Agenda
Ordinary Council Meeting
6 October 2009
The meeting commences at 6.30pm. If members of the public are
not interested in any business recommended to be considered in
Closed Session or there is no such business, Council will ordinarily
commence consideration of all other business at 7pm.
Notice of Meeting
Dear Councillors
Notice is given of the Ordinary Council Meeting, to be held Council Chambers, Lower Ground Floor, 48 Longueville Road, Lane Cove on Tuesday 6 October 2009 commencing at 7:00pm. The business to be transacted at the meeting is included in this business paper.
Yours faithfully
Peter Brown
The Council meeting is chaired by the Mayor, Councillor Win Gaffney. Councillors are entitled to one vote on a matter. If votes are equal, the Chairperson has a second or casting vote. When a majority of Councillors vote in favour of a Motion it becomes a decision of the Council. Minutes of Council and Committee meetings are published on Council’s website www.lanecove.nsw.gov.au by 5pm of the Thursday following the meeting.
The Meeting is conducted in accordance with Council's Code of Meeting Practice. The order of business is listed in the Agenda on the next page. That order will be followed unless Council resolves to modify the order at the meeting. This may occur for example where the members of the public in attendance are interested in specific items of the agenda.
Members of the public may address the Council Meeting on any issue for a maximum of 3 minutes during the public forum which is held at the beginning of the meeting. All persons addressing the Meeting must speak to the Chair. Speakers and Councillors will not enter into general debate or ask questions.
If you do not understand any part of the information given above; require assistance to participate in the meeting due to a disability; or wish to obtain information in relation to Council, please contact Council’s Manager Governance on 99113525.
Please note meetings held in the Council Chambers are recorded on tape for the purposes of verifying the accuracy of minutes and the tapes are not disclosed to any third party under section 12(6) of the Local Government Act, except as allowed under section 18(1) or section 19(1) of the PPIP Act, or where Council is compelled to do so by court order, warrant or subpoena or by any other legislation.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS |
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DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST
APOLOGIES
OPENING OF MEETING WITH PRAYER
ACKNOWLEDGMENT TO COUNTRY
public forum
Members of the public may address the Council Meeting on any issue for 3 minutes.
CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES
1. ORDINARY COUNCIL MEETING - 21 SEPTEMBER 2009
Reports Of Committees
2. Report Of Committees No. 40
SUBJECT: Report on Inspection Committee 26 September 2009............... 4
Referred Reports FROM Inspection Committee 26 September 2009
3. Environmental Services Division Report No. 239
SUBJECT: 22 Gore Street, Greenwich................................................................ 5
Orders Of The Day
General Managers Reports
4. General Managers Report No. 23
SUBJECT: Lane Cove Market Square Parking Strategy........................... 10
5. General Managers Report No. 24
SUBJECT: Lane Cove Market Square Status Report................................. 13
Corporate Services Division Reports
6. Corporate Services Division Report No. 52
SUBJECT: Pecuniary Interest Returns 2009................................................... 16
7. Corporate Services Division Report No. 53
SUBJECT: 19th National Town Crier Championships .................................. 17
8. Corporate Services Division Report No. 54
SUBJECT: Independent Public Inquiry Sydney's Long Term Public Transport Plan................................................................................................................................ 18
Environmental Services Division Reports
9. Environmental Services Division Report No. 39
SUBJECT: Walk Against Warming 2009................................................................ 21
10. Environmental Services Division Report No. 41
SUBJECT: Sydney Food Summit............................................................................. 23
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Report Of Committees No. 40 |
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Reference: Report Of Committees No. 40
Subject: Report on Inspection Committee 26 September 2009
Record No: DA09/32-01 - 38986/09
Author(s): Michael Mason
Present: Clr W Gaffney (Mayor), Clr P Palmer (Deputy Mayor), Clr S Forrest, Clr R Tudge, Clr A Smith, Clr I Longbottom, Clr D Brooks-Horn, Clr K McIlroy and Mr Michael Mason, Executive Manager, Environmental Services
Apologies: Clr S Bennison
Item 1 – 22 Gore Street, Greenwich – ESD Report No. 239
Councillors met on site and were invited to view the deck along with the string line indicating the proposed width of 4 metres and the approved width of 3 metres. Councillors heard from the owner’s son and planning consultant.
