Power Supply Upgrade Gosford South Substation and Wyoming Sectioning Hut Review of Environmental Factors

May 2015

This report has been prepared by GHD for Transport for New South Wales and may only be used and relied on by Transport for New South Wales for the purpose agreed between GHD and the Transport for New South Wales as set out in section 1.5 of this report. GHD otherwise disclaims responsibility to any person other than Transport for New South Wales arising in connection with this report. GHD also excludes implied warranties and conditions, to the extent legally permissible. The services undertaken by GHD in connection with preparing this report were limited to those specifically detailed in the report and are subject to the scope limitations set out in the report. The opinions, conclusions and any recommendations in this report are based on conditions encountered and information reviewed at the date of preparation of the report. GHD has no responsibility or obligation to update this report to account for events or changes occurring subsequent to the date that the report was prepared. The opinions, conclusions and any recommendations in this report are based on assumptions made by GHD described in this report (refer section 1.5 of this report). GHD disclaims liability arising from any of the assumptions being incorrect. Artist impression images are for indicative illustration purposes only.

GHD | Report for Transport for New South Wales - Gosford South Substation and Wyoming Sectioning Hut REF, 21/24199

Table of contents

1. Introduction ...... 1 1.1 Overview ...... 1 1.2 The power supply upgrade program ...... 1 1.3 The proposal ...... 1 1.4 Structure of the REF ...... 3 1.5 Scope and methodology ...... 3 2. Location and setting ...... 5 2.1 Site location and description ...... 5 2.2 The study area and site context ...... 11 3. Statutory Framework ...... 14 3.1 Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 ...... 14 3.2 Environmental planning instruments ...... 14 3.3 Other legislative considerations ...... 17 3.4 Summary of approval requirements ...... 20 4. Strategic context, need and options considered ...... 21 4.1 Strategic context and need for the proposal ...... 21 4.2 Proposal development process ...... 21 4.3 Objectives of the proposal ...... 22 4.4 Options considered ...... 22 5. Description of the proposal ...... 24 5.1 Overview ...... 24 5.2 Gosford South substation ...... 24 5.3 Wyoming sectioning hut ...... 26 5.4 Connections to existing overhead wiring system ...... 27 5.5 Decommissioning and demolition of the existing Gosford substation ...... 28 5.6 Construction information ...... 28 5.7 Operation of the proposal ...... 31 5.8 Sustainability ...... 32 6. Stakeholder and community consultation ...... 35 6.1 Consultation for the proposal ...... 35 6.2 Targeted consultation ...... 36 6.3 Future consultation activities ...... 36 7. Environmental impact assessment ...... 37 7.1 Soils, water quality and flooding ...... 37 7.2 Flora and fauna ...... 44 7.3 Visual amenity ...... 50 7.4 Heritage ...... 53 7.5 Traffic and access ...... 57

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7.6 Noise and vibration ...... 61 7.7 Air quality ...... 76 7.8 Land use and socio-economic ...... 78 7.9 Electromagnetic energy ...... 79 7.10 Waste management ...... 81 7.11 Cumulative impacts ...... 82 8. Environmental management ...... 85 8.1 Environmental management plan ...... 85 8.2 Summary of mitigation measures ...... 85 9. Conclusion ...... 91 9.1 Justification of the proposal ...... 91 9.2 Summary of REF findings ...... 91 9.3 Conclusion ...... 92 10. References ...... 94

Table index

Table 1-1 Structure and content of the REF ...... 3 Table 3-1 SEPP 71 Matters for consideration ...... 15 Table 3-2 Consideration of relevant legislation ...... 17 Table 3-3 EPBC Act protected matters search results ...... 20 Table 5-1 Daily construction traffic movements ...... 30 Table 5-2 Sustainable design guidelines compulsory initiatives ...... 32 Table 7-1 Listed non-Aboriginal heritage items within about 500 metres of the sites ...... 55 Table 7-2 Potential impacts on non-Aboriginal heritage items ...... 56 Table 7-3 Average background and ambient noise levels at logger locations ...... 65 Table 7-4 Proposal specific construction noise criteria ...... 66 Table 7-5 Proposal specific operational noise criteria ...... 67 Table 7-6 Predicted construction noise levels (dB(A)) for standard hours ...... 69 Table 7-7 Predicted worst case outside of standard hours receiver levels ...... 70 Table 7-8 Vibration buffer distances (metres) ...... 72 Table 7-9 Predicted operational noise levels during normal operations (dB(A)) ...... 74 Table 7-10 Predicted operational noise levels during DCCB tripping (dB(A)) ...... 74 Table 8-1 Mitigation measures ...... 86

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Figure index

Figure 1-1 Site location ...... 2 Figure 2-1 Gosford South substation proposed site and key features ...... 9 Figure 2-2 Wyoming sectioning hut and existing Gosford substation proposed site and key features ...... 10 Figure 3-1 Gosford LEP Zoning ...... 19 Figure 7-1 Soils and water resources ...... 40 Figure 7-2 SEPP 71 and SEPP 14 mapping and indicative catchment flooding ...... 41 Figure 7-3 Gosford South substation vegetation ...... 49 Figure 7-4 Wyoming sectioning hut and existing Gosford substation vegetation ...... 49 Figure 7-5 Heritage ...... 54 Figure 7-6 Noise catchment area 1 ...... 63 Figure 7-7 Noise catchment area 2...... 64

Appendices

Appendix A – ...... Pre concept plans and architectural drawings

Appendix B – ...... Likelihood of occurrence of threatened biota and migratory biota Appendix C – ...... Noise and vibration assessment report Appendix D – Clause 228 factors and ecologically sustainable development considerations under the EP&A Act

Appendix E – ...... Electromagnetic energy report

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Glossary of terms

Term Definition Air gap Where two overhead wiring runs overlap each other. Circuit breakers Manually or automatically operated electrical switch designed to protect an electrical circuit from damage caused by overload or short circuit. The basic function is to detect a fault condition and interrupt current flow. dB(A) Decibel expressed with the frequency weighting filter used to measure ‘A- weighted’ sound pressure levels, which conforms more or less to the human ear response, as our hearing is less sensitive at low and high frequencies. Feeders In the context of the Power Supply Upgrade Program, a feeder is either:  a high voltage (HV) alternating current AC cable coming in to the substation from the Sydney Trains supply or from Ausgrid  a cable supplying 1500 volts DC from the traction substation to the overhead wiring system.

LA90(period) The A-weighted sound pressure level that is exceeded for 90% of the time over which a given sound is measured. This is considered to represent the background noise e.g. LA90(15 min).

LAeq(period) Equivalent sound pressure level: the steady sound level that, over a specified period of time, would produce the same energy equivalence as the fluctuating sound level actually occurring. Proposal Refers to the construction and operation of Gosford South Substation and Wyoming Sectioning Hut and demolition of the existing Gosford Substation. Proposal site The immediate location of the proposal, which is the area that has the potential to be directly disturbed by construction. RailCorp Former Rail Corporation of NSW, now referred to as Sydney Trains. Rectifiers An electrical device that converts alternating current (AC), which periodically reverses direction, to direct current (DC), which flows in only one direction. The process is known as rectification. Sectioning hut A building which is generally located between substations and contains circuit breakers. It provides protection and sectioning of the overhead traction supply system and, on multiple tracks, improves voltage regulation. Study area Consists of land in the vicinity of the proposal site, including land that has the potential to be indirectly impacted by the proposal. Sydney Trains Former Rail Corporation of NSW (RailCorp). Traction substation A traction substation is an electrical substation that converts electric power from the form provided by the electricity provider to an appropriate voltage, current type and frequency able to be used to the supply the rail network with power.

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List of abbreviations

Abbreviation Definition ABS Australian Bureau of Statistics AHIMS Aboriginal Heritage Information Management System CEMP Construction Environmental Management Plan DC Direct Current DCCB Direct Current Circuit Breaker. DoE Department of Environment DECC Department of Environment and Climate Change NSW DPI Department of Primary Industries EME Electromagnetic energy EP&A Act Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 EPA Environment Protection Authority EPBC Act Environment Protection and Biodiversity Act 1999 EPL Environmental Protection Licence FM Act Fisheries Management Act 1994 GHD GHD Pty Ltd GST Galvanised Steel Trough Heritage Act Heritage Act 1977 HV high voltage ISEPP State Environmental Planning Policy (Infrastructure) 2007 kV kilovolt LEP Local Environmental Plan LGA Local Government Area m2 square metre m metre MNES Matters of National Environmental Significance MW megawatt NSW New South Wales NPW Act National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 OEH Office of Environment and Heritage OHW Overhead Wiring (the 1500V DC contact wire used to power trains) POEO Act Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997 PSU Program Power Supply Upgrade Program REF Review of Environmental Factors RMS Roads and Maritime Services

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Abbreviation Definition SCADA Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition SEPP State Environmental Planning Policy TEC Threatened Ecological Communities TSC Act Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 V volt

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Executive summary

Overview

This Review of Environmental Factors (REF) considers the potential impacts of the construction and operation of a new traction substation and sectioning hut at Gosford (the proposal). It has been prepared by GHD Pty Ltd on behalf of Transport for NSW to assess the potential impacts of the proposal, and assist Transport for NSW determine the proposal in accordance with the provisions of Part 5 of the NSW Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act).

Why is the proposal needed?

