Agenda of Ordinary Meeting of Council - Monday, 9 November 2020

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 9 November 2020

RP-1

Reports from Staff

RP-1 ACTIVE TRAVEL STAGE 2 - OFFER OF FUNDING

Author: Ben Creighton

Director: Michael Keys

Summary:

Council has received an offer of $3,797,077 in cycling infrastructure funding from Transport for NSW to commence the delivery of Stage 2 of the Active Travel Project. Stage 2 of the project identifies additional routes to the CBD as well as other trip attractors such as shopping centres. Additional grant funding will be required in the future in order to complete all of the cycling network identified in Stage 2 of the Active Travel Project.

Recommendation

That Council:

a endorse the General Manager or their delegate to negotiate to enter into an agreement for up to $3,797,077 in funding to commence the implementation of Stage 2 of the Active Travel Plan

b authorise the affixing of Council’s Common Seal to all relevant documents as required

c approve the budget variations as detailed in the budget section of the report

d add the Active Travel Plan Stage 2 to the 2020/21 Confirmed Capital Works Delivery Program

Report

During early 2020 the State Government announced a funding program for Walking and Cycling projects. In response to this Council applied for funding under both the Walking and Cycling streams during February 2020.

The Walking stream application requested funding for footpaths that were previously identified as being required, while the cycling application requested funding for extensions to the Active Travel network currently under construction. The routes identified for the cycling program were developed based off cycling connections previously identified within the Recreation, Open Space and Community Strategy 2040 and community feedback received since the completion of the initial sections of the Active Travel Project.

The application submitted was considered Stage 2 of the Active Travel Project.

Council was advised on 23 October 2020 that we were successful in receiving $3,797,077 in funding towards a $3,927,583 project to commence the implementation of Stage 2 of the Active Travel Plan (Attachment 1). This funding has a requirement that all construction is to be completed by 30 June 2021 and that post this date the funding will lapse.

Following the announcement of the funding Staff have commenced detailed planning on the initial scope of works to be delivered under this funding. Indicative routes for future implementation have been identified (Attachment 2) however it is proposed that the actual routes to be constructed under the allocated funding will be determined via stakeholder consultation, the connectivity generated from the route, the construction cost and the buildability of each route.

Given the delay in announcement of the funding the delivery schedule for the works will be challenging to meet, particularly given the current construction of Stage 1 of the Active Travel Project (Attachment 3). Staff are currently working on a resourcing and delivery strategy that will allow the project to be completed within the required timeframe.

Council’s contribution to the project will be funded from the shared path funding identified within the Wagga Wagga Infrastructure Contributions Plan 2019-2034.

Financial Implications

The total allocation of funding for the initial links of Stage 2 Active Travel is $3,927,583 with $3,797,077 to be funded from the NSW Cycling Infrastructure fund and the remaining $130,506 to be funded from Council’s developer contributions.

The below table shows the 2020/21 New Proposed budget allocation, and also the existing budget allocations in the Long-Term Financial Plan (LTFP) and/or Developer Contributions Plan.

Item	2020/21 New Proposed	2024/25	2026/27	Beyond current 2021/30 LTFP
Active Travel Plan Stage 2 (Grant funding $3,797,077; S7.11 $130,506)	$3,927,583
Existing Budget allocations in LTFP and/or Developer Contributions Plan – budgets to be adjusted down by the Section 7.11 funds required as noted against each project)
TT 14 Shared Paths Lake Albert and Tatton (Grant funding $351,900; S7.11 $62,100) Use $55,506 S7.11 funds				($414,000)
TT 8 Shared Paths Ashmont and Glenfield (Grant funding $331,500; S7.11 $67,275 (indexed from plan)) Job number: 19608 Use $25,000 S7.11 funds			($398,775)
TT 15 Shared Paths Mount Austin, Tolland, Turvey Park (Grant funding $244,800; S7.11 $49,680 (indexed from plan)) Job number: 19615 Use $25,000 S7.11 funds		($244,800)	($49,680)
TT 11 Shared Paths Central and North Wagga (Grant funding $385,900; S7.11 $76,613 (indexed from plan)) Job number: 19611 Use $25,000 S7.11 funds		($385,900)	($76,613)

Active Travel Stage 2 new Job consolidation number: 21130

Policy and Legislation

Active Travel Plan Cycling

Wagga Wagga Integrated Transport Strategy and Implementation Plan 2040 (WWITS 2040)

Recreation, Open Space and Community Strategy 2040

Link to Strategic Plan

The Environment

Objective: Create and maintain a functional, attractive and health promoting built environment

Outcome: We improve the facilities of our places and spaces

Risk Management Issues for Council

Financial - Previous implementation cost estimates for Stage 2 were detailed strategic estimates without design. The final construction costs will be subject to the detailed design

The risks associated with implementing this project relate to process, cost, environmental, WHS and contractor performance. These risks are addressed as part of the Council’s project management and contractor performance management systems.

Internal / External Consultation

Extensive consultation was undertaken during the development of the Active Travel Plan and the Recreation, Open Space and Community Strategy 2040.

Additional localised consultation will occur with residents along the proposed routes as part of the design and construction phases of the project.

Internal consultation has been undertaken within the Regional Activation, Projects and Strategy and Operations Directorate.

A Councillor workshop was held 2 November 2020.

Mail

Media

Community Engagement

Digital

Rates notices insert

Direct mail

Letterbox drop

Council news story

Council News advert

Media releases

TV/radio advertising

One-on-one meetings

Your Say website

Community meetings

Stakeholder workshops

Drop-in sessions

Surveys and feedback forms

Social media

Email newsletters

Website

Digital advertising

TIER

Consult

Attachments

1 ⇩.	Letter of Offer
2 ⇩.	Future Routes ATP
3 ⇩.	Active Travel Stage 1 - Construction Update

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 9 November 2020

RP-2

RP-2 Draft Planning Proposal LEP20/0007 to Rezone Land at Estella, Wagga Wagga

Author: Adam Wood

Director: Michael Keys

Summary:

A draft planning proposal has been prepared to rezone land to the east of Pine Gully Road, Estella. These changes serve to provide additional housing opportunities in the north of the city, whilst strengthening and enlarging an existing environmental corridor, improving the neighbourhood design outcome and enlarging the available opportunity for local business and service provision.

The proposal aligns with the strategic vision for Estella and the wider locality. The recommendation is to proceed with the planning proposal and request a Gateway Determination from the NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment.

Recommendation

That Council:

a support a planning proposal to amend the Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan 2010 as it applies to lands in Estella.

b submit a planning proposal to the NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment for Gateway Determination.

c note the intention for the developer to also submit Concept Development Applications for lands in Estella, parallel to the rezoning of some lands, satisfying urban release area requirements of the Wagga Wagga LEP in lieu of a Development Control Plan.

d receive a further report after the public exhibition period addressing any submissions made in respect of the planning proposal.

Planning Proposal Details

Applicant:

This is a Council-initiated planning proposal and has been developed in collaboration with the land owner.

Land Owners:

Gracelands Estates Pty Ltd.

Director: Juha Eerik Alatalo

Director: Antti Kullervo Alatalo

Director: Anni-Ilona Alatalo

Throughout 2020 Council’s Regional Activation Directorate has negotiated with Alatalo Bros. to plan the development of the remaining undeveloped part of Estella. The planning proposal considered by this report implements this planning, by reconfiguring a part of the zoning existing in Estella. It seeks a neighbourhood development outcome that fulfils Council’s strategic objectives in the area, improving neighbourhood design outcomes in the northern suburbs of Wagga Wagga and providing a continued supply of new dwellings for the Wagga Wagga housing market.

The complete development site (referred to here as the Estella Development Area) is located in the western, as-yet undeveloped, portion of Estella. It is bound by the Old Narrandera Road to the south, Pine Gully Road to the west, Estella Road to the north and the existing extent of the Estella neighbourhood to the east.

The extent of the Estella Development Area is identified in the mapping figure provided below. It can be seen from the figure below that the larger part of this area is already zoned for residential development, with a smaller portion needing to be rezoned to facilitate the intended neighbourhood design. This portion is illustrated later in this report at the section ‘Planning Proposal Implementation’ that follows.

This is a significant development opportunity for the city within the Northern Growth Area of Wagga Wagga. It is located close to other key locations including the Charles Sturt University campus and the proposed Estella Public School to the north. It contains one local shopping centre site within its bounds and is in proximity to another zoned shopping site further to the east in Boorooma. Estella and the broader northern suburbs are currently experiencing change as a result of significant growth, being one of the fastest growing suburbs in the city. Development of this area provides the opportunity to accommodate this growth and improve local service and commercial provision for the community

The intended neighbourhood design for this area correlates with broader Council planning in the northern suburbs, including the intended location of intersections on Pine Gully Road (at junctions with Cootamundra Boulevard and Muttama Parade), the location of active travel corridors and the location of the district park and Estella school at Estella Road.

