MONA VALE RD - PROPOSED ROAD UPGRADE BETWEEN …

Landscape Character, Visual Impact Assessment & Urban Design Study

NOVEMBER 2016INTEGRATE D

ENVIRONMENTAL

DE SIGN

MONA VALE RD - PROPOSED ROAD UPGRADE BETWEEN McCARRS CREEK RD AND POWDER WORKS RD

Landscape Character, V isual Impact Assessment & Urban Design Study November 2016

Issue Date of Issue Submission Author ReviewA 02.08.2016 Draft Report MW JvGB 10.10.2016 Draft Report MW JvGC 07.11.2016 Final Draft Report MW JvG

This report has been prepared:

FOR:

BY:

Level 3, Studio 3“The Cooperage”56 Bowman StreetPYRMONT NSW 2009

t. +61 29571 7900f. +61 29571 7600

email: [email protected]

Contact: Miguel Wustemann

C O N T E N T S1 . 0 I N T R O D U CT I O N 1

1.1 Background 11.2 Purpose of this Project 11.3 The Project 11.4 Methodology 3

2 . 0 CO N T E X T U A L A N A LYS I S 5

2.1 Regional Context 52.2 Landuse & Connectivity 82.3 Heritage 122.4 Topography 142.5 Vegetation 162.6 Issues and Opportunities Summary 18

3 . 0 L A N D S CA P E C H A R ACT E R A N A LYS I S 2 0

3.1 Landscape Character Zones 20

4 . 0 L A N D S CA P E C H A R ACT E R A S S ES S M E N T 3 0

5 . 0 V I S U A L I M PACT A S S ES S M E N T 3 3

5.1 Visual Envelope 33

6 . 0 P R O P O S E D U R BA N D ES I G N S T R AT E GY 4 5

6.1 Urban Design Corridor Vision 456.2 Urban Design Strategy 45

7 . 0 U R BA N CO N C E PT D ES I G N 4 8

7.1 Concept Design Overview 487.2 Concept Design Plans 487.3 Design Criteria for Structures and Components 647.4 Re-vegetation strategy 71

8 . 0 CO N C LU S I O N 7 3

Landscape Character, V isual Impact Assessment & Urban Design Study November 2016

Table of Figures Figure 1.1 Plan illustrating the proposal’s works 2Figure 2.1 Regional context map. 5Figure 2.2 Local context map. 6Figure 2.3 Mona Vale Road West - Site Context 7Figure 2.4 Two national parks interface with the road corridor, allowing a strong vegetation ribbon to flank both sides of the road with pristine bushland. 8Figure 2.5 Land Use & Connectivity map 9Figure 2.6 Draft Structure Plan for the land development of the area of Ingleside. 10Figure 2.7 Detailed plan for the extension of Harvey Road. The proposal would affect a few residences, as well as heritage items (Monterey Pines). 11Figure 2.8 Heritage map 13Figure 2.9 The road crosses through very rugged topography and exposes the geology of the area through rock cuttings in key locations 14Figure 2.10 Topography and landform map 15Figure 2.11 Native Vegetation in the Year 1750. 16Figure 2.12 Native Vegetation in the Year 2000. 16Figure 2.13 Vegetation Mapping within the study area 17Figure 2.14 Mona Vale Road West - Issues and Opportunities 19Figure 3.1 The general area has a strong bushland and semi-rural character with large properties and limited built form. 20Figure 3.2 Map illustrating the identified landscape character zones. 21Figure 3.3 View at the corner of McCarrs Creek Road and Yulong Avenue. a few restaurants define this area. 22Figure 3.4 Property along Kanangra Avenue. Note the dominance of the bushland, creating an enclosed sense of space. 22Figure 3.5 Modest residence along Kanangra Avenue. Note the informal and semi-rural character with unsealed driveways. 22Figure 3.6 Villa complex along Kanangra Avenue, fronting Mona Vale Road. This property enjoys panoramic views towards the north. 22Figure 3.7 View of the beginning of the road corridor, looking east with Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park to the left, and bushland to the right. 23Figure 3.8 Views to the sea are obtained from a couple of key ridgelines in this zone, providing strong local context. 23Figure 3.9 View looking into bushland that contains the views of the roadway to the north of the road corridor, and provides a strong contextual setting. 23Figure 3.10 Unsealed fire track through high quality bushland setting with mature trees, including Yellow -top Ash Mallee trees and Duffys Forest. 23Figure 3.11 View along Wirreanda Road looking east. Note the semi-rural character with extensive grassed areas and rural type fencing. 24Figure 3.12 Residential property along Bungendore Street. This rural-residential property includes a horse stud. 24Figure 3.13 An intermix of residential and commercial properties flank Wirreanda Road. 24Figure 3.14 Most residences tend to be well set back from Wirreanda Road, with extensive vegetative screening, thereby limiting views beyond. 24Figure 3.15 Modest residence on the lower slopes. Also on the upper slopes are some smaller residences with a rural to semi-rural character. 25Figure 3.16 View from Addison Road looking west towards the valley (Landscape Character Zone C) 25Figure 3.17 Large residence along Addison Road overlooking the valley beyond. 25Figure 3.18 Large estate adjacent Addison Road. This property would be adjacent to the proposed extension of Powder Works Road. 25Figure 3.19 View along Wirreanda Road looking east. Note the semi-rural character with extensive grassed areas and rural type fencing. 26Figure 3.20 View of the grounds of the Hamazkaine Arshak & Sophie Galstaun School in Ingleside. 26Figure 3.21 This zone includes large open spaces with stands of mature trees. View looking from the school towards the extension of Powder Works Road. 26Figure 3.22 There are a number of residential-commercial properties within this zone. 26Figure 3.23 View of the nine sided temple which can be seen from as far as the Tasman Sea. There are only seven Baha’i Temples in the world. 27Figure 3.24 Parts of the property remain as bushland, providing a buffer zone for the complex. 27Figure 3.25 Staff residence within the grounds of the complex. 27Figure 3.26 The park like setting with its manicured gardens contributes to the character of the complex. 27Figure 3.27 Large villa set on generous grounds with an established garden adjacent to Power Works Road. 28Figure 3.28 Residence along Waratah Road with sea-side views, set on a large block of land. 28Figure 3.29 An intermix of residential and commercial properties flank Wirreanda Road. 28Figure 3.30 Residence along Powder Works Road. Note the dense bushland surrounding the property. 28Figure 3.31 View along Kimbriki Road looking east. There are two residences generally isolated and surrounded by bushland setting. 29Figure 3.32 Views towards the valley below with the bushland setting and the sea beyond contribute to the character and identity of this zone. 29Figure 3.33 Residence along Kimbriki Road. These two residences are in close proximity to the intersection of Kimbriki Road and Mona Vale Road. 29Figure 3.34 View from further afield, down Kimbriki Road, looking towards the ridgeline where the alignment is proposed. 29Figure 5.1 Map illustrating the visual envelope of the project. 33Figure 5.2 View from Kanangra Avenue looking east towards Mona Vale Road. 34Figure 5.3 Viewpoint location. 34Figure 5.4 View from Mona Vale Road looking east, east of Terrey Hills. 35Figure 5.5 Viewpoint location. 35Figure 5.6 View from Kanangra Avenue looking towards Mona Vale Road, within the Bloodwood Scribbly Gum Woodland 36Figure 5.7 Viewpoint location. 36

Figure 5.8 View from the property at the corner of Harvey Road and Bungendore Street. 37Figure 5.9 Viewpoint location. Note: photograph is not representative of viewpoint. 37Figure 5.10 Large estate with manicured gardens situated along Addison Road. 38Figure 5.11 Viewpoint location. Note: photograph is not representative of viewpoint. 38Figure 5.12 View of the grounds within the Baha’i Temple complex adjacent to a large villa. 39Figure 5.13 Viewpoint location. Note: photograph is not representative of viewpoint. 39Figure 5.14 View from the intersection of Powder Works Road and Mona Vale Road looking along the alignment. 40Figure 5.15 Viewpoint location. 40Figure 5.16 View from the school grounds looking towards the proposed extension of Powder Works Road. 41Figure 5.17 Viewpoint location. 41Figure 5.18 View from the Baha’i Temple looking towards Mona Vale Road. 42Figure 5.19 Viewpoint location. 42Figure 5.20 View along Mona Vale Road, west of Addison Road. 43Figure 5.21 Viewpoint location. 43Figure 6.1 Urban Design Strategy Plan 46Figure 7.2 Concept key plan 48Figure 7.3 Section @ Ch 580 50Figure 7.4 Concept Plan 1 / Scale 1:2000 51Figure 7.5 Concept Plan 2 / Scale 1:2000 53Figure 7.6 Section @ Ch 1140 54Figure 7.7 Concept Plan 3 55Figure 7.8 Section @ Ch 2400 56Figure 7.9 Concept Plan 4 57Figure 7.10 Section @ Ch 2640 58Figure 7.11 Concept Plan 5 59Figure 7.12 Chainage 2900 60Figure 7.13 Concept Plans 6/7 63Figure 7.14 Typical section - Barrier detail at retaining wall 64Figure 7.15 Concept for reinforced soil walls to reflect the sandstone geology and texture of the area. 65Figure 7.16 Concept for reinforced soil walls to reflect the sandstone geology and texture of the area. 66Figure 7.17 Example of a Besser block with a rough finish. 67Figure 7.18 Fauna Overpass over Mona Vale Road - Cross section 68Figure 7.19 Fauna Overpass over Mona Vale Road - Montage 69Figure 8.1 Existing view of Mona Vale Road. The proposal aims to minimise impacts to the overall setting, whilst sensitively siting its alignment. 73