Councillors also heard from the owner of the adjoining premise and inspected the site from the room that was impacted.
The Mayor thanked all at the inspection site and advised that the matter will be referred to Council’s meeting of Tuesday 6 October for determination.
That the report be received, noted and Council determine the application.
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Michael Mason
Executive Manager
Environmental Services Division
There are no supporting documents for this report.
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Environmental Services Division Report No. 239 |
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Reference: Environmental Services Division Report No. 239
Subject: 22 Gore Street, Greenwich
Inspection Committee after considering this matter referred this Report to the Ordinary Council Meeting to be held on the 06 October 2009.
Record No: DA09/32-01 - 30326/09
Author(s): Stan Raymont
Property: 22 Gore Street , Greenwich
DA No: DA32/09
Date Lodged: 27/2/2009
Cost of Work: $90,000
Owner : P Burrows & J Faulkner
Author: Stan Raymont
DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSAL TO APPEAR ON DETERMINATION |
Section 96 modification seeking to delete condition 3 from DA09/32 for the demolition of existing rear decks and construction of roofed steel framed decks. |
ZONE |
2 (a1) |
IS THE PROPOSAL PERMISSIBLE WITHIN THE ZONE? |
Yes |
IS THE PROPERTY A HERITAGE ITEM? |
No |
IS THE PROPERTY WITHIN A CONSERVATION AREA? |
No |
DOES DCP 1- BUSHLAND APPLY TO THE PROPERTY? |
Yes, land adjacent to bushland |
BCA CLASSIFICATION |
Class 1a |
STOP THE CLOCK USED |
No |
NOTIFICATION |
Neighbours 20, 24, 55 Gore Street Ward Councillors East Ward and The Mayor Progress Association Greenwich Community Association Inc Other Interest Groups Lane Cove Bushland & Conservation Society |
REASON FOR REFERRAL:
Called by the Mayor, Councillor Longbottom on behalf of the applicants.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
· Under delegated authority, consent was granted for the demolition and erection of decks at the rear of 22 Gore Street on 4 May 2009. The original application attracted 3 objections.
· The decks were approved with a depth of 3m (condition 3) and a requirement for privacy screens on their northern edges (condition 2).
· The applicant has submitted a Section 96 Modification seeking to delete condition 3 which restricts the width of the decks and allow the decks to have a maximum width of 4m.
· The applicant contends that privacy is not an issue due to favourable orientation, physical separation and vegetative screening.
· One submission has been received in response to the notification of the Section 96 Modification reiterating their concern at loss of privacy and loss of water views.
· This report recommends that Council refuse the application to delete Condition 3 of Development Consent DA32/09 (4 May 2009) given privacy concerns.
SITE:
The site is an irregular shaped allotment with an access strip which forms part of a shared Right of Way from the western end of Gore Street. The land falls steeply to the rear boundary with bushland which forms part of the Gore Creek Reserve.
Existing improvements on the site consist of a part one/ part three storey brick and weatherboard dwelling house with a pitched tiled roof and with an attached carport. There are 1.8m wide balconies at the rear of the ground floor, lower level 1 and lower level 2. A copy of the site plan is attached (AT1) and the notification plan (AT2).
PROPOSAL:
The Section 96 Modification is a request to delete Condition 3 of the development consent given to Development consent 09/32. Condition 3 reads:-
3. The width of the proposed balconies at ground floor level and lower level 2 not exceeding 3m at any point to comply with the 3m maximum width specified in the Code for Dwellings as privacy is considered to be an issue. PLANS BEING ALTERED TO COMPLY PRIOR TO THE ISSUE OF A CONSTRUCTION CERTIFICATE.
A copy of the applicant’s submission is attached (AT3).
In summary the applicant requests the deletion of condition 3 on the basis that Council’s Dwelling House Code allows decks in excess of 3m if privacy is not an issue. The applicant is of the view that due to favourable orientation, physical separation and vegetative screening that privacy is not an issue.
