About this project
With several environmental and planning constraints identified, we got tactical to ensure positive outcomes for Armidale Creeklands Playground Extenstion.
GeoLINK was engaged by Armidale Regional Council (ARC) to prepare a Review of Environmental Factors (REF) for the Creeklands Playground Extension in Curtis Park. Plans for the 1.6 Acre site included a fully fenced play area, additional play equipment, seating, shelters, pathways, and a mobile coffee hut. The extension to the playground was designed to reflect a ‘Nature Play’ theme, with natural elements and landscaping tying the area to the creeklands. Play equipment includes a WE GO accessibility swing, 4.5m mammoth net swing, natural rock yarning circle, natural rock wall with varying levels, and a ‘mouse wheel’.
Our role was to complete an environmental assessment and support the delivery of a well-planned, risk-managed project. We’d previously worked with ARC on similar projects and were familiar with navigating the process of preparing a REF for a project of this complexity.
Key Issues and Constraints
Initially, several environmental and planning constraints were identified:
- The site is located in a 1:20 flood zone and requires fill to meet flood safety levels.
- There is known contamination (Benzo(a)Pyrene) from the former gas works upstream.
- The area includes European heritage features (remnants of Trims Store foundations).
- The site is adjacent to key fish habitat, with associated legislative requirements.
We held a site meeting with Council to confirm project details and identify any additional risks. This early coordination was crucial for establishing the scope and preventing delays later.
GeoLINK’s Approach
Our work followed a four-stage process:
- Site Assessment and Consultation
We reviewed existing data, conducted a site inspection, and confirmed the project footprint and potential environmental risks. We also identified any need for agency consultation under the Transport and Infrastructure SEPP. - Biodiversity and Planning Review
Using desktop assessment and available data, we assessed biodiversity impacts and cross-checked compliance with relevant legislation, including the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 and the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979. - Draft REF
We prepared a comprehensive draft REF that covered impacts on biodiversity, heritage, contamination, water quality, air quality, noise, construction traffic management, and planning controls. This draft provided Council with an overview of environmental risks and how they should be managed. - Final REF
After receiving consolidated feedback from Council, we finalised the REF by the agreed deadline. Our process allowed for minor changes and ensured the report aligned with the broader project timeline.
Variation and Scope Change
During the project, ARC requested additional assessment related to the removal of existing playground equipment located to north east of the proposed playground expansion area. The area was within mapped fish habitat, meaning excavation work required a Fisheries Permit under the Fisheries Management Act 1994. GeoLINK managed the variation works and coordinated the permit process on behalf of ARC.
Project Construction Advices
The ARC project management team also consulted the GeoLINK team frequently throughout the playground construction period, requesting technical guidance on the management of contaminated soils to ensure human and environmental exposure were minimised as much as possible.
Positive project outcomes for our client
GeoLINK delivered both the draft and final REF on time, ensuring Council had the necessary environmental approvals to proceed with construction planning. Our approach was practical, thorough, and flexible enough to respond to changes without compromising the project’s progress.
Lessons and Value
This project highlighted the importance of:
- Clear scoping and early coordination
- Efficient management of environmental risks
- Flexibility to accommodate project changes
- Good communication with the client
By managing both the standard REF process and variation, we assisted the ARC to avoid delays and stay on track for its construction deadline. Our team’s expertise meant we were able to provide advice, complete documentation, and offer solutions quickly and confidently.
The park extension is now complete with Michelle and Lauren, Environmental Scientists who worked on the project, attended the grand opening in July. Plus Council have just signed us on to do an addendum to the REF to add a café facility.