As detailed above the planning proposal affects only a part of the lands within this Estella Development Area. The remaining lands will stay within their current zone allocation which is already suitable for the development of the suburb. These correctly zoned lands can be subject to a concept development application. This will include the northern area of lands in the continuing R1 General Residential zone area. This allows for the construction of Avocet Drive to be undertaken early in the development sequence prior to the completed rezoning elsewhere in the suburb. This will join to the upgraded Pine Gully Road and enhance vehicle connectivity throughout the northern suburbs. The concept development application will also continue the supply of residential land and development for the city ahead of the later rezoning.

Planning Proposal Implementation

Council is preparing a planning proposal to amend the Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan 2010 (WWLEP 2010) for tracts of land located east of Pine Gully Road to align with key strategic land use documents for the locality.

The planning proposal seeks the following outcomes:

1. Rezone part of Lot 43 DP 1225666 from R1 General Residential Zone to E2 Environmental Conservation Zone. This is illustrated in the mapping figure provided below.

2. Reconfigure the land use zoning of parts of Lot 199 DP 1206757 and Lot 6013 DP 1209232 in the south of the development area and west of the existing built suburb of Estella. This correctly aligns the future open space corridor between the local streets and R1 zone areas, removes surplus RE1 land not required by ROSC 2040 and changes some R5 Large Lot Residential land to R1 General Residential.

3. Rezone part of Lot 199 DP 1206757 adjoining south of Avocet Drive from RE1 Public Recreation and R1 General Residential to a revised and enlarged configuration of both B2 Local Centre and RE1 Public Recreation. Rezone land immediately south of the B2 Local Centre site from RE1 to R1 also. This is illustrated in the mapping figure provided below.

4. Align the requirement for Council to acquire part of Lot 199 DP 1206757 and part Lot 6013 DP 1209232 for recreation purposes to the amended RE1 Public Recreation zoning. This is illustrated in the mapping figure provided below.

The effect of these amendments across the subject land is:

· A reduction of 7.6 hectares in RE1 – Public Recreation land

· An increase of 5.84 hectares in R1 – General Residential land

· An increase of 2.2 hectares in E2 – Environmental Conservation land.

· An increase of 0.92 hectares in B2 – Local Centre land

· A reduction of 1.46 hectares in R5 – Large Lot Residential land

· A reduction of 9.46 hectares in land subject to the Land Reservation Acquisition Overlay

Lands within the E2 Environmental Conservation Zone and RE1 Public Recreation will be acquired by Council.

The additional E2 Environmental Conservation Zone will enhance the protection of White Box-Yellow Box-Blakely’s Red Gum Woodland (Box-Gum Woodland) species in located at that northern part of Estella. This corridor will also be accommodate Council’s Active Travel Route linking Gobbagombalin to the Estella public school, district park and Charles Sturt University campus.

Motivation for the planning proposal

1. Open space provision, land acquisition requirements and ROSC 2040

A key consideration in the development of this planning proposal is the treatment of the large portion of the subject land currently zoned RE1 Public Recreation. This planning proposal is prepared with consideration of the Wagga Wagga Recreation, Open Space and Community Strategy 2040 (ROSC).

ROSC 2040 provides strategic direction for the planning, development, management and use of community spaces over the next 20 years. The strategy identifies numerous projects in the northern suburbs of Wagga Wagga. These include playgrounds, parks, sports facilities and pathways. These projects reflect needs and expectations of the community. The Strategy provides a framework to create an active, safe, healthy and vibrant city, enhancing Wagga Wagga’s position as a leading regional city.

During the earlier history of development within Estella before ROSC 2040, a district park was originally planned for Lot 199 DP 1206757 and Lot 6013 DP 1209232 in the south-western part of the Estella neighbourhood. This intent has changed. As per the direction of ROSC 2040, a district park will now be built at Peter Hastie Oval north of Estella Road and next to the land hosting the new public school. The amount of open space originally required in south Estella can be reduced and rezoned to R1 General Residential Zone to instead address housing demand in the city.

Under the existing LEP provisions, Council is obliged to acquire 16.19ha of RE1 Public Recreation zoned land in the precinct. The proposed rezoning and changes to the acquisition layer of the LEP will reduce this requirement to the extent directed by ROSC 2040. Sufficient funding has been allocated in the contributions plans to still acquire the remainder of the RE1 zoned land from the developer and to develop the land into a quality environment to suit the needs of Wagga Wagga residents living in the area.

Now that the district park site in the south of Estella is surplus, the amount of open space now required on Lot 199 DP 1206757 and Lot 6013 DP 1209232 is reduced. This reduces the cost burden on Council to fund the accompanying land acquisitions also. The planning proposal means this area of land is rezoned to R1 General Residential Zone to instead address housing demand within the city.

The configuration of RE1 Public Recreation lands pursued by this planning proposal does differ from the exact configuration provided by ROSC 2040. In some parts this reflects the eventual location of road alignments adjoining the open space area. A further aspect in which the planning proposal configuration differs from the ROSC 2040 configuration is that the open space southward of Avocet Drive is not to be delivered in one continuous tract. The configuration provided for by the planning proposal instead delivers the southern portion of the tract intended by ROSC 2040, in addition to a separate open space portion located west of the shopping centre site. This intent is illustrated at Items 1 and 2 of Part 2 of this planning proposal.

This approach is adopted for multiple reasons. The portion of the ROSC 2040 configuration discarded was open space that was to directly adjoin the rear fences of residential properties. This outcome would be inconsistent with the improved neighbourhood design outcomes being sought by the rest of the planning proposal throughout the Estella development area. Land at this location is also to be encumbered by a future road and therefore this allocation is not representative of the area actually usable for recreation activities. The allocation of more RE1 Public Recreation land west of the B2-zoned commercial site has several advantages. This opens opportunities for improved interfaces with the adjoining land uses. Housing will face into the open space from across the roads. This land has a slightly larger overall area of RE1 zoning than would be the case under the ROSC configuration, without interference by future roadways. The location of the space also has advantages for integrating the active travel pathways network of the northern suburbs. This open space links the shopping centre site, broader open space and active travel networks westward along Avocet Drive to Gobbagombalin.

2. An improved neighbourhood design outcome

The surrounding areas within Estella and neighbouring Gobbagombalin and Boorooma are low-density residential areas consisting of 1 and 2 storey dwellings. In some locations the subdivision layout results in a poor urban design outcome. Neighbourhoods separated by busy roads, resulting in severance of pedestrian travel routes. This is compounded by inactive street frontages and under-used and poorly planned open space networks.

This planning proposal responds to these issues identified within previous development, seeking to deliver an improved neighbourhood design outcome in the remaining development area of Estella. The layout for the neighbourhood design has been the subject of collaboration and continued refinement between Council and the developer.

The neighbourhood design will be implemented by the combination of a planning proposal to reconfigure zoning (to the extent it is presently inconsistent with the neighbourhood design layout) and by Concept Development Applications to satisfy the requirements of the LEP Urban Release Area within Estella. Outcomes of this approach will include the following:

· Orientation of residential lots and development to face the public open spaces and corridors, resulting in improved active street frontages, presentation value and passive surveillance.

· Landscape buffers next to the busy Pine Gully Road corridor and avoiding rear fencing placed to face main collector roads.

· Completion of the local road network including the construction of the critical remaining portion of Avocet Drive. This provides a linkage for local vehicle traffic from Gobbagombalin through to key locations in the northern suburbs including the B2 Local Centre shopping sites in both Estella and Boorooma.

· Integrated provision of pedestrian and active travel linkages, including sound access across Pine Gully Road from Gobbagombalin, and linkages onwards from that location to the Estella school, university and district park north of Estella Road, to the B2 Local Centre shopping locations via Avocet Drive and to the open space and active travel networks of the northern suburbs and wider city.

· High quality open space networks, with better-planned and more attractive interfaces to adjoining uses, particularly where flanked by new housing, with a greater degree of functionality for users of these spaces.

The illustration below provides an indicative example of the improved outcome for public open space design, whereby residential lots have aspect into the open space corridors as a result of the placement of residential streets.

3. Environmental benefit

The proposal to widen the E2 Environmental Conservation zone in the north western corner of the development area will have significant environmental benefits.

The proposed E2 Environmental Conservation zone area consists of White Box-Yellow Box-Blakely’s Red Gum Woodland (Box-Gum Woodland). This ecological community is listed as ‘Endangered’ under the NSW Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016, and as ‘Critically Endangered’ nationally under the Commonwealth Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999.

Extension of the E2 Environmental Conservation zone over this vegetation population will enhance its protection and management while the balance of the area receives residential development. This vegetation currently sits within the R1 General Residential zone which does not offer satisfactory protection to these natural assets.

The E2 Environmental corridor at this location will also accommodate Council’s Active Travel Route, enhancing active travel connectivity for Gobbagombalin residents to key locations north of Estella Road, including the new school, district park and Charles Sturt University campus.

4. Facilitating population growth and housing demand

The addition of dwellings to the housing stock is a necessary prerequisite for population growth in the city. This provides opportunities for households to relocate from other areas or new households to form locally. It is also important that housing stock is not only provided, but that this occurs in an orderly and well-planned fashion.

The planning proposal provides for additional supply of housing in the city’s identified key growth area located in the north. It does so in an integrated fashion, with additional open space, a local business centre and various travel linkages considered and provided for. The subject land provides these additional housing opportunities in a manner that enables future residents to experience the benefits of a well-designed neighbourhood which is adequately serviced and possesses nearby access to services, local retailing and open spaces. The planning proposal upholds the city’s objectives with respect to housing supply and providing for population growth.