PREVIOUS APPROVALS/HISTORY:
4 May 2009 consent granted to DA09/32 to demolish the existing rear timber decks which have deteriorated and construct roofed steel framed decks at the rear as follows:-
Ground Floor Level – 4m wide by 11m long
Lower Level 1 – 1.8m wide by 6.5m long
Lower Level 2 – 2.2m minimum and 4m maximum wide by 10.8m long. Stairs are shown to the lower ground from this level on the south-eastern side.
Three submissions were received in respect of this proposal and included the following:-
· The extension of the proposed balcony would have significant visual and noise impact on their property as follows:
a. Noise and privacy impact onto the Existing Studio which is a stand alone building used as a bedroom;
b. Direct visual impact into the master bedroom located on the south side;
c. Direct visual and privacy impact onto the external entertaining area;
d. Negatively impinge and minimize existing bushland and water view aspects
A suggestion is the instalment of solid privacy screens at the end of the proposed balconies that would minimize any potential noise and privacy issues.
· The balconies also exceed the Code width.
The application was approved on the 4th May 2009 subject to conditions which included:-
2. The provision of a 1.8m high solid privacy screen along the north western side of the proposed three balconies. Plans being altered to comply prior to the issue of a Construction Certificate
3. The width of the proposed balconies at ground floor level and lower level 2 not exceeding 3m at any point to comply with the 3m maximum width specified in the Code for Dwellings as privacy is considered to be an issue. PLANS BEING ALTERED TO COMPLY PRIOR TO THE ISSUE OF A CONSTRUCITON CERTIFICATE.
A copy of the Section 96 assessment report (Delegated Authority report 103, dated 6 April 2008 is attached (AT4).
RESPONSE TO SECTION 96 NOTIFICATION (Section 79C(1)(d))
One submission has been received in response to the notification of the Section 96 Modification. The issues raised in the submission can be summarised as follows:-
· Refer to their original comments.
· Increased noise to the studio bedroom.
· Believe that the proposed 4m balcony impacts on their premises by way of a reducing privacy within the primary entertaining area of the house (balcony facing south and apron facing South West).
· Profound impact on privacy within the master bedroom.
· Inhibit directly on the enjoyment of natural bush and water views whilst sitting on the balcony.
· Reduced property value given the diminished privacy and interference of existing water views
· Limit opportunity for future development of building at their property for water view enhancement.
The objector’s letter is attached separately for Councillors’ consideration.
ASSESSMENT
Having regard to the provisions of section 96(1A), the proposal is able to be considered on the basis of a Section 96 modification.
In the relation to the proposal, the Dwelling House Code states:
“Elevated decks, terraces or balconies greater than 1m above natural ground level are not to exceed a width of 3.0m of useable area. This clause does not apply where privacy is not an issue”.
The applicant in their submission has stated that the proposal is reasonable on the basis of:
· “The orientation and outlook from the decks and their relationship to private open space areas of neighbouring properties is such that overlooking cannot be considered to be an issue of reasonable concern”.
The applicant therefore contends that privacy is not an issue in relation to the proposal.
· Orientation – given the location of the building on the site and its relationship to its neighbours and the view location, the applicant is of the view that the view source is towards the front of the decks towards Gore Creek and not towards the sides or back viewing towards the neighbouring properties which cannot be viewed “without considerable effort and intent on the part of the viewer”.
· Vegetation and natural Screening – the applicant submits that the existing vegetation between the properties provides natural year round screening.
· The 4m width is requested by the applicant also on the basis of their site’s topography, which falls steeply at the rear and doesn’t reasonably provide usable private open space. The applicant states
“Since the decks require rebuilding due to their age and condition, it makes reasonable sense to provide for slightly more generous living conditions than currently available. As this can be achieved without detriment to the adjoining properties, it is a reasonable and supportable proposition”.
The closest structure on the commenter’s property to the proposed rear decks is the free standing building used as a bedroom. This structure is around 9m from the proposed rear decks. The decks are also visible from the objector’s bedroom and outdoor living areas.
The main view from the commenter’s property of Gore Creek and surrounding area is considered to be in a south-westerly direction. The provision of the privacy screens to the rear decks of 22 Gore Street (as required by condition 2) assists to reduce privacy loss. The screens are considered not to significantly adversely impact on views from the objector’s property.