The PSU Program was initiated by RailCorp in 2005 to ensure that Sydney’s rail network will be capable of meeting the expected power requirements of future train timetables, and the requirements of the new generation of air conditioned trains (for example, Waratah trains). The PSU Program involves constructing new electrical infrastructure and upgrading substations, sectioning huts, overhead wiring and electrical feeders across the network. The objective of the PSU Program is to upgrade the electrical infrastructure to:

 support the introduction of air conditioned trains into service  provide additional power to operate trains on the network  improve service reliability by reducing the risk of disruption to rail services.

 The delivery of the PSU Program was transferred to Transport for NSW in 2012.

Where would the proposal be located?

A power supply study undertaken as part of the program (RailCorp, 2012) found that a new substation and sectioning hut was required in the Gosford area. The proposal is located at three sites, all within the Gosford local government area:  Gosford South substation site  Wyoming sectioning hut site includes

 existing Gosford substation site.

What would the proposal involve?

The proposal involves the construction of a new substation within the site where Sydney Trains civil depot and car park currently exist located next to the Central Coast Highway / the Brian McGowan Bridge, in the south of the suburb of Gosford. The new substation would supply traction power to the Central Coast and Newcastle rail line. A new sectioning hut (to be referred to as the Wyoming sectioning hut) will be constructed and operated close to the existing Gosford substation within the rail corridor on the western side of the Central Coast and Newcastle rail line. The proposal also involves decommissioning and demolition of the existing Gosford substation.

How long would the proposal take to construct?

Construction would commence in mid to late 2015. The proposal would take around 18 months to construct. The main civil construction activities would be completed in approximately 15 months, while the fit out of the substation would take approximately three months. The decommissioning works would take up to approximately three months.

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Summary of the findings of the REF

There are not considered to be any significant long-term environmental issues associated with the presence of the proposed Gosford South substation and the proposed Wyoming sectioning hut on the proposal site, or its operation. In the short-term, there may be minor adverse impacts associated with construction. The main potential impacts that would require management are:  traffic and access impacts associated with the need for heavy vehicles to access the site, the positioning of cranes and the requirement for some oversized deliveries and parking for construction staff  noise due to the operation of machinery and equipment  potential erosion and sedimentation impacting on water quality  management and disposal of contaminated and hazardous material from demolition waste and fill material impact surface and groundwater  indirect impacts on locally listed heritage items  minor amenity impacts. These construction impacts would be relatively minor and short-term, and would be mitigated by the implementation of the mitigation measures. Operational impacts would be limited to the presence of a new structure in the landscape, which may be visible from some residences near the proposed Wyoming sectioning hut (Campbell Street) and the proposed Gosford South substation (Riou Street) and users of Grahame Park. The design of the proposal, and the proposed form and finishes, has taken the visibility of the proposal site into account. The removal of the existing Gosford substation is not considered to have a detrimental visual impact on the surrounding environment. The concept design for the proposal provides for the screening of noise generating equipment to ensure that the proposal meets the operational noise criteria.

The proposal would result in long-term positive impacts as it would increase the capacity of the rail corridor’s power supply network, enabling it to meet the projected increase in power demands on the rail network. This would provide long term benefits to users of the rail network.

Adverse environmental impacts would be minimised by implementing the mitigation measures listed in this REF, including preparing and implementing a construction environmental management plan.

Justification and conclusion

The proposal is needed to meet the actual and projected increase in power demands on the Sydney Trains electrical network. The potential environmental impacts of the proposal have been assessed in accordance with section 111 of the EP&A Act, Clause 228 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2000, the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995, and the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999. It is considered that the adverse environmental impacts would be mainly short-term and localised in nature. With the adoption and implementation of the mitigation and management measures listed in this REF, the potential environmental impacts of the proposal would be adequately mitigated and managed, and are not considered to be significant.

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1. Introduction

1.1 Overview

Transport for NSW is currently undertaking the Power Supply Upgrade Program (the PSU Program) to meet the actual and projected increase in power demands on the Sydney Trains electrical network. A power supply study undertaken as part of the program (RailCorp, 2012) found that a new substation and sectioning hut was required in the Gosford area. This would provide additional capacity on the Central Coast and Newcastle rail line and allow for the decommissioning and demolition of the existing Gosford Substation, which has reached the end of its operational life. To address the needs identified by the power study, Transport for NSW is proposing to construct and operate a new traction substation adjacent to the rail corridor in Gosford (to the south of the existing substation), and a new sectioning hut adjacent to the rail corridor. The construction and operation of the substation at Gosford, the sectioning hut at Wyoming and decommissioning/demolition of the existing Gosford substation (referred to as ‘the proposal’ for the purposes of this document) is subject to assessment and determination under Part 5 of the NSW Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (the EP&A Act). GHD Pty Ltd (GHD) was commissioned by Transport for NSW to undertake an assessment of the potential environmental impacts of the proposal, and prepare a Review of Environmental Factors (REF) in accordance with the EP&A Act.

1.2 The power supply upgrade program

The PSU Program aims to ensure that Sydney’s rail network will be capable of meeting the expected power requirements of future train timetables, and the requirements of the new generation of air conditioned trains (for example, Waratah trains). The PSU Program involves constructing new electrical infrastructure and upgrading substations, sectioning huts, overhead wiring and electrical feeders across the network. The objective of the PSU Program is to upgrade the electrical network infrastructure to:  support the introduction of air conditioned trains into service

 provide additional power to operate trains on the network  improve service reliability by reducing the risk of disruption to rail services.

1.3 The proposal

The proposal involves:  constructing and operating a new substation (to be referred to as the Gosford South substation) within the site where Sydney Trains civil depot and car park currently exist located next to the Brian McGowan Bridge, in the south of the suburb of Gosford  constructing and operating at new sectioning hut (to be referred to as the Wyoming sectioning hut) close to the existing Gosford substation within the rail corridor on the western side of the Central Coast and Newcastle rail line  decommissioning and demolition of the existing Gosford Substation. The new substation would supply traction power to the Central Coast and Newcastle rail line. The location of the proposal is shown in Figure 1-1. A description of the proposal is provided in Section 5.

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1.4 Structure of the REF

The structure and content of the REF is summarised in Table 1-1. Table 1-1 Structure and content of the REF

Section Description Section 1 – Introduction An introduction to the REF.

Section 2 – Location and A description of the location, site and study area. setting

Section 3 – Statutory An overview of the statutory requirements for the proposal, including the framework requirements of relevant environmental planning instruments and legislation.

Section 4 – Strategic An overview of the strategic context for the proposal, need, and the context, need and options proposal development process. considered

Section 5 – Description of A description of the proposal. the proposal

Section 6 – Community and A summary of the consultation process and the key issues raised. stakeholder consultation

Section 7 – Environmental An assessment of the potential environmental impacts, including impact assessment summaries of specialist reports prepared for the proposal.

Section 8 – Environmental An outline of the requirements for the proposal’s environmental management and mitigation management plan, and a summary of the mitigation measures identified by the REF.

Section 9 – Conclusion A conclusion to the REF.

Section 10 – Reference list Provides a list of references for the REF.

1.5 Scope and methodology

1.5.1 Scope and purpose of the REF

For an activity subject to Part 5 of the EP&A Act, section 111 of the Act imposes a duty on a determining authority to ‘examine and take into account to the fullest extent possible all matters affecting or likely to affect the environment by reason of that activity’. Determining authorities make a determination about whether a proposal can proceed, and on what basis. The purpose of this REF is to summarise the results of the environmental impact assessment for the proposal and provide information about the proposal as an input to the determination process. Transport for NSW (as the determining authority) will consider the findings of the REF as part of the determination process. In summary, the REF will assist Transport for NSW to undertake the following:  determine whether the proposal should be approved, taking into account to the fullest extent possible all matters affecting or likely to affect the environment (in accordance with section 111 of the EP&A Act)

 determine whether the proposal is likely to have a significant effect on the environment or significantly affect threatened species, populations or ecological communities or their habitats.

Clause 228 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2000 (the Regulation) lists, for the purposes of Part 5 of the EP&A Act, the factors to be taken into account when

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considering the likely impact of an activity on the environment. Table 3-2 considers the potential impacts of the proposal against these factors. For the purposes of this REF, the following definitions have been applied:  The ‘proposal’ refers to the construction and operation of Gosford South substation, the construction and operation of the Wyoming sectioning hut, and the decommissioning of the existing Gosford substation.  The ‘substation’ refers to the proposed Gosford South substation.  The ‘proposal site’ is defined as the immediate location of the Gosford South substation and associated works (‘Gosford South substation site’), the location of the Wyoming sectioning hut (‘Wyoming sectioning hut site’) and the existing Gosford substation (‘existing Gosford substation site’). The proposal site is the area that has the potential to be directly disturbed during construction. It includes the footprint of the substation, sectioning hut and associated works, and a buffer area that would potentially be impacted by construction activities, the location of the decommissioning works, and construction compounds.  The ‘study area’ consists of land in the vicinity of, and including, the proposal site. The study area is the wider area surrounding the proposal site, including land that has the potential to be indirectly impacted by the proposal (for example, as a result of any noise impacts). Other terms are defined in the glossary at the beginning of the REF.