5. Land use strategies underway

Council will shortly be exhibiting the draft version of the key land use strategy for the city, the Wagga Wagga Local Strategic Planning Statement. This document considers the communities aspirations and provides a blueprint for how and where we want Wagga Wagga to grow into the future.

Council is also in the process of developing a Northern Growth Area Structure Plan. The Plan will support the Local Strategic Planning Statement (LSPS) and will identify areas suitable for additional housing provision. Improvements to the existing neighbourhoods of Boorooma, Estella and Gobbagombalin are consistent with Northern Growth Area planning. The benefits of the neighbourhood design intent for the Estella Development Area include establishment of the remaining roads, open space networks and zoning configured to ensure improved urban and environmental outcomes. It will also provide additional housing opportunities within the zoned residential lands.

The planning proposal seeks to expand an existing environmental corridor, rationalise the amount of existing open space to that which can be delivered at a high quality, and to provide additional residential zoned land consistent with the general directions of draft land use strategies for the city.

This planning proposal further improves upon a similar version of the planning proposal discussed with Councillors in the first half of 2020. In addition to the benefits of the previous iteration like removing surplus open space and providing environmental allocations, the current version of the proposal recommended to Council in this report facilitates the following:

· Improvement to the configuration of open spaces, by swapping two small segments of open space, one of these partially encumbered by a future road, in favour of one large open space adjoining south of Avocet Drive

· Additional land annexed for the business site at the corner of Avocet Drive and Rainbow Drive, providing additional local services and opportunities for improved site design outcomes

· Additional land for general residential use, as opposed to low density residential use, south of the extension of Rainbow Drive

· Improved integration with Council’s design for the upgrade of Pine Gully Road. This is achieved by providing points of access and egress to the area at the roundabout of Pine Gully Road and Muttama Parade and at the junction of Avocet Drive and Pine Gully Road.

6. Infrastructure

One of the key issues to consider with LEP amendments is the ramifications of any proposal on existing infrastructure and the ability of existing networks to cope with increased demands.

The infrastructural issues connected to this particular planning proposal are limited. In this instance, the planning proposal represents an incremental enlargement of residential and commercial zones in an existing growth area. These urban zone types already exist across large parts of Estella. It has always been the intent that large scale urban development in this part of Estella shall connect to the city’s infrastructural networks.

Being located directly adjacent already developed urban areas of Wagga Wagga, the site is in close proximity to existing service and infrastructure networks including roads, reticulated water and waste collection services. These have been given individual consideration in development of the planning proposal and revised neighbourhood layout.

Sewer:

The increase in demand upon sewer networks created by the planning proposal is in the area where the surplus open space is converted to housing land. New residential space created by this planning proposal is within a large central tract of the development area which must be serviced by new trunk infrastructure at the south of Estella. The new trunk infrastructure will be required as a component of a future concept development application and shall be expressly designed for the purpose of meeting the requirements of this central tract.

In other parts of the Estella Development Area, the planning proposal reduces the draw upon sewer infrastructure. It does so by rezoning lands for open space and environmental purposes instead of housing as currently zoned. Smaller portions of the new suburb in the north and west will link into existing sewer networks within the adjoining built areas of Estella and Gobbagombalin. These connections shall also be established through forthcoming Concept Development Applications to be submitted to Council in parallel to, and following, the planning proposal.

Stormwater:

A Stormwater Report and Management Strategy will be required as part of future concept development applications for each development stage to achieve safe control of additional volumes of urban run-off.

The Stormwater Management Plan will indicate an appropriate discharge point linking to the broader city stormwater network so as not to adversely affect surrounding development and assets.

It is noted that current infrastructure may not tolerate the quantity of stormwater volume implied by full development of Estella. An upgrade to local stormwater infrastructure is planned within Council’s DSP presently under development.

Roads:

Future development of the Estella Development Area must integrate with the existing and proposed road networks for the Northern Growth Area.

Council is currently preparing the upgrade of Pine Gully Road. This includes a number of key intersection improvements to accommodate the expected growth of the city in the north. The neighbourhood layout facilitated by this planning proposal includes the extension of Avocet Drive to Pine Gully Road at its existing junction with Cootamundra Drive. This is a key part of road and active travel network planning in the north of the city.

The future location of Avocet Drive is within the part of Estella where the correct zoning is already in place. The submission of a concept development application for this part of the development area, in parallel to this planning proposal, will enable installation of this new road link as a matter of priority whilst the planning proposal is resolved. This sequencing of development will ensure sound connectivity in the road network and active travel network not only for future residents of the subject land, but for existing residents in the north, particularly in Gobbagombalin.

Water:

Local water supply is provided by Riverina Water County Council Water (RWCC). Concept development applications for each development stage will demonstrate that water supply can be made available in accordance with Council requirements and RWCC Guidelines.

The additional land for residential purposes as a result of the planning proposal is located directly adjacent already zoned land anticipated for development and represents and incremental increase in the extent of supply network required.

Other:

Other infrastructure networks and services, including electricity, gas, public transport, waste management/recycling, health, education, emergency, mail and other community services are established in the local area and are accessible to, and may be further extended to, the subject site.

Conclusion

The planning proposal has been considered for the net community benefit that it provides to the city. The matters discussed in this report are all reflections of the public interest and community expectations as embedded in strategic planning and directions adopted by the city.

Taking into account the range of matters detailed in this report, a planning proposal to implement the zoning changes detailed herein would represent a sound outcome for the city and its residents. On this basis it is in the public’s interest that a planning proposal to this effect be pursued.

Financial Implications

The planning proposal has been developed internally by Council with a view toward obtaining desirable strategic planning and neighbourhood design outcomes within the suburb of Estella. Support has been forthcoming from the land developer in order to achieve these outcomes, and this is reflected in the master planning direction developed to date. No application fees will be levied for this planning proposal as Council has ownership of the proposal. Processing of planning proposals forms part of the ordinary tasking of the City Strategy Unit and will be completed with pre-existing resourcing levels.

The reconfigured zoning of various lands within Estella, as well as the anticipated submission of Concept Development Applications within the development area, foreshadows development of these lands for urban purposes. This has financial implications for Council into the future.

Section 7.11 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 and the City of Wagga Wagga’s Section 94 Contributions Plan 2006-2019 enables Council to levy contributions, where anticipated development will or is likely to increase the demand for public facilities.

Section 64 of the Local Government Act 1993, Section 306 of the Water Management Act 2000 as well as the City of Wagga Wagga’s Development Servicing Plan for Stormwater 2007 and/or City of Wagga Wagga Development Servicing Plan for Sewerage 2013 enable Council to levy developer charges based on the increased demands that new development will have on sewer and/or stormwater.

The Section 7.11 and Section 64 contribution applies to any future development consent on the land. This will be applicable to future Concept Development Applications applying to the lands.

Policy and Legislation

Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.

Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan 2010.

Link to Strategic Plan

The Environment

Objective: We plan for the growth of the city

Outcome: We have housing that suits our needs

Risk Management Issues for Council

An approval of the proposal may be subject to public scrutiny during the formal public consultation process. This may result in additional pressure on Council to rezone other lands.

If the planning proposal is refused, there is risk arising from the land owner then needing to develop the land consistent with the current zoning configuration. The current zoning does not align with Council’s long-term vision of the area and endorsed strategic documents.

As an example of the consequences of this, land within the RE1 Public Recreation Zone which is not required under the Wagga Wagga Recreation, Open Space and Community Strategy 2040 will under the current provisions of the Wagga Wagga LEP be required to be dedicated to Council. Funding for this acquisition, and the subsequent development and upkeep of this extent of open space, is not provided for within current funding allocations.

Other potential consequences include the inability to deliver meaningfully improved neighbourhood design outcomes for residents and the inability to protect Box-Gum Woodland environmental assets currently within the R1 General Residential zone.

Internal / External Consultation

The planning proposal and associated masterplan have been the subject of internal consultation in regard to various aspects of the development area. This has ensured the effective delivery of active travel networks throughout the development, the delivery and specification of Avocet Drive within the development area and

Councillor workshops have been held on 8 March 2020 and 19 October 2020.

Formal public consultation with the general public and referral agencies will occur after

the Gateway Determination.

Proposed consultation methods are indicated in the table below.

Mail

Media

Community Engagement

Digital

Rates notices insert

Direct mail

Letterbox drop

Council news story

Council News advert

Media releases

TV/radio advertising

One-on-one meetings

Your Say website

Community meetings

Stakeholder workshops

Drop-in sessions

Surveys and feedback forms

Social media

Email newsletters

Website

Digital advertising

TIER

Consult

Attachments

1 ⇩.

LEP20/0007 Draft Planning Proposal

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 9 November 2020

RP-3

RP-3 Planning Proposal LEP19/0008 to rezone the Collingullie Growth Area

Author: Adam Wood

Director: Michael Keys

Summary:

A draft planning proposal has been prepared to rezone land adjoining the edge of the Collingullie township. The planning proposal overlaps land identified as the growth area for Collingullie.