List of Tables

Table 1.1 Visual Impacts Rating Table, example illustrating the resulting impact as a combination of sensitivity and magnitude. Guidelines for landscape character and visual impact assessment No. EIA-N04,”Version 2.0 Issue Date 28 March 2013” 3Table 2.1 Excerpt from the Pittwater Council 2014 LEP and Warringah Council 2011 LEP showing selected heritage listed properties in the vicinity of the proposal site. 14Table 4.1 Landscape Visual Impacts Rating Table - RMS EIA Guidance Note EIA-N04. 32Table 4.2 Landscape Character Assessment table 33Table 4.3 Landscape Character Assessment summary table 34Table 5.1 Visual impact summary table 46

1


1 . 0 I N T R O D U CT I O N

1 . 1 BAC KG R O U N D

The NSW Government is planning to upgrade Mona Vale Road from two to four lanes between Terrey Hills and the Baha’i Temple in Ingleside.

The upgrade includes:• Upgrade of 3.2 kilometres of Mona Vale Road from two lanes to four lanes

between McCarrs Creek Road, Terrey Hills and Powder Works Road, Ingleside. The preferred route was announced in August 2013.

• The extension of Harvey Road to Mona Vale Road as a local two lane road.

Planning for the upgrade of Mona Vale Road West started in mid-2011 and involved preliminary surveys, design feasibility studies, environmental investigations and community stakeholder discussions. Selecting the preferred option was an iterative process involving both technical and specialist input and review of constructability and value management. This included workshops with community representatives and consultation in 2012. In August 2013, a preferred option was selected, which includes upgrading Mona Vale Road West from two to four lanes following a new alignment to the north of the existing Mona Vale Road.

Mona Vale Road West currently experiences congestion in peak periods and requiresupgrading to increase capacity and reduce travel times. The proposed road upgrade for Mona Vale Road West would provide:

• Additional lanes for climbing and descending to improve travel time in both directions

• Widened lanes and shoulders and median separation to improve safety• A consistent 80 km/h speed limit between Mona Vale and Belrose once the

road upgrades for both Mona Vale Road East and Mona Vale Road West are completed

• Facilities for cyclists and pedestrians.• Extension of Harvey Road to link with Mona Vale Road at the intersection with

Powder Works Road.

1 . 2 P U R P O S E O F T H I S P R OJ E CT

This report addresses the Mona Vale Road West upgrade, from McCarrs Creek Road, Terrey Hills to Powder Works Road in Ingleside, and presents the overall concept design, and landscape character and visual impact assessment. It has been prepared by KI Studio Pty Ltd for Roads and Maritime Services. This report has partially been prepared by utilising sections of a preliminary urban design report prepared by DesignInc and HBO+EMBT with the intent to minimise duplication of completed works and investigations. Hence, the design, particularly of built form components, reflects the initial concepts investigated by DesignInc and HBO+EMTB and these concepts have been further developed and refined.

In terms of landscape design, the proposal reflects a more varied and ecologically driven landscape solution, fitting to the natural context of the site, along with its constraints, the rock batters, OHS construction issues and the desire to ensure the landscape strategy is both functional, successful and sustainable.

The landscape character and visual impact assessments inform the design process byidentifying potential impacts that the proposed project would have on the surroundingproposal area, identifying strategies to improve the design and proposing mitigationmeasures for the identified impacts.

The purpose of the report is to:

• Inform the Review of Environmental Factors (REF) being prepared by others for the proposal

• Assist in achieving the integration of urban and engineering design • Contribute to the concept development process through avoidance, or

reduction of, any negative urban design impacts, where possible• Identify and document the visual and landscape character impacts and identify

opportunities to improve the design

1 . 3 T H E P R OJ E CT

Mona Vale Road is the main east-west link between the Pacific Highway, Pymble and Pittwater Road at Mona Vale totalling about 20 kilometres in length and carrying about 36,900 vehicles per day in both directions. Roads and Maritime Services (Roads and Maritime) proposes to upgrade and widen about 3.4 kilometres of Mona Vale Road between McCarrs Creek Road, Terrey Hills and Powder Works Road, Ingleside, from a two lane (one in each direction) undivided road to a four lane (two lanes in each direction) divided road.

The proposal includes the provision of a new local road connection between Bungendore Street and Powder Works Road/Mona Vale Road intersection. It would also involve construction of retaining walls, cuttings, adjustment of underground utilities as well as drainage and landscaping.

The proposal generally comprises:

• Widening to provide an additional two traffic lanes (one in each direction) on Mona Vale Road between McCarrs Creek Road and Powder Works Road

• Widening on the southern side of the existing carriageway between McCarrs Creek Road and Kimbriki Road

• Deviation of the entire dual carriageway from the current road to the north of a rock outcrop between Kimbriki Road and Tumburra Street

• Widening on the northern side of the existing carriageway from about 700 metres west of Tumburra Street to Addison Road

• Widening on both sides of the existing carriageway between Addison Road and Powder Works Road.

• Provision of a new traffic signal intersection at Kimbriki Road including additional dedicated turning lanes and a truck climbing lane

• Restricting traffic movements at the intersection of Mona Vale Road and Tumburra Street to left-in and left-out only

• Deviating the Mona Vale Road and Tumburra Street intersection locally to the west by about 40 metres to improve the existing steep grade on Tumburra Street

• Closing the existing intersection at Mona Vale Road and Addison Road to general traffic and making future access at this intersection restricted to emergency vehicles only

2 Landscape Character, V isual Impact Assessment & Urban Design Study November 2016

BOORALIE ROAD

KIMBRIKI ROAD

DAOR I KI RBMI K

TUMB

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ADDI

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ROAD

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WAY

MONA

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POWDER WORKS RD

CHILT

ERN

ROAD

SOPHIE AVENUE

MR162 MONA VALE ROAD

WARATAH ROAD

MONA VALE ROAD

WIR

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DA R

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McCAR

RS CR

EEK R

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KING

ROA

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TERREY HILLS INGLESIDE

KU-RING-GAI CHASE

INGLESIDE

Ku-Ring-Gai ChaseNational Park

GarigalNational Park

The Bahá’í House of Worship

Figure 1.1 Plan illustrating the proposal’s works

3


1 . 4 M E T H O D O LO GY

The study follows an iterative process where key issues, constraints and mitigations relating to the landscape character and visual assessment of the alignment are integrated into the engineering and urban and landscape concept design. The study comprises the following key components:

• Contextual Analysis • Landscape Character Assessment• Visual Impact Assessment• Proposed Urban Design Strategy• Urban and Landscape Concept Design• Mitigation Recommendations.

The methodology used in this Landscape Character and Visual Impact Assessment is based on the Roads and Maritime Service Environmental Impact Assessment Guidance Note (2012): Guidelines for landscape character and visual impact assessment. The methodology in the guidance note has been modified to suit the characteristics and requirements of this particular proposal.

CONTEXTUAL ANALYSISA succinct summary is provided of the contextual analysis of the built, natural and community character, structure and functioning of the study area. This summary identifies issues and opportunities that have arisen from this analysis.

LANDSCAPE CHARACTER ASSESSMENT This task involves photographing, mapping, understanding and describing the different landscape character zones in the Study Area, and determining and describing the capacity of these different zones to visually absorb the proposed upgrade. A landscape character zone is an area of distinct and consistent character and the impact of the proposed upgrade works within it may differ from the impact in another zone. Two primary factors are used to determine the impacts on any landscape character zone:

• Sensitivity of the character zone• Magnitude of the proposal in that zone.

The sensitivity of a landscape character zone is used in both Landscape Character Zone Impact Assessment and in the subsequent Visual Impact Assessment.The Roads and Maritime Service Environmental Impact Assessment Guidance Note (2012) defines sensitivity as: “The sensitivity of a landscape character zone or view and its capacity to absorb change. Combined with magnitude, sensitivity provides a

measure of impact.” (Roads and Maritime Service, EIA-N04, p.6). It further states: “Sensitivity refers to how sensitive the character of the setting is to the proposed change. For example a pristine natural environment will be more sensitive to change than an industrial area.” (Roads and Maritime Service, EIA-N04, p.9). The capacity to absorb development is primarily dependent on landform, vegetation cover and existing structures. The more pristine the landscape, the greater the consequence of introducing new development and therefore the higher the sensitivity rating of that zone. Areas that have been modified for road widening would be ranked lower than (for example) areas of a National Park.A precinct with a coherent character, for example a National Park with gently undulating topography, would be more visually sensitive to new development than a precinct whose topography and natural and/or built character has greater variety. The magnitude of a proposal in a landscape character zone depends firstly on the scope of that proposal. Widening an existing road at ground level would typically have a lesser magnitude than a new elevated road on a viaduct. The location of the proposal in relation to the character zone also influences magnitude. For example, a proposal which passes through the middle of a character zone would have greater magnitude than one which skirts the edge of a zone. Six categories are used in ranking the magnitude of a proposal, ranging from negligible to high.The Landscape Character Zone Impact is determined using the matrix shown in Table 1.4.2. Rankings for sensitivity and magnitude are combined to generate the impact in the body of the table.

