RecReation Potential Study foR HoRnSby QuaRRy and old ...

RecReation Potential StudyfoR HoRnSby QuaRRy and

old ManS Valley landS

dRaft RePoRtS13-0109 R01 Rev G 16 July 2014

Cover Image:Old Hornsby Quarry

ReCReatIOn POtentIal StudyfOR HORnSby QuaRRy and Old ManS Valley landS

Hornsby Shire CouncilPO box 37 Hornsby nSW 1630

document Issue date Status Reviewed Verified ValidatedS13-0109 R01 a 07/11/13 dRaft - ISSueS

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note: this document is Preliminary unless validated.

Prepared by

clouSton associatesLandscape Architects • Urban Designers • Landscape PlannersLevel 2, 17 Bridge Street • Sydney NSW 2000PO Box R1388 • Royal Exchange NSW 1225 • AustraliaTelephone +61 2 8272 4999 • Facsimile +61 2 8272 4998Contact: leonard lynchEmail • [email protected] • www.clouston.com.au

RECREATION POTENTIAL STUDY FOR HORNSBY QUARRY AND OMV LANDS • REV g DRAFT REPORT16 July 20144

table Of COntentS

exeCutIVe SuMMaRy 6

HORnSby QuaRRy VISIOn 10

1. IntROduCtIOn and baCkGROund 121.1 SIte and PROJeCt baCkGROund 131.2 PROJeCt PuRPOSe and SCOPe 151.3 aIMS and ObJeCtIVeS 161.4 PROJeCt MetHOdOlOGy 161.5 StakeHOldeR PaRtICIPatIOn 17

2. PlannInG COntext 182.1 ReGIOnal PlannInG COntext 192.2 SHIRe WIde PlanS 202.3 HORnSby PlanS and StudIeS 212.4 SIte SPeCIfIC StudIeS 212.5 IMPlICatIOnS fOR tHe ReCReatIOn POtentIal Study 23

3. exIStInG SIte CHaRaCteRIStICS 243.1 OPen SPaCe SettInGS and exIStInG faCIlItIeS 253.2 tOPOGRaPHy and natuRal SySteMS 263.3 landSCaPe CHaRaCteR and CultuRal HeRItaGe 303.4 aCCeSS and tRanSPORt 323.5 IMPlICatIOnS fOR tHe ReCReatIOn POtentIal Study 33

4. OPen SPaCe needS and deMandS 344.1 exIStInG OPen SPaCe 354.2 SPORtSGROund deMand 414.3 ReVIeW Of PReVIOuS OPen SPaCe StudIeS 444.4 OPen SPaCe SettInGS 484.5 IMPlICatIOnS fOR tHe ReCReatIOn POtentIal Study 50

5. HORnSby, aSQuItH and WaItaRa COMMunIty 525.1 POPulatIOn and deMOGRaPHICS 535.2 POPulatIOn fOReCaSt 565.3 IMPlICatIOnS fOR fOReCaSt OPen SPaCe PROVISIOn 58

6. PReCedent Study 62

7. ReCReatIOn POtentIal 807.1 adVentuRe ReCReatIOn 817.2 POtentIal lISt Of ReCReatIOn aCtIVItIeS 83

8. landfORM deSIGn OPtIOnS 868.1 landfORM deSIGn OPtIOn ReVIeW 878.2 MultI-CRIteRIa aSSeSSMent 102

5

title page

lISt Of fIGuReS and tableStitle page

figuresfigure Ib01: Plan of the combined study area 13

figure PC01: Hornsby Mountain bike trail map 22figure PC02: Hornsby Quarry, Old Man Valley and Hornsby Park Masterplan 23

figure OS01: Open Space provision within the suburb of Hornsby, asquith and Waitara 36figure OS02: Soccer catchment map 40

figure HaW01: Suburb map 53

tablestable eS01 Summary of study area land parcels 25

table OS01 HSC’s open space per person 35table OS02 HSC’s open space per person within Hornsby, asquith and Waitara 38table OS03 Sportgrounds within Hornsby, asquith and Waitara 39table OS04 Soccer population rates 42

table HaW01 Population summary 53table HaW02 age group summary 54table HaW03 Cultural diversity summary 55table HaW04 Open space provision for 2021 and 2031 horizon 57

table ldO01 Multi-critera assessment 103

9. COnCluSIOnS and ReCOMMendatIOnS 104 9.1 COnCluSIOnS 1059.2 next StePS 107

10. RefeRenCeS 109

aPPendICeSaPPendIx a: OPen SPaCe HIeRaRCHyaPPendIx b: deMOGRaPHIC analySISaPPendIx C: landSCaPe analySIS PlanSaPPendIx d: adVentuRe tOuRISM RePORtaPPendIx e: eaRly deSIGn OPtIOnS


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tHe oPPoRtunitythe old quarry provides a unique and interesting landscape setting in close proximity to Hornsby Cbd. this is created by the dramatic level changes, exposed rock walls and water body.

a feeling of remoteness is experienced in the lower parts of the quarry where it is very quiet, and no built form can be seen. the quarry has its own microclimate and bushland backdrop that reinforces the remoteness and distinctive qualities of the overall site experience.

It is considered that as much of this experience should be retained as possible to create a unique landscape and recreation experience for future users of the site.

this is where the exciting opportunity lies for Hornsby Shire Council. Retention and enhancement of the existing environment can be complimented with unique recreation experiences that build upon the site’s natural and intrinsic qualities. Hornsby Shire Council have the chance to create a regional attraction that could have long term state, national and international appeal whilst also meeting the needs of the local community.

tHe Sitethe land that is part of this study includes the following land parcels:• Hornsby Quarry: Hornsby Shire Council owned Community land that includes

the large and deep quarry hole and adjacent crusher plant and other fill zones

• Old Mans Valley lands (OMV): Community land to the east of the quarry that has been in Council ownership since the 1970’s and is the subject of a recently adopted Plan of Management that identifies permissible recreation development

• Hornsby Park: a Crown Reserve under the care and control of Council

• Other parcels of land identified by a red outline (see figure IB01 below) that include undeveloped road reserve and other areas of Council owned bushland or Crown Reserve

PRoJect bacKGRoundHornsby Quarry was worked as a hard rock quarry from the early 1900’s, operating until it became unfeasible to continue due to the poor quality of excavated material.

the nSW State Government required that the Quarry be zoned ‘local Open Space’ under the Hornsby Shire local environmental Plan (HSleP) in 1994. the Open Space zoning at the time required Council to acquire the property.

More recently the nSW State Government has expressed interest in using the site as a destination for fill material from current major infrastructure projects in Sydney. Council will inform the environmental Impact Statement for these works and needs to develop a position regarding filling options.

RECREATION POTENTIAL STUDY FOR HORNSBY QUARRY AND OMV LANDS • REV g DRAFT REPORT 16 July 2014 7

exeCutIVe SuMMaRy

PRoJect PuRPoSethe purpose of the study is to identify potential recreation opportunities to help inform a design process and determine a final landform for the Hornsby Quarry and Old Mans Valley lands (the site).

uniQue Site in HoRnSbythe study site is unique. the remnant quarry walls, lake and exposed diatreme formation combine to create a dramatic landscape only minutes walk from the centre of Hornsby. the surrounding bushland encloses the site creating a sense of remoteness from the city.

the site provides Hornsby Shire Council with the opportunity to create a very special place for its residents and the wider Sydney community. there is the potential to open up the site for public enjoyment and take advantage of the quarry landscape for adventure style recreation such as abseiling, rock climbing and water based activities. there is also the option to host community events and festivals whilst still providing for the local and neighbourhood visitor.

oPen SPace PRoViSionfor the purposes of this study the suburbs of Hornsby, asquith and Waitara have been combined to understand the open space provision immediately surrounding the study site. these three suburbs will experience continued growth over the next 20 years and pressures on open space will increase.

Currently there is an under provision of open space within the combined area, nearly half of the benchmark standard set by Council’s own Section 94 Plan. the conversion of the full study area into usable recreation space will alleviate the pressure on existing spaces in close proximity to proposed high density living within the three suburbs.

SPoRtS GRoundSSportsground provision is measured firstly at a shire wide level but also needs to be accessible at a local level. the Old Mans Valley Plan of Management allows for the development of a sportsground on the site.

However the issue of additional sportsground provision should be considered with other site specific factors and other research put forward in this study:• The existing topography of the site is not suited to developing flat, level playing

fields on a restricted site and will be expensive to create.

• On a shire wide assessment the creation of sportsfields in this unique location may be a lower priority when compared to other more suitable sites in the Shire, for example the Old dairy site in brooklyn, tollgates site in north berowra and Sydney Water site in Westliegh.


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• the provision of multiple sportsgrounds in this location does not relate to the unique qualities of the site which are directly related to the topography. this would in turn result in the loss of the dramatic landscape, water body, diatreme and quarry walls that give the site its unique qualities.

RecReation Potentiala variety of open space and recreation facilities could be provided within the site. this study identifies the range of activities that are deemed to be suitable for particular areas within the site.

ultimately, due to the site’s size, unique character and setting, Cbd location, ease of access from major roads and public transport and neighbouring aquatic Centre, the study area could become a regional attraction and hub for open space and recreation.

a series of recreation scenarios are included in the landform design Options analysis and cater for local and shire wide residents in terms of passive recreation spaces for picnics, play and lawns to kick a ball around through to extension of Mountain bike trails, high ropes courses, tree top walks and zip lines.

adVentuRe RecReation touRiSMOur research demonstrated that the inclusion of adventure Recreation tourism was a definite possibility for this site with the potential for part of the site to become a focus for adventure recreation. If opened up and successfully developed for public access the site will become a regional attraction.

as part of the adventure tourism Scoping Study discussions with adventure recreation operators revealed that there is limited outdoor adventure sport opportunities in the region. up to four adventure parks in the capture region and recent investment in outdoor and indoor adventure facilities indicates growth and investment in the sector, mimicking international growth trends.

landfoRM deSiGn oPtionSthree design options were prepared as part of this strategy. after review and assessment of all three options it is evident that a range of alternative landforms are possible for the site and that all three options can achieve a desirable recreation outcome, with opportunities for a distinctive outdoor experience whilst revealing and protecting the site’s cultural and environmental heritage. based on the Multi-Criteria assessment Option 1 was the highest scoring Option. this was mostly due to the fact that no excavation was required in Old Mans Valley resulting in maximisation of usable open space as a potential specialty park area. access options, cultural events and opportunities for community events programming were more favourable and the ‘site story’ was more intact in Option 1.


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concluSionS and RecoMMendationSthe concept designs that Council have prepared reveal that there are a range of landform and recreation possibilities for the Hornsby Quarry and Old Mans Valley site.

the landform options indicate desirable outcomes. However they all involve complex fill and construction scenarios and each option will have a different impact on the local community and environmental values of the site. These factors, alongside financial implications, need to be carefully considered as part of the next phase of the project.

It is strongly recommended that Council pursue the adventure recreation tourism opportunity for the site. this should be in conjunction with an overall master plan for the site, further feasibility work and investigation of business models.

there is no question that Hornsby Quarry and Old Mans Valley is an important site based on its environmental and heritage values. the additional value of recreation and potential income generation for Council presents a regionally significant site that serves the local and Sydney community.

RECREATION POTENTIAL STUDY FOR HORNSBY QUARRY AND OMV LANDS • REV g DRAFT REPORT16 JULY 201410

“

Hewn from ancient rock right next to Hornsby’s urban heart the

layered timeline of this former quarry reveals story and value in every stratum.

More than a dramatic space, this sculpted landscape is the face of past industry and the shape of a new stage on which Hornsby Shire’s community can engage with their natural legacy and urban lifestyle.

A place for adventure, challenge and rejuvenation, this gateway landscape links ridge to river, city to bush and people to place.

from quarry to park...

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RECREATION POTENTIAL STUDY FOR HORNSBY QUARRY AND OMV LANDS • REV g DRAFT REPORT 16 JULY 2014 11

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...the beginning of a new story.

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Local living

Tourism and economy

Environment and heritage

Return on investment

Hornsby’s parkland hub, meeting the needs of the current and future local community for recreation and cultural experiences in a bushland setting.

A centre for adventure tourism for theNorthern Sydney region, driving local economic development and urban renewal.

Renewing Hornsby’s natural systems and connecting community to Hornsby’s rich heritage and evolving story.

Leveraging commercial opportunities that enhance the leisure experience and deliver a financially sustainable community asset.


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Hornsby Quarry


1.1 Site and PRoJect bacKGRound the sitethe land that is part of this study includes the following land parcels:• Hornsby Quarry: Hornsby Shire Council owned Community land that includes

the large and deep quarry hole and adjacent crusher plant and other fill zones

• Old Mans Valley Open lands (OMV): Community land to the east of the quarry that has been in Council ownership since the 1970’s and is the subject of a recently adopted Plan of Management that identifies permissible recreation development

• Hornsby Park: a Crown Reserve under the care and control of Council

• Other parcels of land identified by a red outline (see figure IB01 below) that include undeveloped road reserve and other areas of Council owned bushland or Crown Reserve

locationHornsby Quarry is to the west of the Hornsby Central business district with vehicular access from dural Street. the Quarry is adjacent to residential properties to the north, berowra Valley national Park to the west, Council lands within Old Mans Valley to the east and bushland owned by the department of Sustainable natural Resources to the south.

1. IntROduCtIOn and baCkGROund

Figure IB01: Plan of the combined study area indicated by the red outline, including the Hornsby Quarry Acquisition area (green outline) Old Mans Valley lands (yellow outline) and Hornsby Park and other land parcels in red.



Site HistoryHornsby Quarry was worked as a hard rock quarry from the early 1900’s, operating until recently when it became unfeasible to continue due to the poor quality of excavated material. Products produced included road base and gravel. the site is dominated by a large open excavation (approximately 90 metres deep) with steep, exposed slopes. Previous Quarry infrastructure also remains on the site such as the crushing facility.

the Quarry was zoned ’Greenbelt’ under the County of Cumberland Planning Scheme in 1951. the site was later zoned ’local Open Space’ under the Hornsby Planning Scheme Ordinance in 1977. the State Government required that the Quarry be zoned ‘local Open Space’ under the Hornsby Shire local environmental Plan (HSleP) in 1994. the Open Space zoning at the time required Council to acquire the property upon receipt of a notice in writing from the owner to do so.

the Quarry became increasingly unviable and on 22 March 2001, CSR limited served notice on Council to acquire the site. Council consulted its legal representatives who advised that Council was obliged to acquire the land. notice of Council’s acquisition was published in the Government Gazette on 25 October 2002.

upon taking ownership of the property, Council requested the Valuer-General to determine the compensation payable to CSR limited for Council’s compulsory acquisition of the site. the Valuer-General determined that Council would pay $25 million to CSR limited for the market value of the land and $99,500.00 for disturbances associated with the compulsory acquisition.

at its meeting on 12 august 2009, Hornsby Shire Council considered a report concerning actions to determine the future use and management of the Hornsby Quarry and adjoining lands in Old Mans Valley. Council resolved to progress actions to fill the Quarry pit with virgin excavated natural material and that filling be limited to that necessary for safety, other operational reasons or where financially viable.

Council also resolved to prepare a Masterplan for Old Mans Valley that identifies a range of recreation facilities. as a result of the resolution portions of OMV to the east of the Quarry were partially developed for recreation use following adoption of a Plan of Management (PoM) in 2012. In late 2012 Council constructed a popular mountain bike singles trail that extends across Hornsby Park and into OMV.

the nSW State Government has expressed interest in using the site as a destination for fill material from current major infrastructure projects in Sydney. Council will inform the environmental Impact Statement for these works and needs to develop a position regarding filling options.



Stabilisation options for the quarry landsPrevious decisions and discussions have given rise to a need to consider the benefits of either stabilising or filling the quarry lands to make them accessible to the public. The options that have been identified based on land fill solutions include: • Option 1 - 1 million m3 of external fill. OMV would be largely unchanged.