The subject land area has been modified by an addendum which forms part of the recommendation to Council. This aligns the planning proposal to the identified Collingullie growth area nominated in the Wagga Wagga Spatial Plan 2013 and avoids land use conflict between future development and the Collingullie sewerage treatment plant.

It is recommended that Council support the planning proposal proceeding to a Gateway Determination subject to a further master plan prior to public exhibition.

Recommendation

That Council:

a support the planning proposal to amend the Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan 2010, subject to the prepared addendum.

b submit the planning proposal to the NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment for Gateway Determination.

c require a master plan and supporting amendment to the Wagga Wagga Development Control Plan for the Collingullie growth area (including the subject land area) be prepared prior to public exhibition of the planning proposal.

d note that investigation of potential land contamination as described by the Guidelines to State Environmental Planning Policy No.55 must be completed before the public exhibition of the planning proposal and is to inform the master planning of the subject land.

e receive a further report after the public exhibition period addressing any submissions made in respect of the planning proposal and proposed amendment to the Wagga Wagga Development Control Plan.

Planning Proposal Details

Proposal

Council received a planning proposal (LEP19/0008) to rezone and remove the minimum lot size requirement from lands located at 9 Lockhart Road and 84 Bristol Street, Collingullie. The proposed rezoning is from the RU1 Primary Production zone to RU5 Village zone. The current minimum lot size requirement for the land is 200 hectares.

Council’s assessment of the planning proposal has resulted in a recommendation for an addendum to the planning proposal. This would remove a portion of the land included in the submitted planning proposal and include other lands under separate ownership at 39 Bristol Street, Collingullie.

Applicant

Bradley Jenkins for Mo-Ily Holdings

Ownership of lands considered

Lot 1 DP 120715 – Bradley Lenord Jenkins

Lot 39 DP 754561 – Bradley Lenord Jenkins

Lot 5 DP 833514 – Mo-Ily Holdings

Lot 71 DP 1066646 – Mo-Ily Holdings

Lot 20 DP 843207 – Michael Joseph Wakeling

Effect of the Planning Proposal

Council is in receipt of an application to amend the Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan 2010 (LEP) as it applies to lands located at Collingullie. The planning proposal seeks to:

§ Rezone lands from RU1 Primary Production to R5 Village

§ Remove the minimum lot size requirement applying to the same lands

This would permit additional growth of the village of Collingullie, delivered in a manner complementary to the existing types of development in the existing village. This will allow for population growth within Collingullie enhancing possibilities for the retention of local village services and commerce and the ongoing vitality of the village community.

The planning proposal as submitted by the applicant had intended changes to the Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan 2010 as illustrated overleaf:

*areas shown blank above do not have a minimum lot size requirement

Council’s assessment of the planning proposal has determined that an addendum is required to modify the effect of the proposal. This allows the planning proposal to better reflect the intent of the endorsed Wagga Wagga Spatial Plan 2013 and respond to constraints, including the location and capacity of the Collingullie sewerage treatment plant.

The recommended planning proposal for Gateway Determination provides the rezoning and removal of minimum lot size requirements to lands as indicated in the mapping below and overleaf.

*areas shown blank above do not have a minimum lot size requirement

The following lots are the subject lands for the planning proposal, taking into account the recommended addendum:

Part of Lot 5 DP 833514	84 Bristol Street, Collingullie
Part of Lot 39 DP 754561	9 Lockhart Road, Collingullie
Part of Lot 1 DP 120715	9 Lockhart Road, Collingullie
Part of Lot 20 DP 843207	39 Bristol Street, Collingullie

Assessment of the planning proposal

The planning proposal has been assessed by the strategic planning team. The assessment recommends that rezoning to expand the Collingullie village should be supported in principle. Notwithstanding this, the assessment has also found that the planning proposal to be endorsed for Gateway Determination and pursued to completion should be amended as shown and identified in the prvious section of this report.

The assessment of the planning proposal has considered matters identified and detailed below.

1. Providing rural residential development in Collingullie

The Wagga Wagga Spatial Plan 2013 provided strategic direction for the growth of rural townships and villages outside of the main urban centre of Wagga Wagga. These locations are the focus areas within the local government area for future provision of semi-rural and rural large lot residential development. The Wagga Wagga Spatial Plan projected that demand for new dwellings in Collingullie would rise to between 12 and 18 dwellings per annum by 2030.

Residential development on larger lots is supported as a part of a diverse range of housing types offered in the Wagga Wagga local government area and continues to be a housing type desired by many residents of the city. Notwithstanding this, care must be taken to ensure that this provision does not interfere with sound planning outcomes. A large proportion of rural residential development has been offered at the southern edge of the urban area of Wagga Wagga. This creates difficulty and complication in the cost-effective provision of supporting infrastructure, and intensification of residential development at a later time.

The Spatial Plan accounted for this, with the placement of lifestyle-residential development in villages including Collingullie offering several advantages. Placing lifestyle-residential development at Collingullie reduces longer term planning complications caused in the urban fringe areas of Wagga Wagga. It simultaneously provides for population increase in Collingullie to support the ongoing viability of that village and its services. This also makes for more efficient use of the infrastructure installed to support Collingullie. For these reasons the planning proposal is supported and recommended to proceed with amendments previously identified.

2. Endorsed growth area for Collingullie

As foreshadowed in the earlier section of this report, an addendum to the planning proposal is recommended to be consistent with the Wagga Wagga Spatial Plan 2013.

The Wagga Wagga Spatial Plan has provided an area for the growth of Collingullie which is illustrated in the map excerpt from the Spatial Plan document at right of page.

The planning proposal as it was submitted to Council provided for growth of the village to a much greater extent southward than that indicated. This included lands extending all the way to the boundary of the sewage treatment plant servicing the village.

Conversely, the submitted planning proposal did not include lands at the east of Collingullie which the Spatial Plan includes in the Collingullie growth area.

The assessment of the planning proposal has found that an addendum to the planning proposal should be prepared. As detailed in the mapping provided in the earlier section of this report, this reduces the area of land included to the south of Collingullie, whilst including the land to the east of the existing village.

This has the effect of improving the planning proposal in several ways:

· The planning proposal better matches the intent of the Wagga Wagga Spatial Plan 2013 for the growth of Collingullie.

· All lands identified in the Spatial Plan Collingullie growth area are included in a single planning proposal and are not preceded by rezoning of other lands outside the growth area.

· A 400 metre buffer area is provided between the southern extent of the area to be rezoned and the Collingullie sewage treatment plant, to better avoid the possibility of land use conflict than was the case in the planning proposal as submitted.

3. Legacy issues from agricultural land use

The subject land for the planning proposal has historically been used for agricultural activities. Agriculture is a land use identified by NSW guidelines as being a potential cause of land contamination as a result of various farming practices. The guidelines dictate that potential land contamination should be determined and if required, remedied, prior to the land being used for other purposes, so as to avoid exposure of occupants to contamination.

In addition to this direction, Council’s Potentially Contaminated Land Register identifies lands at 9 Lockhart Road and 84 Bristol Street, Collingullie as being potentially contaminated as a result of pesticide usage. This is broadly consistent with the use of the land for agricultural purposes in the past.

Investigation of contamination across the entire subject land area will need to be undertaken in accordance with EPA guidelines and the requirements of the Contaminated Land Management Act 1997. This investigation will need to determine that no risk of contamination will exist to forthcoming residential development to be located on the land. If contamination is identified, methods and standards of remediation will need to be identified and undertaken before the rezoning of the lands may be completed. The findings of the contamination investigation will directly inform the development of a master plan for the Collingullie growth area and Development Control Plan amendment to be installed to govern this new development.

Assessment of the planning proposal has found that there is merit in the rezoning of the lands, particularly considering the directions provided by the Wagga Wagga Spatial Plan. In view of this, it is recommended that the addended planning proposal be endorsed for Gateway Determination by the NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment with additional consideration of contamination to be made a condition of Council’s endorsement.

4. Service capacity and expansion of development

Investigation of service capacity existing in Collingullie, specifically sewer treatment capacity, has taken place to determine the capacity of the Collingullie growth area to sustain new development. These investigations have returned findings supportive of the further development of Collingullie.

At present the Collingullie sewerage treatment plant supports a maximum capacity of approximately 250 Equivalent Tenements (ETs). The Collingullie sewerage treatment plant is an evaporation based system, with two of five constructed ponds currently in use to support a current demand of approximately 75 ETs. This means existing spare capacity is approximately 175 ETs. The Collingullie sewerage treatment plant site has the ability to accommodate a further two evaporation ponds. Current utilisation rates imply that a further 100 ETs could be supported by the additional ponds.

The subject land area for rezoning to RU5 Village zone is 37 hectares in size. Assuming the use of this land at 80% efficiency to deliver rural-residential lots, 175 homes could be catered for if the average size of these new lots is 2100 square metres.