Council’s Dwelling House Code provides in clause 3.6 (3)
Elevated decks, terraces or balconies greater than 1m above natural ground level are not to exceed a width of 3.0m of usable area. This clause does not apply where privacy is not an issue.
As privacy has been raised by the objector as an issue it is considered that the width of the decks should be limited to 3m and condition 3 is recommended to remain.
CONCLUSION
The matters in relation to Section 79C considerations have been considered in the assessment of this application. As privacy has been raised by the neighbouring property as an issue, it is considered that condition 3 should remain and the Section 96 Modification be refused.
Pursuant to the provisions of Section 96 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act, 1979, as amended, the request to delete Condition 3 of the development consent D32/09 granted on 4 May 2009 for the demolition of existing decks and construction of roofed steel framed decks on Lot 2, DP 230777 and known as 22 Gore Street, Greenwich, is refused for the following reasons:-
1. Privacy is considered to be an issue and the proposed elevated decks should not exceed the 3m Code requirement width.
2. Any increase in the width of the decks over 3m is considered to adversely impact on the amenity of the adjoining dwelling houses and set an undesirable precedent.
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Michael Mason
Executive Manager
Environmental Services Division
AT‑1 View |
Site Plan |
2 Pages |
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AT‑2 View |
Notification plan |
1 Page |
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AT‑3 View |
Applicant's supporting submission |
7 Pages |
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AT‑4 View |
Delegated Authority Report No.103 |
13 Pages |
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General Managers Report No. 23 |
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Reference: General Managers Report No. 23
Subject: Lane Cove Market Square Parking Strategy
Record No: SU1460 - 38662/09
Author(s): John Lee
Executive Summary
This report makes recommendations on an appropriate management strategy for the efficient and long term fee based, rather than fine (infringement) based, operating parking model for the carpark within the Lane Cove Market Square.
Background
Lane Cove Market Square includes 321 carparking spaces on 3 levels as well as 9 staff parking spaces for Library staff within the Supermarket loading dock area.
Access to and egress from the carpark is from level 2 with disabled parking adjacent to the lobby on level 1. The carpark has been certified by Masson Wilson Twiney as meeting Australian Standard 2890-1 for off street carparking.
The Public carpark has the following characteristics:-
· Level 1 (lower) 112 spaces (6 Disabled)
· Level 2 (entry and exit) 108 spaces
· Level 3 (upper) 101 spaces (4 dedicated staff)
Under the Deed and as a condition of consent, the carpark is to operate with a minimum of 2 hours free. Beyond this requirement it is at Council’s discretion as to how to best manage the car park.
Carpark Management Options
Best practice management options have been considered to achieve an efficient, acceptable and user friendly experience for the carpark user whilst ensuring an appropriate turnover of spaces to meet the varying traffic generation and parking demand associated with the development .
Option 1 - Unregulated
The current carpark layout allows for unregulated parking with optional infringement based management of spaces. Whilst use of Council Rangers to manage parking is an option, it is not a preferred method within a modern carpark facility, particularly as it does not provide flexibility to patrons who may need to stay longer than say a 2 hour fixed time limit.
Development consent condition 21, requires 6 parking spaces on level 3 near Austin Street to be regulated as a 15 minute zone limited to schooldays only, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Management of these spaces will enforced by Council’s Rangers. This will occur regardless of whether Council proceeds with Option 1 or Option 2.
Option 2 - Regulated
The carpark can also be utilised for regulated (paid) parking. In accordance with consent condition 20, the carpark will operate as a free carpark for the first 2 hours a vehicle uses the carpark per day. Beyond this time period charges would apply.
The implementation of paid parking after the initial 2 hour fee period should be designed to encourage a higher turnover environment primarily targeted at those shopping or visiting the library in the village. It should also discourage long stay parking as it is not intended that this carpark be used by commuters or people working within the village.
The following fee structure (GST inclusive) is proposed, noting that changes to Fees and Charges will need to be advertised in accordance with the Act:-
0-2 hours Free;
2-3 hours $4.50;
3-4 hours $6.00;
4-5 hours $15.00;
5-6 hours $20.00; and
Over 6 hours $40.00.