• Option 2 - 400,000 m3 of external fill and 600,000m3 from OMV.

• Option 3 - zero volume of external fill and 600,000m3 from OMV and produce steeper landforms in the quarry.

four other options are included in appendix d.

1.2 PRoJect PuRPoSe and ScoPethe rehabilitation of the Quarry and the adjacent degraded open space is required to allow the general public to use the site. there is a need to stabilise the Quarry, manage and restore the bushland, and resolve the future use of open space, existing buildings and roads throughout the combined study area.

there is also a need to ensure that the site is made safe and managed in an environmentally sustainable manner. Redevelopment of part of the site is an option which may provide land management opportunities to halt the environmental degradation and threat to public safety.

the purpose of the study is to identify potential recreation opportunities to help inform a design process and determine a final landform for the Hornsby Quarry and Old Mans Valley Lands (the site). The study includes the following specific tasks:• Identify the overall planning context for the site

• Review population and demographic data for Hornsby, asquith and Waitara

• Identify the recreation potential of the site

• undertake a site analysis

• Prepare a precedent study

• Identify and develop options to provide recreation facilities in the Quarry and OMV. these facilities should:

– Respond to the unique characteristics of the site

– address local needs

– be innovative and encourage use of the site

– Potentially address a wider regional catchment.


1.3 aiMS and obJectiVeSthe objectives of this study are to:• determine an appropriate recreational use for the site that is directly related to

demonstrated open space and recreation needs of the current and future Hornsby population

• determine the catchment of each recreational use

• Identify the opportunities for recreation facilities in each of the landform design Options developed and prepared by Council as an evolution of the four options previously described in section 1.1 (under the heading Stabilisation options for the quarry lands).

the aims of this study are to:• Review site analysis, visual, physical, micro-climatic and access assessment

material developed by Council’s design team and identify what recreation facilities respond best to the specific nature of the site while meeting identified needs and future demand

• determine if additional sports grounds are required based on current demand and future needs for sports grounds in the northern suburbs of the shire (from normanhurst to berowra)

• assess the site’s potential for ‘adventure’ based recreation activities.

1.4 PRoJect MetHodoloGy Methodology for the preparation of the Recreation Potential Study involved the following activities in its preparation and development:• Initial briefing (and site visit) by Council’s Project Control group (PCg ) to review

details of scope, program and consultation strategy

• Review of all existing policies, mapping, data and documents provided by Council

• detailed assessment of the current open space provision in Hornsby

• detailed assessment of the current sports facilities provision in the northern suburbs of the shire

• Review of current demographics and forecast population for Hornsby asquith and Waitara communities

• development and testing of a multi-criteria assessment tool, called a ‘Goal achievement Matrix’ (GaM) with associated scoring and weighting systems. the matrix was developed over several iterations within the ClOuStOn and HSC teams.

• two internal HSC Stakeholder consultation workshops held during the project.




1.5 StaKeHoldeR PaRticiPationInternal HSC Stakeholders were engaged in the Recreation Potential Study process at two key stages of the project in a workshop format:• Workshop number 1 (held at the beginning of the project): the purpose of this

workshop was to present the project aims and objectives, discuss the strengths, weaknesses and opportunities of the Hornsby Quarry and Old Mans Valley lands site. ClOuStOn also presented initial analysis of existing open spaces, demographics and emerging issues.

• Workshop number 2 (held after the development of the draft Goal achievement Matrix and Council’s options): the purpose of this workshop was for ClOuStOn to present the draft findings for discussion with the Stakeholders. Feedback from this workshop informed the finalisation of the study.

the PCG were also responsible for reviewing the draft and final reports at key stages in the project program.

community consultationunfortunately time constraints prevent Council from being able to consult with the community at this early investigative stage as there is a requirement to report outcomes of the investigation to Council by the end of december 2013.

Council engaged the community in consultations in early 2010 that identified a range of criteria that have been used to evaluate development proposals for recreation facilities in OMV. these criteria are summarised in Section 2.


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Remnants of the Quarry crushing plant


2.1 ReGional PlanninG conteXt Metropolitan Plan for Sydney 2036the Metropolitan Plan for Sydney 2036 is the 20 year plan to build liveable places across Sydney. It provides an integrated, long-term sustainable planning framework for Sydney to guide future planning and investment decisions covering housing, economic development and jobs, open space and the transport needed to connect Sydney.

The Metropolitan Plan identifies a number of land use and transport-related strategic directions and policy settings that are of particular relevance to the future of Hornsby (identified as a Major Centre in the Northern Subregional Strategy) including to:• ensure more jobs are located closer to home by increasing the percentage of

people living within 30 minutes by public transport of a major or strategic centre to 77 per cent by 2036

• build at least 80 per cent of all new homes within walking distance of existing and planned centres with good public transport

• enable residential and employment growth in areas where there is available or planned public transport capacity

• Support key economic gateways with integrated land use, infrastructure and transport planning

• Plan for centres to grow and change over time, including focusing activity in accessible centres

• Improve local opportunities for walking, cycling and using public transport

• Strengthen the nSW Government’s lead on best practice urban renewal for improved liveability.

north Subregional Strategythe north Subregional Strategy includes the following centres: Hornsby; ku-ring-gai; Manly; Pittwater and Warringah. the Strategy states the following Metropolitan priorities for the north Subregion:• Promote as a highly accessible and liveable area with outstanding amenity, a

growing network of employment areas and a prized natural environment

• Improve connections to the Global economic Corridor via north Sydney and cross-regional links with Chatswood via brookvale–dee Why

• Improve connections linking the Orbital Motorway network to the f3

• Improve the connecting corridor to the north for freight and passengers to Central Coast, newcastle and nSW north Coast via the f3 and Main northern line, including any future high speed rail corridor

• Provide for increased housing choice through redevelopment for a variety of new housing types and densities around identified centres along major transport corridors including strategic bus corridors and the north Shore line and northern line

• Protect the health and resilience of the environmental assets of the subregion, including national Parks.

2. PlannInG COntext


Policy settings that are of particular relevance to the growth of ‘Hornsby Major Centre’ include:• Enhance as a location for growing retail and office uses for the subregion and a

broader catchment extending to the Central Coast

• Promote residential intensification near the centre

• Provide for at least 1,000 additional jobs to 2031.

The plan also identifies the growth targets for the Hornsby Local government Area (LgA) for an additional 11,000 dwellings and 9,000 jobs by 2031.

Sydney Metropolitan Regional Recreation trails framework update 2010 The framework identifies regional recreation links the Sydney metropolitan area. Key links in the northern region occur through the many bushland reserves and national Parks. the great North Walk is deemed to be a significant north-south links. The priority projects for this route include investigation of bike route (priority 2) and implementation (priority 3).

2.2 SHiRe Wide PlanScommunity Strategic Plan 2013-2023“your Community Plan” sets the direction for where the people of Hornsby Shire want to be in 2023 and identifies the community’s main priorities and aspirations for the future. It is a 10 year vision developed collaboratively between the community and Council. It is the highest order document in the Integrated Planning and Reporting suite of documents and is a long term concept which will be used to guide shorter term planning.

the following principles are relevant to the Recreation Potential Study project:• 1C - Provide opportunities for community involvement in projects to regenerate

the bushland and develop a more environmentally sustainable Shire

• 7b - Provide community access to a range of places and spaces

• 7d - foster healthy neighbourhood and life balance activities

• 8a - Support the living centres in the Shire to be distinctive and vibrant

• 9a - Provide infrastructure and services that serves current and future community needs, including active and passive recreational facilities

• 10a - Provide infrastructure and services that are socially, environmentally and culturally responsive to community needs.

Social Plan 2010-2014the Social Plan promotes a vision for Hornsby Shire with a particular focus on groups that may be disadvantaged. While the Plan is focused on community facilities and services and not open spaces the plan includes several references to Hornsby Cbd that are relevant to the growing centre and the potential use of the study area:• lack of community facilities in Hornsby Cbd area as the population has grown,

especially child safe areas for families and groups to use (page 25 and repeated on page 43)

• need more parking spaces around Hornsby Cbd (page 36)

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• need a big multi-purpose community hall in Hornsby Cbd (page 50)

• Hornsby Cbd – commercial services all within walking distance and very convenient (page 51)

the Plan does not make reference to Hornsby Quarry or Old Mans Valley.

2.3 HoRnSby PlanS and StudieS Hornsby Housing Strategy 2011The Housing Strategy identifies areas suitable for the provision of additional housing to assist in meeting HSC’s future housing obligations. the Strategy was prepared in response to the State Government’s Metropolitan Strategy and draft north Subregional Strategy.

Exact forecast population figures have been discussed directly with HSC’s Strategic Planning department and are explained in Section 4.5.

Hornsby Westside Precinct study 2013this study was been prepared by consultants Jba on behalf of Hornsby Shire Council. It relates to the western side of the Hornsby Cbd known as the Hornsby West Side Precinct which is adjacent to Hornsby tafe and and Hornsby aquatic Centre, near Old Mans Valley lands.

the aim of the study was to develop an urban structure plan and new development controls to facilitate urban renewal of the precinct. the genesis of this study arose from a combination of factors including:• development proposals from landowners suggesting substantial increases in

development potential

• the need to meet increased dwelling and employment targets under the Metropolitan Plan for Sydney 2036

• Recognition that the existing planning controls for the precinct were outdated.

the landowner submissions (page 12) demonstrate the building density and height that could be achieved in the precinct. The draft structure plan identifies landscape, urban design, road alignment and car parking proposals.

the subsequent Planning Proposal dated august 2013 requested changes to the Hornsby Local Environmental Plan 2013 including new building height limits and floor space ratios in order to achieve the density and height proposed by the study.

2.4 Site SPecific StudieSHornsby Quarry lake options Study 2012Pells Sullivan Meynink (PSM) considered four options for the Hornsby Quarry to fill with water to form a lake at approximately Rl88m. three of the options could allow for public access to the lake. the stabilisation options and their corresponding costs include:• Mechanical stabilisation of slopes with rock bolts, shotcrete, mesh and cable

anchors - $10 to 16 million

• Cutting back the existing slopes to flatter more stable batters - $10 million

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• Buttressing the existing slopes with fill materials $11 million (if fill is free) to $50 million (for purchasing of fill)

• Restricting access to areas of failure, no other works than fencing and flood routing control - $6 million

old Mans Valley Plan of Management 2012Council prepared this Plan of Management (PoM) for the open space area known as Old Mans Valley (OMV) which forms part of a valley to the west of the Hornsby town Centre. OMV is approximately 12.5 Ha, the majority of which has been modified by the activities of early european settlement including logging and farming, followed by impacts associated with quarrying on the adjoining former Hornsby Quarry land to the west.

the land is currently used for recreation purposes, mostly for mountain bike riding (see Figure PC01 opposite). The PoM identifies potential sports and speciality park use with concept options for the layout of sportsfields, play, picnic and barbecue areas and associated facilities (see section 4.1 for park type definitions).

In 2008 Council developed Indicative Concept Options for OMV. acknowledging the spatial opportunities for various uses and a shortage of sportsgrounds and land, Council put forward for consultative purposes two Indicative Concept Plans capable of accommodating a significant open space area devoted to informal recreation, other speciality park pursuits and a sportsground.

the options for OMV are discussed in more detail in Section 5.

concept development for Hornsby Quarry Study 2013Pells Sullivan Meynink (PSM) Council has received further advice from PSM indicating options for the stabilisation of the quarry walls by various methods including blasting, ripping and mechanical stabilisation. they evaluate a range of options and advise on stabilisation methods and constraints including:

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Figure PC01: Hornsby Mountain Bike Trail map

Old Mans Valley Plan of Management

- Page 26 -

FIGURE 4 - Quarry / OMV / Hornsby Park Masterplan

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LEGEND Walking Trails Future Roads Historic Cemetery

1. Hornsby Park 2. Pocket Park ‘Pump Track’ 3. Specialty Park 4. Sportsground 5. Future Open space


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• Options proposing no fill, limited fill and significant fill into the site;

• Looking at the potential to generate fill from the stabilisation works and other parts of the quarry and Old Mans Valley lands; and

• A lake option involving filling the quarry with water and stabilising the walls.

these reports have provided a valuable basis to the open space study in that they have identified how the site may be stabilised and made accessible to the general public. The reports are critical to understanding the key geotechnical constraints and have set the framework for the development of the range of landform options that are presented in this report.

2.5 iMPlicationS foR tHe RecReation Potential Studythe key implications for the potential recreation opportunities of the site are:• the forecast population in Hornsby, in particular the West Side Precinct will place

increased pressure on existing open spaces within the Cbd and suburb of Hornsby

• the stabilisation of the quarry is paramount to allowing public access into the site. The need for fill and the potential associated costs could inhibit public access. . The current estimated costs for achieving this present a significant challenge and could prevent public access for a long time into the future.

• lack of public access could be a poor outcome for the community with regard to the extensive community consultation that has taken place and the identified community’s desires for the site

• the costs of stabilising the quarry to allow free public access are estimated to be considerable and could prevent the site from being opened up to the general community for a long time.

• By contrast options that look at significant filling of the quarry void will make the site able to be used for traditional sporting and recreation pursuits, will require a significantly greater volume of fill. There is a high liklihood that this approach will be more expensive and may take longer to achieve.

Figure PC01: Hornsby Mountain Bike Trail map Figure PC02: Hornsby Quarry, Old Man Valley and Hornsby Park Masterplan from PoM


Existing cemetery within the Hornsby Quarry site

3. eX

iSti

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ite

cHaR

acte

RiSt

icS


3. exIStInG SIte CHaRaCteRIStICS

3.1 oPen SPace SettinGS and eXiStinG facilitieSas described previously the study area is divided into four parts the following table provides a summary of the basic open space characteristics, settings and existing uses for each land parcel.

name ownership Size (ha)

Zoning PoM Setting/ categories

Hierarchy level existing facilities

Hornsby Quarry HSCCommunity land

20

Re1 Public Recreation

n/a Potential Regional

• no public access

old Mans Valley open Space lands

HSCCommunity land

11(6 for use)

• natural area, • Park,• Sportsground • area of

Cultural significance congregations

Regional • Mountain bike trails• Walking trails• Cemetery

Hornsby Park(Site includes Hornsby Pool)

Crown Reserve under the care and control of Council

14.4 • natural area• Sportsground• General

Community use

• Park

district(Regional with Pool)

• Playground• barbecue• amenities• Car park• Hornsby Olympic Pool

other parcels of land

Council owned bushland or Crown Reserve or operational land

- (undeveloped road reserve)

local with potential for district/Regional in combination with development of study area

• no facilities

total size 45.4

Table ES01 Summary of study area land parcels

the total area of the study area is approximate and includes areas that would not provide open space or recreational opportunities such as areas of protected bushland, steep slopes, quarry walls etc.



3.2 toPoGRaPHy and natuRal SySteMS topographythe topography of the study area varies greatly. from the void and lake level of Hornsby Quarry to the formal gardens of Hornsby Park adjacent to the Pacific Highway there is a significant level difference:• the base of the quarry hole is at Rl8.

• the rim of the quarry is at Rl90.

• the existing level area in Old Mans Valley is Rl130.

• the new outdoor pool is at Rl181.

• The Pacific Highway at Hornsby Park varies between RL184 and RL187.

Hornsby QuarryWithin the Quarry site the level difference from the lake level to the top of the quarry wall is over 100 metres on the southern side. the level difference is lower on other sides of the lake.

the land surrounding the quarry void is steep and rises to the north towards residential properties along Manor Road and to the south towards dural Street and Quarry Road.

Old Mans ValleyOld Mans Valley sits in a well-defined natural valley to the west of the Pacific Highway and Hornsby tafe and north of Hornsby Park. there are steep slopes on valley sides, including natural embankments and embankments created by modification as a result of the quarrying and landfill operations of the past.

