The application was amended prior to notice being provided that limits flights to daytime hours only. Conditions are recommended to specify flight hours. Noise impacts A suitable separation distance would be provided to nearby dwellings having regard to the Noise Control Guidelines for helicopters see discussion below regarding Clause 52.15 – Separation distances should be measured from the boundary of the land rather than the landing area The EPA Noise Control Guidelines and Clause 52.15 of the planning scheme provide that separation distances are to be measured from the landing site. Impact on wildlife, including Sea Eagles and various threatened bird species, noting the proximity of the land to Lake Connewarre (identified in the RAMSAR convention) The views of the land manager of Lake Connewarre have been sought. DELWP (and Parks Victoria) responded that the potential for significant additional direct or indirect “…. impact on the matters that are intended to be protected by virtue of Lake Connewarre’s Ramsar status is low.” The response recognises the location of the landing site from the Lake and the frequency of flights. It includes that a precautionary approach might be taken to limit flight paths across Lake Connewarre. A condition is recommended that would implement a flight path submitted by the applicant that would limit flights over the Lake. Clarification will be sought about the full extent of the north west departure/approach path, noting that Reedy Lake is located in this direction. Damage to livestock The concern was raised from land approximately 1.5km from the proposed landing site. Save for approaches to the landing/take off area, it is understood helicopters are required to fly at an altitude of at least 1000 feet in built up areas. The flight path plan submitted also requires this. Flying at this height is considered unlikely to result in damage to livestock. Barwon Heads airport should be used instead It is necessary to consider whether it is appropriate to use this land as a helicopter landing site. Existing buildings are inappropriate Considerations are limited to the amendments sought, i.e. landing helicopters and the change of outbuildings used for accommodation. Loss of amenity due to extra accommodation No change is sought to the number of people permitted to be accommodated. History of non-compliance
The application was amended prior to notice being provided that limits flights to daytime hours only. Conditions are recommended to specify flight hours. Noise impacts A suitable separation distance would be provided to nearby dwellings having regard to the Noise Control Guidelines for helicopters – see discussion below regarding Clause 52.15 Separation distances should be measured from the boundary of the land rather than the landing area The EPA Noise Control Guidelines and Clause 52.15 of the planning scheme provide that separation distances are to be measured from the landing site. Impact on wildlife, including Sea Eagles and various threatened bird species, noting the proximity of the land to Lake Connewarre (identified in the RAMSAR convention) The views of the land manager of Lake Connewarre have been sought. DELWP (and Parks Victoria) responded that “…. the potential for significant additional direct or indirect impact on the matters that are intended to be protected by virtue of Lake Connewarre’s Ramsar status is low.” The response recognises the location of the landing site from the Lake and the frequency of flights. It includes that a precautionary approach might be taken to limit flight paths across Lake Connewarre. A condition is recommended that would implement a flight path submitted by the applicant that would limit flights over the Lake. Clarification will be sought about the full extent of the north west departure/approach path, noting that Reedy Lake is located in this direction. Damage to livestock The concern was raised from land approximately 1.5km from the proposed landing site. Save for approaches to the landing/take off area, it is understood helicopters are required to fly at an altitude of at least 1000 feet in built up areas. The flight path plan submitted also requires this. Flying at this height is considered unlikely to result in damage to livestock. Barwon Heads airport should be used instead It is necessary to consider whether it is appropriate to use this land as a helicopter landing site. Existing buildings are inappropriate Considerations are limited to the amendments sought, i.e. landing helicopters and the change of outbuildings used for accommodation. Loss of amenity due to extra accommodation No change is sought to the number of people permitted to be accommodated. History of non-compliance