Project goals

The Professional Services Contractor is required to prepare and implement a Biodiversity Monitoring Program (BMP) that should include a minimum period of baseline monitoring and assist TfNSW in meeting CoA A1 (including updated mitigation measures) in consultation with the Sydney Olympic Park Authority, Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water – Environment and Heritage (DCCEEW) NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service and Birdlife Australia. The BMP is to be developed and implemented in consultation with the relevant authorities formerly listed.

A baseline report is required to be developed for the PLR2 project, which will include baseline monitoring for the enabling works alignment. There is current ecological data available for the greater part of the PLR2 alignment, however upon review if there is further data required then monitoring is to be completed to bridge the knowledge gaps.

Scope

The PLR Stage 2 Planning Approval requirements, requires the development of a Biodiversity Management Plan to monitor the impacts to flora and fauna.

There are a number of significant parks and open spaces in the vicinity of the Parramatta Light Rail Stage 2 Project, including George Kendall Reserve, Newington Nature Reserve, Woo-la-ra, and Meadowbank Park. Ecologically important mangrove, swamp oak, and seagrass habitats occupy large parts of the intertidal and subtidal regions of the river that are traversed by the works. Many of these habitats are also sites of low-intensity recreation, such as walking and bike riding.

Seven threatened species were recorded in the study area during surveys. Several migratory waders are also known to occur. A number of additional threatened species are also likely to occur on occasion.