Surrounding slopes to the OMV site form an amphitheatre at the edges of constructed, filled and cleared areas. The southern portion of the area could accommodate a single sports ground if further developed, while the near-level terraces situated in the northern half of the site would require additional filling and levelling to reach a standard suitable for formal sports activities.

Hornsby Park and PoolHornsby Park slopes away from the Pacific Highway to level areas associated with Hornsby Pool. the steeply sloped bushland areas along Quarry Road and to the north of dural Street rise to the level of the old quarry crushing plant and fall away to the level of the top of the quarry void.

natural SystemsHornsby QuarryOld Mans Creek flows across the northwest section of the study area. The creek is a tributary of berowra Creek and forms part of the Hawkesbury River catchment. an open concrete stormwater channel is located on the northern edge of the quarry pit and collects stormwater from the residential areas to the north and east and redirects the runoff away from the quarry pit.



Hornsby Quarry - view from western side of quarry, looking east showing diatreme

Hornsby Quarry - view from northern side of quarry, looking south showing fill areas

Hornsby Quarry - view from norhern side, at lake level of quarry, looking south west towards south western fill zone



Where quarry activities have occured the land is predominantly clear with some weed invasion. Where land is primarily undisturbed the endemic vegetation communities of Old Mans Valley are present. There are significant stands of remnant glen Forest and Sydney Sandstone Gully forest on the north and southwestern boundaries of the study area which provide a direct link/wildlife corridor with berowra Valley national Park to the west (Pb Master Plan Report 2004).

Old Mans ValleyThere are several overland flows that enter the site including:• a remnant and incised drainage line entering the site from the northern park

boundary, collecting concentrated residential stormwater flows

• a drainage line collecting from the adjoining eastern areas runs along the eastern boundary and joins the above line. The combined flows descend into a drainage diversion which exits into the Hornsby Quarry lands from the northwest of OMV

• a watercourse running close to the western boundary (inside and out of the boundary), which enters the southwestern corner of OMV from Hornsby Park.

The watercourse from Hornsby Park in the south and the combined flows from the east and north exit OMV to the west around the northern side of Hornsby Quarry via a concrete diversion channel on quarry lands. These flows enter Berowra Creek west of the quarry lands.

OMV contains remnant blackbutt Gully forest (containing dominant species of Eucalyptuspilularis, Angophora costata and Syncarpia glomulifera) on upland slopes and batters across the northern and in southwestern and southeastern corners of the site as well as regrowth fragments of what equates to a Glen forest or blue Gum diatreme community along the western batter below the main cleared area.

OMV is dominated by weedy undergrowth including Privet while open, cleared areas are generally grassed and weedy. In various locations, garden escapees such as Wisteria Vines and other common garden species are evident.

Hornsby Park and Pool the soil within the site is predominantly derived from Hawkesbury Sandstone, with someVolcanic diatreme derived soils. Vegetation communities within the bushland areas of the park include:• Eucalyptus pilularis - Angophora costata - Syncarpia glomulifera tall open forest

(Vegetation Community L), vegetation of local conservation significance

• Glen forest - E.saligna Tall Open Forest (Vegetation Community J), significant in Sydney Region due to very restricted distribution

Darwinia biflora, a listed vulnerable species under the Threatened Species Conservation act (1995), occurs in close proximity to the reserve (in the adjacent berowra Valley national Park).



View looking north from the southern eastern fill zone

Old Mans Valley open fields, looking south west towards the quarry void

Bushland areas Bushland areas



Overall, the reserve bushland is in variable condition, ranging from very poor to good. an isolated good patch of restored Glen forest occurs at the reserve’s western end. Core areas of Community land bushland are in good condition. However the condition becomes poor surrounding all road and structural developments associated with the quarry (frequently associated with fill slopes from roads), and along residential edges on the southern reserve boundary.

Old Mans Creek flows through the site.

3.3 landScaPe cHaRacteR and cultuRal HeRitaGe landscape characterusing the character zones developed by HSC (see appendix C) the site’s character varies dramatically and is closely related to the sites’s topography. Overall the site feels remote and quiet despite it’s proximity to the Pacific Highway and Hornsby CBD. • Hornsby Park - a heritage, formal parkland with some mature trees and manicured

gardens. the park allows for some long distance views of tree canopy within the Quarry and OMV.

• Old Mans Valley - ranging from steep bush land slopes and open fields this part of the site provides a series of open and enclosed spaces. there are some views to the quarry (but not of the quarry lake) from the bush land edges on the western side of OMV.

• Quarry Zone - the high walls of the quarry create a dramatic landscape when positioned at the bottom of the quarry and also along the quarry road. Whilst in the quarry there is a sense of being ‘in the wilderness’ or ‘in the middle of nowhere.’

• Cultural Heritage zone - the old crusher plant is situated on a flat area and provides views of the quarry. the abandoned buildings add to the feeling of remoteness but also add to the story of the site.

• South Western fill zone - this area is on the southern side of the quarry and provides views of the quarry and also to OMV and surrounding bush land. this area is dominated by bush land and some weed infestation.

Overall it is the Quarry Zone that provides a unique and interesting landscape setting in such close proximity to Hornsby Cbd. this sense of ‘quarriness’ is created by the dramatic level changes, exposed rock walls and water body extenuate. the bushland backdrop also extenuates the site experience.

cultural HeritageHornsby Quarrythe Quarry is listed on the Heritage Register of the national estate describing it (in part) as the “largest volcanic neck in the Sydney area”. the Higgins family cemetery is also located on the site and is listed as a heritage item of State Significance under the Hornsby Shire Local Environmental Plan 1994. The cemetery identifies the burial of 23 people, all members of early families in the area and covers the period from 1875 to 1925. the cemetery is still in use and maintained by Higgins family descendents.



Hornsby Park - sloping lawn areas and mature trees Hornsby Park - formal gardens and paths

Old Mans Valley - open parklands Old Mans Valley - steep vegetated slopes

Quarry zone - diatreme South western fill zone - cleared area, looking north east



Old Mans Valleythe HSC Plan of Management provides in depth detail regarding the natural and cultural heritage of the site. key aspects of the heritage value of the site include:

Hornsby Park and Poolthe HSC Plan of Management for district three and nine provides detailed information regarding the natural and cultural heritage of the Park. key aspects of the heritage value of the park include:• Hornsby Park is heritage listed and regarded as being of regional significance

(Hornsby Shire leP, 1994)

• the Park falls within the Hornsby West Side Heritage Conservation area (Hornsby Shire leP, 1994)

• there are no recorded aboriginal artefacts or relics on the site

• the sandstone steps running through the bushland areas are thought to have been built during the depression of the 1930s. the formal park was created in 1933. the formal park layout and design are based on a design prepared by Scott finlay and Jack dow under the nom-de-plume of Pro bono Publico in 1927 that was gradually implemented over the following decade (Mayne Wilson 2012).

3.4 acceSS and tRanSPoRtVehicle and pedestrian access pointsdespite the size and composition of the site, several land parcels have limited access points into the site:• Quarry Road is the main point of vehicle access to Old Mans Valley and Hornsby

Quarry. a second vehicle access way is available to the east of the site from Bridge Road where a steep fire trail enters the site and provides access to OMV.

• the benowie Walking track follows Quarry Road through Hornsby Park and provides links to berowra Valley national Park and the Great north Walk

• to the north dilkera Close, near Manor Road is indicated as an entry point to the benowie Walking track which links to Hornsby Park and Old Mans Valley

• to the south west Rosemead Road off dural Street is indicated as an entry point to the benowie Walking track

• Hornsby Park and Pool is accessed from the Pacific Highway. Heritage stairs and trail leading from near pool down into old mans valley Hornsby Park bushland.

Public transportthe study area is well located with respect to public transport links. It is approximately 350m from Hornsby train station to Hornsby Pool; and 350m from Hornsby train Station to Quarry Road. The site is located near multiple bus stops along Pacific Highway.

the regional potential of the site would be supported by these important public transport links.



Higgins family cemetery Remnant in situ quarry machinery

other facilitiesthe Hornsby Cbd location is home to Hornsby tafe, Hornsby Court House and Police Station, Council offices and Chambers, retail and commercial uses. The site has the potential to link with other facilities and services in the vicinity and provide Hornsby and Shire residents with a major regional facility.

3.5 iMPlicationS foR tHe RecReation Potential Studythe key implications for the potential recreation opportunities of the site are:• the disconnected nature of the three main land parcels. Management and

maintenance boundaries may need to be retained. However opportunity exists for the creation of one large regional facility combining a variety of recreational experiences

• the Cbd location provides Council with a unique opportunity to provide an outstanding and unique facility in the heart of the lGa

• existing level changes between the land parcels and major level drops will require rigorous design resolution in order to incorporate some degree of universal access

• Protection and revegetation of endangered ecological Communities (l and J). In particular the eeC to the southwest of the quarry limits access. the eeC between the quarry and the OMV parklands restricts opportunities to physically link these two significant land parcels of open space.

• Current access into the site is limited. Quarry Road is the main vehicle access corridor. a bridge Road connection into the site has the potential to improve accessibility. Options for other road access are severely limited by the topography and environmental constraints imposed by eeC and other bushland parcels. Pedestrian and cycle access is also limited by topography

• Conservation of heritage features and in particular new uses for existing buildings

• Opportunities to improve views into the site from key lookouts, improving the appreciation of the overall site.

• the Quarry landscape, in particular the level changes and surrounding bushland lends itself to provision of adventure and/or outdoor recreation activities.


Old Mans Valley meadow

4. oP

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4.1 eXiStinG oPen SPaceHornsby ShireCurrently there is 478 hectares of categorised public open space within the Hornsby lGa which equates to 31 square metres (m2) per person for the estimated population of 153,395 at 1 January 2012. the following table demonstrates the number of different categories and the square metres per person of open space for the 2012 HSC population.

category land area (hectares) Standard of Provision(m2 per person (2012 pop.)

local Reserves 94 6.1Specialty Parks 123 8.0Sportsgrounds 261 17.0total 478 31.1

Table OS01 HSC’s open space per person

Local reserves are generally defined as open spaces that allow for a variety of passive recreation activities.

As defined by HSC’s Unstructured Recreation Strategy (2008) Specialty parks should generally:• Cater for a range of age groups and contemplative as well as physical activity

• be larger than 1 ha

• Include an open grass area as well as area for tree, shrub and groundcover plantings

• be overlooked by adjacent houses

• Where possible include the following:

– Play spaces, hard court ball areas, wall or hit up or soccer practice, grass area for kick to kick and picnics, a formed path system, circuit walking path shade,

– furniture include bins, seats, tables and preference an dog exercising area.

– district level facilities may also include skate and /or bMx facilities, toilets and shelters

– aim to provide one park for off-leash dog activity area in every planning district

Sportsgrounds are generally defined as open spaces dedicated for active recreation in the form of organised sports. However these spaces can also be used informally for a variety of other recreation activities.

4. OPen SPaCe needS and deMandS

SPORTSGROUNDS

PARKS

SUBURB BOUNDARY

NATURAL AREAS

PLAYGROUNDS

HORNSBY

ASQUITH

WAITARA

Lessing Street PlaygroundMildred Avenue PlaygroundNeale ParkReddy ParkRosemead Road ParkWater Street Drainage ReserveEdgeworth David Park Hornsby Park and PoolLisgar GardensWillow Park

WAITARAWaitara ParkLeonard Street Rotary ParkUnwin Park

ASQUITHAsquith ParkMills ParkAmor Street PlaygroundGardenia Street PlaygroundSalisbury Road Park

HORNSBYStorey ParkJames ParkBeatrice Thomson ParkClarke Road ParkCollingridge ReserveGinger Meggs ParkHolman ParkLeighton Place

LEGEND

Suburb Boundary

Site Boundary

Sportsgrounds

Parks

Natural Areas

Playgrounds

SPORTSGROUNDS AND PARKS

22

22

17

17

9

9

21

21

26

26

25 24

23

20

20

16

16

10

10

14

14

15

15

12

12

13

13

18

18

11

11

8

8

7

7

6

6

5

5

2

2

4

4

1

1

3

3

19

19

23

2425


Figure OS01: Open Space provision within the suburb of Hornsby, Asquith and Waitara

37

The figures in Table OS01 do not include bushland areas. A separate calculation has been determined for these areas and is focused on bushland walking tracks, of which Council manages 142 km that equates to a standard provision of 0.93 lineal metres of walking track per person.

Council state in the Section 94 Plan that bushland areas ‘provide open space and recreational assets for the resident population by way of walking and cycling tracks, fire trails are also used for bushwalking, picnic areas and lookouts’.

Overall these figures represent a shire wide approach to open space provision and do not reflect the different residential situations between high density town centres (with higher populations) and low density suburban areas.

Hornsby, asquith and Waitara the following table demonstrates the number of different open space categories and the square meters per person of open space for the combined 2011 Hornsby, asquith and Waitara population.

When compared ot the standard of provision for the entire shire (see table OS01) the following table demonstrates a significant shortfall, particularly in the suburb of Waitara. It should be noted that data on the distribution of Specialty Parks have been incorporated into the local reserves figures, while natural areas have been excluded.

category land area (hectares) Standard of Provision(m2 per person (2011 pop.))

Hornsbylocal Reserves 23.77 11.63General Community use 2.199 1.08Sportsgrounds 3.97 1.94total Hornsby oS 29.939 14.65asquithlocal Reserves 0.523 1.59General Community use 0.56 1.70Sportsgrounds 9.7 29.33total asquith oS 10.783 32.62Waitaralocal Reserves 0.3 0.61General Community use 0.0 0.00Sportsgrounds 3.2 6.53total Waitara oS 3.5 7.14total of 3 suburbs



local Reserves 24.593 8.59General Community use 2.759 0.96Sportsgrounds 16.8 5.88

total open Space 44.152 15.43

Table OS02 HSC’s open space per person within Hornsby, Asquith and Waitara

Regional Parksthere are several parks within the suburb of Hornsby. the following is a description of their characteristics:• Hornsby Park - 14.4Ha, the developed portion of Hornsby Park contains the

aquatic centre, open grassland areas available for informal use, a developed playground, bbQ facilities and public toilets.

• lisgar Gardens and lisgar north bushland - 2.7 Ha, connects to florence Cotton Reserve and contains:

– terraced gardens that can be booked for weddings, photography and group activities

– Gardens contain a pavilion, shade house with fishponds, a gazebo, waterfalls, lawn areas, picnic tables, public amenities and an informal trail through creek-side bushland.

• florence Cotton Reserve - 13.7ha of natural area with an informal walking trail along the southern ridgeline. While not providing the range of facilities generally provided by a Specialty Park it’s connectivity with lisgar Gardens means that this parkland contributes to the recreation opportunities of lisgar Gardens by providing long and distinctive bushwalking trails through the area.

berowra Valley national Park, including Crosslands Reserves, managed by national Parks and Wildlife Service (nPWS) straddles large parts of the berowra Creek catchment from Pennant Hills to berowra Waters covering about 4,000 Ha or 8 percent of the Hornsby Shire. the park provides enormous opportunities for bushwalking and recreation, protects the habitat of native flora and fauna and has many Aboriginal sites.

Bushland areasHornsby and asquith have a total of 45.75Ha of natural areas. the lineal metre tracks through these areas have not been calculated.




Sportsgroundsthe following table (OS03) demonstrates the sportsgrounds located in close proximity to the study site, within the suburb of Hornsby, asquith and Waitara. the conclusion that can be drawn is that:• there are several sportsgrounds in the area that cater for a variety of sports

and also provide open space for noncompetitive/training purposes such as playgrounds, outdoor gym equipment etc.

• there is a shortfall of specialty and/or regional parks in close proximity to the study area.