1.5.2 Methodology

The REF has been prepared in consultation with relevant stakeholders, including the pre- concept design team (SMEC); Transport for NSW; Gosford City Council and other relevant technical advisors and agencies. Preparing the REF has involved the following tasks:

 attending a project inception meeting and briefing  receiving relevant information from Transport for NSW  a site visit, including a site inspection by a GHD ecologist

 consultation and liaison with key stakeholders  undertaking a specialist noise and vibration assessment (undertaken by GHD)  undertaking an electromagnetic fields assessment (undertaken by EMC)  reviewing specialist assessments being undertaken as part of the design process (including the contamination and geotechnical assessments), and incorporating relevant information in the REF  a qualitative desktop assessment of other potential impacts, including reviews of existing information and database searches  identifying mitigation measures to manage the impacts identified  addressing the requirements of part 5 of the EP&A Act and clause 228 of the Regulation.

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2. Location and setting

This section provides information on the location of the proposal, the proposal site and its surrounds (the study area).

2.1 Site location and description

The proposal is located at three sites, all within the Gosford local government area (LGA), as shown in Figure 1-1. The sites are shown in more detail in Figure 2-1 and Figure 2-2 and comprise:  Gosford South substation site  Wyoming sectioning hut site  existing Gosford substation site (to be decommissioned).

2.1.1 Gosford South substation site

The majority of the substation site is located within the existing Sydney Trains civil depot and car park site (Lot 1 in Deposited Plan 872939 and Part Lot 116 in Deposited Plan 1184862). The depot site is located adjacent to the Brian McGowan Bridge and Fagans Bay (part of Brisbane Water), and close to the intersection of the Central Coast Highway and the Pacific Highway. Some associated works to electricity transmissions lines would occur outside of the depot boundary, within land that forms part of the road corridor. The Central Coast Highway passes directly over the site (see Plate 1). The site has an overall area of about 5,160 square metres.

The Sydney Trains civil depot contains a main office building, vehicle parking and workshops relating to this use (see Plate 2). It is a relatively flat site, which lies slightly lower than the surrounding roads and railway line, but is raised above the water level to the south on concrete pavement. A stormwater drain runs under the depot site and discharges just beyond the southern boundary directly into Fagans Bay. The substation site is already fully fenced on all sides. Access to the site is via an existing access gate off Riou Street/Pacific Highway (to the north of the site).

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Plate 1 Gosford South substation site looking north towards the site entrance

Plate 2 Gosford South substation site looking south from the site entrance

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2.1.2 Wyoming sectioning hut site

The Wyoming sectioning hut site and the existing Gosford substation are located within the suburb of Gosford but adjacent to the boundary of two other suburbs: Wyoming and North Gosford. The proposal site for the sectioning hut comprises mainly Lot 3 on the deposited plan 814097. The existing Gosford substation comprises Lot 2 on the deposited plan 513426. The potential footprint for the sectioning hut is about 50 square metres; and approximate dimensions of ten by five metres. This area is narrow and is on a short but steep embankment which slopes down towards Showground Road with the railway line rising slightly higher to the immediate east (see Plate 3). The site for the proposed sectioning hut is within the rail corridor and will be located next to an existing switch compound building (see Plate 4). The switch compound building has a small yard and access gate on its southern side with limited space for a maintenance vehicle. Railway improvements works not associated with this proposal but as part of the Gosford Passing Loop were ongoing around the Wyoming site at the time of writing this report.

2.1.3 Existing Gosford substation

The existing substation is situated outside of the rail corridor on the corner of Showground Road and Glennie Street West occupying an area of about 1814 square metres; and approximate dimensions of 56 by 40 metres. The site comprises the substation building, transmission equipment and overhead and underground cabling. The site is flat and on a similar topography as neighbouring areas. Connections to the Sydney Water potable water and wastewater network already exist at the site. The site is fully enclosed with security fencing fitted with hazard signage.

Overhead power lines run along the length of the proposal site and are located to the immediate east of the rail corridor fence and crisscross over the existing substation. Access to the site for the sectioning hut is via Showground Road and the existing Gosford substation from Glennie Street West. There are currently two access points into the existing substation, off Glennie Street West.

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Plate 3 Wyoming sectioning hut site looking north towards the location for the proposed sectioning hut on the right

Plate 4 Wyoming sectioning hut site looking north towards the location for the proposed sectioning hut on the right and the existing Gosford substation on the left

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2.2 The study area and site context

Key features of the study area are shown on Figure 2-1 and Figure 2-2. The study area comprises the three sites and the area immediately surrounding these sites. The study area comprises mainly industrial, commercial and infrastructure land uses with residential areas separated from the proposal site by transportation infrastructure.

2.2.1 Gosford South substation site

Land uses to the immediate south of the proposal site comprise a strip of vegetation along the shore of Fagans Bay/Brisbane Water separated from the site by a fence. Grey Mangroves (Avicennia marina subsp. australasica) and Casuarinas (Casuarina sp.) are located along the adjacent shoreline. A stormwater drain runs under the proposal site and exits just beyond the southern boundary directly into Fagans Bay. The site adjoins Carawah Reserve to the west of the proposal site. A flora and fauna assessment is provided in section 7.2. The eastern boundary is formed by the Central Coast and Newcastle rail line, beyond which is Grahame Park and the Central Coast stadium which is about 50 metres at the closest point and beyond this is commercial and residential areas of Gosford. Immediately to the north of the site is the Pacific Highway, Central Coast Highway and Riou Street which forms a slip road leading on to the highway (see Plate 5). A cycle and footpath and grassed road reservation bounds the north of the site. The nearest residential properties are located about 80 metres to the north of the site on the opposite side of Riou Street/Pacific Highway (see Plate 6). Mature trees provide a buffer for some residential properties from Riou Street, the Central Coast Highway and the proposal site.

Plate 5 Central Coast Highway and slip road adjacent to Gosford South substation site, looking north west from the depot site entrance

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Plate 6 Residential properties opposite Gosford South substation site, looking north from the site

2.2.2 Wyoming sectioning hut site

The site for the proposed sectioning hut is bounded to the east by the Central Coast and Newcastle rail line and is located adjacent to Showground Road at the intersection with Glennie Street West. Commercial properties lie to the north and west of the site. The existing Gosford substation is situated on the intersection of Showground Road and Glennie Street West. Two commercial properties are located to the immediate north and east of the proposal site. These are:  Central Coast Clutch and Brake – located on Showground Road opposite the sectioning hut site and adjacent to the existing substation

 SBO Automotive – located to the west of the proposal site adjacent to the existing substation. A number of other commercial properties are located opposite the site for the sectioning hut along Showground Road (see Plate 7). To the south is Gosford Showground, the closest point is about 25 metres from existing Gosford substation, separated by Glennie Street West. The showground has several entrances off Showground Road and a main visitor entrance off Glennie Street West, about 50 metres to the west of the existing Gosford substation. The showground has facilities for greyhound Racing Speedway, Go Karts, and buildings utilised for expos and other community and private events.

Residential properties lie to the east of the Central Coast and Newcastle rail line. The nearest residential properties are located on the opposite side of the railway corridor about 50 metres to the south east of the proposal site (see Plate 8).

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Plate 7 Commercial properties opposite the proposed location for the sectioning hut, looking north

Plate 8 Residential properties to the south east of Wyoming sectioning hut site, looking east

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3. Statutory Framework

This section provides an overview of the statutory framework relevant to the proposal, including the assessment requirements, relevant environmental legislation and planning instruments.

3.1 Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979

The EP&A Act and the Regulation provide the statutory basis for planning and environmental assessment in NSW. The EP&A Act provides the framework for environmental planning and development approvals and includes provisions to ensure that the potential environmental impacts of a development are assessed and considered in the decision making process.

3.1.1 Application of Part 5 of the EP&A Act

As a result of the application of the State Environmental Planning Policy (Infrastructure) 2007 (the Infrastructure SEPP), the proposal is subject to Part 5 of the EP&A Act (refer section 3.2.1). In relation to Part 5 activities, section 111 of the EP&A Act imposes a duty on a determining authority to ‘examine and take into account to the fullest extent possible all matters affecting or likely to affect the environment by reason of that activity’. Section 110(1) defines a determining authority as ‘a Minister or public authority and, in relation to any activity, means the Minister or public authority by or on whose behalf the activity is or is to be carried out or any Minister or public authority whose approval is required in order to enable the activity to be carried out’. In accordance with Clause 79 of the Infrastructure SEPP, Transport for NSW is the proponent and determining authority for the proposal. This REF has been prepared to satisfy Transport for NSW’s requirements under the EP&A Act.

3.2 Environmental planning instruments

The environmental planning instruments that are relevant to the approval and assessment of the proposal are considered below.

3.2.1 State Environmental Planning Policies (SEPPs)

State Environmental Planning Policy (Infrastructure) 2007 The Infrastructure SEPP outlines the permissibility and development controls for infrastructure works and facilities. Clause 79 of the Infrastructure SEPP outlines which railway infrastructure facilities are permissible without the need for development consent under the EP&A Act. As the proposal meets the definitions of rail infrastructure facilities provided by clause 78, it is permissible without consent. Clauses 13 to 16 of the Infrastructure SEPP outline the requirements for consultation with councils and other public authorities for infrastructure development carried out by or on behalf of a public authority. The proposal would not trigger any of these requirements, and therefore consultation with Gosford City Council (Council) and other public authorities is not required under the Infrastructure SEPP. However, relevant agencies have been, and will continue to be, consulted in relation to the proposal. Further details of the consultation process are provided in section 6.