It is important to note that Landscape Character Zone Impact Assessment has to do with the way and extent to which a proposal alters the perceived nature, or sense of place, of a zone. Change to the character of a zone would be felt and understood even when a zone extends beyond the immediate Study Area.

M a g n i t u d e

high moderate low negligible

Se

ns

itiv

ity

high high impact high- moderate moderate negligible

moderate high- moderate moderate moderate-low negligible

low moderate moderate-low low negligible

negligible negligible negligible negligible negligible

Table 1.1 Visual Impacts Rating Table, example illustrating the resulting impact as a combination of sensitivity and magnitude. Guidelines for landscape character and visual impact assessment No. EIA-N04,”Version 2.0 Issue Date 28 March 2013”

• Providing a new local road connection between Bungendore Street and Powder Works Road utilising the existing Harvey Road corridor and extending the new local road east of Addison Road to meet with the intersection of Mona Vale Road and Powder Works Road

• Removing the existing eastbound bus stop on Mona Vale Road at the intersection with Kimbriki Road; and bus stops on either side of the intersection at Tumburra Street and re-directing bus services along the new local road connection and Tumburra Street to serve existing and future land uses

• Relocating the existing access to the National Baha’i Centre by about 120 metres west along the new road

• Providing new and improved fauna connectivity between Mona Vale Road and the new local road connection by way of a fauna underpass on the new local road between Bungendore Street and Addison Road

• Minor widening of Powder Works Road for a distance of about 80 metres east from the intersection with Mona Vale Road

• Providing a 40 metre wide fauna bridge over Mona Vale Road, east of Kimbriki Road, linking Ku-ring-gai and Garigal National Parks enabling new and improved fauna connectivity between the National Parks by way of unimpeded passage

• Constructing retaining walls and/or sandstone cuttings at various locations along the alignment

• Constructing a shared use path on the northern side of Mona Vale Road for the full upgrade length

• Providing a fauna underpass on Harvey Rd extension, near Addison Rd• Relocating and and/or adjusting underground and above ground utilities where

required including the upgrade of street lighting for the full upgrade length• Upgrading of the existing pavement and cross drainage structures including the

construction, reconstruction and extension of pavement drainage lines• Landscaping over the length of the proposal• Installing traffic monitoring cameras at all signalised intersections to assist with

traffic management.

The eastern portion of the proposal is located within the former Pittwater Council Local Government Area (LGA) and the western portion is located in the former Warringah Council LGA. Following the LGA amalgamation that occurred in early 2016 the entirety of the proposal area is now located within the Northern Beaches LGA and is within the Roads and Maritime Sydney Region. It would be funded by the NSW Government. Construction is expected to take about 30 months to complete, weather permitting.At the time of preparation of this REF, funding for construction of the project had yet to be confirmed and identification of a specific commencement date is therefore not possible. However, construction is expected to follow that of the Mona Vale Road East Upgrade.


VISUAL IMPACT ASSESSMENTTo assess the likely visual impact of the proposal from key viewpoints, the following tasks were completed: • A desktop analysis to ascertain the visual catchment of the proposal

within the Study Area, as well as identifying potential receptors of the visual impact - determined through topographic analysis and using Google Maps. This provides the basis for the establishment of the Visual Envelope Map (VEM), view corridors, and key viewpoints

• An on-site field inspection to confirm the visual catchment, gain an understanding of the proposal within the context of the study area and identify and confirm key viewpoints and the sensitivity of potential visual receptors. This included site photography that was later used in the viewpoint analysis

• The sensitivity rating of each viewpoint is based on the sensitivity ranking of the landscape character zone in which it is located

• The magnitude is measured as the degree of change the particular view undergoes as a result of the proposed development. Relative to the existing condition, magnitude is ranked on a six point scale from negligible to high

• In a process similar to that used for landscape character zone impact assessment, the visual impact is assessed by combining the viewpoint sensitivity and the magnitude of the proposal as illustrated by the matrix in Table 1.4.2.

PROPOSED URBAN DESIGN STRATEGYDevelopment of an Urban Design Strategy that articulates a vision, principles and objectives to govern the further development of the design and that

addresses the identified landscape character and visual impacts.

URBAN AND LANDSCAPE CONCEPT DESIGNDevelopment of a Concept Design proposal that is described in plans, sections/elevations, precedent photographs and other drawings, as appropriate.

MITIGATION RECOMMENDATIONSRecommendations are made for mitigation measures that might be adopted during the on-going development of the concept design to reduce, minimise or eliminate unwanted impacts.

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2 . 0 C O N T E X T U A L A N A LY S I S

Figure 2.1 Regional context map. (Source: Mona Vale Road Upgrade East: Landscape Character Visual Impact Assessment + Urban Design Concept. HBO+EMTB April 2015)

2 . 1 R E G I O N A L CO N T E X T

Mona Vale Road provides a major east/west link between Pittwater Road at Mona Vale and the Pacific Highway at Pymble. The road is considered a major arterial road that carries about 36,000 vehicles per day in both directions, and services various northern suburbs and the Northern Beaches of the metro area.

Most sections of the road are multi-lane dual carriageway except for the section between Terrey Hills and Mona Vale. The Mona Vale Road West upgrade (this project), links the suburbs of Terrey Hills with Ingleside.

Terrey Hills is located about twenty five kilometres and Ingleside twenty eight kilometres north of the Sydney’s CBD, in the local government area of Northern Beaches Council.

Terrey Hills and Ingleside are leafy suburbs with a semi-rural character.

MONA VALE ROAD UPGRADE EAST: LANDSCAPE CHARACTER VISUAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT + URBAN DESIGN CONCEPT4

1 INTRODUCTION

1.2 Context

1.2.1 Regional Context

Mona Vale Road provides a major east/west link between Pittwater Road at Mona Vale and the Pacific Highway at Pymble. Mona Vale Road provides a strategic route for the suburban, commercial and industrial areas of the Northern Beaches and serves an expanding population of about 80,000 people and about 34,000 jobs (RTA, 2009).

The regional context of the road is shown below.

TERREYHILLS

INGLESIDE

MONA VALE

BAYVIEW

ELANORA HEIGHTS

COLLAROYPLATEAU

CROMER

ALLAMBIEHEIGHTS

BELROSE

NORTHTURRAMURRA

NARRABEENLAKES

PACIFICOCEAN

PITTWATER

GARIGALNATIONAL

PARK

KU-RING-GAI CHASENATIONAL PARK

WAK

E HUR S T PARKWAY

FORE

ST W

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MONA VALE

RD

HORACE STYANKO RD

PACIFIC HIGHWAY

M1

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PITTWATER RD

BARRENJOEY RD

M2 HILLS MOTORW

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MONA VALE ROAD - UPGRADES

MOTORWAY/HIGHWAY

ARTERIAL ROADS

CREEK

WATER BODY

NATIONAL PARKS

0 40km

Regional Context Plan


1 INTRODUCTION

1.2 Context

1.2.1 Regional Context

Mona Vale Road provides a major east/west link between Pittwater Road at Mona Vale and the Pacific Highway at Pymble. Mona Vale Road provides a strategic route for the suburban, commercial and industrial areas of the Northern Beaches and serves an expanding population of about 80,000 people and about 34,000 jobs (RTA, 2009).

The regional context of the road is shown below.

TERREYHILLS

INGLESIDE

MONA VALE

BAYVIEW

ELANORA HEIGHTS

COLLAROYPLATEAU

CROMER

ALLAMBIEHEIGHTS

BELROSE

NORTHTURRAMURRA

NARRABEENLAKES

PACIFICOCEAN

PITTWATER

GARIGALNATIONAL

PARK


WAK

E HUR S T PARKWAY

FORE

ST W

AY

MONA VALE

RD

HORACE STYANKO RD

PACIFIC HIGHWAY

M1

MO

TORW

AY

PITTWATER RD

BARRENJOEY RD

M2 HILLS MOTORW

AY

MONA VALE ROAD - UPGRADES

MOTORWAY/HIGHWAY

ARTERIAL ROADS

CREEK

WATER BODY

NATIONAL PARKS

0 40km

Regional Context Plan


Figure 2.2 Local context map. (Source: Mona Vale Road Upgrade East: Landscape Character Visual Impact Assessment + Urban Design Concept. HBO+EMTB April 2015)


2 CONTEXTUAL ANALYSIS

The design of Stages 2 & 3 will follow a consistent design language to be established for the corridor. An urban design strategy has been developed for both sections with a set of principles and objectives common to both upgrades. Separate reports are being prepared for each section to align with the proposed construction programme. Mona Vale Road East is proposed to be constructed first, followed by Mona Vale Road West.