In practice, some lots will be both larger and smaller than this figure. There is a need to provide a range of lot sizes both to respect the subdivision and development pattern in the village but also achieve strategic aims for the local area housing market. Existing lots in Collingullie range in size from approximately 1000 square metres to slightly greater than 2000 square metres. Some lots would be expected to be delivered in the 1000 to 2000 square metre size range. Other lots, particularly where the village transitions to its rural landscape surrounds, should be substantially larger. This will also help achieve strategic housing market objectives for rural-residential development. As per the directions of the Wagga Wagga Spatial Plan and the draft Wagga Wagga Local Strategic Planning Statement, Collingullie is receiving new rural-residential development in lieu of further rural-residential development at the southern fringe of Wagga Wagga. In order to best offer this product within the local housing market, differentiated from general residential lots, lot sizes of 2500 square metres or greater will be best suited. Indeed, many lots at the southern fringe of Wagga Wagga are double this size at approximately 5000 square metres or larger and some supply at this larger size of housing product would be expected in Collingullie in future. Master planning to inform a DCP amendment will ensure these requirements are fulfilled whilst targeting the 2100 square metre or greater average lot size overall.

In view of these factors, master planning of the 37 hectare Collingullie growth area to inform future development will be able to configure future residential growth to achieve full development of the area within the capacity constraints of the sewerage treatment system. In view of this and the current and potential capacity existing within the local sewerage treatment facility, it is considered that there is capacity to undertake the rezoning with a significant margin of safety in place.

It is noted that existing dwellings within the village of Collingullie operate on pressure sewer systems. In future it is preferable to service properties by gravity sewer to a single consolidated pumping station onward to the Collingullie sewerage treatment plant. The location of a new sewer pump station, most likely in the northern extent of the subject land due to prevailing topography, will be resolved as a part of master planning of the Collingullie growth area following any Gateway Determination granted.

5. Development Control Plan amendment

The rezoning of the subject lands as per the addended planning proposal will add a considerable area of land to the spatial extent of Collingullie township. In support of this there needs to be provision for staging and layout of the new areas to ensure an orderly program of development in the growth area.

The subject land, consistent with the existing village area of Collingullie, is not proposed to receive a new minimum lot size requirement. Assigning appropriate lot sizes should be managed through a DCP amendment.

Additional controls and guiding master planning content for the new development in Collingullie should be provided in the form of an Amendment to the Wagga Wagga Development Control Plan at Section 6.1.1 of that document. This content must be produced prior to public exhibition of the planning proposal and form part of the exhibited materials alongside the planning proposal.

The following items are to be considered and resolved by development of a Development Control Plan amendment for the subject lands:

1. The staging of the development of the subject land, including placement of trunk infrastructure, to ensure appropriate development sequencing and avoid leapfrogging of development.

2. The typical lot size that each stage comprises and the resulting number of lots in each stage, with a view to available service capacity.

3. The provision of road, sewer and stormwater infrastructure to lots provided within the development stages, including connection to trunk infrastructure, at the intensity of development nominated for each stage.

4. Traffic assessment to inform the required design layout and specification for the provision of road access to new residential lots to be developed and the impact of the anticipated new development upon nearby classified road infrastructure.

5. The development transition from the core of the Collingullie township to surrounding agricultural lands and providing effective lot size and design response to this context.

6. The connectivity and presentation of new development areas to and from key locations within Collingullie including the school, commercial establishments and the playing field.

7. Suitability of the subject lands to sustain additional residential development in view of the legacy effects of previous land use, in particular any contamination of the land that may exist, and remediation of these effects as required.

Financial Implications

The planning proposal has originated externally to the organisation. The planning proposal was identified as a medium complexity amendment to the Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan 2010 using the grading schema in effect at the time of submission. Council has levied planning proposal fees totalling $15,000, as per Council’s fees and charges.

A further fee payment will be required to be levied following the receipt of a Gateway Determination. This is due to the requirement for a Development Control Plan amendment to be conducted in support of the planning proposal. This requirement was not certain at the time of the planning proposal being submitted to Council, therefore this charge has not been levied to date. The DCP amendment application is classed as a ‘Standard’ DCP application. The 2020/21 financial year fee payable for this will be $8,000 ($3,750 for lodgement of application and $4,250 for Preparation/processing of Amendment).

The planning proposal foreshadows additional development on the subject land, particularly residential development enlarging the existing extent of Collingullie village. This has implications for future levies payable to Council.

The Section 7.11 and Section 64 contribution applies to any future development consent on the land.

Policy and Legislation

Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979

Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2000

Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan 2010

Wagga Wagga Spatial Plan 2013

Link to Strategic Plan

The Environment

Objective: We plan for the growth of the city

Outcome: We have sustainable urban development

Risk Management Issues for Council

Approval of the proposal may be subject to public scrutiny during the formal public consultation process. This may result in additional pressure on Council to rezone other lands.

The planning proposal is consistent with the Wagga Wagga Spatial Plan 2013 as it applies to Collingullie. A refusal of the planning proposal would meet with pre-Gateway review by the NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment and may lead to questioning of Council’s commitment to implementing previously endorsed strategic directions and overall community confidence in strategic documents endorsed thereafter.

Internal / External Consultation

The planning proposal has been the subject of standard internal referral processes for planning proposals, including to Council’s environmental and engineering personnel.

The planning proposal has been the subject of feedback from Council’s environmental section regarding the subject land’s proximity to the sewer treatment plant and listing on Council’s potentially contaminated land register. The advice recommended a precautionary approach to maintaining distance to the sewerage treatment plant, which has been incorporated into the addendum for the planning proposal.

The advice also reflected the uncertainty regarding the potential for contamination of the subject land noting the previous agricultural use of the land. In view of this, the recommendation of this report incorporates further investigation into the potential contamination of the land in order to establish and address any risk associated with the subject land. This will inform the process of the planning proposal after any Gateway Determination that is issued by the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment.

The planning proposal will undertake public consultation in accordance with the requirements of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979. A Community Engagement Plan will be developed to guide the conduct of the exhibition period in a manner reflective of the requirements of the Act. Community engagement will not take place until the required amendment to the Wagga Wagga Development Control Plan is developed and ready for exhibition alongside this planning proposal. The Community Engagement Plan will therefore be designed to communicate the DCP amendment outcomes to the community, as development of that amendment nears completion.

Mail

Media

Community Engagement

Digital

Rates notices insert

Direct mail

Letterbox drop

Council news story

Council News advert

Media releases

TV/radio advertising

One-on-one meetings

Your Say website

Community meetings

Stakeholder workshops

Drop-in sessions

Surveys and feedback forms

Social media

Email newsletters

Website

Digital advertising

TIER

Consult

Involve

Collaborate

Attachments

1.	LEP19/0008 Planning Proposal received - Provided under separate cover
2.	LEP19/0008 Addendum - Provided under separate cover
3.	LEP19/0008 Assessment Report - Provided under separate cover

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 9 November 2020

RP-4

RP-4 Planning Proposal (LEP20/0001) to introduce a new local provision clause to enable minor boundary adjustments for certain zones

Author: Crystal Atkinson

Director: Michael Keys

/,mSummary:

A report was presented to Council on 29 June 2020 recommending proceeding with a planning proposal to reduce the minimum lot size provisions of the Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan 2010 to enable minor boundary adjustments in certain zones. Council indicated support of the planning proposal and to seek Gateway Determination.

Council received a Gateway Determination from the NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment on 21 August 2020 to proceed with the above-mentioned planning proposal subject to public exhibition.

The purpose of this report is to provide feedback on the public consultation and submissions received. The report also requests adoption and gazettal of the amendment to the Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan 2010.

Recommendation

That Council:

a note the results of the exhibition period for planning proposal LEP20/0001

b adopt planning proposal LEP20/0001 to amend the Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan 2010

c gazette the plan and notify NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment of the decision

Proposal

Council officers have prepared a planning proposal to introduce a local provision clause in the Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan 2010 (LEP) to enable minor boundary adjustments in the rural zones and environmental management zone. The proposal intends to protect dwelling entitlements for lots created resulting from the new local provisions. The planning proposal, as exhibited, is provided as Attachment 1.

An example of where this clause may be used is where an existing holding has been fragmented by realignment of a road. In this instance, the fragmented parcel cannot be subdivided or sold off as it forms part of an original holding and is bound by the minimum lot size provisions.

This clause is commonly used in other Council’s within Regional NSW and we are proposing the same clause used at Cootamundra Council.

Gateway Determination

The NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment issued a Gateway Determination for the planning proposal subject to public exhibition. A copy of the Gateway Determination is provided as Attachment 2.

Public Exhibition

The planning proposal and accompanying material were on exhibition from 5 September to 16 October 2020 (inclusive).

During the public exhibition period, one public submission was received (Attachment 3). The submission provided support for the planning proposal identifying that the proposal will provide the opportunity to utilise some of the small to medium rural blocks in the area in a sensible manner while ensuring fragmentation does not occur.

Financial Implications

The planning proposal has been generated internally and therefore application fees are not required.

The local provisions clause will enable development applications to be lodged seeking approval for the boundary adjustment. Applications will incur relevant application fees.

Council’s contribution plans apply and will apply to any future development consent on the land.

Policy and Legislation

Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979

State Environmental Planning Policy (Exempt and Complying Development Codes) 2008

Wagga Wagga Local Environmental Plan 2010

Link to Strategic Plan

The Environment

Objective: We plan for the growth of the city

Outcome: We have sustainable urban development

Risk Management Issues for Council

No risk management issues identified.