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State Environmental Planning Policy 14 - Coastal Wetlands State Environmental Planning Policy 14 – Coastal Wetlands (SEPP 14) seeks to control development within coastal wetland areas for environmental and economic considerations. Any development within or near listed wetlands must be considered for the impact it might have on the environment, and whether or not the proposal is avoidable within these areas, before consent is granted. As the project footprint does not directly affect the SEPP 14 mapped areas, the SEPP is not applicable to the proposal. Notwithstanding, the intent of SEPP 14 has been considered in this assessment as some vegetation within Fagans Bay and adjacent to garnet Adcock Memorial Park is mapped as SEPP 14 wetland. This wetland is located about 200 metres from the study area at the closest point with details on riparian habitats associated with the SEPP 14 wetland within Fagans Bay provided in section 7.2. Mitigation measures have been recommended to reduce impacts on aquatic habitats and SEPP 14 wetlands downstream of the project site.

State Environmental Planning Policy 71 – Coastal Protection State Environmental Planning Policy No. 71 – Coastal Protection controls development within the Coastal Zone. The Gosford South substation site is located within the Coastal Zone. The site is located within a zone classified as coastal protection under an environmental planning instrument.

Clause 8 of the SEPP lists the matters for consideration that need to be taken into account by a consent authority when it determines a development application to carry out development on land to which this Policy applies:

The matters for consideration are included in Table 3-1 along with a comment in relation to each matter for consideration. Table 3-1 SEPP 71 Matters for consideration

SEPP 71 Matters for Consideration Section where addressed

(a) the aims of this Policy set out in clause 2,

(a) to protect and manage the natural, cultural, recreational and economic Section 6 attributes of the New South Wales coast, and (b) to protect and improve existing public access to and along coastal N/A foreshores to the extent that this is compatible with the natural attributes of the coastal foreshore, and

(c) to ensure that new opportunities for public access to and along coastal N/A foreshores are identified and realised to the extent that this is compatible with

the natural attributes of the coastal foreshore, and

(d) to protect and preserve Aboriginal cultural heritage, and Aboriginal places, Section 7.4 values, customs, beliefs and traditional knowledge, and

(e) to ensure that the visual amenity of the coast is protected, and Section 7.3 (f) to protect and preserve beach environments and beach amenity, and Section 7.2 (g) to protect and preserve native coastal vegetation, and (h) to protect and preserve the marine environment of New South Wales, and Section 7.2 Section 7.2 (i) to protect and preserve rock platforms, and

(j) to manage the coastal zone in accordance with the principles of ecologically N/A sustainable development (within the meaning of section 6 (2) of the Protection of the Environment Administration Act 1991), and Section 9.2 (k) to ensure that the type, bulk, scale and size of development is appropriate for the location and protects and improves the natural scenic quality of the

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SEPP 71 Matters for Consideration Section where addressed surrounding area, and Section 4.4 (l) to encourage a strategic approach to coastal management N/A (b) existing public access to and along the coastal foreshore for pedestrians or N/A persons with a disability should be retained and, where possible, public access to and along the coastal foreshore for pedestrians or persons with a disability should be improved

(c) opportunities to provide new public access to and along the coastal foreshore for N/A pedestrians or persons with a disability

(d) the suitability of development given its type, location and design and its Section 4.4 and relationship with the surrounding area section 7

(e) any detrimental impact that development may have on the amenity of the Section 7.3 coastal foreshore, including any significant overshadowing of the coastal foreshore and any significant loss of views from a public place to the coastal foreshore

(f) the scenic qualities of the New South Wales coast, and means to protect and Section 7.3 improve these qualities

(g) measures to conserve animals (within the meaning of the Threatened Species Section 7.2 Conservation Act 1995) and plants (within the meaning of that Act), and their habitats

(h) measures to conserve fish (within the meaning of Part 7A of the Fisheries Section 7.2 Management Act 1994) and marine vegetation (within the meaning of that Part), and their habitats

(i) existing wildlife corridors and the impact of development on these corridors Section 7.2

(j) the likely impact of coastal processes and coastal hazards on development and Section 7.1 any likely impacts of development on coastal processes and coastal hazards

(k) measures to reduce the potential for conflict between land-based and water- N/A based coastal activities

(l) measures to protect the cultural places, values, customs, beliefs and traditional Section 7.4 knowledge of Aboriginals

(m) likely impacts of development on the water quality of coastal waterbodies Section 7.1

(n) the conservation and preservation of items of heritage, archaeological or historic Section 7.4 significance

(o) only in cases in which a council prepares a draft local environmental plan that N/A applies to land to which this Policy applies, the means to encourage compact towns and cities

(p) only in cases in which a development application in relation to proposed Section 7.11 development is determined: (i) the cumulative impacts of the proposed development on the environment, and (ii) measures to ensure that water and energy usage by the proposed development is efficient.

3.2.2 Local environmental plan

The Gosford Local Environmental Plan 2014 (the Gosford LEP) applies to the land in which the proposal site is located. The proposal site is located within land zoned as the following (refer Figure 3-1):

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 Gosford South substation: SP2 Infrastructure (rail infrastructure facility)  Wyoming sectioning hut: SP2 Infrastructure (rail infrastructure facility)  existing Gosford substation: IN1 General industrial. The zone provisions provide that the proposal can be carried out in these zones with consent. However, clause 5.12 of the LEP states that ‘…this Plan does not restrict or prohibit, or enable the restriction or prohibition of, the carrying out of any development, by or on behalf of a public authority, that is permitted to be carried out with or without development consent, or that is exempt development, under State Environmental Planning Policy (Infrastructure) 2007’. As the proposal is permitted without consent under the Infrastructure SEPP, the consent requirements of the Gosford LEP do not apply to the proposal.

3.3 Other legislative considerations

3.3.1 NSW legislation

Other environmental legislation that is directly relevant to the approval and/or assessment of the proposal is considered in Table 3-2. Table 3-2 Consideration of relevant legislation

Act Potential approval requirement Relevance to the proposal for rail infrastructure

Protection of the An environment protection licence The proposal is not considered to be a Environment (EPL) is required for scheduled scheduled activity under Schedule 1 of the Operations Act activities or scheduled POEO Act and therefore an EPL is not required 1997 (POEO Act) development work. for construction. Sydney Trains currently holds an EPL for the operation of the rail network (EPL no. 12208).The proposal would comply with the requirements of this licence as well as the general obligations of the POEO Act. No variation of this licence is considered to be required. Roads Act 1993 Approval under section 138 for Relevant road occupancy licences would be works to a public road obtained from Council as required during the construction phase. National Parks A heritage impact permit under There are no listed Aboriginal heritage items or and Wildlife Act section 87 of the Act to harm or places located on or within 200 metres of the 1974 desecrate an Aboriginal heritage site. As a result of the existing levels of site object. disturbance, there is minimal likelihood that unknown items of Aboriginal heritage significance would be present. Further information is provided in section 7.4 Water Licence for dewatering and Excavation work would be undertaken as part of Management Act interception of groundwater the proposal, and it is possible that groundwater 2000 and Water would be intercepted. Subject to confirmation Act 1912 with the Department of Primary Industries Office of Water, if Transport for NSW (as determining authority) determines that the proposal is a ‘defined minimal impact aquifer interference activity’, a license would not be required.

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Act Potential approval requirement Relevance to the proposal for rail infrastructure

Heritage Act 1977 Approval under section 57(1) for There are no listed heritage items located within works to a place, building, work, the proposal sites. There are two locally listed relic, moveable object, precinct, or heritage sites adjacent to the proposal sites. land listed on the State Heritage As a result of the existing levels of site Register. disturbance, there is minimal likelihood that An excavation permit under unknown items of historic significance or relics section 139 to disturb or excavate would be present. any land containing or likely to Further information is provided in section 7.4 contain a relic. Threatened The TSC Act lists threatened The proposal site has been cleared in the past Species species, populations or ecological and subject to previous disturbance. The Conservation Act communities to be considered in proposal would not result in any impacts to listed 1995 (TSC Act) deciding whether there is likely to flora, fauna or communities, and a species be a significant impact on impact statement is not required. threatened biota, or their habitats. Further information is provided in section 7.2. If any of these could be impacted

by the project, an assessment of significance that addresses the requirements of section 5A of the EP&A Act must be completed to determine the significance of the impact. Fisheries An objective of the FM Act is to The proposal would not include dredging, Management Act conserve key fish habitats. DPI reclamation, blockage of fish passage or 1994 (FM Act) has produced the Policy and damaging marine vegetation during either guidelines for fish habitat construction or operation. conservation and management The Gosford substation would be constructed on (DPI 2013). hardstand near mangroves (marine vegetation). This plan applies to the following Construction of the substation is unlikely to developments, works or activities, ‘harm’ the mangroves. A permit would not be each of which can impact on fish required. habitat: • dredging or reclamation • impeding fish passage • damaging marine vegetation Noxious Weeds Under Part 3 Division 1 of the Act, No noxious weeds have been recorded within Act 1993 all private landowners, occupiers, the proposal site. public authorities and Councils are required to control noxious weeds on their land.