Park name distance (km)

Size(Ha)

Provision

HornsbyStorey Park 1.0 2.4 • Sportsground with turf wicket

• Children’s playground• amenities and bubbler

• Community Centre• Car park• Radio tower and shed

James Park, Scout Hall and James Park bushland

1.5 2.4 • basketball half court• Circuit path• Playground • Outdoor gym equipment

• Sportsground• Cricket practice nets• amenities • Scout hall.

asquithasquith Park 2.2 3.7 • Sportsground

• amenities buildingMills Park 2.3 7.2 • Sportsground

• amenities building• Play area

WaitaraWaitara Park 1.4 3.2 • Sportsground

• turf wicket• Grandstand

• tennis courts and • amenities including

disabled amenities

Table OS03 Sportsgrounds within Hornsby, Asquith and Waitara and proximity to the study area.

SPORTSGROUNDS

PARKS

SUBURB BOUNDARY

berowra watersberilee

berowra heights

berowra

mount kuringai

hornsby heights

mount colah

asquith

hornsby

westleigh

waitara

wahroonga

normanhurstthornleighcherrybrookcastle hill

glenhaven

west pennant hillspennant hills

cheltenham beecroft

carlingfordepping

eastwood

north epping

dural

galston

arcadia

glenorie

middle dural

�ddletown

berowra creek

milsons passage

canoelands

singletons mill

laughtondale

wisemans ferry

maroota

cowan

brooklyn

dangar islandforest glen

LEGEND

Suburb Boundary

GHFA Catchment Boundary

NSFA Catchment Boundary

Site Location


Figure OS02: Soccer catchment map



4.2 SPoRtSGRound deMand Previous studies carried out by Hornsby Council indicate that the three high-participation sports of soccer, cricket and netball are also the sports with the greatest need for new sportsground facilities.

table OS04 on the following pages shows the membership of soccer clubs throughout Hornsby Shire. Matched to the population of the suburbs the clubs are located in, it shows that the membership of the clubs south of Hornsby represent a higher proportion of their local populations than do the clubs in Hornsby and to the north. In summary:• Soccer is available at 21 sportsgrounds (out of 41 grounds in the shire).

• A sportsfield is either a senior or junior field. A sportsground is a site that may contain a number of fields.

• there are 2 sites in the north west of the shire (Galston Rec Res and Wisemans ferry) that are not used in winter.

• there are 3 sites in the north east of the shire that are undeveloped (brooklyn dairy site, Cowan tollgates site, Hornsby OMV) and could be made available in the future.

• The figures demonstrate lower participation in soccer in the NSFA catchment.

• The figures demonstrate significantly higher numbers of participating players per sportsfield in the gHFA catchment.

Feedback from these clubs and confirmed by Council’s own observations over many years shows that congestion in the use of sportsgrounds for soccer training is far worse on grounds south of Hornsby than on those in Hornsby and to the north. Ground wear patterns also confirm this. the conclusion that can be drawn is that the suburbs south of Hornsby should have a higher priority for the provision of new sportsgrounds than the suburb of Hornsby itself, and suburbs to the north generally.

to gain a complete understanding of sportsground demand a shire wide analysis is necessary. this is outside the scope of this study.


Club

no. of registered

players 2013

SuburbSuburb

population 2011

no. of soccer sports fields available

Gladesville Hornsby football association clubs (GHfa)beecroft SC 450 beecroft, Cheltenham 10445 2 senior, 1 juniordural fC 36 dural 5372 3 seniorHills Hawks SC 612 arcadia, nW rural, Galston, Mid dural 6995 3 senior, 1 juniorRoselea fC 586 Carlingford 3179 3 seniornorth epping SC 478 nth epping 4251 1 senior, 1 juniornormanhurst SC 508 normanhurst 5186 1 seniorPennant Hills fC 494 Pennant Hills 7037 1 seniorthornleigh 509 thornleigh, Westleigh 12336 2 senior, 1 juniorWest Pennant Hills/Cherrybrook 1219 Castle Hill, Cherrybrook, W Pennant Hills 27677 4 seniorepping yMCa 462 epping 13837 2 senior, 1 juniortotal 5354 - 96315 22 senior, 5 juniorno. of people (pop.) per registered player 17.99No. players per field 198.29northern suburbs football association clubs (nSfa)asquith fC 296 asquith 3235 2 senior, 3 juniorberowra fC 785 berowra 4469 1 seniorbrooklyn fC 138 berowra Hts, Cowan, brooklyn 6795 1 senior, 2 juniorHornsby RSl fC 85 Hornsby, Waitara, Wahroonga 29353 1 seniorHornsby RSl youth fC 179 - - -Hornsby Heights fC 537 Hornsby Heights 5905 2 senior, 1 juniorMt Colah fC 549 Mt Colah, Mt kuring Gai 8542 4 senior, 3 juniortotal 2569 - 58299 11 senior, 9 juniorno. of people (pop.) per registered player 22.69

No. players per field 128.45

Table OS04 Soccer participation rates in Hornsby Shire: GHFA and NDFA registered player No. compared to existing local suburb population in Hornsby Shire





4.3 ReVieW of PReViouS oPen SPace StudieSthe following report summaries provide informative statistics and insight into current participation in sport and recreation.

exercise Recreation and Sport Survey (2010)the exercise, Recreation and Sport Survey (eRaSS) collected information on the frequency, duration, nature and type of physical activities participated in for exercise, recreation or sport by persons aged 15 years and over between 2001 and 2010. a summary of key findings that are relevant to the Recreation Potential Study include:• Physical activities:

– the top ten physical activities in 2010, in terms of total participation rate, were walking, aerobics/fitness, swimming, cycling, running, golf, tennis, bushwalking, outdoor football and netball

– activities experiencing declines in participation between 2001 and 2010 included tennis (down 24% compared to 2001 and now at its second lowest participation rate since 2001), swimming (down 6% since 2001) and golf (down 5% between 2001 and 2010).

• Organised activities:

– the top ten organised physical activities in 2010, in terms of total participation rate, were aerobics/fitness, golf, outdoor football (soccer), netball, Australian rules football, tennis, basketball, touch football, outdoor cricket and lawn bowls

– In terms of the top ten organised physical activities, australian rules football had the largest increase in total participation between 2001 and 2010, increasing by 64% since 2001

– Other top ten organised activities experiencing increases in participation since 2001 were outdoor football (55% increase) and outdoor cricket (33% increase)

– Of all top ten organised activities, tennis (–24%) and golf (–8%) experienced the greatest declines in participation between 2001 and 2010.

• Club based activities:

– Regardless of gender, regular participation in club-based physical activity was most common among those aged 15 to 24 years (17.7%)

– the top ten club-based physical activities in 2010, in terms of total participation rate, were golf, outdoor football, netball, australian rules football, tennis, outdoor cricket, lawn bowls, touch football, basketball and martial arts

– Of all top ten club-based activities, tennis (–13%) had the greatest decline in participation between 2001 and 2010.



eRaSS children’s Report 2010 In 2009 and 2010, a number of questions were added to eRaSS asking survey respondents with children aged between 5 and 14 years about their children’s level of physical activity outside of school hours.

The key findings of the study include:Participation in any physical activity• an estimated 2.5 million children, or 92.4%, participated at least once per week

outside school hours in the previous school term in physical activity

• the median frequency of participation outside school hours in any physical activity for all children aged between 5 and 14 years was nine times per week. Males participated more frequently (ten times per week) than females (seven times per week)

• an estimated 1.7 million children, or 61.8%, participated outside school hours seven times per week or more in any physical activity (including light, moderate and vigorous). australian Physical activity Recommendations for Children are at least 60 minutes (and up to several hours) of moderate to vigorous intensity physical activity every day

• Males, children aged between 8 and 12 years, children living in households where english only or a european language is spoken, and children whose parents are regular participants in physical activity, were more likely to be participating in physical activity daily. among females aged 13 to 14 years only 44.4% participated daily. among children living in households where a non-european language is spoken, only 43.8% participated daily.

Participation in organised physical activity• an estimated 957,000 children aged between 5 and 14 years participated at

least three times per week in organised physical activity, a regular participation rate of 34.7%

• the ‘top ten’ organised physical activities for children in 2010, in terms of term participation rate, were swimming, dance, outdoor football, basketball, tennis, netball, australian rules football, martial arts, outdoor cricket and gymnastics. an estimated 518,000 children aged between 5 and 14 years (or 18.8%) participated in organised swimming in the previous school term

Participation in non-organised physical activity• the ‘top ten’ non-organised physical activities in 2010, in terms of term participation

rate, were walking, cycling, active play, swimming, gymnastics, running, outdoor football, roller sports, bush walking and outdoor cricket

• the median frequency of participation in non-organised physical activity for all children aged 5 to 14 years was six times per week; five times among females and seven times among males

• In general, frequency of participation in non-organised physical activity decreased as children grew older.



the australian State of Play Report (2012)this report commissioned by MIlO focused on surveys of children, parents and grandparents with a total of 1,397 australian respondents. Children surveyed were between eight to twelve years of ages. The summary of findings revealed that:• the majority of children (65%) said outdoor play is their favourite activity

• nearly 1 in 2 (45%) children don’t play every day

• Majority of parents (95%) and grandparents (99%) agree that playtime is not only important but actually essential for children’s development.

The revealing findings of the MILO report are relevant to new and existing residents with children.

Hornsby leisure Strategic Plan (2002)the overall objective for this project was the preparation of a strategic report that provides the ‘basis for long-term leisure planning and services and facilities provision for the Hornsby community’. the Plan proposes strategies ‘to best align service and facility provision with the identified leisure needs of Hornsby’s present and future populations’.

The major finding of this Plan was that leisure facilities must be flexible, accessible and varied to allow for population ‘life cycles’ and consequent shifts in recreation focus. there will be times when some facilities will be overused and others under-used. Opportunities for making adjustments for these peaks and troughs and for catering for future (unknown) needs will be maximised where facilities have built-in flexibility. Stage 3 of the document lists a series of non-site specific generic Parks and Open Space improvements (page 12 to 13).

unstructured Recreation Strategy (2008)this report was undertaken for the Hornsby Shire Council to further develop issues arising from the Hornsby leisure Strategic Plan prepared in 2002. the 2002 report highlighted a deficiency in the provision of some sporting, leisure and recreation facilities. The activities that were included as part of the unstructured Recreation Strategy were: • a range of unstructured sports undertaken for pleasure, away from the club

competitive environment in social / family settings

• bMx and mountain biking

• Walking for recreation

• dog socialisation and exercise

• Skateboarding and in-line skating

• Horse riding trails

• Playgrounds

• Recreational fishing

With regard to specific parks and places that provide open space and recreation opportunities within or close to the study area the unstructured Recreation Strategy Maps highlighted the need for Preliminary assessment of bMx and Mtb trail sites (schedule 8).



Other projects considered to be those of the highest priority:• attempt to provide one speciality/mixed recreation park in each suburb or planning

district, where there is a cluster of facilities for social and unstructured recreation activities suitable for a range of ages. typically, this park would have a play space, kick-to-kick area, an offleash dog exercise area, hard court for informal ball play as well as an accessible formed path circuit suitable for children’s cycling and people with disabilities, and access to toilets (at key reserves)

• Provide a hierarchy of trails across the Shire to suit a wide range of pedestrian and non-motorised wheeled activities: urban footpaths, equestrian and shared trails; bike trails in urban bushland , sealed circuit paths in larger parks

• Priority for playground development to be given to larger parks such as those with regional, shire-wide or suburb-wide catchments.

due to the site’s location and size the above points are relevant and should be considered as part of the recreational potential of the site.

the report also states that a ‘feasibility study was conducted concerning a future skate park in Hornsby, however no suitable site has emerged, nor is likely to in future. Hornsby Park was previously considered then rejected by Council as being an unsuitable site.

Sports facility Strategy (2006)the SfS study had the following aims and objectives (relevant to this project): • Identify the adequacy (or otherwise) of the condition and distribution of existing

outdoor sporting facilities to meet current and future needs (especially soccer, cricket and netball facilities)

• Confirm the existing and likely future unmet needs of the broader community and sports clubs in relation to outdoor sports facility provision (specifically the sports of soccer, cricket, and netball)

• Prepare a strategic approach for the future provision of soccer, cricket and netball facilities, including potential new sites for additional facility development.

The Action plan specifically mentions Hornsby Quarry:• Significant land area although site constraints for sports field developments due

to topography

• Substantial buildings existing on site

• Community consultation supports sportsground on adjoining reserve in Old Mans Valley together with some residential uses

• long-term prospect only.

The Action plan specifically mentions Old Mans Valley:• a portion of the land has been levelled but has not been developed

• Suitable size for senior sports oval and/or 2 soccer fields.

• Access to site is difficult and will need to be formalised



• Site is currently under active consideration for development of a sports ground as part of the broader strategic land use planning study.

The Action Plan identifies Old Mans Valley be considered for several sports codes including cricket (page 35); rugby union (page 38); soccer (page 38) baseball (page 47). the site is listed as a low priority Capital development Project with an allocation of $2 to 5 million funding.

Section 94 development contributions Plan (adopted 2014)the Hornsby Shire Council Section 94 development Contributions Plan 2012 - 2021 has been prepared to satisfy the requirements of the environmental Planning and assessment Act and Regulation, enabling Council or an accredited certifier to levy contributions from development for the provision of community infrastructure, such as open spaces and improvements to existing open spaces, that is required to meet the demands of that development.

The Section 94 Plan also identifies funding for a specialty park and sportsground of $15m within Old Man Valley lands. Issues related to forecast population and provision of open space, derived from the Plan are discussed in more detail in the following pages of this section.

4.4 oPen SPace SettinGSbased on existing Council open space settings and previous studies the following settings would be appropriate to develop at the Hornsby Quarry and Old Mans Valley lands site.

Passive Parklands• Open spaces which have had their physical character and/or vegetation modified

to support community recreation, community development and wellbeing uses

• facilities could include play spaces, paths, fences, lighting, public art, toilets, amenity buildings, cafe/kiosk etc.

outdoor Sports • Venues designed to support organised sports, including training and competition

• Facilities could include formal fields, courts, buildings (change rooms, toilets, amenities, cafe), lighting, irrigation, fencing, car parks etc.

conservation of natural and cultural Heritage • Open spaces created to protect and enhance natural and cultural resources, but

which also have a quiet/passive recreation/leisure dimension such as walking, bushwalking, cycling, tourism visitation

• assets could include native bushland or grassland

creeks and wetlands • Water bodies including lake, pond, permanent or ephemeral creek

• assets could include shoreline, boardwalks, creek bank, water treatment infrastructure

Some passive parklands activities: community garden, informal sports, picnics and social gatherings, walking and play areas.



A mixture of formal; sports that could be accommodate on site

Bushwalking through natural heritage bushland; cultural heritage steps and structures in OMV Creek crossing and boardwalks



In addition to the open space settings identified on the previous pages there are also several other types of recreation or settings that could be accommodated on site:

outdoor adventure activities • Rely on natural or man-made features within the site to create challenging

environments

• associated with outdoor education, but not limited to

• Some adventure activities within the open space are operated/managed by private providers

for current trends in adventure recreation refer to appendix....(adventure tourism Report)

outdoor events• Community events

• Combination of public or private events that require ticket sales

• Intimate or larger events

this list is expanded in section 6, following on from the Precedent Study in section 7 which has ultimately influenced and informed the Landform Design Options in section 8.

4.5 iMPlicationS foR tHe RecReation Potential Study the key implications for the potential recreation opportunities of the site are:• existing open space provision within the suburbs of Hornsby, asquith and Waitara

reveals an overall under provision when compared to the shire wide figures in table OS01.

• the potential additional open space provided by the study site would make a significant contribution towards open space provision for the three suburbs and the entire Shire. for the three suburbs of Hornsby, asquith and Waitara, which will experience an increase in high density residential living. the provision of a large open space will have a direct impact on the ability of some residents to access more open space within walking or cycling distance from their home. It will also contribute to reducing the existing deficit in specialty parks in the area.

• Sportsground provision is well under Shire provision standards for Hornsby and Waitara, where as asquith is nearly double the Shire wide standard of provision. the OMV PoM allows for the development of a sportsground. However Council should consider the nature and type of sportsground that is provided. a ‘town Park’ that is not dedicated to one particular sports code or a ground that is only used for training could ease the under provision and provide council with a flexible open space central to Hornsby Cbd.

