that the site may be contaminated.
The location of the 5boreholes is shown on the attached plan. The soil profiles from these boreholes is tabled below:
BOREHOLENo i DEPTH SOIL PROFILE COMMENTS 0-1 m dark silty sand Groundwater 1-2m j light grey sand encountered at approx. 2-3m grey/white sand 3m. 3-4m coarser white sand Soil sample taken 4.5m 4-5m I grey clay I deep.
0-3m I gravelly/loamy brown Groundwater 3-4 clay encountered at approx 4-5 brown clay 3m. grey/white clay Soil sample taken 2.Om deep.
0-Im sandy/gravelly clay No groundwater I -2m sandy light grey clay encountered. i 2-5m white clay i No soil sample.
0-1m brown loam Groundwater 1-2m light brown clayey loam encountered at approx. 3-5.5m 1 white clay 4m deep. Soil sample taken 5.5m deep.
0-Im dark brown clayey sand No groundwater l-2m 1 red/brown sandy clay encountered. 2-5m grey clay I Soil sample taken 4m deep.
Wood & Geve Pry Ltd as trustee for the Wood & Grieve Unit Trust trading as Wood & Grieve ENGINEERS
Perth: 16.Aitono Street. West Perth. W.A. 6035 Busse:rorr: 100 Queen Street. Busseitorr. WA. 6280 Soil samples were taken from four of the boreholes and sent to Australian Environmental laboratories for analysis for contaminants. Results were then forwarded to David Hariington to determine possible health and environmental risks. No such risks were identified. Yours faithfully
TREVOR MACKELL for Wood & Grieve ENGINEERS end. A C rz 1!c3itVC Ccicst7a;i dou mtforis part of A 4;:telit No 2 5 y - - b }as beci Odcd. fr fcmtoii p'rpcses iiy, to as to sdTcate hcv: Ito lay.d POUN be deviopcd for oge - oii c. Separate apprcvo! are r cc ary for ay additosaI devc!oplsce.t oi 1¼ !ai wici ay or 'roy ve rocuti czes to lhis 1ayort
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rci cCci-Miox (YarrP, to be rdra4ied. 0 frbreak/foc1aTh to be provided aroad rela?1t vc-zio. Er.co-.;mre dc'i op;.ito froi1 Ilardy Sfrcet aiid ?eoce Streot iirocI ot occoos to be periittod o,ato So'jth Cooct Uiay. Frcr to dr/ccpl1c11t approval a Cooteth:iica1 rep art wiS e / o C'rIjcrG! rcqrod{crThecothp:icftiead. S NPCAflV COWCFT PtAW AYTON , t\'LOR & BURRELL iTowr Raming =d Cnir R,IscrVe-S 34ZO, Z96153'rg, 35774•. 42.271 aid Li 953 O.o Soot. Woiom 52O Pi•oa O834 Fax 2Oa FMCC Sirci-, fardv 3irect aid Soufn Coast 4ihway. 9ciark APPENDIX 2
SOIL TEST RESULTS
Australlar Envlroiniental F.horatnrIe
CLIENT: SS'od and Crjcve l'tv Ltd OUR REFERENCE: 35323
LABORATORy REPORT
Your refereace Hole 5 4m Holel4.5ni Hole 4 5.5ni J Hole 2 2,Om Ourreference 3323-I 35323-2 35323-3 1 35323-4 Blank Sarnpletype Soil Soil Soil Soil Soil Units mg/kg mg/kg I mg/kg mg/kg mgiki p Hvdrocarboc,5ç <20 <20 <20 <20 <20 HirocarbonsC.,. C u <20 <20 <20 <20 <20 Hydrocrhofl5C?S - <5(} <5() <5Q <50 <50 drcarbcnsC - C <50 <50 j <50 <50 <50 Lcpp, — <55z5) <5 <5 <5 <5 Lad,Pb [ 8(8.9) 13 47 13 Zinc. Zn <5 (<5,<5) <5 <5 <5 1 <5 Io:iNitroei,N - 76 (76,72) 58 26 390 <5 roull Phosphorus, P <5 <5 <5 <5 — <5 1
V. ? I. The 1th ofsmp( foic 2 vc,s lcr on th zp/' co;-:tainer. 2 '1'r' Lid cl TPZ-' / 020i ''I ' P 92(i PF rO 1) Tot 1 VI 012), Total Phosphorus PEP 020/PEI01). 3. R'plicate results are in brackets. -
Fe 2 of 3 Australian Envirnnniental I .al) r; tu r e.
CLIENT: Wood and Grieve Pty Ltd OUR REFERENCE; 35323
LABORATORy REPORT OC PESTICIDES
Your rfercnce Etole54nt Hole I_4.5rn}f1o1e45.5m FfoJe22.Om Our reference 35323-1 35323-2 35323-3 35323-4 Blank Sample type . Soil Soil Soil Soil Soil Units_- - mg/kg IL jrng/kg mg/kg mg/kg mg/kg c4-311C <0.1(<0.1) 0.1 chlorepoxde <0.1 (<0.1) -EndosuIfan Oxvchkjrdae <0.1 (<0.1) <0.1 Ch(ordane <0.1 (::0. 1) cO. I <0.1 f <0.1 A. 1 p.p'-DDE [ <0.1 (<0.!) <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 Dirjn <0.! <0.1 (.::0.1) <0.1 Endrin <0.1 <0.1 <01 p,p'-DDD <0.1 (<0.1) <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 U-Edosu1fan The de'pth cn sample 'Hole 2' was unck'ar. Repl:cate resdrs are in brackets. Afer/iod Code,' OC ('!'iEO 005,) igc 3 of 3 I - ---;:••Tz'- - ( . . 1' a - I '•- - :. :-- a - — — 1 - •-'' F. _¼ a ---- - I •.--- — ii ••__\-. I 'F a'- I' a \,__\) a _\ - I '" E- 0 - I ••. ,---. r - r I O I o I -.'. _./\ - •..0 , ii A 13 -4 cninPii:E No •_4' 'I - I I; Lei ,_;•jc;7]i_.S ••.....• \.•./) I..) •-•'> .. .: •: IiII fl 3.1 ) •0 - /!TWl1jJ, / I /kk Fkii 1 / yg rifl - L I 0 '1a