The cumulative charges for vehicles staying up to 4 hours is identical to the existing charging structure for parking meters within the village (Birdwood and previously Longueville) which are charged at $1.50 per hour. The sliding scale of fees then rises to discourage long stay parking.
It is noted for comparison that North Sydney Council controlled carparks in Crows Nest charge $3.50 / each half hour ( $7.00 per hour) or part thereof after an initial 2 hour free parking up to a maximum of $35 per day.
It is also proposed to offer prepaid permits for utilisation of spaces within the pan-handle areas of the carpark at $300 / month or $3600 / year.
The introduction of a paid parking scheme requires a management system that provides:-
· information about the arrival and departure time of the vehicle;
· exit boom gate control;
· payment options;
· unauthorised exit control; and
· driver assistance in case of malfunction, dispute or general help.
It is proposed to use automatic number (licence) plate recognition (ANPR) technology, similar to that used on tollways and for traffic infringements such as red light cameras. This system allows faster throughput of vehicles and ensures vehicles do not simply shift place within the carpark or leave temporarily to overstay or avoid fees.
This technology also does not require the issue of a ticket on entry and will be programmed to automatically raise the boom on exit for each vehicle whose accumulated stay is 2 hours or less, with a predefined grace period to allow for delays in exiting the carpark. Those vehicles requiring a payment will be able to pay at a pay station or pay by cash or credit card at the exit boom gate.
Regular users who stay more than 2 hours will also have the opportunity to pre-register their registration and credit card details.
With 10% or less vehicles expected to stay more than 2 hours accumulated each day, this strategy is anticipated to provide a successful solution.
Expected Revenue
Based on the proposed fees, and data from similar carparks, the net revenue is in the order of $200,000 per year, and will be revenue positive after year 1. Costs of the various items of equipment, software development / integration and licensing are expected to be in the order of $130,000.
Local Traffic Committee
Consent condition 23 requires that development proceeds in accordance with the Car Park Traffic Management Plan approved by Lane Cove Council and the Local Traffic Committee. If Council endorses the strategy outlined in the report, it is intended to refer to operational aspects of this strategy to the Traffic Committee in order to successfully implement paid parking within the development.
Timing
It is hoped to have the system installed for the opening of the Carpark in December 2009, with a staged implementation program to allow for an education phase. During the education phase it is proposed to have an initial fee free period, and this will also ensure there are no start-up operational issues during the busy Christmas period. Education of the public will include:-
· Clear display of the proposed schedule of fees on entry and on each level near the lobby entries;
· The issue of flyers to all retail outlets in the Village explaining the parking arrangements including where disabled parking is located;
· Information on Council’s website;
· Press releases; and
· Customer Service staff on site during startup to resolve any issues.
Carpark utilisation data will also be used in providing specific education to drivers on an as needs basis. The system would be fully operational during the first quarter of 2010.
That Council:-
1. Adopt the strategy outlined in the report to implement paid parking within the Lane Cove Market Square development;
2. Endorse for the purpose of public exhibition the paid parking fee structure outlined in the report; and
3. Subject to no objection being received Council adopt the fees and charges, should objection be received a further report be submitted to Council. |
Peter Brown
General Manager
General Managers Unit
There are no supporting documents for this report.
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General Managers Report No. 24 |
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Reference: General Managers Report No. 24
Subject: Lane Cove Market Square Status Report
Record No: SU1460 - 38725/09
Author(s): John Lee
Executive Summary
This status report updates progress on the Lane Cove Market Square development. During the next month, the Library Shell is due for handover to Council for fitout. Completion of the project is still on track for a pre Christmas opening, currently expected on 26 November 2009.
Progress
During a site visit last week, progress included the following key points:-
· Supermarket Floor has been ground back and polished;
· Supermarket equipment is being installed;
· Travelators installed;
· Library Shell near complete;
· Gym Terraces tiled and ready for fitout;
· Facade completed;
· Ramp to Library Place - North East service yard installed;
· Public area lifts installation underway;
· External Crane removed and concrete slab cutouts poured;
· Temporary site office accommodation constructed in the carpark to allow removal of the overhead offices and hoarding gantry over the Link Road;
· Carpark colour coded and linemarking in progress.