• the issue of additional sportsground provision should be considered with other site specific factors and other research put forward in this study:

– the existing topography of the site, i.e. sloping land with small to medium level areas and other areas of steel slopes, does not suit the creation of level sportsfields, without major cost and construction.



– the development of sportsgrounds on the site will be expensive in terms of excavation, cutting and filling, vegetation clearance, access roads and other infrastructure. the location of potential sportsgrounds on the western side of the site would incur additional costs relating to access and infrastructure.

– access to the site is limited to one main road. this could be an issue for future maintenance and hosting of competition events.

– the acoustics associated with night time training and competitions could pose an issue for local residents.

– On a shire wide assessment the creation of sportsfields in this unique location may be a lower priority when compared to other more suitable sites in the Shire, for example the Old dairy site in brooklyn, tollgates site in north berowra and Sydney Water site in Westleigh.

– the provision of sportsgrounds in this location does not relate to the unique qualities and setting of the site. the ‘quarriness’ mentioned previously is directly related to the topography of the site which would be lost through the creation of level areas for sports within the quarry lands. this would in turn result in the loss of the dramatic landscape, water body diatreme and quarry walls that give the site its unique qualities.

– based on Council’s previous studies and detailed figures on soccer participation the higher needs of soccer, the suburbs south of Hornsby should have a higher priority for the provision of new sportsgrounds than the suburb of Hornsby itself, and suburbs to the north generally.

• due to the size of the site a variety of open space settings could be accommodated. However the temptation to include a wide range of facilities should be avoided. the site should be developed over a period of 10 to 20 years allowing the site to evolve and be shaped by community demands and opportunities to deliver site specific responses. This is further supported by current trends in adventure tourism as noted in the adventure tourism Report (See appendix d).

• the unique qualities of the site could allow for the introduction of some adventure recreation activities and supporting facilities such as those that take advantage of the level differences, water body, tree canopy etc. and continued mountain biking trails. this is explored in section 7.

• the site, due to it’s size and location (adjacent to Hornsby Cbd, aquatic Centre and train station, berowra Valley national Park Regional, Great north Walk etc.) has the potential to become a regional park, providing for residents throughout the Shire and other parts of Sydney. However the site will also need to provide open space facilities for the local and neighbourhood population that will want to access walking trails, passive open space, play grounds etc. as part of the open space within their immediate community.


Hornsby Quarry

5. Ho

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5. HORnSby, aSQuItH and WaItaRa COMMunIty

5.1 PoPulation and deMoGRaPHicSFor the purpose of this study the following communities have been identified as the potential local catchment suburbs for the Hornsby Quarry and Old Mans Valley lands site: Hornsby, asquith and Waitara.

although it is likely the site will become a regional attraction over time as the populations of Hornsby, asquith and Waitara increase the study site will become increasingly popular as a local and neighbourhood open space resource and a place for recreational activity.

the following section provides a summary of the population characteristics and demographics of the three suburbs. a detailed description of the suburbs is contained in appendix b.

Populationthe combined population for three suburbs is 28,641 people, as recorded in the 2011 census. there are slightly more females (51.2%) than males (48.2%) with an event percentage across all three suburbs.

Suburb Population Suburb size (Ha)

Population density(persons per Ha)

Hornsby Shire 165,090 46,230 3.57Hornsby 20,446 840 24.34asquith 3,294 347 9.49Waitara 4,901 77 63.90total study area suburbs 28,641 1,264 22.65

Table HAW01 Population summary

HoRnSby

aSQuitH

WaitaRa

Figure HAW01 Suburb Map



age Groupsthe largest age groups in the combined suburbs of Hornsby, asquith and Waitara are:• young workforce (25 to 34), growth of between 34 and 337 people from 2006 to

2011, representing 18.6% of the combined suburbs.

• Parents and homebuilders (35 to 49), growth of between 78 and 371 people from 2006 to 2011, representing 24.0% of the combined suburbs.

• Older workers & pre-retirees (50 to 59), growth of between 15 and 206 people from 2006 to 2011, representing 11.4% of the combined suburbs.

Parents and homebuilders represent the largest portion of the population with young workers represent the fastest growing age group across all three suburbs.

the age span of the three groups is 34 years (from 25 to 59) and represents a variety of potential recreation needs/demands based on differing life cycles.

younger age groups are also on the rise including babies and pre-schoolers (0 to 4). Residents in this age group have grown by between 52 and 150 over the three suburbs.Primary schoolers (5 to 11) are also increasing in number ranging from 50 to 201 over the three suburbs.

at the other end of the age groupings empty nesters and retirees (60 to 69) are also on the increase across all three suburbs.

GroupHornsby asquith Waitara total Groupno. % no. % no. % no. %

young workforce (25 to 34) 3,783 18.5 342 10.4 1,205 24.6 5,330 18.6Parents and homebuilders (35 to 49)

4,996 24.4 738 22.4 1,141 23.3 6,875 24.0

Older workers & pre-retirees (50 to 59)

2,387 11.7 477 14.5 394 8.0 3,258 11.4

total suburb population 20,446 - 3,293 - 4,901 - 28,640 54.0

Table HAW02 Age Group summary

Householdsthe most common household groups in the combined suburbs of Hornsby, asquith and Waitara are:• Couples with children - 32.4% of the Hornsby population, 42.6% of asquith and

29.3% of Waitara

• Couples without children - 23.0% of Hornsby, 23.1 of asquith and 24.4 of Waitara

• lone person households - 25.2 of Hornsby (despite a decrease of 15 people),



18.3% of asquith (no growth), 31.1% of Waitara (growth of 18 people)

analysis of household groups provides some clues to the open space needs and demands of the community. Generally households with children will seek play spaces and other active or passive spaces for exercise, leisure and social/family gatherings. the types of accommodation that people live in is linked to household types.

for instance, generally a family living in high density will demand more open space when compared to a family living in a detached house with private yard or garden.

Households with childrenfollowing on from the high numbers of couples with children living in the three suburbs the largest types of households with children in 2011 were couples with young children with growth of 485 households from 2006 to 2011.the second and third largest groups in the three suburbs were alternated between the suburbs:• Single parents with children - overall growth of 43 households from 2006 to 2011

• Couples with older children - overall growth of 84 households from 2006 to 2011

cultural diversityCountry of Birth data identifies where people were born and is indicative of the level of cultural diversity in Hornsby, asquith and Waitara.

Suburb

% from non english

Speaking country

2006-2011 born overseas

growth

2006-2011 non-english

speaking growth

% no. % no. %Hornsby 38% 1,536 19.3 1,652 26.6asquith 21% 241 32.0 204 41.3Waitara 51% 963 51.0 1,004 68.1

Table HAW03 Cultural diversity summary

People born in India make up the fastest growing country of birth group across the combined suburbs. People born in China, South korea, nepal and Iran make up the largest overseas born groups.

indigenous populationthe aboriginal and torres Strait Islander Census population of the Hornsby Shire in 2011 was 565, living in 292 dwellings. detailed information on Indigenous population is not provided for the individual suburbs.

MobilityMotor vehicle ownership is on the rise in every category in each suburb. Compared to 54% of Hornsby Shire:• 30% of households in Hornsby had access to two or more vehicles

• 46% of households in asquith had access to two or more vehicles

• 18% of households in Waitara had access to two or more vehicles



5.2 PoPulation foRecaStHornsby ShireResidential forecasts for the lGa have been undertaken as part of the Section 94 Plan and have taken into consideration: • the draft north Subregional Strategy (dnSS) (doP, 2007)

• the Hornsby Shire Housing Strategy (Hornsby 2010);

• the ku-ring-gai and Hornsby Subregional employment Study (SGS, 2008); and

• Historical development approvals/constructions and data from Sydney Water Corporation relating to dwelling connections.

In the Section 94 Plan the occupancy rate is 3.02 for houses and 2.3 for residential accommodation. These types of housing could both make up infill development, therefore the average of both (2.7, rounded down to 2.5) has been used for infill occupancy rates. However, the occupancy rates for units/townhouses should be 2. In the Section 94 Plan, the occupancy rate ranges from 1.24, 2.02, 2.3 and 2.7, therefore the average of 2 has been used for the Housing Strategy and townhouse developments, Hornsby West Side and future growth after 2021.

therefore:• the forecast local population for Hornsby Shire Council area for 2012-2021 is

10,020 (based on table 6, page 26 of the Section 94 Plan).

• the forecast local population for Hornsby Shire Council area for 2021-2031 is approximately 7,800 (based on 3900 new dwellings multiplied by 2 persons and includes growth from West Side Precinct (see below)).

Hornsby suburbbased on information provided by Hornsby Shire Council the total estimated increase in population for Hornsby between 2013 and 2021 includes:• growth from infill development is approximately 2,073 (based on 829 dwellings

multiplied by 2.5 persons)

• Growth from Housing Strategy and townhouse developments is approximately 1,060 (based on 530 dwellings multipled by 2 persons)

• a total of 3,133 new residents to the suburb of Hornsby.

forecast local population for the Hornsby suburb for 2021-2031 is based on the West side Precinct with approximately 1000 dwellings, at 2 persons per dwelling which equates to 2,000 new residents.

Table HAW04 Open Space provision for 2021 and 2031 horizon. Please note the total open space Ha provision for OMV/Quarry could be up to 17.5Ha depending on the type of landfill/stabilisation solution.

cate

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Horn

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21

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31

Proj

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Stan

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(m

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pe

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Horn

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20,44

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23.77

11.63

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71.9

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Wait

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5.3 iMPlicationS foR foRecaSt oPen SPace PRoViSionopen Space calculations• Based on the existing Hornsby suburb population, the forecast population figures

and the open space provision standards determined by HSC’s Section 94 (see section 4.1) there will be an open space deficit in 2021 and 2031 for the suburb of Hornsby (see table HaW04).

• a further 26.27 Ha of bushland exists within the suburb. this excludes the Old Mans Valley open space lands that are the subject of the Old Mans Valley Plan of Management. determining the portion of the site that is currently used for recreation and adding that figure to the calculations could reduce the overall deficits for existing and future provision.

• Similarly Hornsby Park and Pool combined are 14.4Ha. the majority of the site is bushland but could be used for recreation in the future and therefore further reduce the open space deficit figures.

• Hornsby Quarry is approximately 20Ha and although not all of the site would be usable for open space or recreation due to steep slopes, significant bushland etc. the development of the site could help to overcome the open space deficits for Hornsby and the shire.

• the proposed new open space, consisting of 1 Ha of local reserves and 9 Ha of sportsgrounds (including OMV) would allow for the existing level standard of provision (15.43Ha) for the three suburbs to be maintained (and slightly increased) up to 2021. However the standard of provision reduces looking towards 2031 as the population increases and new open space provision is not identified.

• Overall when compared to the shire wide standard of provision there is a lack of open space provision across the combined three suburbs.

Sportsgrounds • Of particular interest to Council is the provision of additional sports grounds.

Table HAW04 indicates an existing deficit of 11.12 Ha of sportsgrounds in the three suburbs (despite asquith’s over provision). It is unlikely that Council are in a position to purchase land for the creation of an additional 5 new sportsgrounds within the three suburbs (based on 2.5ha in size for 1 sports ground) to meet the Section 94 benchmark standard and it is considered reasonable for Council to look to provide sportsgrounds at a shire wide scale.

• there are several sportsgrounds in close proximity to the study area. Storey Park (2.4Ha), James Park (2.6Ha) and Waitara Park (3.2Ha) all provide a variety of facilities that could all be described as district facilities (open spaces that provide for a variety of active and passive recreation needs and can accommodate large group activities, organized sports and offer opportunities for cultural expression and environmental education (see appendix a)). Other nearby sportsgrounds such as Rofe Park and Mills Park also provide good opportunities for organised sport for this local community.



• Hornsby, as the centre of the lGa is lacking in a regional park/sportsground.

• a regional park or space would perform the same open space/recreation functions as a district level facility and would also provide:

– unique recreation opportunities or landscape settings

– a regional attraction with

– Potential for high environmental or cultural heritage values

– Opportunity for other recreation activities that take advantage of the unique landforms, such as adventure recreation.

• See also section 4.5 for specific comments regarding the provision of sportsgrounds in relation to the site characteristics.

Predicted characteristics of the future populationbased on demographic trends recorded between 2006 to 2011 it is predicted that there could be a proportionally larger number of the following groups moving into Hornsby:• age groups

– Parents and homebuilders (35 to 49) which represent largest portion of the population.

– young workforce (25 to 34) which represent the fastest growing age group

– Older workers & pre-retirees (50 to 59)

– Primary schoolers (5 to 11)

• Households

– Couples with and without children

– Single parent families

– It could be assumed that the West Side Precinct development could attract higher proportions of the young workforce (25 to 34), couples, single parent families and lone persons due to the high density living options.

• Culturally and linguistically diverse (Cald)

– Continued growth of residents from asian countries including China, India, South korea, Philippines, Hong kong and also the united kingdom

– Continued growth of residents from non-english speaking backgrounds

types of open spaces and recreation uses to meet future population• a variety of open spaces will be required to meet the future population open

space and recreation needs. In particular the following open spaces could be considered to create an open space network that offers variety of settings and types of recreation for the following (some are repeated for the different groups)



• Households with children:

– Play spaces

– Sports facilities that accommodate informal and or junior sport training with no permanent sports infrastructure nor floodlighting

– Picnic/bbQ facilities and shade/tables

– Informal active areas with passive elements for family recreation including kickabout

– youth spaces including multi use areas and skate facilities

– Sports facilities that accommodate multiple sports and hard courts with supporting infrastructure such as floodlighting, seating, change rooms and canteens/kiosks.

– adventure sports such as ropes courses, abseiling, rock climbing

• Older workers and pre-retirees:

– Community gardens and nursery

– dog off leash exercise areas

– Specific areas of interest including natural areas and bushland with walking trails, seating, maps etc.

• the young workforce


– Cultural and civic spaces for events and or ceremonies/celebrations

– adventure sports such as ropes courses, abseiling, rock climbing

• Cald residents

– Cultural and civic spaces for events and or ceremonies

– Picnic/bbQ facilities and shade/tables


– Sports facilities that accommodate multiple sports and hard courts with supporting infrastructure such as floodlighting, seating, change rooms and canteens

• the recreation types listed above are an example of the types of recreation uses that could occur on the site and are specific to the listed groups. They should be regarded as a starting point for further discussion.



types of open Space • With regard to provision of different types of open space within the three suburbs

there is:

– Sufficient natural area available in the local area. However access to these spaces may be limited.

– access to the natural area needs to be balanced with high environmental values. the recreation opportunities that can be offered to the growing population in a bushland setting include a variety of passive and active activities such as walking, jogging, bush walking, orienteering, mountain biking etc.

– there is potential for more adventure, specialised activities to be made available in the unique site. these kinds of activities could provide specialised recreation options for the shire community and provide council with a revenue stream for the ongoing maintenance and development of the site.

– figure OS01 shows limited local parks in high density areas, especially to the west of the Pacific Highway and the railway line. The study area has the potential to provide open spaces that perform both local and neighbourhood functions as part of a regional facility.


Quarry Garden in Shanghai Botanical Garden

6. PR

eced

ent

Stud

y


6. PReCedent Study

As part of the project brief several precedent projects have been identified in the following categories: • adventure recreation sites - these are predominantly privately operated and not

located in public open space. Some examples include:

– the Sydney academy of Sport at narrabeen provides abseiling, archery, bushwalking, orienteering, kayaking and canoeing, challenge ropes course and swimming. accommodation for large groups is available on site.1

– the Great aussie bush camp, located at kincumber and tea Gardens (near Port Stephens) offers over 40 activities focused on outdoor education including abseiling, ropes courses, raft building, rock climbing, sea kayaking.2

– Somerset Outdoor learning Centre, Colo nSW offers a variety of outdoor education experiences including bushwalking expeditions, canoeing, airbedding, abseiling and rock climbing. 3

• Multi- recreation sites - large public accessible spaces that provide a variety of passive/active activities including water based activities.