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4 W2 2\12\ Cadastre s BRISBANE WATER R1 ct W2 ejor RE1 0 100 200 RE1 400 P D y\e A EAST n N Metres E ydS Map Projection: Transverse Mercator GOSFORD \U D R Horizontal Datum: GDA 1994

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N o RE1 Figure 3-1 Gosford LEP Zoning

3.3.2 Commonwealth legislation

Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity and Conservation Act 1999 An Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) protected matters search was undertaken in December 2014. The results of the search are summarised in Table 3-3. As no impacts are predicted, an approval under the EPBC Act would not be required.

Table 3-3 EPBC Act protected matters search results

EPBC Act protected Matter located within Comments Potential matter 1km search radius impact World Heritage Property None The proposal would not impact None on any World Heritage properties. National Heritage Places None The proposal would not impact None on any National Heritage properties. Wetlands of international None The proposal would not impact None significance (Ramsar on any wetlands. sites)

Threatened ecological One The proposal would not impact None communities on any threatened ecological communities.

Threatened species 51 in the Gosford search The proposal is located within a None area and 30 in the highly disturbed and developed Wyoming search area. urban area with limited vegetation (native or otherwise) Listed migratory species 35 in the Gosford search that would provide habitat for None area and 12 in the threatened and migratory Wyoming search area. species. Nuclear actions None The proposal does not involve a None nuclear action. Commonwealth Marine None No Commonwealth marine None Areas areas are located within the search radius. Great Barrier Reef None The Great Barrier Reef Marine None Marine Park Park is outside the search radius. Commonwealth land None The proposal would not impact None on any Commonwealth land. A water resource, in Not relevant Not relevant. None relation to coal seam gas development and large coal mining development

3.4 Summary of approval requirements

As a result of the application of the Infrastructure SEPP the proposal does not require development consent and it is subject to assessment and determination under Part 5 of the EP&A Act. No additional approvals are required.

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4. Strategic context, need and options considered

This section provides background information on the strategic and planning context for the proposal, why it is needed, and the options considered.

4.1 Strategic context and need for the proposal

4.1.1 Strategic context

The NSW Long Term Transport Master Plan (Transport for NSW, 2012) provides a framework for addressing transport challenges across NSW over the next 20 years. The master plan is designed to guide the prioritisation of available funds to deliver maximum benefits to NSW. The master plan includes 220 short, medium and long-term actions that are focused on transforming the NSW transport system. One of the actions within the master plan is to ‘Expand the Sydney Trains fleet to include modernised double-deck and new single-deck trains’. Within the next 10 years, around 52 per cent of the existing fleet would be replaced, and the size of the fleet would increase by around 28 per cent. This would involve the introduction of new rolling stock, which includes an air conditioned fleet. The proposal involves the provision of infrastructure required to meet the needs of the expanded Sydney Trains fleet, and is therefore consistent with the master plan. The Rebuilding NSW State Infrastructure Strategy (NSW Government, 2014) has highlighted the importance of sustaining productivity growth in major urban centres and regional communities, as well as supporting population growth toward almost six million people in Sydney and more than nine million people in NSW. The strategy provides the NSW Government’s commitments to investing in new infrastructure, including rail infrastructure improvements.

4.1.2 Need for the proposal

To meet the needs of the expanded and air conditioned rail fleet and the operation of the 2016 timetable, an increase in the capacity of the power supply on the Sydney Trains electrical network is required. A power study (RailCorp, 2012) undertaken as part of the PSU Program identified that a new substation and sectioning hut was required in the Gosford area to:  provide additional capacity on the Central Coast and Newcastle rail line  allow for the decommissioning and demolition of the existing Gosford Substation, which has reached the end of its recommended economic life.

4.2 Proposal development process

The power study report identified that the best way to address the identified needs would be to develop a new substation and sectioning hut at Gosford, in the vicinity of the existing substation (RailCorp, 2012).

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Transport for NSW has prepared pre-concept designs for a new substation within an existing rail depot site adjacent to Brisbane Waters, and a new sectioning hut within the rail corridor at Wyoming. The design process also involves an options review, geotechnical and environmental impact assessment. The potential environmental impacts of the construction and operation of the Gosford South Substation, the Wyoming Sectioning Hut and the demolition of the existing Gosford substation are summarised in this REF.

4.3 Objectives of the proposal

The objectives of the proposal are to:  establish a new traction substation and sectioning hut at Gosford and Wyoming in accordance with the findings of the power study (RailCorp, 2012)  ensure the reliable operation of Waratah trains, and transition to an air-conditioned fleet  improve traction power reliability, availability and capacity in the Gosford area  improve the normal system configuration voltage regulation at Gosford and allow the existing Gosford Substation to be decommissioned and demolished  achieve regulatory compliance and meet all Asset Standards Authority (includes Railcorp standards) and Australian Standards.

4.4 Options considered

4.4.1 The ‘do nothing’ option

The ‘do nothing’ option involves not undertaking the proposal. Under this option, no new substation or sectioning hut would be constructed at Gosford. This option is not considered to be acceptable, as it would result in the Sydney Trains electrical network not being able to meet the needs described in section 4.1. Studies have already shown that the existing power supply network cannot meet the future needs of the Sydney Trains network.

4.4.2 Preferred substation location

Following a review of site options only one location option was nominated by Transport for NSW as suitable for the Gosford South substation. The site was selected because it has the space for a substation, is located adjacent to the rail network in the location preferred by the power study. A number of other location options were considered for the substation site within the locality of Gosford. However they were rejected for the following reasons:  Transport for NSW owned land at the corner of Showground Road and Etna Road (closer to Gosford Station): this site is currently leased to residential tenants. Building a substation at the site would require termination of the lease or relocation of the tenants which is not preferred by Transport for NSW.  Transport for NSW owned land opposite Gosford High School at the corner of Showground Road and Etna Road (away from Gosford station): this site is less feasible for connection to overhead wire overlaps. Furthermore, building a substation at the site would involve using land currently used for parking by Gosford High School.

 Commercial land at the corner of Etna Road/Pacific Highway: this site is on land not owned by Transport for NSW and is occupied by a commercial property. Acquisition of this property would result in significant time delays. Furthermore, the site is located on the opposite side of high voltage feeders resulting in additional cost to provide the necessary connections.

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 NSW Trains staff car park Showground Road: this site is not suitable because it is too narrow for the installation of rectifier transformers.

4.4.3 Sectioning hut site - Showground Road opposite the existing Gosford Substation

Only one location option for the sectioning hut was nominated by Transport for NSW. The proposed site was selected because it is located close to the substation site and within the rail corridor, there is sufficient land available, and there is ready access to the road network.

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5. Description of the proposal

This section provides a description of the proposal, based on the design work undertaken to date. This includes an overview of the key components and design features of the substation and sectioning hut, and a description of how they would be constructed and operated.

5.1 Overview

The proposal is currently at the pre-concept stage. Information related to design of the proposal would be confirmed when the detailed design is finalised. The following description is based on the pre-concept design and construction scope of works prepared by SMEC in March 2015. The design of the proposal would continue to be refined during future design phases. The detailed design would integrate all relevant considerations, including:  urban design and visual  environmental and sustainability  functional and operational needs and requirements  access and maintenance  security.

Figure 2-1 and Figure 2-2 show the location of the Gosford South substation and Wyoming sectioning hut. Architectural drawings and site plans for are provided in Appendix A.

5.2 Gosford South substation

5.2.1 Building and equipment

The proposal would include a substation building with external, bounded high voltage (HV) and/or 1500 volt (V) direct current (DC) enclosures at ground level to house the electrical equipment and associated facilities.

The maximum external height of the building would be about six metres above the ground level. In addition, there would be a basement level below ground. The total size of the substation building would be about 47 metres long by 15 metres wide. The substation building would have a floor area of about 705 square metres. The cable chamber would be used to reticulate cables within the substation and sectioning hut, with in-ground cable pits and buried conduits used to house cables connecting the substation to the existing rail network. Level one of building would have an internal clear height from the ground level of about 2.4 metres or a minimum finished floor level above the 1:100 year flood level. Electrical equipment within the building would be accessed by roller shutter doors located off a walkway on the western sides of the building, with the main personnel entrance also located on the western side. The 1500 V switchroom would be an outdoor yard located at the northern end of the building adjacent to the overhead wiring structure for the HV connection. The external yard would be located at ground level on the east and north side of the substation building. The yards would be bunded and would contain a transformer and a reactor. The substation would generally contain the following facilities and equipment:  two 5.35 MW 66 kV/600-600 V rectifier transformer  one 66/11 kV 1 MV power transformer

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 two 66 kV 600/433 V auxiliary transformer  one 0.5 millihenry 4000 amp reactor  two sections of 66 kV AC switchboard  1500 V DC circuit breakers  battery set and battery charger  supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) remote terminal facilities  protection relays  11 kV switchgear  11 kV harmonic filter  1500 V DC harmonic filter  distribution boards  changeover panel  administration office  staff toilet

 other ancillary equipment. The external bunded yards containing the rectifier transformers and reactor would be connected to a common oil-water separator system, via flame trap pits within each bund. The yards would be designed to ensure that any oil spills are contained on-site within the bund and/or the oil separator pit.

5.2.2 Building design and form

The cable chamber would be constructed on a concrete floor slab supported on bored piers. Conduits would be laid under the floor for the external HV connections. A steel framed structure would be constructed off the ground floor slab to support the first floor slab. The walls of the cable chamber and switchroom would consist of concrete wall panels. The roof of the substation would consist of a galvanised steel frame. Apart from the air conditioned office space, the substation would be naturally ventilated, with high and low level storm-proof louvres on the eastern and western facades of the building.