Tenancies
At this stage Woolworths have indicated likely tenants include Fitness First Gymnasium, Firefly Tapas Restaurant, Eyes 4 You, Gifttag, Emily’s Collection, Hudsons Meats, Costi’s Seafood, Trendsetter Travel, Nourish Heath Foods, Zen Clinic, Café, Vodafone, Priceline Pharmacy, Sushi Junction and Gambino Hair. Note: Consents are pending for some tenancies.
Timeline
The Library Shell is scheduled for handover to Council for fitout on 2 October 2009. Fitout of the Supermarket, Gymnasium and Retail / Arcade will all be in progress from 1 October 2009.
Completion of the project is still on track for a pre Christmas opening, currently expected to be complete on 26 November 2009.
Link Road
Minor traffic delays can be expected while the overhead offices and hoarding gantry are removed from over the Link Road. This will not be undertaken during school hours.
Library Toilets
With construction of the suspended ramp between Longueville Road and the new Main Library entrance imminent, the existing toilets have now been decommissioned. Signs have been in place advising of alternate locations.
Photographs
The following photographs on the exterior of the Library provide an appreciation of progress in completing the Library Shell.
Looking toward Main Library Entrance
View or Library Façade along Austin Street
That the Lane Cove Market Square Status Report be received and noted.
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Peter Brown
General Manager
General Managers Unit
There are no supporting documents for this report.
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Corporate Services Division Report No. 52 |
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Reference: Corporate Services Division Report No. 52
Subject: Pecuniary Interest Returns 2009
Record No: su2095 - 38930/09
Author(s): Ian Naylor
Executive Summary
The purpose of this report is to table the Pecuniary Interest Returns of councillors and designated persons as required by the Local Government Act 1993. This report recommends that Council notes the tabling of these returns.
Discussion
Section 449(3) of the Local Government Act 1993 (“LG Act”) requires councillors (and designated persons) who hold that position on 30 June in each year to lodge a “Disclosures by Councillors and Designated Persons Return”. All current councillors and designated officers are required to lodge such a return with their general managers by 30 September 2009. The general manager must keep a register of lodged returns and table lodged returns at the next meeting of Council after 30 September in accordance with Section 450A of the LG Act. All returns for the period to 30 June 2009 have been submitted.
Conclusion
The LG Act requires the Pecuniary Interest Returns of councillors and designated persons to be tabled at a meeting of Council. All returns for the period to 30 June 2009 have been submitted.
That Council note the tabling of Pecuniary Interest Returns of councillors and designated persons lodged prior to 30 September 2009.
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Craig Wrightson
Executive Manager
Corporate Services Division
There are no supporting documents for this report.
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Corporate Services Division Report No. 53 |
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Reference: Corporate Services Division Report No. 53
Subject: 19th National Town Crier Championships
Record No: su16 - 39392/09
Author(s): Ian Naylor
Executive Summary
The purpose of this report is to advise that Lane Cove’s Town Crier, Bill Wallace won the Seniors Section of the recent 19th National Town Crier Championships. The report recommends that Council send a letter of congratulations to Mr Wallace for this achievement.
Background
Mr Bill Wallace has represented Lane Cove at Town Crier Championships for the last 9 years. Mr Wallace recently competed in the 19th National Town Crier Championships hosted by Toowoomba Regional Council on Saturday September 12, 2009 and won the Seniors Section of the competition. He also presented a small gift to the Mayor of Toowoomba Regional Council on behalf of Lane Cove.
Discussion
Council has received a letter from the Mayor of Toowoomba Regional Council thanking Council for its gift and congratulating Mr Wallace on winning the Seniors Section of the competition.
That Council send a letter of congratulations to Mr Wallace for winning the Seniors Section of 19th National Town Crier Championships. |
Craig Wrightson
Executive Manager
Corporate Services Division
There are no supporting documents for this report.
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Corporate Services Division Report No. 54 |
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Reference: Corporate Services Division Report No. 54
Subject: Independent Public Inquiry Sydney's Long Term Public Transport Plan
Record No: su902 - 39435/09
Author(s): Ian Naylor
Executive Summary
The Independent Public Inquiry Sydney's Long Term Public Transport Plan has been established with the support of The Sydney Morning Herald and other groups to create a Long-term public transport Plan. The inquiry is independent of government. The report recommends that Council compile a submission based upon the priorities identified by NSROC members for public transport in our region in recent years.