• Rehabilitated Quarry sites - rehabilitated and transformed into publicly accessible spaces these examples demonstrate the variety of recreation/leisure activities that could be incorporated into an old quarry site and innovative ways to allow public access.

• Post Industrial sites - rehabilitated and open to the public these projects demonstrate best practise adaptive re-use of abandoned buildings.

three other themes are explored: • Old Structures

• new Structures

• Imaginative Play

1 http://www.dsr.nsw.gov.au/sydneyacademy/accom.asp2 http://www.bushcamp.com.au/activities-overview.html3 http://www.campsomerset.com.au/explore-somerset-5.html


6. PReCedent Study

Multi- RecReation PaRKS

Park name Manly Warringah War Memorial Park (Manly dam) location 112 king Street Manlyvale, Sydney, nSW

Park size (Ha) 375 (78% bushland); 30Ha lake

description Manly dam Reserve (also known as the Manly-Warringah War Memorial Park) is an area of urban bushland in the northern beaches region of Sydney, australia. It is within the suburbs of Allambie Heights and Manly Vale in Warringah. The Park has a wonderful diversity of flora and fauna. It’s great for picnics by the water and is renowned for mountain biking and water skiing.

features lake, major playground, mountain bike trail, walking trails

Recreation activities Mountain bikingWith several access points from the surrounding street network. the trails provide for a range of abilities.

Water Skiinga section of the lake is available for waterskiing through the Manly and Warringah Water Ski Club.

fishingthe dam is stocked regularly with australian bass, however other species that may be caught are silver perch, carp and redfin.

Swimming and Kayaking a section of water is a dedicated waterskiing area and is prohibited for swimming and non-motorised water activities. Other designated swimming areas indicated by buoys and signs.

bushwalkingSeveral tracks catering for different abilities ranging from 0.35km to 7.3km.

other activitiesbird watching, Cycling, Jogging, dog walking (dogs are allowed on bushwalking tracks but only if they are on a leash), picnics etc.

facilities Picnic area with tables and barbecuesPlaygroundShowersPublic toilets

boat Rampbus Stop within 100mWalking tracks/pathsCar parking

Relevance to study site Potential for water based activities such as scuba diving training, kayak/canoe lessons, paddling at waters edge, swimming, at a smaller scale than Manly dam Multiple recreation activities (non-field sports based)Council owned and managed (Warringah Shire Council)topography, surrounding bushland and natural values

information source http://www.warringah.nsw.gov.au/play/parks-gardens-and-reserves/manly-dam


6. PReCedent Study

Manly Dam map

Manly Dam in its bushland setting


6. PReCedent Study

Park name narrabeen lagoon

location narrabeen, Sydney, nSW

lake size approx. 200Ha (park is mostly located around the edge of the lake)

Park designers aSPeCt StudIOS

construction budget 1.8 Million (narrabeen lagoon Multi-use trail Stage 1)

description narrabeen lagoon is 2km2 and is Sydney’s northern beaches largest coastal lagoon. the lagoon provides for a variety of water sports such as wind surfing, fishing, boating and swimming. The peripheral path allows cyclists, joggers walkers and people of all-abilities to circumnavigate the lagoon.the Sydney academy of Sport and Recreation is located on the western side of the lake and provides active/formal recreation opportunities.there are several entrances into the parklands allowing neighbouring residents to the east and north to walk to the site.

features lake, bushland setting, Sydney academy of Sport and Recreation

Recreation activities Water sports, fishing, bushwalking, bird watching, cycling, jogging, picnics, playOrganised sports and fitness at the Academy

facilities Showers, public toilets, picnic tables, playground, picnic area, car parking, bus stop within 100m, boat ramp

Relevance to study site Potential for water based activities such as scuba diving training, kayak/canoe lessons, paddling at waters edge, swimmingMultiple passive, non-formalised recreation activities Council owned and managed (Warringah Shire Council)Surrounding bushland and natural values

information sources http://www.warringah.nsw.gov.au/environment/catchments/lagoons/narrabeen-lagoon-environmenthttp://www.warringah.nsw.gov.au/play/narrabeen-lagoon


6. PReCedent Study

Trail not complete

Middle Creek to South Creek(Stage 2B to be completedapproximately 2014)

2.3

Wildlife Protection Area (WPA)Companion Animals Act 1998- Penalties apply

WPA - Cats ProhibitedDogs permitted on leash and restricted to trail and recreational areas

WPA - Dogs and Cats Prohibited

Sydney Academyof Sport and Recreation

Cromer Golf Club(Private Land)

Dogs on leash

N

Narrabeen Lake map

Narrabeen Lake walking paths and sitting areas Water based activities

Boardwalks Sitting areas


6. PReCedent Study

ReHabilitated QuaRRy SiteS

Park name Quarry Garden, Shanghai botanical Gardenlocation Songjiang district, Shanghai, China

Park size (Ha) 4.26

Park designers tHuPdI & tsinghua university, beijing

description Quarry Garden is located at the centre of Shanghai Chen Mountain botanical Garden. Chen Mountain is located within the Gardens and is nearly 70 meters high. two quarries were formed between the early 1900’s and the 1980’s. Remnants of the quarry include one deep pool and an exposed rock hill.the rehabilitation was based on ecological restoration and culture reconstruction strategies. the site is now a major tourist destination and recipient of the american Society of landscape architecture 2012 Honour award.

features Quarry lake, viewing area, tunnels (created as part of the original quarry), smaller lake, lawn areas, ornamental gardens.

Recreation activities Walking, contemplation/reflection, picnics, interpretation, tourism

facilities as part of the larger botanical Gardens site

Relevance to study site the Quarry is a feature in a much larger tourist destinationdramatic, vertical landscape is retained, as is the water bodySimplicity of materials links to the site’s industrial heritageInteraction with the quarry wall and lake is limited. However the experience of walking along the staircases and through the tunnels is an interesting experience in itselfViewing platform at the top of the site ecological restoration

information source(s) http://www.asla.org/2012awards/139.htmlhttp://www.thecoolhunter.com.au/article/detail/2115http://www.landezine.com/index.php/2013/02/quarry-garden-in-shanghai-botanical-garden/http://land8.com/profiles/blogs/quarry-garden-shanghai-china

Staircase alongside Quarry wall Visitors are able to walk alongside the netted quarry wall


6. PReCedent Study

Map and section

Aerial photo of old quarry lake and new landscape


6. PReCedent Study

Park name Redesign of the Roman Quarry disposed opera festivalslocation St. Margarethen, austria

Park size (Ha) 4.4 Ha outdoor areas and 5.5 Ha

Park designers allesWirdGut architektur

description the quarry of St. Margarethen in austria has been part of a uneSCO World Cultural Heritage Site since 2001. the sandstone quarried here was used for the building of St. Stephen’s Cathedral in Vienna as well as for a number of landmark buildings of the Ringstrasse period. today, the quarry of St. Margarethen is one of the most beautiful and impressive open air arenas in europe. the spectacular architecture makes the impressive natural setting of the venue a palpable experience for about 220,000 annual festival visitors.

Major features/ facilities buildings associated with performances and events

Recreation activities Cultural events

Relevance to study site the Quarry provides the setting for the outdoor opera performances and buildingsthe landscape and vertical walls are less prominent. yet the retained stone work and quarry walls provide an interesting settings and backdropSimplicity of materials links to the site’s industrial heritagedesign competition Income generation

information source http://www.landezine.com/index.php/2009/11/roman-quarry-redesign/

Geometric shaped access paths contrast with surrounding landscape


6. PReCedent Study

Site plan

Auditorium set within quarry

Contrasting materials Robust seating

Buildings constructed within the quarry


Park name Westside Reservoir Parklocation atlanta, uSa

Park size (Ha) 81 Ha park, 20 Ha lake (121 metres deep, 1.9 billion gallons)

description In 2006 the City of atlanta purchased a quarry in northwest atlanta that had been in operation for more than 100 years. the entire site will be converted into a new city park along atlanta’s beltline, a 22-mile corridor of parks, trails, and transit encircling downtown. the new park will be the largest in the city and the quarry will become a major source of water for the city.

Proposed features/ Recreation activities(not yet designed)

adjacent to the reservoir activities such as hiking and biking trails, viewing platforms are proposed. throughout the rest of the parklands a diverse range of open space recreation activities are provided for such as picnics, formal sport, skating, dog off leash area etc.

Relevance to study site Water resource for surrounding areaCouncil purchase of land for community benefitMajor destination/regional resourceRange of activities offered in one locationStepped quarry walls, surrounding vegetation

information source http://www.brockbuiltblog.com/09/new-westside-park-to-be-biggest-in-the-city/http://www.tpl.org/our-work/parks-for-people/bellwood-quarrywestside-park

6. PReCedent Study

Overall master plan Existing quarry

Existing quarry


6. PReCedent Study

Park name Statham’s Quarry

location Perth, darling Range

Park size (Ha) n/a

description Statham’s Quarry (also known as Perth City Council’s darling Range Quarry) is the site of a quarry on the darling Scarp on the southern side of the entrance of the Helena River valley on to the Swan Coastal Plain in Perth, Western australia. It is located in Gooseberry Hill and is within the bounds of the Gooseberry Hill national Park.the main current usage of the quarry is rock climbing and abseiling, with the department of environment and Conservation providing facilities and maintaining the site. dangerous areas are signed and fenced off. It is regarded as a safe, easily accessible and well maintained climbing and abseiling location. Close to the metropolitan area of Perth and situated one minute’s walk off the Zig Zag Scenic drive in Gooseberry Hill, makes it a well used ‘drive-in outdoor gym’. deC has installed abseiling and rock climbing facilities, making it a popular haunt for adventure seekers. It has also been the scene of weddings and movies.

Major features/activities Rock climbing, photography, bushwalking as part of the national Park

Relevance to study site abandoned crusher plantRock climbing potential but the need for ongoing maintenancePart of the Statham’s Quarry Walk trail (5.9 kilometre walk) natural beauty

information source http://www.perthtourism.com.au/trail/64/253/statham-s-quarry-walk-trail.html?page=2http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Statham’s_Quarryhttp://www.climberswa.asn.au/climb/online-guide/perth/stathams-quarry/

Visitors park cars at the base of the quarry Rock climbing on old quarry walls

Old quarry buildings and structures Quarry set in National Park


Park name ‘Zip World’ Penrhyn Quarry, Snowdonia, Waleslocation Wales, united kingdom

Park size (Ha) the main pit is nearly 1.6km long and 370 metres deep

description Zip World offers visitors a unique and world-class experience as they fly for over a mile through the skies. the site contains two specially constructed and zip lines. the ‘little zipper’ takes visitors to the bottom of the quarry, reaching speeds of up to 40mph. Visitors then board a specialised vehicle for a quarry tour in what was once the largest slate quarry in the world to a second mile long zip line where participants can reach speeds of up to 100mph.On opening in 2013, the full experience cost £50 for adults and £40 for children under 16

Recreation activities Zip lining, site tour, other activities associated with Snowdonia such as mountain biking, bushwalking, viewing tower etc.

Relevance to study site Water resource for surrounding areaMajor destination/regional resource, part of network of national park and other adventure activitiesStepped quarry wallsIncome potential

information source http://gouk.about.com/gi/o.htm?zi=1/xJ&zti=1&sdn=gouk&cdn=travel&tm=51&gps=69_7_1440_751&f=00&su=p284.13.342.ip_&tt=29&bt=4&bts=43&zu=http%3a//www.zipworld.co.uk/

6. PReCedent Study

Overall site plan


6. PReCedent Study

Zip lining

Surrounding landscape Quarry landscape

Double zip line

Water based activities Zip line and paths


6. PReCedent Study

PoSt induStRial SiteSPark/facility name the Coal loader

location Waverton Peninsula, north Sydney

Park size (Ha) 15 Ha

Park designers ClOuStOn assocaites (Master Plan) HaSSel (detailed design and documentation)

construction budget 4.9 million

description the project’s challenge was to preserve the site’s timeless quality, to resist the temptation to embellish the structure with artifice and to ensure that the place became a viable recreation resource for the local community. The site has high natural and cultural heritage significance, formerly operating as a bunkering and distribution point for coal since the early 1900’s and for bulk oil storage since the 1950’s.the whole site has been adaptively reused to provide settings for an array of new activities. It is a host for festivals and functions, the offices have been upgraded, a new café established, and the caretaker’s cottage has been developed as a local sustainability learning centre.In particular, the new Sustainability learning Centre is an initiative of north Sydney Council that will offer solutions for sustainable living by direct example and through Council run environmental programs.

Major features/facilities Sustainability learning Centre, amphitheatre, community garden and nursery, aboriginal bush foods garden, chook run, meeting rooms, Sydney Harbour foreshore park and walks, studio space, coal loading tunnels

Recreation activities Picnics, festivals/performances, bushwalking, jogging

Relevance to study site Adaptive re-use of post industrial buildings for wider community benefitSurrounding mixed residential densitylevel changes and potential viewsbushland setting

information source http://www.northsydney.nsw.gov.au/Waste_environment/the_Coal_loader/the_Coal_loader_its_features

Environment Centre and amphitheatre Bushland setting


6. PReCedent Study

Park name landschaftspark duisburg nordlocation duisburg, Germany

Park size (Ha) 230

Park designers latz + Partner

construction budget 15mil euros (1990)

description landschaftspark is a public park located in duisburg nord, Germany. It was designed in 1991 by latz + Partner with the intention to reveal the site’s industrial past - a coal and steel production plant (abandoned in 1985, leaving the area significantly polluted) and the agricultural land it had been prior to the mid 19th century.the park is divided into four main parks with ‘play points’ throughout which utilise old industrial structures that are adapted for imaginative play. Within the main complex, latz emphasized specific programmatic elements: the concrete bunkers create a space for a series of intimate gardens, old gas tanks have become pools for scuba divers, concrete walls are used by rock climbers, and one of the most central places of the factory, the middle of the former steel mill, has been made into a piazza. the site was designed with the idea that a grandfather, who might have worked at the plant, could walk with his grandchildren, explaining what he used to do and what the machinery had been used for. at landschaftspark, memory was central to the design.

Major features Water park

Recreation activities Variety of passive and active activities (excluding formal sport)events (up to 50,000 people)

Relevance to study site use of industrial buildings and structures as features in the landscape to tell the story of the siteuse of water Rehabilitation of a contaminated siteImaginative play

information source http://www.landezine.com/index.php/2011/08/post-industrial-landscape-architecture/http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/landschaftspark_duisburg-nord

Old water pools Industrial buildings in situ and new gardens


6. PReCedent Study

old StRuctuReSWaverton Peninsula and bP Site, Sydneythe Waverton Peninsula Masterplan established a robust design framework for the future development of the Coal loader, establishment of a new working harbourside waterfront and the conversion of the former bP site into a public parkland.

at the heart of this scheme was the retention of the dramatic circular cliffs left from the tank farm, retention of concrete walls, exposure of the cliff top sandstone and new revegetation works linked by a series of industrial inspired elevated metal walkways, lookouts and pathways.

neW StRuctuReSbrick Pit, Homebush, Sydneythe Ring Walk around the brickpit ‘pond’ is 18.5 metres high, allowing visitors a birds eye view of the sensitive habitat of the threatened species, the Green and Golden bell frog. designed to protect the species the ring walk excludes access to the base of the brick pit. Interpretive panels along the 550-metre walk provide further details of the history of the area.