5.2.3 Other site buildings

The existing depot site contains a number of storage sheds and administrative buildings. The storage sheds situated along the southern boundary of the site and the administrative building on the eastern boundary will be demolished to provide the space needed for the new substation and access around the substation. The main office building on the western side of the site will be retained for continued use by Sydney Trains.

5.2.4 Security fencing and lighting

The substation would be located within the current Sydney Trains civil depot and car park, which is fenced. Additional fencing would be provided around the substation part of site. The height and design of the fence would be as per the Sydney Trains substation fencing standards. The substation would have wall mounted security lighting above each door opening for night- time illumination. External yards would have lights that would be manually switched for night maintenance as required.

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5.2.5 Operational access and car parking

The existing vehicular access gate from Riou Street into the Sydney Trains civil depot and car park would continue to be used as the substation site entrance. One emergency gate would be provided from the site to the Central Coast Highway for personnel access. Parking for two to three utility vehicles would be provided on the north side of the substation.

5.2.6 Chemical storage

It is likely that the following quantities of oil would be used within the oil-cooled transformers on- site, which would be located within appropriately secure and bunded areas attached to the substation building:  about 3,300 litres of oil in the reactor  about 5,500 litres of oil in the rectifier transformer. The bunded areas would be designed and constructed in accordance with relevant Australian Standards. Each transformer would be positioned within its own bunded yard, which would be connected via complying sump and flame-trap arrangements to the common oil-water separator located at the northern end of the substation. The oil-water separator would collect all run off from the outdoor yards. The oil and water separator would separate any oil from the water. The water would be discharged to the stormwater while any oil would be removed from site for disposal at an appropriately licensed facility.

5.3 Wyoming sectioning hut

5.3.1 Building and equipment

The dimensions of the building are approximately ten metres by five metres, and about three metres in height from the concrete base. In addition to the sectioning hut the structure would have additional footpath connecting it to the access point. The total size of the building including the concrete base would be about 10 metres long by five metres wide. The building would have a floor area of about 50 square metres. The sectioning hut would include the following facilities and equipment:

 1500 V direct current circuit breaker (DCCB) feeders  SCADA and remote terminal facilities  isolation transformer  battery set and battery charger  distribution boards.

5.3.2 Building design and form

The sectioning hut building would incorporate a metal framed or brick, metal clad structure. The building would be constructed off site and equipment fitted before being transported to the site. The building would be constructed at site on cast-in-situ concrete bored piers. A concrete trench would be placed under the western edge of building, with conduit or trench interconnection to existing cableways.

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5.3.3 Security fencing and lighting

The sectioning hut would be located within the rail corridor, which is fenced. Security fencing is proposed to replace existing boundary fencing on Showground Road. The walls on either side of the hut would provide the required security for the site. The sectioning hut building would have wall mounted security lighting above each door opening for night-time illumination. The external yard would have lights that would be manually switched for night maintenance as required.

5.3.4 Operational access and car parking

Access to the site would be via the switching compound access gate. This gate is to the south of the sectioning hut off Showground Road.

5.4 Connections to existing overhead wiring system

5.4.1 Connection of Gosford South substation to existing HV AC feeders

66 kV feeder connections The existing 66 kV feeder would enter the proposed Gosford South substation either via cable or aerial route with additional transmission poles subject to final design. Aerial earth wire would also be installed on either side of the substation. The redundant aerial wires would be removed and poles modified subject to final aerial arrangements. The cable route would either be buried or placed within a galvanised steel trough (GST).

The proposed alignment of the feeder connections is shown in Appendix A.

11 kV feeder connections The existing 11 kV feeder north of the substation would be cabled into the proposed substation. A cable route from the proposed Gosford South substation would then be connected through a new underline or an overhead crossing to the existing aerial feeder south of the substation. The cable route would either be buried or placed within a GST. The proposed alignment of the feeder connections is shown in Appendix A.

5.4.2 Connection of substation and sectioning hut to 1500 V DC overhead wiring system

Substation The 1500 V DC traction feeder cables would be connected to the existing Sydney Trains overhead wiring located inside the rail corridor. The 1500 V DC feeder connection would also include positive cabling between the proposed Gosford South substation and the existing overhead wire feeding locations, and decommissioning of all redundant cables.

Sectioning hut The existing 1500 V DC traction feeder cables from the sectioning hut would be connected to existing Sydney Trains overhead wiring (OHW) via the new switch yard located inside the rail corridor that was constructed as part of the Gosford Passing Loops rail project.

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5.4.3 Service connections and relocation

Service connections The proposal would involve connections to existing services networks for both sites, including connections to Council’s water and stormwater network. The proposal would involve constructing underground cables and pipeline connections to these existing services. Pipelines would be constructed of a suitable material.

Service relocations Service relocations required for the proposal include:  communication and signalling cabling run within the rail corridor close to the proposed sectioning hut building  Telstra services run close to Gosford substation  relocation of Council’s stormwater drainage pipes may be also required at the substation site. In the event that detailed design identifies the need for any relocations, these would be undertaken in consultation with the utility providers. An earthing study is being undertaken to assess the Earth Potential Rise effect of the substation on Telstra services. That may require services search by a Telstra accredited locator followed by relocation of Telstra services if required based on the outcomes of the earthing study

5.5 Decommissioning and demolition of the existing Gosford substation

Once the Gosford South substation is operational, the existing Gosford substation would be decommissioned and demolished. Decommissioning would involve:  removal of all redundant electrical equipment both within and external to the substation building including any redundant cables  removal of high voltage cables and cable trays  demolition of brick building and all structures to slab level

 other services (including the light and power conduits) would be capped off and retained  any essential repairs to prevent deterioration and to secure the site.

5.6 Construction information

5.6.1 Indicative construction activities

Construction would involve the following indicative works:  site establishment: – services protection works – establishment of the construction compounds – installation of safety fencing around the proposal sites – installation of erosion control measures – establishment of access to the sites – vegetation removal and/or trimming, as required

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 enabling works including installation of conduits (in trenches) to rail corridor for connections from the substation to the existing feeders  site excavation and benching  trenching of water and wastewater mains from the site to the connection points - trenches would be about 600 millimetres wide, with the depths varying depending on local ground conditions or other site requirements  piling works and site excavation for in-ground services (make use of existing as applicable): – use of piling rigs to construct the piles for the ground slab – excavate building and bund yard areas for construction of in-ground pits and conduits – excavate for oil/water separator tank and related services  construct cable chamber retaining walls and drainage  substation construction – involves delivery of any precast ground slabs, erecting the steel framed support structure, placing the floor slab, erecting wall panels and installing the steel roof framing and roof sheeting  electrical works and fit out, including connection to the electrical network - connection to the overhead wiring structures would require some trenching activities, the size and location of trenches would be confirmed during detailed design  decommissioning of existing Gosford substation (once the Gosford South substation is operational) and associated redundant conductors, cables and electrical equipment

 demolition of the existing Gosford substation brick building  paving works and driveway construction followed by installation of security fencing and gates

 restoration of disturbed areas and landscaping as required and site clean-up. Excavation would generate a combined volume for both sites of about 450 cubic metres of spoil, all of which would need to be removed from the site.

5.6.2 Construction workforce

Construction of the proposal would involve a maximum workforce of about 30-50 people.

5.6.3 Equipment

Plant and equipment used to construct the proposal may include (but not be limited to):

 water cart  concrete saws  backhoes  hand tools  jack hammers  low loader  mobile crane  on-site crane  tip trucks  piling rig  concrete pumps  air compressor  generators  road sweepers  large delivery trucks  light commercial and  concrete agitator passenger vehicles trucks

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5.6.4 Construction compounds, access and vehicle movements

Construction compound There would be a construction compound for each site. The proposed location for Gosford South is shown in Appendix A and would be located within the depot site. A construction compound for the sectioning hut would be within the rail corridor and for the substation demolition within the old substation site. Once a contractor has been selected, the location of the construction compound would be reviewed. Should the preferred location differ from the location considered by this REF, consultation would be undertaken with Transport for NSW to confirm the suitability of the location and whether any additional environmental assessment is required. The construction site including the compound would be securely fenced with temporary fencing. Signage would be erected advising the general public of access restrictions. Upon completion of construction, the temporary site compound, work areas and any stockpiles would be removed, the site would be cleared of all rubbish and materials and rehabilitated.

Construction access and parking Construction vehicles would access the Gosford South substation site via the existing gates off Riou Street. A crane would need to be temporarily established on Riou Street on the road or the road reserve, within a temporary work zone, to lift over-sized substation equipment (such as transformers and rectifiers) to the proposal site. The majority of construction vehicles would park within the Sydney Trains Civil Depot and car park for the substation. Some vehicles may park along the surrounding road network during peak construction periods. At the sectioning hut site there is no area to accommodate construction vehicles within the rail corridor, and therefore road side parking would be utilised along Showground Road and the surrounding road network if necessary. A lifting platform would be temporarily established on Showground Road within a temporary work zone, to lift the sectioning hut into position.

The distance and location of temporary work zones would be arranged in consultation with Gosford City Council by the construction contractor.