Background
An Independent Public Inquiry has been established to create the Long Term Public Transport Plan for Sydney to inform decisions by future governments on the priorities over the next 30 years.
Sydney needs an integrated public transport network to drive a sustainable, liveable and viable future at time of increased pressure from climate change, growing demand for transport resources and reduced oil reserves.
The Inquiry is chaired by Mr Ron Christie, AM, who is assisted by independent experts. Public submissions close on October 8, 2009. A Preliminary Report will be released in December, 2009 for final public review. A final report will be released in Autumn, 2010.
Discussion
The terms of reference for the inquiry are as follows:-
i. The Independent Public Inquiry will create a Long Term Public Transport Plan for Sydney after receiving public submissions. The plan is designed to assist both the public and future governments to make informed decisions about priorities for transport investment. The plan will cover the following topics:
ii. The optimisation and integration of existing public transport operations (including ferry, bus, light rail and heavy rail).
iii. The expansion of public transport services and infrastructure, as well as cycle commuting infrastructure, over a 30-year planning horizon, taking into account existing transport accessibility problems and integration with future land use changes.
iv. The most appropriate governance arrangements to guarantee the plan's longevity to remove the negative impact of single-term party politics and to optimise investments.
v. Key environmental sustainability issues.
vi. Key social and economic issues.
vii. Proposals for short term and long term funding.
viii. The cost-effectiveness of solutions, taking into account short term financial costs and benefits, and longer term environmental, congestion and other external costs and land use and accessibility benefits.
NSROC members have identified the following priorities for public transport in recent years:-
North West Rail or Metro Link
There is a clear and demonstrable need for an integrated transport system in the North-West Sector, including road, rail and bus links. The State Governments establishment of a North West growth sector without a mass transport link is untenable. The current transport infrastructure simply will not cope with anticipated growth over the next two decades.
Parramatta to Chatswood Rail Link
The short-sighted decision to truncate the Epping to Parramatta heavy rail line has already put significant demands on the regional network and failed to address the transport needs of the parts of the North West sector most distant from the city, including the proposed land release areas. The completion of the Epping to Parramatta rail line is essential to cater for the continued growth of the North West. This will provide full access between Parramatta/ Castle Hill/ Hornsby/ the City/ Chatswood and Macquarie University/Business Park.
Second Harbour Bridge Rail Crossing and Fast North Shore Line
The existing train network in the northern region essential exceeds its capacity. Commuters through North Sydney experience poor travelling conditions. However the primary reason these improvements is to allow new lines such as the Parramatta to Chatswood and North West rail links operate at their full potential.
Bus or Light Rail Link From Chatswood to the Northern Beaches
NSROC sees a clear need for transport improvements into the Northern Beaches region to allow those residents to access jobs in the NSROC region and beyond. NSROC does not have a specific preference for rail or bus links.
Transport Strategies for Military – Spit Corridor, Victoria Road, Pennant Hills Road and the Pacific Highway
These three corridors are identified as some of the most congested roads in the Sydney area. It is vital that long term strategic transport plans are developed to accommodate their use and alleviate their traffic impacts.
Completion of M2- F3 Link into the Sydney Orbital
The productivity, environmental and amenity impacts of the current disconnect between the F3 at Hornsby and the M2 have been previously assessed in feasibility studies. It is simply not sustainable or efficient for the major national North -South road route in Australia’s largest city to be interrupted by 30 traffic lights along Pennant Hills Road.
North South Corridor Including Regional Rail Links to Central Coast and Newcastle.
As noted previously an integrated transport systems must cater for the movement of freight as well as passengers. Freight capacity of both rail and road options must be considered across this region and into the growth areas of the Central Coast and Newcastle.
Conclusion
Council staff are preparing a submission based on these priorities and other local issues and submit prior to the inquiry deadline.
That Council note the priorities identified by NSROC members and support a submission by Council to the Independent Public Inquiry Sydney's Long Term Public Transport Plan based on these priorities as well as local issues. |
Craig Wrightson
Executive Manager
Corporate Services Division
There are no supporting documents for this report.
