Ecology
Ecological assessment and Vegetation Management Plan (VMP)
Residential development, Riverstone Crossing | Alchemy IP.
Gaia was selected to prepare the Ecological Assessment report for a medium scale residential development (plus childcare centre) on the outskirts of the Gold Coast local government area. The assessment involved mapping of vegetation communities and mature native trees, waterway corridor investigations and koala survey. The ecological assessment and subsequent response to Request for Information (RFI) was able to negotiate a reduction in the required width of the waterway buffer, enabling the development to maintain economic viability. Gaia was also involved in the post-approval documentation with the construction contractors, including Vegetation Management Plan (VMP) to guide the removal of vegetation prior to construction.
Ecological assessment
Residential development, Rochedale | Urbis.
Gaia Environmental Consulting was contacted by the project planners to undertake an ecological assessment for a large rural site at Rochedale. The project proposed to create 54 residential lots. Brisbane City Council had highlighted the requirement for the project to comply with the Biodiversity Code of the CityPlan (2000) and the State’s koala assessment process (being in a Priority Koala Assessable Development Area, PKADA). Gaia undertook flora and basic fauna assessment on the site, focusing on koala habitat values and any valuable native flora species. The assessment accurately mapped the location of individual trees with a D-GPS to guide the development plans for the site (including earthworks and infrastructure). Through effective communication with the client, the development was able to go ahead without any significant impact to important values of the site.
Ecological assessment
Multi-unit development, Capalaba | ACH Architects.
Gaia Environmental Consulting was part of the planning team with several other consultants to produce and lodge a planning application for the development of a multi-unit complex on Mt Cotton Road, Capalaba. Gaia was responsible for the ecological assessment and conservation advice for the project. The site is recognised at both a State and local level for its value as koala habitat. Gaia undertook detailed habitat assessment and koala surveys for the site. This information was provided to the town planner and architect, complete with a koala tree survey. Gaia’s involvement in the project resulted in the conservation of valuable areas of koala habitat and enhancement of a koala movement corridor through the site, whilst retaining a high yield for the proponent. The application was lodged with a Koala Management Plan that adequately addressed State and local authority’s concerns regarding the development.