Natural areas
The site has remnant bushland along the eastern boundary of the site. This area includes eucalyptus woodlands and mangrove areas. As part of the site’s development this area will be inspected and weed species treated to enhance and protect the native vegetation.
The western part of the site was used as a pine plantation. The previous owner of the site legally harvested pine trees prior to Council purchasing the land.
To enhance the site’s natural assets and to re-create a vegetated buffer between homes and the site, Council will re-establish native vegetation along the western side of the site. As part of the revegetation works, Council will ensure that fire and asset protection breaks are incorporated into the plantings and that overland (water) flows are identified and managed.
Ponds
The existing large ponds (disused aquaculture prawn ponds) were designed to perform an aquaculture function for the now disused prawn farm.
The design and engineering specifications of the existing ponds is similar to what that is required to contain dredged material.
Detailed geotechnical analysis works to confirm the integrity and stability of the existing ponds will be completed. Only minor earthworks to a small number of the external batters of the ponds is expected to be required, prior to placement of dredged material.
Security - building and equipment
Council has identified that the site contains a number of buildings built with asbestos containing materials. In addition, at least one open well has been identified on the site.
To maintain safety, Council has installed fences around some buildings on the site, prior to planned demolition by professionals licensed to remove buildings with asbestos containing materials.
Residents are reminded that while the site is Council managed land, it is not open for public access at any time.