Internal / External Consultation

The planning proposal was placed on public exhibition between 5 September and 16 October 2020 (inclusive) with engagement as per the table below:

Mail

Media

Community Engagement

Digital

Rates notices insert

Direct mail

Letterbox drop

Council news story

Council News advert

Media releases

TV/radio advertising

One-on-one meetings

Your Say website

Community meetings

Stakeholder workshops

Drop-in sessions

Surveys and feedback forms

Social media

Email newsletters

Website

Digital advertising

TIER

Consult

The planning proposal and accompanying exhibition material were made available for viewing by the public on Council’s website and at Council’s Customer Service counter in the Civic Centre between 5 September and 16 October 2020.

During the public exhibition period, one public submission was received.

A summary of the submission and Council Officer response is provided below:

Public Submission
§ Adoption of the local provision is an excellent move by council. § Cannot see any negative impacts. § It will provide an opportunity to properly utilise land whilst ensuring fragmentation doesn’t occur.	Support is noted.

Public Submission

Submission

Officer Response

§ Adoption of the local provision is an excellent move by council.

§ Cannot see any negative impacts.

§ It will provide an opportunity to properly utilise land whilst ensuring fragmentation doesn’t occur.

Support is noted.

Attachments

1 ⇩.	LEP20/0001 - Planning Proposal
2 ⇩.	LEP20/0001 - Gateway Determination
3 ⇩.	LEP20/0001 - Submission

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 9 November 2020

RP-5

RP-5 EUNONY BRIDGE - STRENGTHENING AND WIDENING PROJECT

Author: Silas Darby

Director: Darren Raeck

Summary:

This report is the close out report for the Eunony Bridge Strengthening and Widening project. It contains the summary of the project progress and the financial outcomes.

Recommendation

That Council:

a receive and note the report

b approve the budget variations as included in the Financial Implications section of this report

Report

Eunony Bridge is a critical link within the corridor from the Sturt Highway to the Bomen Business Park and proposed RIFL Hub.

Funding was received to replace the existing Eunony Bridge with a new structure that would enable higher mass vehicles access and improve safety through a wider bridge incorporating cycle lanes. A professional design contractor was engaged to design such a structure. During the design phase it was discovered that funding for the proposal was not sufficient to replace the bridge.

As an alternative, a plan to strengthen and widen the existing structure was considered to be within budget. The design was completed and Council received formal approval from both the state and federal funding bodies for the change in project scope.

Council advertised Expressions of Interest (EOI) for work to strengthen and widen Eunony Bridge closing 26 April 2018.

Despite three separate estimates from the Engineers (SMEC), during the currency of the design period, the tenders were 40 to 70% over the allocated budget. It is worth noting that the SMEC design at this stage would have provided an SM1600 rated bridge.

At the 26 November 2018 Council Meeting, it was resolved to decline all offers to RFT2018-25 and invite fresh tenders based on different details because of unacceptable tender submissions. Following this resolution, Council staff commissioned an independent third-party review which identified critical issues with the design. Council staff then began negotiations with the Snowy Mountains Engineering Corporation (SMEC), the outcome of which was that SMEC would complete a redesign and cost estimates pro gratis for a Higher Mass Limit (HML) rated bridge as per the user requirements at the time.

The re-design was completed, and cost estimates indicated that the revised design could be completed for Council’s budget. Consequently, selected contractors were invited to submit tenders for the strengthening and widening works to Eunony Bridge.

At the 22 July 2019 Council meeting, Council resolved to enter into negotiations with the tenderers to resolve some technical inconsistencies in the bids. It was further resolved that an additional report was to be received by Council detailing the outcome of the negotiation.

At the 28 October 2019 Council meeting, the report detailing the outcome of the negotiation was tabled and it was resolved to appoint BMD Constructions Pty Ltd for the strengthening and widening of Eunony Bridge on a design and construct contract for their alternative design, seen as a more elegant and safe solution. Also noted in this report was the need for the design engineers, Pitt and Sherry, to do some more investigative work on the bridge to ensure the piling was suitable for an HML load capacity bridge.

Pitt and Sherry undertook this work while at the same time a contract was exchanged with BMD Constructions. The result of this investigation work indicated that not only were the piles sufficient for an HML load rating, they, the pile caps and the pylons were suitable for a SM1600 load. The only elements requiring modification were the headstocks, which required reinforcing and an increase in size and depth. A negotiation with BMD post contract resulted in their agreement to increase the headstock size and maintain the program by resorting to a 7-day program for the sum of $250,000.00, thereby achieving a SM1600 rated bridge.

The project proceeded smoothly until the two abutments were exposed by removing the beams. This uncovered badly damaged retaining/diaphragm walls, which needed repair (south) and replacement (north). Further to this, an existing precast beam collapsed, and after careful analysis it was found to have been caused by faulty manufacture causing reinforcement to fail in tension. The cost in terms of additional work and time lost was $314,568.00. As none of these issues could have been foreseen, they are latent conditions in terms of the contract.

The project was completed within its stipulated construction schedule and opened to traffic on 2^nd Sep 2020. The official opening ceremony was held on 21^st Sep 2020.

Outcomes

Project Management Function / Project Deliverable	Results
Scope	Improvement from HML to SM1600
Time	On time (despite contract delays)
Cost	Within 2.5%, as detailed below
Quality	SM1600 and raised 500 mm above 1:100 flood level

Conclusion

The expenditure of the additional sum has provided Wagga Wagga City Council with an asset that was previously tendered at the lowest price of $13,637,406.36 excl GST. Furthermore, it has provided the following advantages:

· Closure of the bridge for a reduced period, 6.5 months vs 11 months.

· Creation of a bridge with a mass limit of 60% more than the tendered bridge design (100T B Triple double (no quad axles) vs 160T B triple).

· Any configuration in the Australian Trucking Association schedule can be accommodated on this bridge.

Financial Implications

The total budget for the Eunony Bridge Strengthening and Widening project is $10,720,000 funded by grant funding of $9,813,000 and Council funding of $907,000.

A breakdown of expenditure is as follows:

Contract sum		$ 9,157,827.00

VARIATIONS
Post tender negotiation	Extension of headstocks to achieve SM1600	$ 250,000.00
As above	Credit for no test piling	-$ 400,000.00
VAR001	Double handling of beams due to early delivery (Covid19)	$ 35,266.65
VAR001a	As above but last two spans	$ 8,857.80
VAR002	Sunday fatigue day	$ 8,767.67
VAR003	Abutment works	$ 161,075.46
VAR004	Extension to contract period	$ 212,980.30
VAR005	Northern abutment remedial work	$ 69,752.10
VAR006	Southern abutment remedial work	$ 40,864.04
VAR007	Plank failure costs	$ 88,452.51
VAR008	Credit for council supplied fill	-$ 131,232.16

		$ 9,502,611.37

Despite this the overall budget summary is as follows:

Project Budget summary

Total Project Budget	$10,720,000
BMD Contract and Contract Variations as detailed above	(9,502,611)
Other costs outside of contract and other commitments as at 29 October 2020	($1,458,922)
Total Project costs as at 29 October 2020	($10,961,533)
Budget overspend requiring further funds	($241,533)

Funding Source

In order to fund the $241,533 budget overspend, in the interim it is proposed to increase the current 2020/21 deficit of $4,203,593 to a $4,445,126 deficit position.

Council’s finance staff are in the process of reviewing the adjustments required to budget for the loan borrowings and timing of projects, which is scheduled to be reported to the 23 November 2020 Council meeting, which is anticipated to reduce the new proposed $4,445,126 deficit position down slightly.

Job consolidation: 17053

Policy and Legislation

Council’s POL 110 Procurement and Disposal Policy is relevant and has been applied to this project, along with section 55 of the Local Government Act 1993.

Link to Strategic Plan

Growing Economy

Objective: We are a Regional Capital

Outcome: We have complete and accessible transport networks, building infrastructure, improving road travel reliability, ensure on-time running for public transport

Risk Management Issues for Council

The procurement processes for this project were performed in accordance with Council policies and procedures and legislative requirements.

Performance risks under the contract were addressed as part of the contractor performance management system.

Council performed corporate scorecard financial health check on the suppliers.

Internal / External Consultation

N/A

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 9 November 2020

RP-6

RP-6 Risk Management Policy Review - POL 079

Author: Ingrid Hensley

General Manager: Peter Thompson

Summary:

Council’s Risk Management Policy (POL 079) is required to be reviewed every two years with any amendments approved by Council. Good governance suggests that this Policy be reviewed by Council’s Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee in the first instance.

Recommendation

That Council:

a note that there were no public submissions received during the exhibition period of the draft Risk Management Policy (POL 079)

b adopt the draft Risk Management Policy (POL 079)

Report

Council at its meeting of 14 September 2020 adopted to:

That Council:

a endorse the draft Risk Management Policy (POL 079), that is to be placed on public exhibition for a period of 28 days from 15 September 2020 to 12 October 2020 and invite public submissions until the 26 October 2020 on the draft Policy

b receive a further report following the public exhibition and submission period:

i addressing any submissions made in respect of the proposed Risk Management Policy (POL 079)

ii proposing adopting of the Policy unless there are any recommended amendments deemed to be substantial and requiring a further public exhibition period

The draft Risk Management Policy (POL 079) was placed on public exhibition for 28 days with a 42-day submission period which closed on 26 October 2020. During the submission period, no submissions were received.