TERREYHILLS

INGLESIDE

MONA VALE

BAYVIEW

WARRIEWOOD

ELANORA HEIGHTS

NORTHNARRABEEN

NARRABEENLAKES

PACIFICOCEAN

PITTWATER

GARIGALNATIONAL

PARK

TO PYMBLE +PACIFIC HWY

TO SYDNEY

TO PITTWATER,PALM BEACH

+ AVALON

KU-RING-GAI CHASENATIONAL

PARK

B OOR AL IE RD

MC

CA

RRS C

REEK

RD

CH

ILT

ERN

RD

AD

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MYOO

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KIM

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KAN

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LANE C OVE RD

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POWDE R WOR

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MONA VALE ROAD - UPGRADED TO 4 LANES

PROPOSED MONA VALE ROAD UPGRADE - EASTERN SECTION

PROPOSED MONA VALE ROAD UPGRADE - WESTERN SECTION

ARTERIAL ROADS

LOCAL ROADS

CREEK

WATER BODY

NATIONAL PARKS

0 20km

MONA VALE ROAD WEST UPGRADE

MONA VALE ROAD EAST UPGRADE

Location Plan


2 CONTEXTUAL ANALYSIS

The design of Stages 2 & 3 will follow a consistent design language to be established for the corridor. An urban design strategy has been developed for both sections with a set of principles and objectives common to both upgrades. Separate reports are being prepared for each section to align with the proposed construction programme. Mona Vale Road East is proposed to be constructed first, followed by Mona Vale Road West.

TERREYHILLS

INGLESIDE

MONA VALE

BAYVIEW

WARRIEWOOD

ELANORA HEIGHTS

NORTHNARRABEEN

NARRABEENLAKES

PACIFICOCEAN

PITTWATER

GARIGALNATIONAL

PARK

TO PYMBLE +PACIFIC HWY

TO SYDNEY

TO PITTWATER,PALM BEACH

+ AVALON

KU-RING-GAI CHASENATIONAL

PARK

B OOR AL IE RD

MC

CA

RRS C

REEK

RD

CH

ILT

ERN

RD

AD

DIS

ON

RD

TUM

BURR

A ST

WIR

REA

ND

A RD

COOYON G RD

MYOO

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KIM

BRIK

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KAN

GARO

O R

D

LANE C OVE RD

MAN

OR

RD

POWDE R WOR

KS RDMACPHERSON ST

MONA VALE

ROAD

PO

ND

ERO

SA

PD

E

ING

LES

IDE

RD

WAL

TER

RD

C ABB AGE T RE E RD

SA

MU

EL S

T

FOL

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ST

PITTW

ATE

R R

D

BAR R E NJ O E Y RD

P ITTWA

TER

RD

WAKEHUR S T PAR KWAY

LAUREL RD

WEST

LAUREL RD

EAST

FOR

EST W

AY

MONA VALE ROAD - UPGRADED TO 4 LANES

PROPOSED MONA VALE ROAD UPGRADE - EASTERN SECTION

PROPOSED MONA VALE ROAD UPGRADE - WESTERN SECTION

ARTERIAL ROADS

LOCAL ROADS

CREEK

WATER BODY

NATIONAL PARKS

0 20km

MONA VALE ROAD WEST UPGRADE

MONA VALE ROAD EAST UPGRADE

Location Plan

The design of Mona Vale East Upgrade and Mona Vale West Upgrade would follow a consistent design language to be established for the corridor. An urban design strategy has been developed for both sections with a set of objectives and principles common to both upgrades. Separate reports are being prepared for each section to align with the proposed construction programme. Mona Vale Road East is proposed to be constructed first, followed by Mona Vale Road West.

7


Figure 2.3 Mona Vale Road West - Site Context

Existing structures, infrastructure, landscape features and views include: • The junction of McCarrs Creek Road and Mona Vale Road• The junction of Kimbriki Road and Mona Vale Road• The junctions at Tumburra Street and Addison Road• High voltage overhead power lines• A rugged bushland setting of sandstone cuttings and trees,

and under-storey vegetation immediately adjacent to the road• The Baha’i Temple• Views to the coastline and Pacific Ocean• Views across the National Parks.


2 . 2 L A N D U S E & CO N N E CT I V I T Y

The proposed project would predominantly cross through land use dedicated for road infrastructure. The road would transverse large sections of bushland dedicated to national parks or public recreation.

Most residential areas surrounding the proposal are well away from the proposed alignment, (refer figure 2.4). Towards the eastern end, the Baha’i Temple interfaces with the road corridor, yet generous buffer zones have been retained to limit potential impacts.

The Harvey Road extension - a new local road connection would be provided, linking Harvey Road with Mona Vale Road to provide an alternative access to the Wirreanda Valley and proposed Ingleside Release.

The proposed arrangement would enhance safety by consolidating access points from local roads to Mona Vale Road and limit impacts to the sensitive bushland environments in the vicinity of Tumburra Street by avoiding the need for an interchange at this location.

The existing access at Tumburra Street would be configured as a left in and left out only and the intersection at Addison Road would be limited only, as a left in and left out for emergency vehicles.

It should be noted, that the extension of Harvey Road would complement the NSW Government’s strategy to provide additional housing to support Sydney’s growing population in Ingleside (see figure 2.5).

The proposed extension of Powder Works Road would impact a number of residential properties as well as established bushland, zoned as rural landscape.

A new shared use path is proposed along the northern verge of the proposed corridor, enhancing connectivity between Terrey Hills and Ingleside.

Figure 2.4 Two national parks interface with the road corridor, allowing a strong vegetation ribbon to flank both sides of the road with pristine bushland.

9


B1B1 Neighbourhood CentreE1E1 National Parks and Nature ReservesE3E3 Environmental ManagementIN2IN2 Light Industrial

R2R2 Low Density ResidentialRE1RE1 Public RecreationRE2RE2 Private RecreationRU2RU2 Rural Landscape

RU4RU4 Primary Production Small LotsSP2SP2 Infrastructure

Le g e n dLa n d u s e

Proposed Mona Vale Road Upgrade

Harvey Road Extension

Mona Vale Road

Arterial RoadsLocal Roads

BOORALIE ROAD

KIMBRIKI ROAD

DAOR I KI RBMI K

TUMB

URRA

STR

EET

ADDI

SON

ROAD

BAHA

I TEM

PLE

WAY

MONA

VAL

E RO

AD

POWDER WORKS RD

CHILT

ERN

ROAD

SOPHIE AVENUE


WARATAH ROAD

MONA VALE ROAD

WIR

REAN

DA R

OAD

McCAR

RS CR

EEK R

OAD

KING

ROA

D

TERREY HILLS

HARVEY ROAD EXTENSION

INGLESIDE

KU-RING-GAI CHASE

INGLESIDE

E1E1

E1E1

E1E1

RU2RU2

RU2RU2

RU2RU2

RE1RE1 RE1RE1

RE1RE1

RE1RE1

RU4RU4

RU4RU4

RU4RU4

E3E3

E3E3

RE1RE1

RE1RE1

R2R2

IN2IN2 B1B1

RE1RE1

RE2RE2

SP2SP2

SP2SP2

SP2SP2

SP2SP2

Educational Establishment

Classified Road

Waste or Resource Management Facility




Figure 2.5 Land Use & Connectivity map


Addi

son

Road

Addi

son

Road

Chilt

ern

Road

Chilt

ern

Road

Tumburra Street

Tumburra Street

Cicada Glen Road Cicada Glen Road

Cabbage Tree RoadCabbage Tree Road

Wal

ter R

oad

Wal

ter R

oad

Lane Cove Road

Lane Cove Road

Min

kara

Roa

dM

inka

ra R

oad

Ingleside Road

Ingleside Road

Manor Roa d

Manor Roa d

Wattle Road

Wattle Road

Wilga StreetWilga Street

Powderworks Road

Powderworks Road

Wirreanda RoadWirreanda Road

NORTH INGLESIDESUB-PRECINCT

NORTH INGLESIDESUB-PRECINCT

BAYVIEWSUB-PRECINCT

BAYVIEWSUB-PRECINCT

SOUTH INGLESIDESUB-PRECINCT

SOUTH INGLESIDESUB-PRECINCT

WIRREANDA VALLEYSUB-PRECINCT

WIRREANDA VALLEYSUB-PRECINCT

GARIGALNATIONAL PARK

GARIGALNATIONAL PARK



ELANORAHEIGHTS

ELANORAHEIGHTS

WARRIEWOODWARRIEWOOD

BAYVIEWBAYVIEW

McCARRSCREEK

McCARRSCREEK

KEYPrecinct BoundaryOpen SpaceLand Proposed for ConservationExisting National Park EstateVegetated Corridor (Private Land)Endangered Ecological CommunityPotential Fauna Underpass LocationPotential Sports Field SiteLow Density ResidentialMedium Density ResidentialEnvironmental LivingRural LotsExisting SchoolPotential School SiteProposed Neighbourhood CentrePotential Community NodeExisting Elanora Heights ShopsBaha’i TempleSydney WaterMona Vale Road - Completed Upgrade WorksMona Vale Road - Upgrade WestMona Vale Road - Upgrade EastIndicative RoadPotential Upgraded IntersectionPotential Upgraded Intersection - Signalised

Proposed Emergency Access Only

DRAFT STRUCTURE PLAN

DRAFT STRUCTURE PLANINGLESIDE PRECINCT

0 200m 400m 600m 800m 1km

Figure 2.6 Draft Structure Plan for the land development of the area of Ingleside. Source: http://www.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/ingleside/about

11


Figure 2.7 Detailed plan for the extension of Harvey Road. The proposal would affect a few residences, as well as heritage items (Monterey Pines).