Vehicle movements Anticipated daily construction vehicle movements are shown in Table 5-1. Table 5-1 Daily construction traffic movements

Site Anticipated maximum daily light vehicles

Gosford South substation 20-40

Sectioning hut 10-20

Existing Gosford substation 20-30 (for short time during demolition)

The delivery of some equipment, such as transformers, would be considered oversized deliveries. These deliveries would be undertaken in accordance with the requirements of relevant authorities. Transport and lifting into place of the sectioning hut would require closure of Showground Road during lifting and one lane under traffic control during skating, along with the presence of a 132 kV safety spotter. It is anticipated that this would be undertaken at night.

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A crane would need to be temporarily established on Riou Street or the road reserve, within a temporary work zone. This may require temporary closure of one lane on Riou Street. This activity may be undertaken at night.

5.6.5 Construction timing, staging and work hours

Construction timing Construction would commence in late 2015. The proposal would take approximately 18 months to construct. The main civil construction activities would be completed in approximately 15 months, while the fit out of the substation would take approximately three months. The decommissioning and demolition of the existing Gosford substation works would take approximately three months and would not commence until after commissioning of the new substation and sectioning hut.

Work hours Construction would occur during the standard hours set out in the Interim Construction Noise Guideline (DECC, 2009):  Mondays to Fridays between 7 am and 6 pm  Saturdays between 8 am and 1 pm  no work would occur on Sundays or public holidays.

The project would also utilise a number of weekend track possessions between 2015 and 2017. Work during these possessions would generally occur between 7 am and 7 pm on Saturdays and Sundays, with the first hour of each day being utilised for tool box talks and other non-noise creating activities. Out of hours works (including work on Sundays) would be limited mainly to scheduled track possession periods, however some out of hours works would be required outside of these periods. Works that may need to be undertaken during track possessions and out of hours include connection to the overhead wiring system, installation of certain electrical equipment, installation of underline crossings and delivery and/or removal of oversized equipment.

If out of hours work is required, beyond those assessed in this REF (section 7.6.4) the contractor would obtain approval from Transport for NSW, prior to works being undertaken. All out of hour works and activities outside the recommended standard hours are to be undertaken with additional mitigation measures in accordance with the Construction Noise Strategy (Transport for NSW, 2012).

Track possession periods The proposal involves some works during track possession periods, including connection works and the decommissioning of the existing Gosford Substation. A number of predetermined possession periods would be available. In the event that additional special possessions are required, these would be arranged in consultation with Sydney Trains. Controlled power outages, which may need to occur out of hours, would also be required during construction.

5.7 Operation of the proposal

The main function of the substation would be to convert the incoming 66 kV power supply to a form which can be used by train services on the Sydney Trains network. The substation would operate 24 hours a day to ensure that power supply is provided to the network at all times. No permanent staff members would be located within the substation or sectioning hut building.

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Maintenance activities would involve approximately three to five visits each month. These visits would generally consist of one utility vehicle accessing the site. In emergency situations additional vehicles may need to access the site. Oversized vehicles may occasionally need to access the site to maintain and/or replace the transformers. Should this be required, these vehicles would enter the sites from Central Coast Highway and/or Showground Road.

5.8 Sustainability

A sustainability assessment of the proposal was undertaken as part of the design process in accordance with the NSW Sustainable Design Guidelines Version 3.0 (Transport for NSW, 2013). Under the guidelines, the proposal is considered to be a ‘maintenance facility’. A number of themes were considered in the assessment including:  energy and greenhouse  climate resilience  materials and waste  biodiversity and heritage  water  pollution control

 community benefit. The assessment identified discretionary and compulsory initiatives that could be incorporated into the project.

Compulsory initiatives may relate to a corporate target or are considered to be fundamental to the delivery of sustainable assets. If an initiative is considered applicable, then it must be completed. A discretionary initiative may not be practical for a particular project or be the most appropriate initiative to meet a sustainability outcome. The assessment for the pre-concept design stage identified 15 compulsory initiatives and 59 discretionary initiatives that relate to either design or construction or both. Compulsory initiatives relevant for this project are listed in Table 5-2. The design would continue to be refined, and an assessment of the project against the guidelines would also be undertaken during the detailed design phase. Table 5-2 Sustainable design guidelines compulsory initiatives

Environmental Initiative description theme Undertake AS14064-2 (greenhouse gases – project level) compliant carbon footprinting exercise for all projects with a capital investment value over $10 million in accordance with Transport for NSW's Greenhouse Gas Inventory Guide for Construction Projects. The carbon footprint is to be used to inform decision-making in design and construction. Use standard carbon coefficient values for construction material and fuel usage. Monitor and report the carbon footprint every six months Energy and during construction. greenhouse Purchase plug-in equipment with at least five star Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) rating (fridges, air conditioners, etc) or an Energy Star accreditation (IT equipment). Insulate covered and indoor areas. Techniques include adequate thermal mass, and insulating walls and ceilings. Also ensure that all opening are sealed.

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Environmental Initiative description theme Purchase at least 25% of site-based electricity energy needs from Green Power or renewable sources during construction of the asset. Perform a climate change impact assessment for each project worth over $10M using current scientific predictions (i.e. Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) etc) to determine the hazards/risks associated with future climatic conditions. Refer to Climate 'Climate Change Impacts and Risk Management: A Guide for Business and resilience Government' and the 'AGIC Guidelines for Climate Change Adaptation' for guidance. All projects with a capital investment value over $10 million to design out extreme, high and medium risks as identified in the climate change impact assessment where practicable. Use whole of life costing methodologies (e.g. Life-Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA) Method) in line with ISO 15686-5 to inform decision-making on significant issues pertaining to project scope options (e.g. route selection) and material/technology selection (e.g. steel versus concrete bridge). Significant issues can be determined using qualitative criteria such as likely scale of environmental impact.

Materials and waste Ensure at least 95 per cent of construction and demolition waste (by weight) is diverted from landfill, and either recycled or reused, for all projects with a capital investment value over $10 million. Reduce the absolute quantity of Portland cement by at least 30 per cent, as an average across all concrete mixes, by substituting it with supplementary cementitious materials (such as a fly ash, ground granulated blast furnace slag or alkali activated cements) subject to meeting strength and durability requirements. Biodiversity For non-significant impacts (inside or outside the rail corridor) offsetting is to be in and heritage accordance with the TPD Vegetation Offset Guide as applicable. Ensure onsite amenities using potable water comply with the following criteria: Toilets to be WELS (max 4.5/3 L/min) dual flush toilets; Urinals to be waterless; All taps to be WELS (max 7.5 L/min); (see Green Star Office v3). Any other water fixtures should achieve at least a 5 Star WELS rating. Water Specify sensors, timers or spring loaded devices for taps where possible to reduce water loss from taps that are left running. Projects that have capital value greater than $10 million are to monitor and record water consumption at the site office, all outlets available to the construction site and other water uses such as from non--potable sources.

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6. Stakeholder and community consultation

This section summarises the community and stakeholder consultation undertaken as an input to development of the proposal and the REF.

6.1 Consultation for the proposal

6.1.1 Communications plan

A consultation strategy for the proposal was developed by GHD in consultation with Transport for NSW. The purpose of the Community Engagement Plan is to describe the management and communication processes that will be employed to provide information and seek community input to the design and assessment of the proposal.

6.1.2 Consultation objectives

The plan states that the overall objective of consultation is to ensure that key stakeholders and the broader community are aware of the project and are given the opportunity to express their views. The plan identifies the following objectives for consultation:

 identify the impact of the proposed works on internal and external stakeholders, customers, residents and the community  provide a proactive approach to managing communication/ information flow

 enhance Transport for NSW working relationship with its customers, residents and the community when undertaking essential capital or maintenance works.

6.1.3 Consultation and communication activities

As outlined in section 3.2.1 formal statutory consultation under the Infrastructure SEPP is not required. The communications plan provides for the following consultation activities:  letters to stakeholders

 meetings and briefings with key stakeholders  distribution of a community newsletter  targeted consultation of the REF for two weeks. The following key stakeholders have been contacted to date:  Roads and Maritime Services  Gosford City Council representatives  residents and businesses located within the vicinity of the proposal sites  Sydney Trains  Transport for NSW staff  utility providers who service the respective sites.

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6.2 Targeted consultation

Targeted consultation of the REF will be carried out for a period of two weeks, during which time written submissions will be accepted. The REF will be placed at a location nominated by Gosford City Council: The REF would also be available via the Transport for NSW website at: www.transport.nsw.gov.au/projects. Surrounding landowners and occupants would be contacted prior to the consultation period. This would involve provision of a notification of the consultation period and how to access the REF. Throughout the consultation period the following contact mechanisms would be available to the community:  Transport for NSW’s 1800 number (1800 684 490)  Transport for NSW’s project email address ([email protected])  Transport for NSW’s project webpage (www.transport.nsw.gov.au/projects).

6.3 Future consultation activities

Following the targeted consultation of the REF, Transport for NSW will consider the issues raised in the submissions and prepare a report to:

 summarise and respond to the issues raised  provide any new information concerning the proposal  identify any changes to the proposal and the potential impacts of those changes.

Anyone who makes a submission (and provides their contact details) would be notified when the proposal's determination report is available for viewing on the Transport for NSW website. Should Transport for NSW proceed with the proposal, consultation with the community and key stakeholders would be ongoing in the lead up to, and during, construction of the proposal. Transport for NSW’s information line and email address would continue to be available. Targeted consultation methods, such as letters, notifications, signage and verbal communications, would occur as required. Transport for NSW’s 1800 775 465 number would also be available for any complaints or enquiries during construction.