Stone walls to accommodate old tanks CLOSUTON Associates sketch of adaptive reuse of site

Stone walls to accommodate old tanks CLOSUTON Associates sketch of adaptive reuse of site


6. PReCedent Study

Ørnesvingen Viewpoint by 3RW arkitekter‘Ørnesvingen is the most spectacular viewpoint along the Ørne (eagle)-road, a zig-zag road along the steep valley sides of Geiranger-fjord in Møre and Romsdal in norway. the platform consists of three overlapping white concrete slabs overhanging the edge of a 600 meter vertical drop, enabling the observer to step out into the airspace. the river on site is guided over a glazed front, forming a waterfall on the very edge of the viewpoint. Information boards in glass explain specific locations in the scenery.’http://www.landezine.com/index.php/2010/10/%c3%b8rnesvingen/

iMaGinatiVe Playadventure playground in Parc de belleville, Parislocated within the 4.5Ha Parc de belleville, this playground is situated at the top of a steep slope. the natural slope has been retained and the playground has been designed to take advantage of the existing height and scale of the site. existing vegetation is retained to provide shade and shelter.

the main element is a large playhouse which children can imagine to be a variety of things such as a tree house or a fort. the playground also features a climbing course with different inclinations for different abilities and different age groups. the climbing area can also be used as a ‘hang out’ space for older children. http://www.landezine.com/index.php/2011/01/playground-in-belleville-park-by-base-landscape-architecture/http://a-a-ah.com/belleville-playground-base

Viewing platform with cascading water Viewing platform

Ropes and sloping ground taking advantage of the site’s topography Terraced play space


Old Mans Valley mountain bike trail

7. Re

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Pot

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7.1 adVentuRe RecReationQuarry characteristicsas stated previously the landscape character of the site lends itself well to the provision of adventure style recreation activities. the bushland setting, changes in height, water body and rock walls could be utilised for a variety of activities that are not on offer within the Shire.

this would provide a unique recreation experience for residents and also has the potential to provide an income to Council for the future maintenance and development of the site.

This section discusses the definition and different types of adventure recreation activities and where they could occur within the site.

Definitionthe Outdoor Recreation Industry Council of nSW (ORIC) is a member driven organisation, recognised nationally and by government, as the Peak Industry body representing the interests of Outdoor Recreation users in nSW, and assisting the outdoor recreation and education community by providing representation, information, services, resources and training.

the ORIC have published adventure activity Standards for the following outdoor adventure activities:• abseiling

• bushwalking

• Canoeing and kayaking

• Challenge Ropes Course

• Mountain biking

• Rock Climbing

the above activities, and adventure recreation/activities in general are closely linked to educational sites and institutions. for instance school children may engage in the above activities during a school camp or excursion.

Suitable adventure activities It could be possible to accommodate the above adventure activities within the study area. In addition the following activities could also be considered:• bMx - bicycle motocross or bMx is the sport of racing bicycles in motocross style

on dirt tracks which use an inline start and have obstacles. bMx also extends to stunt riding (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/bmx).

• Cyclo Cross - races consist of many laps of a short (2.5–3.5 km) course featuring pavement, wooded trails, grass, steep hills and obstacles requiring the rider to quickly dismount, carry the bike while navigating the obstruction and remount (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cyclo-cross).

• Parkour - is a holistic training discipline using movement developed from obstacle course training. Practitioners aim to quickly and efficiently overcome obstacles in their environment, using only their bodies and their surroundings to propel

7. ReCReatIOn POtentIal

High/Challenge Ropes course

Abseiling on natural or man made structures

Rock climbing



themselves. Parkour can include running, climbing, swinging, vaulting, jumping, rolling. Parkour is non-competitive. It may be performed on an obstacle course, but is usually practiced in a creative, and sometimes playful, reinterpretation or subversion of urban spaces. the popularity of the site for this kind of activity may depend on the type/amount of man made infrastructure introduced into the quarry site (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parkour).

• Commando courses such as ‘tough Mudder’ could be introduced to the site.

• triathlon - providing the site is able to cater for swimming, running and cycling and also for the marshalling of large groups the site could be used for this type of sport.

• Summer sledding - downhill tobogganing on slightly raised track.

• Zip line - consists of a pulley suspended on a cable mounted on an incline. It is designed to enable a user propelled by gravity to travel from the top to the bottom of the inclined cable by holding on to, or attaching to, the freely moving pulley. Zip line tours are becoming popular vacation activities, found at outdoor adventure camps where they may be an element on a larger challenge or ropes course (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zip_line).

• Ropes course - a ropes course is a challenging outdoor personal development and team building activity which usually consists of high and/or low elements. low elements take place on the ground or only a few feet above the ground. High elements are usually constructed in trees or made of utility poles and require a belay for safety. Ropes courses are referred to using several different names, including Challenge Courses, Ropes Challenge Courses, teams Course and low Ropes (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ropes_course). alternatively, ‘adventure Ropes Courses’ are usually designed for a larger volume of visitors. they do not follow a specific educational concept, but see the individual, physical and mental challenge as a predominantly recreational activity. neither climbing techniques nor special/specific physical fitness experience are necessary (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/aerial_adventure_Park).

• Zorbing - also known as globe-riding, sphereing or orbing is the recreation or sport of rolling downhill inside an orb, generally made of transparent plastic. Zorbing is generally performed on a gentle slope, but can also be done on a level surface or water permitting more rider control. In the absence of hills some operators have constructed inflatable, wooden or metal ramps (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zorbing).

• Geocaching - an outdoor recreational activity, in which the participants use a Global Positioning System receiver or mobile device and other navigational techniques to hide and seek containers, called “geocaches” or “caches”, anywhere in the world.

extreme Sportsextreme sports is popular term for certain activities perceived as having a high level of inherent danger which often involves speed, height and a high level of physical exertion (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/extreme_sport).

‘Tough Mudder’

Zorbing

Summer sledding

Mountain biking in Old Mans Valley



Whilst it is recommended that the development of the study area does not promote extreme sports there is potential for the site to be regarded (and potentially used) as a popular place for some types of extreme sports due to the level differences, water body lake (if retained) and exposed rock walls. If any parts of the site are identified to be suitable for extreme sports they would be subject to the required risk assessment.

Mountain bike trails in Hornsby Park bushland Reserve and old Mans Valleyan existing cross-country mountain bike trail winds through Hornsby Park bushland Reserve and Old Mans Valley. It is approximately 3.25 kilometres long and an additional second stage of 2.5km is being developed at the site in 2014. the single track mountain bike trail is a combination of narrow handmade bushland trails and flowing one-metre-wide machine-made trails.

Current visitation/usage information provided by HSC includes:• High levels of use and major rain events have not led to any significant

deterioration.

• 33 000 laps (november 2012 to august 2013) on blue intermediate Mtb trail

• average of 3 laps are ridden per visit

there is a committed team of trail care volunteers whose voluntary work has equated to 590 hours of maintenance in the last 12 months.

7.2 Potential liSt of RecReation actiVitieSBased on the zones identified in HSC’s Landform Design Options (see section 8) a list of potential recreation activities has been developed:

useable open Space - Speciality Park, level areas, Parkland, informal parkland• Passive recreation

– Picnic/barbecue

– Sitting

– amphitheatre for events/festivals

– Play (adventure, imaginative, adventure, fixed equipment)

– youth spaces

• active recreation

– Informal ball games

– Multi-purpose hard-court

– Outdoor fitness/exercise equipment

– Walking/jogging, boardwalks

– dog walking (include dog off leash)

– bMx pump track (or track with potential for competition)

Zip line

BMX Pump track

Adventure play

Bushwalking



• Other

– Café/kiosk/coffee cart

– Weddings

– Small to large events including corporate functions, music festivals (all of which would need to be planned and executed carefully and be approved by Council)

1:3 accessible Revegetated Steep Slope• active recreation

– bushwalking

– Guided walks (tourism/income potential)

– education/interpretation

– Mountain biking - extension of tracks

– Zip line

– High ropes

– Viewing platforms/lookouts

– Summer sledding

eec community - bluegum diatreme forest• active recreation

– bushwalking

– Guided walks (tourism/income potential)


– Mountain biking

– Zip line

– High ropes

– tree tops walk

– Viewing platforms/lookouts

Sportsfield/ Village Green - Oval, Sportsground• active

– Soccer

– australian football league (afl)

– Rugby league

– Rugby union

– Cricket

– athletics

– touch football

Guided bushwalk

AFL

Events

Club cricket



• Other

– Club house/community building - meeting rooms, community use

– Host to a grade sports

– events/festivals such as tough mudder marshalling or set up area

lake• active

– Swimming/paddling in water body

– fishing


– kayak/canoe/rafting

– Scuba diving training

– Zorbing

– triathlon

– bird watching

existing Quarry face/ fill area to be Retained• abseiling - managed, natural and man made structures

• Rock climbing - managed, natural and man made structures

old crusher Plant Zone• Indoor climbing centre

• Interpretation centre/museum/gallery/cultural centre

• environment centre

• Community nursery/garden/orchards (these types of facilities could also be located in other locations within the site)

• Café/restaurant

diatreme• abseiling - managed through constructed features

• Rock climbing - managed through constructed features

other activities• Parkour

• Photography

• Cemetery access/ tours

• Geocaching/orienteering

• Camping

Swimming

Rafting

Kayaking

Indoor climbing


8. la

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8.1 landfoRM deSiGn oPtion ReVieWas part of the Recreation Potential Study HSC have prepared a series of landform design options. each option has been reviewed under the following headings:1. usable Open Space - type, total amount and accessible space that can be used

for recreation.

2. local community needs - open space for residential areas to the north and south of the site focusing on passive recreation (picnics, walking, bushwalking, play) and active recreation (informal ball games, outdoor exercise).

3. Regional attraction - facilities/activities within the site that could attract visitors from all over Sydney (and beyond). the approach should be to cater for a ‘day out’ with complimentary activities and services provided on site. the site should also be designed and promoted in such a way that it encourages repeat visitation.

4. Mix and range of recreation activities - cater for a wide range of groups. the 45Ha site could accommodate a range and mix of activities. However the range and mix should be complimentary and make the most of the unique location and characteristics of the site.

5. Specialised recreation potential - focusing on one particular recreation activity could exclude a large group of potential visitors. as with the mix and range of activities above, any specialised recreation activities should be chosen because of their appropriateness to the site. for instance adventure activities won’t be for everyone. However being able to watch others participating in them, take in site views, have lunch, go for a walk etc. will appeal to the average person/family.

6. Overall site experience - unique qualities (remoteness, wilderness, cultural heritage and quarry walls and structures) are retained and enhanced.

7. existing environment - endangered ecological Communities are retained, protected and enhanced where appropriate.

8. Potential financial gain - ability to generate income for Council and enhance the local economy.

As HSC continue to develop and refine landform design options these headings can be used to assess the options and determine the recreational value of each option.

the options in the following pages show a range of preliminary landforms that demonstrate solutions if Council chooses to accept either (see appendix e early design Options for other options developed during the study):• 1 million m3 of external fill (Option 1). We have assumed OMV would be largely

unchanged and will be landformed as a balanced proposition, without any significant volume of material brought in or taken away. This option would also involve moving site won material from the South West corner of the site and the northern and sides of the quarry.

• 400,000 m3 of external fill (Option 2). This option would take 600,000m3 from OMV as well as utilising material from around the quarry as described in Option 1.

• zero volume of external fill (Option 3). This option would take 600,000m3 from OMV and material from around the quarry as described in Option 1. It will produce steeper landforms in the quarry, that would limit its flexibility.


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OPT

ION

1 -

1 M

IL M

3 IM

PORT

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option 1: 1 million m3 imported fill

Option 1 retains the diatreme, a smaller lake footprint (when compared to the existing size of the lake and Option 3) and provides an opportunity for an amphitheatre or terraced/sloping landscape to the west. It has a cascading waterscape stepping down from the upper level of the creek to the lake in the base of the amphitheatre. a 1:1.2 cut slope on the southern side of the quarry maximises usable open space and opportunities for adventure recreation and is also in close proximity to the crusher plant. a 1:1.2 cut slope is also proposed on the northern side for trail and adventure recreation opportunities.

usable open Space(as shown in opposite map)

Types of open space and potential activities• 5Ha - OMV (Oval/ Specialty Park) - active sports, one off events, play space• 4Ha - Quarry Parklands - adventure play, amphitheatre, lake boardwalks, picnics,

barbecues, events, some lake activities (kayaking/canoeing, foreshore paddling)• 1Ha - Old Crusher Plant - rock climbing, abseiling, community facility• 2.5Ha - South western area - a new level space available for a wide range of recreation

pursuits.• 0.5Ha - northern/southern slopes - available for limited use due to steep slopes. May

accommodate rock climbing, abseiling, high ropes/tree top walk and/or mountain biking (1:3 slope near Quarry Road)

• 13Ha - total usable spaceAccessibility:• Walking into and around the site will involve some steep inclines and declines. It

may not be possible to design disability discrimination act (dda) compliant paths throughout the site. However access to major facilities such as the Crusher Plant, Oval and Specialty Park should be provided. It may be appropriate to consider the use of an inclinator.

• the Oval and Specialty Park located within OMV are the most accessible spaces within the overall site i.e. they are situated at a reasonably level area above the quarry. both spaces could be accessed from Quarry Road or an upgraded Bridge Street fire trail to the north of the tafe building. for the purposes of open space for local community needs it may be sensible to focus on this area.

• Car parking provided near the Oval and Specialty park will provide a natural focus or starting point for the site.

• access roads around the site and into the western lower level of the Quarry area will provide access to the majority of the site. a series of accessible paths within the Quarry Parklands should be linked to disabled car parking spaces.

local community needs • local community passive open space needs would be met through the provision of adventure play, boardwalks, picnic and barbecue areas, kick-about spaces etc.

• the opening up of the site for public recreation would be a vast improvement on the quantity of existing local provision of open space in the Hornsby area.

• However access into the site, especially the lower western side will need to be carefully considered to allow residents to walk or cycle to the site. In reality some local residents may choose to drive to the site.

• Local residents may also find that they are sharing ‘their local park’ with many ‘outsiders’ and some of the spaces may lack the intimacy of a smaller local park, such as the terraced/sloping land west of the lake.

• Overall the introduction of new areas of usable open space for passive recreation activities would meet the needs of the local community. the introduction of an additional 13Ha would have a positive impact on local open space provision.



RL 1

30

RL 1

00RL

106

WL

55RL

60

RL 7

0

RL 8

4

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ROADWAY

ROADWAY

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CREEKLINECREEKLINE

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RL 1

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RL 1

28

RL 1

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RL 1

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RL 6

0RL

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0

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ND

S

RL 1

30

RL 1

00RL

106

WL

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Regional attraction • the following facilities (assuming they are of a high standard and offer an unique experience, closely linked to the site’s unique characteristics) could attract visitors from all over Sydney (and possibly beyond): Zip line; High Ropes and tree top walk; lake; Retained (and expanded) mountain biking. the creation of an amphitheatre that takes advantage of the sloping land could become a site for cultural events.

existing environment • loss of vegetation on northern side to create 1:1.2 and 1:3 slopes• eeC retained near OMV. However potential uses such as high ropes and tree top walk

could be a point of conflict. Construction of OMV oval near EEC areas would need careful consideration to avoid compaction.

Mix and range of recreation activities

• land based activities could focus on those listed previously in this table.• Retention of a lake provides a variety of activities that are largely not provided in the

rest of the Shire (apart from river environments). However the lake is not as large as the lake proposed in Option 3 and therefore the potential water-based activities could be limited.

• Adventure recreation would be suited to specific areas within the old Quarry such as the 1:3 slope on the northern side, 1:1.2 slopes on the northern and southern sides, eeC zones (for high ropes/tree top walk) and the crusher plant. With access from Quarry Road the western side of the park, especially the northern and south western zones could be a focused adventure recreation zone with Old Mans Valley and the central part of the quarry providing other activities. the level difference could be a natural device for separating the activities.

• Options for the Old Crusher Zone could take advantage of an existing building and tall man made structures for activities such as rock climbing and abseiling (indoor and/or outdoor). the level area around the old building could be used for passive recreation activities allowing visitors to view the quarry without venturing too far from dural Street/Quarry Road. It could also be used for on site car parking.

overall site experience • The Quarry void would be filled to RL 80 on the western side but allow for retention of the diatreme on the eastern side to a depth of Rl 55. the existing feelings of depth and being within the ‘old quarry hole’ could be diminished however much of the quarry character will be retained.