Area of Monterey Pines affected by the proposal.


2 . 3 H E R I TAG E

In relation to European heritage, four heritage items directly interface with the road, the Baha’i Temple (item 2270338), a group of Monterrey Pines (item 2270346), a laterite site (item 2270513) and a trigonometric station (item 2270504). The latter three items are in the vicinity of the Baha’i Temple, with the last two being along the road reserve.

These items are listed in the Warringah Council 2011 LEP (Local Environmental Plan)and the Pittwater Council 2014 LEP. The proposed road upgrade would be limited to the existing road reserve, and as the landscape buffer zones would be provided or retained, potential impacts would be limited.

Located high on the ridge top, the Baha’i temple is an important cultural landmark that is visible from many view points in the region and contributes to the road experience. Its position at a prominent curve of the road, emphasises its significance.

The proposal would utilise land set aside for road widening purposes, whilst a vegetative buffer zone within the complex would be retained.

Adjacent to the Baha’i Temple, is a group of Monterey Pines also listed in the local LEP. The retention of these trees as a historic marker is considered important and as many as possible should be retained. The extension of Harvey Road in an easterly direction is likely to impact some of these trees.

Regarding Aboriginal heritage, the surrounding land (Garigal National Park to the south and Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park to the north) has been identified as having high potential for Aboriginal heritage. One site, Whale Rock, has been identified within the road corridor reserve, and measures have been undertaken to ensure generous buffer zones are provided between the item and the proposed upgrade.

Table 2.1 Excerpt from the Pittwater Council 2014 LEP and Warringah Council 2011 LEP showing selected heritage listed properties in the vicinity of the proposal site.

Warringah Council

Suburb Item name Address Property description

Significance Item no

Terrey Hills Laurie Short House 307 McCarrs Creek Road

Lot 142, DP 752017

Local I152

Pittwater Council

Suburb Item name Address Property description

Significance Item no

Ingleside Bahá’í House of Worship

173 Mona Vale Road

Lot 52, DP 1152609

Local 2270338

Ingleside Group of Monterey Pines (Pinus radiata)

169 and 169A Mona Vale Road

Lots 201 and 202, DP 1054875

Local 2270346

Ingleside Cicada Glen Nursery 1 Chiltern Road

Lot A, DP 325195

Local 2270339

Ingleside Smoky Dawson’s Ranch gates

5 Chiltern Road

Lot 1, DP 808703 (2m around gates)

Local 2270422

Ingleside Laterite site Mona Vale Road

Next to public cycleway, south from Baha’i House ofWorship grounds, parallel to 173 Mona Vale Road

Local 2270513

Ingleside “Ingleside House” and curtilage, including front fence, stone gate posts and garden plantings

1 Manor Road, and 12 King Road

Lots 1 and 2, DP 554536

Local 2270112

Various Pittwatertrigonometrical Stations

Various Local 2270504

13


22703382270338

I 152I 152

2270504227050422705132270513

22703462270346

2270339227033922704222270422

22701122270112

BOORALIE ROAD

KIMBRIKI ROAD

DAOR I KI RBMI K

TUMB

URRA

STR

EET

ADDI

SON

ROAD

BAHA

I TEM

PLE

WAY

MONA

VAL

E RO

AD

POWDER WORKS RD

CHILT

ERN

ROAD

SOPHIE AVENUE


WARATAH ROAD

MONA VALE ROAD

WIR

REAN

DA R

OAD

McCAR

RS CR

EEK R

OAD

KING

ROA

D

TERREY HILLS


INGLESIDE

KU-RING-GAI CHASE

INGLESIDE




PITTWATERPITTWATER WARRINGAH WARRINGAH

Item-General

Former LGA Boundary

Le g e n dH e r i ta g e

Figure 2.8 Heritage map


2 . 4 TO P O G R A P H Y

The landform and topography of the area is strongly undulating with the road corridor following a prominent ridgeline, running east-west and in a meandering fashion.

There are some fairly level areas within Ingleside, including the area around Wirreanda Road, where semi-rural properties exist.

DRAINAGE CATCHMENTS AND CREEKSThe topography dramatically drops to the south, allowing for distant vistas along the journey that contribute to the overall sense of place and journey quality. This ridgeline separates two catchments: the Cowan Creek/Pittwater sub-catchment of the Hawkesbury-Nepean catchment to the north ( including the McCarrs Creek catchment), and the Deep Creek catchment draining to Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment to the south.

Wirreanda Creek and McCarrs Creek are located to the north of Mona Vale Road; and Deep Creek and Mullet Creek are located to the south of Mona Vale Road. Both these creeks and their tributaries drain into Narrabeen Lagoon.

Figure 2.9 The road crosses through very rugged topography and exposes the geology of the area through rock cuttings in key locations

15


Figure 2.10 Topography and landform map. Source: Mona Vale Road Upgrade: McCarrs Creek Road to Powder Works Road. Options Report. Roads & Maritime Services, October 2012 - edited

PLAN TITLE

PROJECT TITLE

PROJECT REF

LOCALITY

TERREY HIL LS TR AIL

WIR

REAN

DA R

OAD

POWDER WORK S ROAD

WIR

REA

NDA

ROA

D

HARVE Y ROAD

AD

DIS

ON

RO

AD

BU

NG

ENDOR E

ROAD

WAR

ATAH

RO

AD

MONA VALE ROAD

TUMBURRA STREET

MCC

ARR SCRE

EK R

OAD

YULONG AVENUE

BOORALI E ROAD

BELTANA AVENUE

KIMBRIKI ROAD

COWRANG AVENUE

COOYONG ROAD

KANANGRA A VENU

E

MONA VAL E

ROAD

DUCK HOL E TRACK

CALEYI TRAIL

KU-RING-GAI CHASENational Park

GARIGALNational Park

WIRREAND A CREEK

SMITH

SCR

EEK

WIR

REA

ND

AC

REE

K

MCC

ARR S

CREE

K

Figure 5-1 GCS GDA 1994 | MGA Zone 56 UTM

Sydney

Manly

MonaVale

Mona Vale Options Reporting0 400

Metres

1:10,000

SKM does not warrant that this document is definitive nor freeof error and does not accept liability for any loss caused orarising from reliance upon information provided herein.

A3

Sydney Spatial Team - Prepared by : MSChecked by : JC

CLIENT

Path: I:\ENVR\Projects\EN03205\Technical\Spatial\GIS\GIS_Directory\ArcMap\EN03205_GIS_F002_r3v2.mxd

Topography and landform within the study area and immediate surrounds

LEGEND

Mona Vale Road survey areaNational Park High Low

PLAN TITLE

PROJECT TITLE

PROJECT REF

LOCALITY


WIR

REAN

DA R

OAD

POWDER WORK S ROAD

WIR

REA

NDA

ROA

D

HARVE Y ROAD

AD

DIS

ON

RO

AD

BU

NG

ENDOR E

ROAD

WAR

ATAH

RO

AD

MONA VALE ROAD

TUMBURRA STREET

MCC

ARR SCRE

EK R

OAD

YULONG AVENUE

BOORALI E ROAD

BELTANA AVENUE

KIMBRIKI ROAD

COWRANG AVENUE

COOYONG ROAD

KANANGRA A VENU

E

MONA VAL E

ROAD

DUCK HOL E TRACK

CALEYI TRAILKU-RING-GAI CHASE

National Park


WIRREAND A CREEK

SMITH

SCR

EEK

WIR

REA

ND

AC

REE

K

MCC

ARR S

CREE

K


Sydney

Manly

MonaVale


Metres

1:10,000


A3


CLIENT



LEGEND


PLAN TITLE

PROJECT TITLE

PROJECT REF

LOCALITY


WIR

REAN

DA R

OAD

POWDER WORK S ROAD

WIR

REA

NDA

ROA

D

HARVE Y ROAD

AD

DIS

ON

RO

AD

BU

NG

ENDOR E

ROAD

WAR

ATAH

RO

AD

MONA VALE ROAD

TUMBURRA STREETM

CCARR S

CREEK

ROAD

YULONG AVENUE

BOORALI E ROAD

BELTANA AVENUE

KIMBRIKI ROAD

COWRANG AVENUE

COOYONG ROAD

KANANGRA A VENU

E

MONA VAL E

ROAD

DUCK HOL E TRACK

CALEYI TRAIL



WIRREAND A CREEK

SMITH

SCR

EEK

WIR

REA

ND

AC

REE

K

MCC

ARR S

CREE

K


Sydney

Manly

MonaVale


Metres

1:10,000


A3


CLIENT



LEGEND


PLAN TITLE

PROJECT TITLE

PROJECT REF

LOCALITY


WIR

REAN

DA R

OAD

POWDER WORK S ROAD

WIR

REA

NDA

ROA

D

HARVE Y ROAD

AD

DIS

ON

RO

AD

BU

NG

ENDOR E

ROAD

WAR

ATAH

RO

AD

MONA VALE ROAD

TUMBURRA STREET

MCC

ARR SCRE

EK R

OAD

YULONG AVENUE

BOORALI E ROAD

BELTANA AVENUE

KIMBRIKI ROAD

COWRANG AVENUE

COOYONG ROAD

KANANGRA A VENU

E

MONA VAL E

ROAD

DUCK HOL E TRACK

CALEYI TRAIL



WIRREAND A CREEK

SMITH

SCR

EEK

WIR

REA

ND

AC

REE

K

MCC

ARR S

CREE

K


Sydney

Manly

MonaVale


Metres

1:10,000


A3


CLIENT



LEGEND


DEEP C

REEK

DEEP CREEK

DE

EP

CR

EE

K

MULLET CREEK


2 . 5 V E G E TAT I O N

The vegetation excerpt maps (fig. 2.11 and 2.12) shown, illustrate the vegetation patterns prior to 1750, before European settlement began, and the patterning present in year 2000. The key vegetation associations along the corridor, as identified in Warringah Council’s Natural Area survey are shown in fig. 2.11, and in summary are:

• Sydney Sandstone Ridgetop Woodland on the higher slopes;• Coastal Sandstone Heath on the higher areas;• Coastal Swamp Forest complex in the southern valleys predominantly; and• Linear strips of Duffys Forest, as also identified on the SKM Map excerpt showing

ecological constraint within the study area and immediate surrounds.

The dense bushland with varied vegetation associations provides a natural screen to most of the corridor and presents a strong, and unique local vegetation context for Mona Vale Road.

Fig. 2.13, Vegetation Mapping derived predominantly from the Ecosure (2015) and supplemented with OEH (2013) mapping and minor line work adjustments from SMEC Equivalent VIS Plant Community Types (PCTs) are shown in parentheses. This later mapping has been used to influence the re-vegetation strategy for the project.

Duffys Forest

Duffys Forest

Cleared/ Developed Lands

Sydney Sandstone Gully Forest

Sydney Sandstone Gully Forest

Coastal Sandstone Heath

Coastal Sandstone Heath

Sydney Sandstone Ridgetop Woodland

Sydney Sandstone Ridgetop Woodland

Figure 2.11 Native Vegetation in the Year 1750. Source: Warringah Natural Area Survey. Vegetation History and Wildlife Corridors. Warringah Council, August 2005

Figure 2.12 Native Vegetation in the Year 2000. Source: Warringah Natural Area Survey. Vegetation History and Wildlife Corridors. Warringah Council, August 2005

17


Figure 2.13 Vegetation Mapping within the study area- Source: Ecosure (2015), OEH (2013) and edits by SMEC.

Upgrade of Mona Vale Road between McCarrs Creek Road, Terrey Hills and Powderworks Road, Ingleside

Fig. 9

Study Area

Subject Site

SMEC (2016)

OEH (2013)

0 0.50.25 km

Vegetation Types Mapped within the Study Area and Subject Site

30011633

Vector base dataset RoadNet © MDS 2014

Location: I:\projects\30011633 - Mona Vale Rd REFs\008 DATA\05 GIS\Maps\30011633_Fig9_VegTypes_StudyArea_split.mxd Last updated by: FN12672 on 12/02/2016 at 11:55

Ku-ring-gai ChaseNational Park

Kimbriki ResourceRecovery Centre


GarigalNational

Park

Notes:Vegetation mapping has been derived predominantly from Ecosure (2015),supplemented with OEH (2013) mapping and minor linework adjustments from SMEC.Equivalent VIS Plant Community Types (PCTs) are shown in parentheses.

Bloodwood-Scribbly Gum Woodland(PCT ID ME014) - Good (15.18ha)Coastal Upland Swamp (PCT ID ME015)- Good (0.05ha)Duffys Forest Ecological Community(PCT ID ME039) - Good (5.2ha)Duffys Forest Regenerating Shrubland(0.17ha)

Duffys Forest translocation site (PCT IDME039) - Good (0.5ha)Duffys Forest tree layer with highlydisturbed understorey (PCT ID ME039) -Moderate (0.24ha)Highly disturbed vegetation (0.93ha)Peppermint-Angophora Forest (PCT IDME012) - Good (6.91ha)

Plantings (0.11ha)Sandstone Heath (PCT ID ME008) -Good (0.31ha)Sandstone Rocky Heath (PCT IDME008) - Good (0.18ha)Weeds (0.41ha)Yellow-top Ash Mallee (PCT ID ME013) -Good (1.98ha)


Upgrade of Mona Vale Road between McCarrs Creek Road, Terrey Hills and Powderworks Road, Ingleside

Fig. 9

Study Area

Subject Site

SMEC (2016)

OEH (2013)

0 0.50.25 km

Vegetation Types Mapped within the Study Area and Subject Site

30011633

Vector base dataset RoadNet © MDS 2014

Location: I:\projects\30011633 - Mona Vale Rd REFs\008 DATA\05 GIS\Maps\30011633_Fig9_VegTypes_StudyArea_split.mxd Last updated by: FN12672 on 12/02/2016 at 11:55

Ku-ring-gai ChaseNational Park



GarigalNational

Park

Notes:Vegetation mapping has been derived predominantly from Ecosure (2015),supplemented with OEH (2013) mapping and minor linework adjustments from SMEC.Equivalent VIS Plant Community Types (PCTs) are shown in parentheses.

Bloodwood-Scribbly Gum Woodland(PCT ID ME014) - Good (15.18ha)Coastal Upland Swamp (PCT ID ME015)- Good (0.05ha)Duffys Forest Ecological Community(PCT ID ME039) - Good (5.2ha)Duffys Forest Regenerating Shrubland(0.17ha)

Duffys Forest translocation site (PCT IDME039) - Good (0.5ha)Duffys Forest tree layer with highlydisturbed understorey (PCT ID ME039) -Moderate (0.24ha)Highly disturbed vegetation (0.93ha)Peppermint-Angophora Forest (PCT IDME012) - Good (6.91ha)

Plantings (0.11ha)Sandstone Heath (PCT ID ME008) -Good (0.31ha)Sandstone Rocky Heath (PCT IDME008) - Good (0.18ha)Weeds (0.41ha)Yellow-top Ash Mallee (PCT ID ME013) -Good (1.98ha)



2 . 6 I S S U ES A N D O P P O R T U N I T I ES S U M M A RY

A range of urban design issues and opportunities have been identified during the site analysis process and are shown on Figure 2.2.1. Issues and Opportunities. Highlighting and discussing the issues on the site provides a baseline for proofing the design and ensures a more robust process when determining the fundamental implications of the proposed design for users, local residents and other stakeholders. Identifying potential opportunities allows the design process to prioritise certain elements or issues where appropriate and helps to ensure more efficient, sustainable and balanced design strategies and outcomes.The key issues identified include:

• Significant vegetation of very high ecological value• Steep topography• Sites of Aboriginal and European cultural heritage significance • Existing high voltage overhead power lines• Potentially sensitive noise receivers particularly on the northern side of the

alignment• Cyclist and pedestrian safety • Impacts on flora and fauna• Significant rock outcrops and sandstone cuttings• Potential impacts on the Baha’i Temple and its setting.

There are opportunities to:

• Emphasise and respond to the bushland context in the landscape design• Provide a suitable landscaped edge to the Baha’i Temple and gardens• Maintain the Hawkesbury sandstone vegetation character • Maintain and enhance existing views and any new ocean views opened up as a

result of the upgrade• Enhance safety by consolidating local road accesses• Provide fauna overpasses where possible to reduce the loss of fauna and

improve connectivity between the National Parks• Upgrade pedestrian and cyclist safety and connectivity along the corridor

- improving amenity, sight lines and path connections for greater ease of movement

• Maintain a landscape buffer between proposed residential areas and the road alignment

• Maintain natural sandstone cuttings along the corridor • Maintain the experience of steep topography experienced when travelling

across the ridgeline • Avoid the use of intrusive road fixtures and furniture in the road design that

might detract from the traveller’s experience• Consolidate some services/utilities’ infrastructure in a 6 metre utility reservation,

including putting low voltage powerlines underground.

19


Figure 2.14 Mona Vale Road West - Issues and Opportunities SOURCE: Add


LANDSCAPE CHARACTER ZONES

A - Terrey Hills Semi-Rural

B - Rugged Bushland

C - Semi-Rural Commercial

D - Semi-Rural Residential

E - Semi-Rural Ingleside

F - The Bahá’í House of Worship

G - Ingleside Valley

H - Ingleside West

Figure 3.1 The general area has a strong bushland and semi-rural character with large properties and limited built form.

3 . 0 L A N D S CA P E C H A R A CT E R A N A LY S I S

3 . 1 L A N D S CA P E C H A R ACT E R ZO N ES

The purpose for identifying different landscape character zones is to assess levels of sensitivity and to provide a description of each zone, giving the project its context and interface. This will inform the design process, particularly in the identification of impacts and mitigation measures applied as a design tool.

