Public exhibition of the review of environmental factors (REF) provided an important opportunity for community members to have a say about this activity proposed by the NSW Telco Authority (NSWTA).
NSW Telco Authority has submitted a review of environmental factors to the National Parks and Wildlife Service for a proposed new radio facility at Koonyum Range in Mount Jerusalem National Park. This proposal is at a location that has not previously had a radio facility. The proposed facility will involve the installation of a 30-metre monopole with antenna array (34.2 m in total), equipment shelter with a 36-panel solar array, a chain link security fence and an asset protection zone.
This installation is part of the public safety network (PSN) that NSW Telco Authority is enhancing via the Critical Communications Enhancement Program (CCEP). The Critical Communications Enhancement Program will expand the public safety network's land coverage from less than 35% to 85% of New South Wales to achieve 98% population coverage. The expansion aims to ensure that emergency service organisations have an enhanced and more reliable network. It is likely that National Parks and Wildlife Service will migrate to the enhanced public safety network and will utilise the facility in the management our parks and reserves.
What is a review of environmental factors?
A review of environmental factors is used to document the environmental impact assessment of proposed activities on lands managed by us. It examines the significance of likely environmental impacts of the proposal and measures required to avoid, minimise and mitigate adverse environmental impacts.
NSW Telco Authority is the proponent, and National Parks and Wildlife Service is the determining authority for this activity under Part 5 (Division 5.1) of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979. The review of environmental factors will assist the determining authority in deciding whether an activity should be approved and helps in the development of appropriate conditions should approval be given.
What opportunities did the community have to comment?
The review of environmental factors was on public exhibition until 22 July 2023.
What happens next?
At the end of the public exhibition period in July 2023, we will review all submissions, prepare a submissions report and, if necessary, request further information from the proponent.
We will determine the review of environmental factors, based on its review of the documents and the information provided in submissions. If the determination recommends that the activity may proceed, approval will be issued under s.153D of the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974.
How can I get more information about the proposal?
To learn more about the proposal, contact the Senior Project Officer, Utilities, on 0400 112 608.
For further information on the Critical Communications Enhancement Program visit the web page or call 1800 794 862.