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Environmental Services Division Report No. 39 |
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Reference: Environmental Services Division Report No. 39
Subject: Walk Against Warming 2009
Record No: SU3040 - 37406/09
Author(s): Claire Brittain
Executive Summary
The Nature Conservation Council of New South Wales has approached Council seeking support for this year’s Walk Against Warming event. This report outlines the nature of the support requested and seeks Council’s determination on the level of support to be offered.
Background
Walk Against Warming is organised each year by the Nature Conservation Council. The purpose of the event is to motivate ordinary Australians to take positive action on climate change.
In 2007 and 2008, Council supported Walk Against Warming in the following ways:-
· Promoting the event on Council’s website and through the Sustainability e-newsletter;
· Displaying posters and flyers promoting the event at the Civic Centre and Council libraries;
· Offering to display a banner detailing the Sydney event; and
· Promoting the Sydney event through a media release issued by Council.
Discussion
This year, Walk Against Warming will be held on Saturday 12 December to coincide with the midpoint of the Copenhagen Climate Summit and the International Day of Action on Climate Change.
The Nature Conservation Council has approached Council and asked Council for support to organise the event by the following methods:-
· Providing $500 for the coordination of Sydney’s Walk Against Warming event;
· Promoting the Sydney event to our constituents;
· Displaying posters and flyers promoting the event in all council community venues;
· Erecting a banner across local main streets detailing the Sydney event;
· Walking at the Sydney event under our council’s banner;
· Promoting the Sydney event through media releases in local papers and council columns; and
· Passing a motion in support of the event.
The Lane Cove Community and Council have been at the forefront of raising awareness as to the impacts of climate change and the support of this event is consistent with our sustainability principles.
Sufficient funds are available in Council’s community education budget should Council be of a mind to support the request for a financial contribution to the event.
Conclusion
It is recommended that Council continue to support Walk Against Warming as it has in previous years, and make a decision as to whether additional support will be provided in 2009.
That Council:-
1. Promote Walk Against Warming through the website, sustainability e-newsletter, the distribution of posters and flyers, a media release, and by offering to display a banner.
2. Indicates whether it wishes to provide financial support for this event.
3. That Council indicates whether it wishes to participate in this event under Council’s sustainability banner.
4. Notify the Nature Conservation Council of the decision.
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Michael Mason
Executive Manager
Environmental Services Division
There are no supporting documents for this report.
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Environmental Services Division Report No. 41 |
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Reference: Environmental Services Division Report No. 41
Subject: Sydney Food Summit
Record No: su16 - 39356/09
Author(s): Steve Fedorow
Executive Summary
The Sydney Food Fairness Alliance has invited Council to the 2009 Sydney Food Summit: Hungry For Change. This report outlines the event and invites Council to consider supporting the event by sending representative/s to attend the summit.
Background
The Sydney Food Fairness Alliance (SFFA) aims to co-ordinate the efforts of professionals, academics, community, producers and planners in developing a sustainable food system for Sydney. Their concern is that increasing urban sprawl threatens the sustainability of agriculture and food security for the Sydney region and as such a comprehensive strategy to feed Sydney both now and in the future is required.
Discussion
The Sydney Food Summit: Hungry for Change will be held over two days on 22 and 23 October 2009, at the Teachers Federation Conference Centre in Surry Hills at a cost of $245 per person. It consists of keynote speakers, workshops, and farm and project tours. The topics to be covered over the summit include the following:-
· Food security and access;
· Planning and policies;
· Food and health;
· Local government, community and industry action; and
· Sydney food declaration for future food policy development.
The target audiences for the Summit are Councillors and senior Council staff. Funds are available in the Councillors continuing education budget should Council wish to participate in this event.
Conclusion
While not directly relevant to the Lane Cove context, the Sydney Food Summit is an important forum considering the security of Sydney’s food future that Council may wish to participate in.
That Council:-
1. Consider supporting the Sydney Food Summit by sending a representative/s to the event.
2. Notify the Sydney Food Fairness Alliance of the decision.
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Michael Mason
Executive Manager
Environmental Services Division
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Sydney Food Summit Program |
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