This section also discusses the sensitivity values for each landscape character zone. The sensitivity assessment has been based on RMS’s Environmental Impact Assessment Practice Note - Guidelines for Landscape Character and Visual Impact Assessment No. EIA-N04, Version 2.0 Issue (2013).

The sensitivity value refers to the qualities of a particular character zone, which may include the number and type of receivers and how sensitive the existing character of the setting is to the proposed change. For example a pristine natural environment will be more sensitive to change than a built up industrial area.

Eight zones have been identified along the route as illustrated in figure 3.2.

21


Figure 3.2 Map illustrating the identified landscape character zones.

BOORALIE ROAD

KIMBRIKI ROAD

DAOR I KI RBMI K

TUMB

URRA

STR

EET

ADDI

SON

ROAD

BAHA

I TEM

PLE

WAY

MONA

VAL

E RO

AD

POWDER WORKS RD

CHILT

ERN

ROAD

SOPHIE AVENUE


WARATAH ROAD

MONA VALE ROAD

WIR

REAN

DA R

OAD

McCAR

RS CR

EEK R

OAD

KING

ROA

D

TERREY HILLS


INGLESIDE

KU-RING-GAI CHASE

INGLESIDE

A Terrey Hills Semi-Rural

B Rugged Bushland

C Semi-Rural Commercial

D Semi-Rural Residential

E Semi-Rural Ingleside

F The Bahá’í House of Worship

G Ingleside Valley Proposed Mona Vale Road Upgrade

Mona Vale Road

Arterial Roads

H Ingleside West

Le g e n dLa n d s c a p e C h a ra c te r Zo n e s

Harvey Road Extention

Local Roads




A

B C

D

E

F

G

H


ZONE A - TERREY HILLS - SEMI-RURAL RESIDENTIAL

Figure 3.3 View at the corner of McCarrs Creek Road and Yulong Avenue. a few restaurants define this area.

Figure 3.4 Property along Kanangra Avenue. Note the dominance of the bushland, creating an enclosed sense of space.

Figure 3.5 Modest residence along Kanangra Avenue. Note the informal and semi-rural character with unsealed driveways.

Figure 3.6 Villa complex along Kanangra Avenue, fronting Mona Vale Road. This property enjoys panoramic views towards the north.

Location Part of the eastern edge of the suburb of Terrey Hills.

Natural Environment

Situated on a knoll and set in a lush, green suburban landscape with remnant indigenous vegetation. Residences, predominantly screened by indigenous vegetation, are well set back from the local street network.

Built EnvironmentA variety of built form elements are present, ranging from modest homes, to single and double storey villas and single storey commercial properties.

Spatial CharacterDominant green suburban setting with a strong informal character defined by the bushland setting of the area.

Infrastructure Existing local road network, power poles and street lighting.

Sensitivity

The sensitivity of this area is generally considered high due to the dominant residential land use and the strong presence of the bushland character, creating a unique suburban setting.

23


ZONE B - RUGGED BUSHLAND

Figure 3.7 View of the beginning of the road corridor, looking east with Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park to the left, and bushland to the right.

Figure 3.8 Views to the sea are obtained from a couple of key ridgelines in this zone, providing strong local context.

Figure 3.9 View looking into bushland that contains the views of the roadway to the north of the road corridor, and provides a strong contextual setting.

Figure 3.10 Unsealed fire track through high quality bushland setting with mature trees, including Yellow -top Ash Mallee trees and Duffys Forest.

Location

North and south of the alignment set in densebushland. To the north areas include the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park and to the south, Garigal National Park flanks the roadway.

Natural Environment

Undulating topography; ridges and valleys. Undisturbed native bushland area- predominantly Duffy’s Forest Ecological Community, which is an endangered ecologicalcommunity (EEC) in this area.

Built EnvironmentNo built environment. This continuum of vegetation, comprised of different national parks and reserves.

Spatial Character

Highly undulating, rugged terrain with dense bushland.Visually enclosed with limited views and vistas creating arather introverted and intimate character. Some panoramic views towards the Tasman Sea are attainable from the eastern verge of the roadway.

Infrastructure Existing arterial road.

SensitivityThe sensitivity of this area is considered high due tothe high quality of the bushland setting within two national parks.


ZONE C - SEMI-RURAL COMMERCIAL

Figure 3.11 View along Wirreanda Road looking east. Note the semi-rural character with extensive grassed areas and rural type fencing.

Figure 3.12 Residential property along Bungendore Street. This rural-residential property includes a horse stud.

Figure 3.13 An intermix of residential and commercial properties flank Wirreanda Road. Figure 3.14 Most residences tend to be well set back from Wirreanda Road, with extensive vegetative screening, thereby limiting views beyond.

Location

Situated to the north of the alignment, this area comprises of a number of varied commercial properties, ranging from plant nurseries, horseback riding services to earthmoving and quarrying.

Natural EnvironmentSituated on a rugged terrain surrounded by bushland. Large properties with a rural to semi-rural character with grassed paddocks and stands of trees.

Built EnvironmentA variety of built form elements including warehouses, stables, sheds, residences etc.

Spatial CharacterDominant green, semi-rural setting with a strong informal character defined by the bushland setting of the area.

InfrastructureNarrow local roads with a rural character devoid of pedestrian paths, street lighting, kerb and gutters. Existing power poles flank the streets.

Sensitivity

The sensitivity of this area is generally considered moderate. Although commercial properties dominate, the intermix with residences and the scenic quality of the area make it more susceptible to change.

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ZONE D - SEMI-RURAL RESIDENTIAL

Figure 3.15 Modest residence on the lower slopes. Also on the upper slopes are some smaller residences with a rural to semi-rural character.

Figure 3.16 View from Addison Road looking west towards the valley (Landscape Character Zone C). Terrey Hills can be seen along the ridgeline in the distance.

Figure 3.17 Large residence along Addison Road overlooking the valley beyond. Figure 3.18 Large estate adjacent Addison Road. This property would be adjacent to the proposed extension of Powder Works Road.

LocationSituated in the suburb of Ingleside, a number of residential properties are situated along the lower and mid-slopes, overlooking Landscape Character Zone C.

Natural EnvironmentSteep slopes within rugged terrain set in a bushland setting. Large estates set in a rural/bushland setting with limited manicured gardens.

Built EnvironmentModest homes on the low slopes and mansion type buildings on the upper slopes.

Spatial CharacterDominant bushland character, strongly enclosed. Some residences enjoy panoramic views from the upper slopes.

InfrastructureNarrow local roads with a rural character devoid of pedestrian paths, street lighting, kerb and gutters. Existing power poles flank the road.

SensitivityThe sensitivity of this area is high due to the residential land use and the generally pristine bushland setting.


ZONE E - SEMI-RURAL INGLESIDE

LocationSituated on a high ridgeline within the suburb of Ingleside, this zone comprises of a variety of commercial properties, residences, open space and a school.

Natural EnvironmentModified high ground with a somewhat semi-rural and partially industrious character. Large properties with large open paddocks and an informal character.

Built Environment

A variety of built form elements ranging from school buildings, residences to large sheds for plant equipment. Parts of this zone have been identified for future development.

Spatial Character Informal character with a somewhat incohesive streetscape.

InfrastructureNarrow local roads with limited infrastructure such as pedestrian paths, street lighting, kerb and gutters.

Sensitivity

The sensitivity of this area is generally considered moderate. Although commercial properties dominate, the intermix with residences makes this zone somewhat susceptible to change.

Figure 3.19 View along Wirreanda Road looking east. Note the semi-rural character with extensive grassed areas and rural type fencing.

Figure 3.20 View of the grounds of the Hamazkaine Arshak & Sophie Galstaun School in Ingleside.

Figure 3.21 This zone includes large open spaces with stands of mature trees. View looking from the school (Hamazkaine Arshak & Sophie Galstaun School) looking south towards the extension of Powder Works Road.

Figure 3.22 There are a number of residential-commercial properties within this zone.

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ZONE F - BAHA’I HOUSE OF WORSHIP

Figure 3.23 View of the nine sided temple which can be seen from as far as the Tasman Sea. There are only seven Baha’i Temples in the world.

Figure 3.24 Parts of the property remain as bushland, providing a buffer zone for the complex.

Figure 3.25 Staff residence within the grounds of the complex. Figure 3.26 The park like setting with its manicured gardens contributes to the character of the complex.

LocationSituated on the high grounds at a prominent position along a prominent bend of Mona Vale Road in the suburb of Ingleside.

Natural EnvironmentPark like setting with manicured gardens and stands of mature cultural and indigenous trees. Part of the property includes bushland.

Built EnvironmentTemple complex with auxiliary buildings and single and double storey staff residences.

Spatial Character Park like facility with free standing buildings.

InfrastructureInternal roads, pedestrian paths and walkways and car park facilities.

Sensitivity

The sensitivity of this zone is highly sensitive. Its unique cultural contribution and landmark setting combined with its high visual quality makes it susceptible to change.


ZONE G - INGLESIDE VALLEY

Figure 3.27 Large villa set on generous grounds with an established garden adjacent to Power Works Road.

Figure 3.28 Residence along Waratah Road with sea-side views, set on a large block of land. Source: Google.

Figure 3.29 An intermix of residential and commercial properties flank Wirreanda Road. Source Google.