It is recommended that Council adopt the Policy as exhibited.

Financial Implications

N/A

Policy and Legislation

Risk Management Policy – POL 079

The Risk Management – Guidelines AS ISO 31000:2018 cancels and replaces the first edition (ISO 31000:2009) which has been technically revised. The main changes compared to the previous edition include:

- review of the principles of risk management, which are the key criteria for its success;

- highlighting of the leadership by top management and the integration of risk management, starting with the governance of the organisation;

- greater emphasis on the iterative nature of risk management, noting that new experiences, knowledge and analysis can lead to a revision of process elements, actions and controls at each stage of the process; and

- streamlining of the content with greater focus on sustaining an open systems model to fit multiple needs and contexts.

Link to Strategic Plan

Community Leadership and Collaboration

Objective: We have strong leadership

Outcome: We are accountable and transparent

Risk Management Issues for Council

Council policies are essential to ensure transparent legal, fair and consistent decision-making across the Council. They support Council in achieving its corporate objectives and provide a critical guide for staff, Councillors and other stakeholders. In the absence of effective policies there is a greater risk of inconsistency, confusion and inefficiency.

Internal / External Consultation

The draft Risk Management Policy (POL 079), has been reviewed internally by staff and the Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee.

During the public exhibition period, engagement with the community, was undertaken as follows:

· The draft policy was placed on Council’s website during the exhibition period.

· Council News Advertising

Mail

Media

Community Engagement

Digital

Rates notices insert

Direct mail

Letterbox drop

Council news story

Council News advert

Media releases

TV/radio advertising

One-on-one meetings

Your Say website

Community meetings

Stakeholder workshops

Drop-in sessions

Surveys and feedback forms

Social media

Email newsletters

Website

Digital advertising

TIER

Consult

Involve

Collaborate

Attachments

1 ⇩.

Draft Risk Management Policy (POL 079)

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 9 November 2020

RP-7

RP-7 Section 356 Requests for Financial Assistance

Author: Craig Katsoolis

Director: Natalie Te Pohe

Summary:

Council has received a number of fee waiver requests which are detailed for Council’s consideration.

Recommendation

That Council:

a in accordance with Section 356 of the Local Government Act 1993, provide financial assistance to the following:

i Murrumbidgee Rotary Drive $180 (Request 1)

ii Charles Sturt University Student Actors Group $300 (Request 2)

b note the proposed budget available for financial assistance requests for the remainder of the 2020/21 financial year

Report

Two (2) Section 356 financial assistance items are proposed for consideration at the 9 November 2020 Ordinary Council meeting, which are shown below:

1. Murrumbidgee Rotary Drive $180

The Club’s President notes in his attached letter:

Our event is a great way for the community to come together for a fun movie night under the stars. All monies raised will go towards Rotary projects within the local community helping local families and services.

Could you please consider our request to have the hire fee of $100 for the McDonald Park Car Park and cleaning fee of $80 for the McDonald Park toilets waived for our community event.

The above request aligns with Councils Strategic Plan “Safe and Healthy Community- Objective - we promote a healthy lifestyle.

The event will take place on 31 October 2020.

The proposed financial assistance of $180 is proposed to be funded from unallocated funds within the General Section 356 budget allocation.

2. Charles Sturt University Student Actors Group $300

Charles Sykes a third-year student studying a Bachelor of Stage and Screen (Acting) at Charles Sturt University (CSU) writes in his attached letter:

“I have been in conversation with the Wagga Wagga City Council events management team in regards to logistics such as Covid safety plans and locating the best venue. For our performance for the ARTstate fringe festival, we were hoping to use the stage (Open Space) at the Victory Memorial Gardens on the dates 6/11/12, 7/11/12 and 8/11/12, Friday to Sunday from 11:30am-5pm. The performance is only an hour long, aiming for a 2:30 show start but we will need extra time for preparation, setting down and bumping out. Because the production is a completely student devised piece and is further building upon our learning at CSU, we were wondering if myself and the team at The Best of Lazzi, if you could please waive the fees for the venue hire”

The estimated cost of the requested Council assistance has been compiled by Council officers and is estimated to be $300 (Fees Not for Profit Group under 1,000 people attending) Including GST - 3 days hire).

Note the associated bond of $165 is refundable.

The above request aligns with Councils Strategic Plan “Community Place and Identity - Objective: Groups Programs and activities bring us together”.

The proposed financial assistance of $300 is proposed to be funded from unallocated funds within the General Section 356 budget.

Financial Implications

Section 356 Budget Summary
Previously advised unallocated balance of 2020/21 Section 356 fee waiver financial assistance budget	$5,728.55
Allocation of remaining funds from the Community Support Program Council Resolution 20/391	$7,861.91
Revised available balance of Section 356 fee waiver financial assistance budget	$13,590.46
1) Murrumbidgee Rotary Club	($180.00)
2) Charles Sturt University (CSU) Student Actors Group	($300.00)
Subtotal Fee Waivers included in this report – proposed to be funded from the Section 356 Budget	($480.00)
Balance of Section 356 fee waiver financial assistance budget for the remainder of the 2020/21 Financial Year	$13,110.46

Policy and Legislation

POL 078 – Financial Assistance Policy

Link to Strategic Plan

Community Leadership and Collaboration

Objective: We have strong leadership

Outcome: We are accountable and transparent

Risk Management Issues for Council

N/A

Internal / External Consultation

Cross Directorate consultation has been undertaken as required.

Attachments

1 ⇩.	Section 356 Financial Assistance request - Murrumbidgee Rotary Club
2 ⇩.	Section 356 Financial Assistance request - Charles Sturt University Student Actors Group

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 9 November 2020

RP-8

RP-8 RESPONSE TO QUESTIONS/BUSINESS WITH NOTICE

Author: Scott Gray

General Manager: Peter Thompson

Summary:

This report is to provide responses to Questions/Business with Notice arising from previous Ordinary Council Meetings.

Recommendation

That Council receive and note the report.

Report

The following is in response to Questions/Business with Notice raised at previous Ordinary Council meetings.

Councillor P Funnell requested information on the last time a Referendum was held for a popularly elected Mayor.

The question of a popularly elected Mayor has never been put to the Wagga Wagga community, as outlined below:

At the 21 November 2011 Council Meeting, Councillor Wayne Geale OAM requested, via a Notice of Motion, that a report go back to Council “outlining the costs and steps to be taken to hold a referendum at the September 2012 council elections in regard to “reducing the councillor numbers from 11 to 9 and to gain the communities approval to elect the Mayor by popular vote”.

In that Notice of Motion (copy attached) it was noted that “Whilst Council has held a previous referendum to reduce its numbers, I do not believe that the community has ever been asked to decide on how a Mayor is elected.”

A report went back to Council on 12 December 2011 in response to the Notice of Motion, recommending that Council “make a determination if it wishes to proceed with the two referendum questions relating to a reduction in councillor numbers and a popularly elected Mayor.”

A Motion was put to Council to consider the Motion as two separate Motions:

1. Reduction in councillor numbers; and

2. Popularly elected Mayor

That Motion was carried.

The result of the two Motions was as follows:

Motion 1

That Council:

a hold a Constitutional Referendum asking the community whether they want to reduce the number of councillors from 11 to 9

b endorse the Constitutional Referendum be held in conjunction with the general council elections in September 2012

c endorse the General Manager to undertake all steps necessary to implement and run this referendum

CARRIED

Motion 2

That Council:

a hold a Constitutional Referendum asking the community whether they want to elect their Mayor by popular vote

b endorse the Constitutional Referendum be held in conjunction with the general council elections in September 2012

c endorse the General Manager to undertake all steps necessary to implement and run this referendum

The MOTION on being put to the meeting was LOST.

At the September 2012 Local Government Elections the following Referendum question was put to the voters:

“Do you support a reduction in the number of Councillors for the City of Wagga Wagga from 11 to 9?”

Councillor P Funnell requested an update on the works program and status of the upgrade and re-surfacing of Farrer Road.

Response provided via Councillor Bulletin on 30 October 2020

Councillor P Funnell request an update in relation to mowing of the Oura area.

Council staff will revisit Oura to investigate whether the area recently mowed (on 22 and 23 October) needs to be expanded

Councillor P Funnell advised that due to the current rain conditions, urgent works are required to repair potholes in the area of Old Narrandera Road, Pine Gully Road and the Olympic Highway.

Civil crews have now completed these pothole repair works

Councillor T Koschel requested updated advice on Council’s mowing schedule as a result of significant growth in recent weeks.

With the rapid seasonal growth across parks and roadsides, Parks staff are prioritising mowing works. Every available mowing contractor has been engaged, alongside Council mowing operators. Two additional zero turn mowers and a slashing unit for a tractor have been purchased to ensure every possible resource is allocated to managing the rapid growth.