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7. Environmental impact assessment

This section summarises the environmental impact assessment undertaken for the proposal and includes summaries of the specialist studies undertaken.

7.1 Soils, water quality and flooding

7.1.1 Existing environment

The following studies have been undertaken to investigate site conditions.  Douglas Partners (2015a) Report on Preliminary Site Investigation, Power Supply Upgrade Program, Proposed Gosford Substation and Wyoming Sectioning Hut, Riou Street and Showground Road, Gosford  Douglas Partners (2015b) Report on Geotechnical Investigation, Power Supply Upgrade Program, Proposed Gosford Substation and Wyoming Sectioning Hut, Riou Street and Showground Road, Gosford  Douglas Partners (2015c) Pre-demolition hazardous building materials report.

Report findings are summarised below and shown on Figure 7-1 and Figure 7-2.

Gosford South substation site

Geology, topography and soils The interim 1:25000 scale Geological Series Sheet for Gosford indicates that the site is underlain by Quaternary Alluvium which comprises deposits of sand, silt, clay and gravel. The geological mapping also indicates that the sectioning hut site is located on a geological boundary between Quaternary Alluvium and the Terrigal Formation. The Terrigal Formation comprises sandstone, siltstone, claystone conglomerate which weather to form medium to high plasticity clays. The 1:100 000 scale Gosford-Lake Macquarie Soil Landscapes Sheet indicates that the Gosford South substation site is located within an area mapped as ‘disturbed terrain’, which suggests that the area has been reclaimed for urban development.

The site is relatively level with surface levels between two to three metres AHD. The existing surface comprises pavements of bitumen and concrete with a sandy gravel sub-base. Underlying the surface covering, fill material of brown, grey and red-brown silty clay with some gravel and cobles with some ash material was present. Natural alluvial soils were present between 3.5 to 6.5 metres, described as dark grey sandy or clayey silt, silt or silty sand. Residual very stiff light grey sandy clays and clayey sands were encountered in two bores. Sandstone was encountered between 4.45 and 6.6 metres across the site. The site sits within an area identified as having high risk of potential acid sulfate soils (see Figure 7-1). Acid sulfate soil screening and testing indicates that all soils (filling and natural soils) at the proposed site are considered to be acid sulfate soils.

Contamination The preliminary site investigation included some soil sampling for contaminated soils. The results did not identify any contamination on site. However the site was observed to have other buildings on site suggesting previous demolitions and significant fill material has been noted at the site. Fill material may contain the following contaminants:  metals  total recoverable hydrocarbons (TRH)

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 benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, xylene (BTEX)  polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH)  polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB)  organochlorine pesticides (OCP)  asbestos. The existing buildings were observed to contain small volumes of fuels and oils. Minor staining on the concrete pavement was observed within the workshop buildings. Contamination from workshop materials could include: metals, TRH, BTEX, and PAH. The Pre-demolition hazardous building materials report (Douglas Partners 2015c) identified the following materials within the buildings to be removed at the proposed Gosford South substation site:  asbestos-containing materials  synthetic mineral fibre  lead-based paint  polychlorinated biphenyl (PCBs)  chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFC) refrigerants.

Drainage and groundwater Fagans Bay (Brisbane Waters) is adjacent to the south-west boundary of the site. A stormwater drain runs under the site and exits just beyond the southern boundary directly into Fagans Bay. Several drains were observed on site and are believed to connect to the stormwater drain. Groundwater was encountered between 2.5 and 3.5 metres below the ground surface.

Flooding is unlikely to occur at the site at the 1 in 100 year flood rate, although areas around the site may be susceptible to flooding. Areas susceptible to flooding are shown on Figure 7-2.

Wyoming sectioning hut site

Geology, topography and soils The interim 1:25000 scale Geological Series Sheet for Gosford indicates that the site is located on a geological boundary between Quaternary Alluvium and the Terrigal Formation. The Terrigal Formation comprises sandstone, siltstone, claystone conglomerate which weather to form medium to high plasticity clays. The 1:100 000 scale Gosford-Lake Macquarie Soil Landscapes Sheet indicates that the site is mapped as comprising ‘erosional soils’ of the Erina Landscape. The site is located on a fill embankment which, at the time of the investigation, was covered in gravel. The embankment batter was covered with erosion protection matting and had small shrubs/weeds growing out of it. Dark grey sandy gravel fill material to 0.3 metres deep was encountered across the site. This was underlain by grey ballast rock, clayey sand with sandstone cobbles and trace building waste (timber, steel bolts, concrete). Beneath the fill material alluvial brown silty sandy clays and clays to 4.5 metres was underlain by light grey clayey sand and sand to six metres. The alluvial soils were underlain by very stiff to hard light grey sandy clays and thinly bedded iron stained sandstone bands to 7.5 metres. Bedrock of light grey sandstone was encountered from 7.5 metres to the depth of investigation. Acid sulfate soils are not expected to be encountered at this site.

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Contamination The preliminary site investigation included some soil sampling for contaminated soils. The results did not identify any contamination on site. However significant fill material has been noted at the site. Fill material may contain the following contaminants:  metals  total recoverable hydrocarbons (TRH)  benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, xylene (BTEX)  polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH)  polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB)  organochlorine pesticides (OCP).

Drainage and groundwater The Preliminary Site Investigation (Douglas Partners 2015a) identified the surface levels on Showground Road, within the vicinity of the sectioning hut site, as about four to five metres AHD. The embankment batter has a slope of approximately 45 degrees. The slope of the site appears to direct surface runoff (via overland flow) to Showground Road which would then enter Council’s stormwater system and discharge to Narara Creek (approximately 250 metres north- west of site). Site observations identified surface levels on top of the embankment were about two to three metres higher than the adjacent levels on Showground Road.

Flooding is unlikely to occur at the site at the 1 in 100 year flood rate, although areas around the site may be susceptible to flooding. Areas susceptible to flooding are shown on Figure 7-2. Groundwater was encountered at 4.5 metres below groundwater in one of the groundwater bores.

Existing Gosford substation site

Geology, topography and soils The existing Gosford substation site is anticipated to have a similar geology to that discussed for the Wyoming sectioning hut above.

Contamination The existing Gosford substation is large brick structure on concrete slab with pitched metal frame to asbestos ceiling linings to a profiled metal roof with asbestos cement eaves and wooden fascia’s. Guttering and downpipes are metal. The substation yard is a large open area containing transformers. The Pre-demolition hazardous building materials report (Douglas Partners 2015c) identified the following materials within the buildings to be removed at the proposed Gosford South substation site and the existing substation site:  asbestos-containing materials  synthetic mineral fibre  lead-based paint  PCBs  CFC and HCFC refrigerants.

GHD | Report for Transport for New South Wales - Gosford South Substation and Wyoming Sectioning Hut REF, 21/24199 | 39 B R NARARA A D erz yay Y wny S K G U E Y L E A L R Y D W A C H IG O A H WYOMING R R IC S A N R CIF N A AP A N M Existing Gosford Proposed Wyomi ng wyz Substation Sectioning Hu t

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Drainage and groundwater The Preliminary Site Investigation (Douglas Partners, 2015a) identified the surface levels on Showground Road, within the vicinity of the sectioning hut site, as about four to five metres AHD. The site is below the 1 in 100 year flood level, although areas around the site may be susceptible to flooding as shown on Figure 7-2

7.1.2 Potential impacts

Construction Construction of the proposal would involve demolition works, disturbance to the ground surface to construct the slabs, retaining wall and underground services. Small stockpiles of excavated soil would be created during construction. In accordance with the NSW Sustainable Design Guidelines (Transport for NSW, 2013), opportunities would be investigated for the reuse of 90 per cent of excavated, non- contaminated, spoil. The spoil would be reused on-site where possible to either backfill excavations or during site levelling works. Excess spoil (up to about 450 cubic metres) not suitable for backfilling would be stockpiled in a suitable location prior to being tested, classified, and disposed of at an appropriately licensed facility.

Soil disturbance Excavation and stockpiling activities, if not adequately managed, could have the following impacts:  erosion of exposed soil and stockpiled materials  dust generation from excavation and vehicle movements over exposed soil

 an increase in sediment loads entering the stormwater system and/or local runoff. These impacts are considered to be minimal, as exposure of soil and the stockpiling of spoil would be temporary and short-term in duration.

Contamination issues The approach to managing any contaminated finds would be specified in the construction environmental management plan (CEMP). This includes any contaminated/hazardous material identified at either site during the decommissioning works. This material would be removed from site and treated or disposed of at a licensed facility, and the site would be remediated where required. The proposal would have the potential to result in soil and water contamination via any accidental fuel or chemical spills from plant and equipment. The installation and commissioning of electrical equipment (for example, the transformers) would involve injecting oils and other chemicals on-site. The potential for impacts as a result of any spills or leaks would be managed by the implementation of measures provided in section 7.1.3. Acid sulfate soils may be disturbed at the Gosford South substation site by activities such as shallow drainage or excavations. Construction which may expose acid sulfate soils would need to be undertaken in accordance with an acid sulfate soil management plan, prepared as part of the CEMP in accordance with the Acid Sulfate Soils Management Advis