Figure 3.30 Residence along Powder Works Road. Note the dense bushland surrounding the property.

Location

Situated on the mid-slopes below and to the east of Mona Vale Road within the suburb of Ingleside, this zone comprises predominantly of residences with pockets of commercial properties.

Natural EnvironmentStrongly modified mid-slopes with a combination of manicured gardens, informal grass areas and some retained bushland.

Built Environment Large villas, residences, churches and shed type structures.

Spatial CharacterInformal character with a number of residences enjoying sea-side views.

InfrastructureNarrow informal local roads, some with overhead powerpoles.

SensitivityHigh, as the residential land use tends to dominate. Panoramic views contribute to the identity and character of the area.

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ZONE H - INGLESIDE WEST

Figure 3.31 View along Kimbriki Road looking east. There are two residences generally isolated and surrounded by bushland setting.

Figure 3.32 Views towards the valley below with the bushland setting and the sea beyond contribute to the character and identity of this zone.

Figure 3.33 Residence along Kimbriki Road. These two residences are in close proximity to the intersection of Kimbriki Road and Mona Vale Road.

Figure 3.34 View from further afield, down Kimbriki Road, looking towards the ridgeline where the alignment is proposed.

LocationSituated nearby the ridgeline of Mona Vale Road and surrounded by bushland, this zone comprises of two residences in an isolated situation.

Natural EnvironmentSteep topography descending to the east with a strong bushland presence.

Built Environment Single storey residences with valley views.

Spatial CharacterPanoramic vistas from high ground surrounded by bushland.

Infrastructure Informal paved road with power poles.

SensitivityHigh due to the residential land use, unique setting and panoramic vistas that contribute to the identity of these two properties.


4 . 0 L A N D S CA P E C H A R A CT E R A S S E S S M E N T

Based on the concept design, the following impact has been assessed. The landscape character impact is based on the aggregate of an area’s built, natural and cultural character and sense of place. In this regard, it is measured by the combination of the area’s sensitivity and the magnitude (scale, character and distance).

Table 4.1 below illustrates how the level of sensitivity and magnitude are combined to achieve an overall level of impact for both the landscape character impact and the visual impact. It should be noted that the ratings are measured relative to each other rather then assigned through an absolute scale. Hence the resulting landscape character impact rating is project specific and identifies those areas with the highest and lowest impacts.

The sensitivity of each landscape character zone has been assessed in Section 3.0 Landscape Character Analysis and has been included in the assessment table 4.2.

Table 4.1 Landscape Visual Impacts Rating Table - RMS EIA Guidance Note EIA-N04.

Magnitude

high moderate low negligible

Sen

sitiv

ity

high high impact high- moderate moderate negligible

moderate high- moderate moderate moderate-low negligible

low moderate moderate-low low negligible

negligible negligible negligible negligible negligible

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LANDSCAPE CHARACTER

ZONESENSITIVITY LEVEL MAGNITUDE OF IMPACT LANDSCAPE CHARACTER IMPACT

ZONE A - TERREY HILLS SEMI-RURAL RESIDENTIAL

High: sensitive environment with an established residential land use. Moderate to high visual quality, contributing in defining sense of place and identity.

Negligible: This area of the project would have a limited impact to the character and sense of place for these residences and commercial properties. At this location, Mona Vale Road transitions from a four lane dual carriageway to a single lane road in each direction.

Negligible: no noteworthy impact identified as a result of the project. The identity and sense of place would not change.

ZONE B - RUGGED BUSHLAND

High: defined by national parks to either side of the roadway. High visual and environmental quality.

Low: although the project would slightly impact part of this zone through the re-alignment of Mona Vale Road, this impact is considered minor as most areas of the bushland setting would not be disturbed. There may be an increase in traffic, affecting the sense of place; and the permeability for fauna would be slightly compromised due to the wider road.

Moderate: the proposed roadway would impact some bushland, yet the proposed alignment utilises as much as possible, the existing fire trails where it deviates from the existing alignment, thereby limiting this impact. The abandoned alignment would be used for fire trails.

ZONE C - SEMI-RURAL COMMERCIAL

Moderate: commercial and private residences in a valley setting surrounded by bushland. This area is a high visual quality, yet the predominant nature of commercial properties makes it less susceptible to change.

Moderate: the proposed alignment would be situated closer to some of these properties. Bushland clearing would impact the strong vegetative character of the area in key locations (mostly along the western end of Wirreanda Road). However, this impact is considered limited as the overall setting would predominantly retain its general character.

Moderate: the western end of this zone would be impacted more than the eastern end. Clearing of some vegetation along a ridgeline, south of Wirreanda Road, would slightly reduce the bushland presence, yet generous buffer zones with bushland vegetation would retain the overall character of the area. Towards the eastern end of this zone, the extension of Harvey Road would introduce a new local road and the way people access this area would change.

ZONE D - SEMI-RURAL RESIDENTIAL

High: residential land use with large estates, some with panoramic views over the valley.

Low: only residences that enjoy a view over the valley may be impacted. The project would impact on the panoramic views with the proposed roadway partially visible within the bushland setting. As this would contribute in creating a stronger presence of the urban environs, the character and sense of place for these residences would be impacted. The distance of the proposed project limits the magnitude of impact.

Moderate: the panoramic vistas contribute to the overall sense of place and identity ofthese properties. Although these impacts are of a visual nature, the vistas contribute tothe perceived value and identity of these properties.

ZONE E - SEMI-RURAL INGLESIDE

High: established semi-rural residential and commercial properties and school. Most impacted are residential properties, hence the high rating.

Moderate: the proposal would impact two residences in particular, changing the serene sense of place. Although the intervention is considered minor, with the construction of a local ‘link’ road, the introduction of new traffic would contribute to the urbanisation of the area and diminish the somewhat pristine bushland character of the setting.

Moderate-High: the new local road extension would reinforce the urbanity of the area through increased traffic which would detract from the serene setting.

ZONE F - BAHA’I HOUSE OF WORSHIP

High: temple complex with staff residences set in an established parkland like setting.

Low: the project would somewhat impact the sense of place due to potential increased traffic along Mona Vale Road, affecting the serenity of this zone. It should however be noted, that the complex is already next to a major arterial road, hence the low rating. The visual appearance on the complex would not be affected and the existing bushland buffer zone between Mona Vale Road and this zone would be retained. The new extension of Harvey Road would impact one residence of the complex in particular.

Moderate: the complex’s overall character and sense of place would not be greatly impacted. Whilst the northern edge would be impacted by the introduction of a local road, this impact is considered limited on the overall complex.

ZONE G - INGLESIDE VALLEY

High: predominantly residences fronting Mona Vale Road.

Negligible: the sense of place and identity for these homes would not change. Negligible: no noteworthy impact identified as a result of the project. This section of Mona Vale Road has been upgraded already.

ZONE H - INGLESIDE WEST High: isolated residences in the vicinity of the corridor on elevated ground and enjoying panoramic views.

Negligible: there would be limited impact by the proposal to this zone. Negligible: The overall character and sense of place would be retained.

Table 4.2 Landscape Character Assessment table


SUMMARY OF LANDSCAPE CHARACTER IMPACTS

The adjacent table 4.3, summarises the landscape character impact for each of the identified landscape character zones. The predominant impact is either considered to be negligible or moderate. The resulting moderate impact is predominantly due to the high sensitivity rating given to most zones.

Zone E has been identified with a moderate to high landscape character impact. This is due to the creation of a new local road in close proximity to these residences, leading to a change in character to the current situation. It should be noted however, that it is a very limited number of properties directly impacted by the proposal and that the overall area is likely to change as discussed in Section 2.4 Land Use & Connectivity.

Hence, overall, it is considered that the project would have a limited impact to the general area and contribute to its functioning and safety.

Table 4.3 Landscape Character Assessment summary table

C h a ra c te r z o n e s S e n s i t i v i t y M a g n i t u d e I m p a c t

ATerrey Hills Semi-rural Residential

High Negligible Negligible

B Rugged bushland High Low Moderate

C Semi-rural Commercial Moderate Moderate Moderate

D Semi-Rural Residential High Low Moderate

E Semi-Rural Ingleside High Moderate Moderate-High

F Baha’i House of Worship High Low Moderate

G Ingleside High Negligible Negligible

H Ingleside West High Negligible Negligible

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5 . 1 V I S U A L E N V E LO P E

In order to assess the visual impact, a Visual Envelope Map of the project’s visual catchment from the surrounding area has been prepared. The visual catchment is defined either by topographical features, built form elements or screening vegetation.

Due to the strongly undulating topography and the dense bushland setting, the visual exposure of the overall project is very limited. The project would predominantly be most exposed in the vicinity of Powder Works Road and the northern perimeter of the Baha’i Temple complex.

It should be noted, that the visual impact assessment has taken into account potential viewpoints from within properties. As access to private properties was not possible, some viewpoints are not representative of the viewpoint assessed, but provides an indicative image of the property being assessed, such as is the case with viewpoints 4, 5 and 6.

5 . 0 V I S U A L I M PA CT A S S E S S M E N T

Figure 5.1 Map illustrating the visual envelope of the project.

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