The growth this Spring is comparable to that experienced in 2015, and staff have been able to implement lessons learned from that high-demand season, tightening mowing runs and increasing frequency. As an example, most years roadside mowing is done at the start of the fire season, which is usually sufficient to get through the season. The 2020 Spring has seen some roadsides mowed three times already this season.

In terms of broader mowing schedules, following the restructure of Parks and Strategic Operations and the establishment of a stand-alone sportsgrounds team 18-months ago, these have increased in frequency. Open space mowing is now scheduled 4-weekly (previously 6-weekly) and sports grounds are generally weekly

Councillor D Hayes requested advice regarding the change of process in relation to the release of unconfirmed minutes to Councillors and the community.

Council has reviewed this operational change and the pre-existing practice will be re-instated.

Financial Implications

N/A

Policy and Legislation

Code of Meeting Practice

Link to Strategic Plan

Community Leadership and Collaboration

Objective: We have strong leadership

Outcome: We have leaders that represent us

Risk Management Issues for Council

N/A

Internal / External Consultation

N/A

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 9 November 2020

M-2

M-2 TRAFFIC COMMITTEE – MEETING 10 SEPTEMBER 2020

Author: Warren Faulkner

Summary:

The Local Traffic Committee met for an ordinary meeting on 10 September 2020 and considered 11 reports.

The Committee were unanimous in their recommendation to Council, 10 of which were in support of the recommendation presented by Council staff, the other recommendation being lost by the Committee.

The Committee have been sent the draft minutes and there has been no feedback received to date.

The Minutes are attached for Councillors’ reference.

Recommendation

That Council:

a install 20 metres of conditional NO PARKING zone, on the eastern side of Flinders Street adjacent to the Flinders Street Park for the periods 8AM-10AM, Monday to Friday - Wagga City Council vehicles excepted

b install 4 half-hour parking bays on the eastern side of Fitzmaurice Street immediately south of Crampton Street between the hours 8.30am - 6pm, Monday to Friday and 8:30am – 12:30am on Saturdays

c install 150 metres of NO STOPPING zone on the northern side of Messenger Avenue between Rose Place and Kellerman Crescent, Estella

d install approximately 50 metres of NO PARKING zone on both sides of Craft Street, Lake Albert commencing from the mandatory ten-metre NO STOPPING zone at the intersection with Main Street between the hours 8am - 9.30am and 2:30 – 4pm Weekdays

e modify 60 metres of conditional NO PARKING zone in front of 7-13 Moorong Street, Wagga Wagga to be VEHICLES UNDER 4.6T EXCEPTED 10pm to 6am

f install a LEFT TURN ONLY sign on the western side of Macleay Street, Turvey Park for vehicles exiting the Wagga Wagga High School carpark via the northern driveway (exit). Remove 1 angled on-street car parking bay located adjacent to and south of the exit and relocate the existing PARKING and NO PARKING signs to align with the three remaining angled parking bays

g receive and note the Traffic Committee’s support of the proposed concept design for changes to traffic and parking facilities in Blake Street as per the Voluntary Planning Agreement (VPA) subject to the following amendments being made:

i. install compliant angle MPS spaces be relocated as end bays at the Morgan Street end, on the western kerb, pending community consultation

ii. install traffic islands at both ends of Blake Street including construction of pedestrian refuges are to be compliant with Transport for New South Wales Technical Direction TDT 2011/01a including relevant signposting

iii. investigate provisions for turning vehicles at both ends of Blake Street

h receive and note the Traffic Committees recommendations as follows for roadworks on Estella Road at the new Public School:

i. to adopt the latest concept plan prepared by the Ason Group and dated 2 September 2020 for proposed roadworks on Estella Road adjacent to the Estella Road Public School that includes a compliant pedestrian crossing and pedestrian refuges as resolved by Council at its meeting on 25 May 2020

ii. to further consult with Busabout (the major school bus stakeholder) regarding bus movements associated with the proposal, and

iii. a further report be received by the Traffic Committee when the detailed design is complete to provide advice regarding regulatory signage and line marking

i approve the Combined Riders of Wagga Wagga 2020 TOY RUN event to be held on 5 December 2020 subject to the recommendations of the Traffic Committee as described in the minutes

Report

The Traffic Committee met on 10 September 2020 and considered 11 reports. A summary of each report is as follows:

RP-1 Flinders Street Park, Turvey Park – No Parking Zone

This matter was brought to the attention of the Traffic Committee as a result of a request from the Team Leader, Parks Operations (Open Space) for a NO PARKING zone across the frontage of the public park at 45 Flinders Street to allow a time and area for Council vehicles to be able to come in and park within close proximity to the park to undertake routine maintenance.

RP-2 Fitzmaurice Street, Wagga Wagga - Half Hour Parking

The proprietor of 183 Fitzmaurice Street has requested that the four existing temporary half hour spaces immediately in front of the business be made permanent. The spaces were originally 2 hour parking but were temporarily made half-hour parking early in 2019 at the commencement of the levee bank upgrade project as the carpark at the intersection of Crampton Street was closed as part of the improvement works to that area.

RP-3 Messenger Avenue, Boorooma – No Stopping Zone

Several customer action requests have been received asking Council to take action to improve the sight distance available for motorists as they round the sweeping curve between Rose Place and Kellerman Crescent. The curve also changes gradient and when vehicles are parked on the inside of the curve, visibility is reduced potentially creating a blind spot. The area proposed to be made No Parking adjoins Vianney College and is not used by the college for on-street parking.

RP-4 Craft Street, Lake Albert – No Parking Zone

Council Rangers have reported ongoing issues with crowding of the intersection at Craft Street and Main Street in Lake Albert due to vehicles parking on both sides of Craft Street during morning and afternoon school pickup and drop-off. This situation inhibits the safe and free movement of school buses turning into and out of Craft Street in that the vehicle congestion effectively reduces the road to one traffic lane. The purpose of the recommendation is to open up the intersection and provide safe and free passage of vehicles, including school buses, at the specified times.

RP-5 Moorong Street, Moorong – No Parking with Exceptions

At the request of the adjoining automotive business, the current parking restrictions outside the business are being recommended for modification to allow parking provisions for a greater clientele (vehicles heavier than 4.5 tonne) to the business than the current restrictions allow.

RP-6 Wagga Wagga High School, Turvey Park – Carpark Exit

At the written request of the Principal of the High School, Council traffic staff investigated road user safety concerns for motorists exiting the off-street carpark onto Macleay Street. The changes to improve road safety are as per the recommendation.

RP-7 Busy Bean, Gurwood Street, Wagga Wagga - Café Parking

The Busy Bean owners requested changing 12 existing 2 hour angled parking bays immediately in proximity of their shop to half hour parking. Council staff recommended changing 2 of the existing 2 hour angled parking spaces to half hour time limit however the Traffic Committee unanimously declined the recommendation because the committee considered the current parking arrangements better suited the majority of the diversity of the businesses within the area

RP-8 Blake Street, Wagga Wagga – Voluntary Planning Agreement

The concept plan for the changes to on-street parking in Blake Street as part of a Voluntary Planning Agreement was presented to the Traffic Committee for their review and comment. The Committee concur in principle with the concept and have provided some further advice as detailed in the recommendation.

RP-9 Estella Road Public School, Estella

This report considered the revised concept plan for the installation of a compliant pedestrian crossing across Estella Road in close proximity to the new Estella Public School and other traffic management measures as resolved by Council at its Ordinary Meeting on the 25^th May 2020. A copy of the revised AsonGroup concept plan is attached for the information of Council.

CONF-1 Combined Riders of Wagga Wagga 2020 Toy Run – 5 December 2020

This report outlined the Combined Riders of Wagga Wagga Inc proposal for the annual running of the Toy Run which is scheduled to be held on Saturday 5 October 2020. The report is part of the formalities in gaining approval to hold the event

CONF-2 Light Horse Association Event – 31 October 2020

This report outlined the Light Horse Associations proposal to conduct an event to commemorate the famous charge of the Australian 4^th Light Horse Brigade through Turkish defences to seize the town of Beersheba on the 31^st October 1917. The event comprised approximately 12 horses with riders in two columns of six proceeding from the Army Reserve Depot in Dobbs Street to the Victory Memorial Gardens (VMG). The event did not meet the requirements to be classified as a Special Event and hence was approved under staff delegations.

Financial Implications

The estimated total cost of the recommendations is $3,300 and can be funded from within existing operating budget allocations.

Policy and Legislation

Transport Administration Act 1998 – Delegations to Councils, regulation of traffic

TfNSW – A guide to the delegation to Councils for the regulation of traffic

TfNSW – Guide to Traffic and Transport Management for Special Events

Link to Strategic Plan

Community Leadership and Collaboration

Objective: We are informed and involved in decision making

Outcome: Everyone in our community feels they have been heard and understood

Risk Management Issues for Council

N/A

Internal / External Consultation

The Traffic Committee consists of a Councillor, NSW Police, Transport for New South Wales, and a representative of the Local Member of Parliament. Representatives from Council’s Technical and Strategy staff provide information to the Committee. Representatives from other agencies and entities may be invited to attend meetings as required.

Attachments

1 ⇩.	Traffic Committee Minutes - 10 September 2020
2 ⇩.	Ason Group Concept Layout Plan for Estella Road dated 2 September 2020