• the cutting of the southern and northern faces of the quarry would add to the quarry story of the site and enhance the unique setting.

• the introduction of a limited range of recreation activities on the northern, southern and western face, could be seen to be enhancing the overall experience, by opening up unusable space for adventure activities.

• the retention of a lake on site also enhances the overall experience. However the reduced size will not have the same impact as the existing lake. the overall size of the lake could be made larger or smaller. a decision around this aspect could be made at a later date when the design of the park is further developed.

Potential financial gain • Managemental/lease arrangements associated with Zip line; High Ropes and tree top walk; abseiling, Rock climbing, Cafe, nursery etc.

• local private operators such as accommodation, food outlets and adventure based retail could also benefit from some of the above uses for the site.



Key questions:1. Does this option provide sufficient usable open space to cater for the needs of

the local community or do we need additional open space?

– based on the open space hierarchy provided in appendix a a local park should be between 0.2 and 0.5 Ha in size and a neighbourhood park should be between 0.5 and 1 Ha in size. therefore it is expected that the new facilities and passive recreation activities within Old Mans Valley lands will meet the needs of the local community.

2. are we able to accommodate a mix and range of activities or do we think that a specialised recreation approach is more suitable? does providing a specialised recreation approach for the quarry limits its potential?

– a mix and range of activities will need to have a focus, rather than a long wish list of unrelated activities. a specialised recreation use for this particular site does not necessarily exclude other users, for instance lookouts, viewing platforms, cafes, picnic areas overlooking the adventure activities/lake/summer sledding would allow visitors to watch the activities without having to participate.

– a specialised recreation approach needs to be linked to the quarry character and should not limit its potential. the topography and natural setting seem to lend themselves well to an adventure specialised park. the creation of a large sloped area/amphitheatre also provides a site for cultural events/ performances.

3. Is this type of provision sufficient to cater for the needs of the local community?

– Other passive uses such as picnic and barbecue areas, play spaces, walking trails should be provided alongside a specialised use. In this way the local community can utilise the site for their basic open space needs.

4. Does filling the hole to RL 50 reduce the overall experience of the site?

– filling the quarry hole to Rl 50 would not necessarily reduce the overall experience of the site. The filling of the void reduces the unique, scale, characteristics and feel of wilderness and remoteness that is experienced in the quarry void. However a large face of cut rock is expected to remain on most sides, contributing to the distinctness of the place.




SECT

ION

- EA

ST -

WES

T


OPT

ION

2 -

400,

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3 IM

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option 2: 400,000 m3 external fill and 600,000m3 from oMV

the eastern part of Option 2 (Old Mans Valley Oval and the Specialty Park) are altered to provide 600,000m3 of fill for the quarry part of the site. This dramatically changes the levels in Old Mans Valley. When compared to Option 1 the Oval and Specialty Park will be 13m lower. a series of retaining walls are required which will have an impact on existing Mountain biking trails and require them to be re-routed.

the diatreme is retained with a small lake (the same as Option 1). It has a cascading waterscape stepping down from the upper level of the creek to the lake in the base of the amphitheatre. a 1:1.2 cut slope on the southern side of the quarry maximises usable open space and opportunities for adventure recreation and is also in close proximity to the crusher plant. a 1:1.2 cut slope is also proposed on the northern side for trail and adventure recreation opportunities.


Types of open space and potential activities• 4.5Ha - OMV (Oval/ Specialty Park) - active sports, one off events, play space• 4Ha - Quarry Parklands - adventure play, amphitheatre, lake boardwalks, picnics,

barbecues, events, lake activities (kayaking/canoeing, foreshore paddling) • 1Ha - Old Crusher Plant - rock climbing, abseiling, community facility• 2.5Ha - South western area - a new level space available for a wide range of recreation


accommodate rock climbing, abseiling, high ropes/tree top walk and/or mountain biking (1:3 slope near Quarry Road)

• 12.5Ha - total usable spaceAccessibility:• Walking into and around the site will involve some steep inclines and declines. It

may not be possible to design disability discrimination act (dda) compliant paths throughout the site. It may be appropriate to consider use of an inclinator.

• access to major facilities such as the Crusher Plant, Oval and Specialty Park should be provided.

• Car parking provided near the Specialty park will provide a natural focus or starting point for the site. access around retaining walls etc. will need to be carefully designed to overcome major level difference.

• access roads around the site and into the western lower level of the Quarry area will provide access to the majority of the site. a series of accessible paths within the Quarry Parklands should be linked to disabled car parking spaces.

• When compared to Option 1 access between OMV and the quarry is changed as the oval is set to a level closer to the adjacent quarry access road. there is however a significant level difference within OMV that will need to be carefully designed. Vehicle access is limited due to the inability to link the two internal roads (Quarry Road and new road around the Oval and Specialty Park).

local community needs • Similar to Option 1 except that the overall landform of OMV will be substantially altered from the existing arrangement.

• Overall the introduction of new areas of usable open space for passive recreation activities would meet the needs of the local community. the introduction of an additional 12.5Ha would have a positive impact on local open space provision.



RL 1

20

RL 1

00RL

106

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Regional attraction • the following facilities (assuming they are of a high standard and offer an unique experience, closely linked to the site’s unique characteristics) could attract visitors from all over Sydney (and possibly beyond): Zip line; High Ropes and tree top walk; lake; Retained (and expanded) mountain biking.

existing environment • loss of vegetation on northern side to create 1:1.2 and 1:3 slopes• eeC retained near OMV. However potential uses such as high ropes and tree top walk

could be a point of conflict and level difference between the Oval and EEC areas would need careful consideration.


• land based activities could focus on those listed previously in this table.• Retention of a lake provides a variety of activities that are largely not provided in the

rest of the Shire (apart from river environments). However the lake is not as large as the lake proposed in Option 3 and therefore the potential water-based activities could be limited.

• Adventure recreation would be suited to specific areas within the old Quarry such as the 1:3 slope on the northern side, 1:1.2 slopes on the northern and southern sides, eeC zones (for high ropes/tree top walk) and the crusher plant. With access from Quarry Road the western side of the park, especially the northern and south western zones could be a focused adventure recreation zone with Old Mans Valley and the central part of the quarry providing other activities. the level difference could be a natural device for separating the activities.

• Options for the Old Crusher Zone could take advantage of an existing building and tall man made structures for activities such as rock climbing and abseiling (indoor and/or outdoor). the level area around the old building could be used for passive recreation activities allowing visitors to view the quarry without venturing too far from dural Street/Quarry Road. It could also be used for on site car parking.

overall site experience • The Quarry void would be filled to RL 80 on the western side but allow for retention of the diatreme on the eastern side to a depth of Rl55. the feeling of depth and being within the ‘old quarry hole’ could be lost.

• the cutting of the southern and western faces of the quarry would add to the quarry story of the site and enhance the unique setting.

• the introduction of a limited range of recreation activities on the northern, southern and western faces could be seen to be enhancing the overall experience, by opening up unusable space for adventure activities.

• the retention of a lake on site also enhances the overall experience. However the reduced size will not have the same impact as the existing lake. the overall size of the lake could be made larger or smaller. a decision around this aspect could be made at a later date when the design of the park is further developed.



Key Questions (See questions 1 to 4 for Option 1 also)1. does the removal of material from OMV impact negatively on the overall experience of the site?

– OMV is a disturbed site. the potential greatest impact is on the existing Mountain bike trail.

– Remediation of OMV is crucial. the design of roads, paths, retaining walls, new mountain bike trails and landscape areas are critical to the overall enjoyment, aesthetic qualities and ease of access around the site.

– However there is also potential to create new views and vistas from OMV to the Quarry as the lower level could create a better connection between the upper and lower levels of the site.



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option 3:No external fill (600,000m3 material from oMV)

this option explores the opportunity of creating a unique public space without relying on fill from external sources. Creation of parkland on the western (quarry) side of the site is limited due to the creation of 1:3, 1:4 and 1:6 slopes. However the dramatic landscape and ‘quarriness’ is retained with a larger lake (when compared to Option 1 and 2).

usable open Space Types of open space and potential activities• 4.5Ha - OMV (Oval/ Specialty Park) - active sports, one off events, play space• 3Ha - Quarry Parklands - amphitheatre; entirely reliant on some level areas being

created within the sloped landscape for limited adventure play, amphitheatre, lake boardwalks, picnics, barbecues, events. However the larger lake could include more activities (kayaking/canoeing, foreshore paddling, swimming, zorbing)

• 1Ha - Old Crusher Plant - rock climbing, abseiling, community facility• 2.5Ha - South western area - a new level area available for a wide range of recreation


accomodate rock climbing, abseiling, high ropes/tree top walk and/or mountain biking (1:3 slope near Quarry Road)

• 11.5Ha - total usable spaceAccessibility:• access is similar to Option 2 where there is no proposed road link between the Quarry

and OMV roads.

• access to the lake is limited due to the sloped areas. accessible paths would need to be provided to the lake edge and would be difficult to achieve given the steep gradients.

local community needs • local community passive open space needs would be met through the provision of the oval and specialty park with the possibility of creating adventure play, picnic and barbecue areas, kick-about spaces etc. in Old Mans Valley.

• the opening up of the site for public recreation would be a vast improvement on the current arrangements where access to the quarry is restricted.

• the retention of the quarry structure/void and lake and also the sloping land reduces the amount of useable space in the quarry.

• Local residents may also find that they are sharing ‘their local park’ with many ‘outsiders’ and some of the spaces may lack the intimacy of a smaller local park. Overall the introduction of new areas of open space for passive recreation would meet the needs of the local community. the introduction of an additional 11.5 Ha would have a positive impact on local open space provision.

Regional attraction • It is assumed the following activities could be allowed for in this option - Zip line; High Ropes and tree top walk; retained mountain biking.

• the creation of an amphitheatre that takes advantage of the sloping land could become a site for cultural events. the steeper slopes of the amphitheatre area could however limit its availability for this use.


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existing environment • loss of vegetation on northern side to create 1:1.2 slopes.• loss of vegetation on southern side to create 1:1.2 cut slopes.• eeC retained near OMV. However potential uses such as high ropes and tree top walk

could be a point of conflict and reduced levels around the proposed Oval may impact on eeC.

• Reduction in broader environmental issues of transporting fill from elsewhere• larger sized lake could provide a water recreation resource and potential for irrigation

and fire fighting usesMix and range of recreation activities

• Retention of a large lake (largest of the three options) provides the opportunity for a range of water based activities. However the sloping ground adjacent to the lake is limiting to its use for recreation pursuits.

• the 1:1.2 cut slopes on the southern and northern side provide for a variety of adventure activities. this sets up two adventure zones with different experiences on either side of the quarry. this could lead to duplication of facilities. the southern side could focus on abseiling and rock climbing and the northern side could focus on high ropes and tree top walk (this approach could also be used for Option 1 and 2).

overall site experience • the retention of the larger sized lake adds to the overall site experience and retains a stronger reference to the existing unique character of the site.

• the depth of the quarry void is greater than options 1 and 2 due to steeper sloping land. this can be expected to limit the recreation potential but may or may not detract from the quarry experience, depending on the end uses chosen for the sloping land.



Key Questions1. Does this option provide sufficient usable open space to cater for the needs of the local community or do we need

additional open space?


– the amount of usable open space on the western side of the site is more limited. the sloping land will reduce the amount of space for informal activities such as kickabout, picnics, play etc.

2. are we able to accommodate a mix and range of activities?

– despite the sloping land in the quarry, a mix of uses is still achievable on the site. the adventure recreation activities could be provided on the northern and southern slopes and the lake could be a focus for water based activities.

– as previously stated for Option 1 and 2 a mix and range of activities will need to have a focus, rather than a long wish list of unrelated activities. This is especially relevant for this option where flat/level land on the western side is limited around the lake. Passive open space for informal activities is limited in the quarry.

3. Does filling the hole to RL 50 reduce the overall experience of the site?

– Filling the quarry hole to RL 50 would not necessarily reduce the overall experience of the site. The filling of the void, especially with sloping ground reduces the unique scale characteristics and feel of wilderness and remoteness that is experienced in the quarry void. However a large face of cut rock is expected to remain on most sides, contributing to the distinctness of the place


RECREATION POTENTIAL STUDY FOR HORNSBY QUARRY AND OMV LANDS • REV g DRAFT REPORT16 July 2014102 RECREATION POTENTIAL STUDY FOR HORNSBY QUARRY AND OMV LANDS • REV C DRAFT REPORT


8.2 Multi-cRiteRia aSSeSSMenta multi-criteria assessment is a technique that provides an overall ordering or ranking of options, from the most preferred to the least preferred option.

the options may differ in the extent to which they achieve several objectives, and in some instances no one option will be obviously best in achieving all objectives. Multi-criteria assessment uses a scoring system and applies weightings for different categories in an attempt to avoid this.

the preparation of the goal achievement matrix has been developed based on a series of objectives and assumptions.

Project objectives• Create a park that builds on the distinctive quarry character

• Create a publicly accessible park that accommodates a wide range and mix of recreation activities

• Find a solution that is cost effective and reduces financial liability to Council

assumptionsall options:Environment and heritage• Promotes or supports environmental sustainability:

– improving wildlife linkages and restores bushland

– restoring and improving water courses

– minimises impact on wildlife and ecology

• Retain existing eeC vegetation communities

• deliver improved outcomes for the hydrology of the site

• allow for adaptive reuse of existing industrial buildings

• Maximises opportunities for site interpretation and education (more elements to interpret)

• landform evokes site history and retains elements of the existing quarry wall, quarry void and lake, etc.

• Retains diatreme (depth and length)

• Improves visual quality and distinct identity of the site (visual interest)

Management and safety• aim to meet minimum public safety risk standards while opening the site to

general public access

• Meets all bushland and fire management requirements

• Meets all water management and safety requirements

16 July 2014 103RECREATION POTENTIAL STUDY FOR HORNSBY QUARRY AND OMV LANDS • REV C DRAFT REPORT


Table LDO01 Multi-critera assessment

Connections• Improve linkages to town centre and surrounding residential areas

• Cater for vehicle access and parking, pedestrian and cycle access and other needs of visitors such as amenity facilities

Open space provision• Comply with open space zoning for recreation use

• allow for a regional level facility to be provided

• allow for immersion or interaction with the environment/bushland experience

• Create opportunities for a distinctive or unusual recreation experience

• Provides level ground for traditional sportsgrounds (min 2 ovals)

financial aspects shall be assessed separately to these assumptions.

criteriathe following criteria have been developed with HSC over four iterations. Raw scores are based on a scale of 1 to 3 where a score of 3 meets the criteria well, scaling down to a score of 1 where the criteria is met, but could be improved.

category Sub-category no. criteria

Weight Option 1 Option 2 Option 3Raw Calc Raw Calc Raw Calc

Social

Recreation 1

Maximises range and mix of recreation activities to meet present and future community needs (spatial diversity)

3 3 9 2 6 1 3

2 allows for water based recreation activities 1 2 2 2 2 3 33 Provides for passive recreation activities 3 2 6 2 6 1 3

adventure 4 allows for adventure recreation beyond existing activities (vertical drops) 3 2 6 2 6 3 9

cultural events 5 Maximises opportunities for community and

cultural events and programming 2 3 6 3 6 2 4

Visual quality 6 Maximises views and vistas across the site 1 3 3 2 2 2 2

boundaries 7 lowest impacts on amenity of neighbours including noise, traffic and security 1 1 1 2 2 3 3

Retains Quarry

character ‘Quarriness’

unique landscape 8 Most complementary to site topography,

bushland and visual character 3 3 9 2 6 2 6

technicalconstruction 9 allows for ease of construction to create

final landform 3 3 9 1 3 1 3

connections 10 Maximises connectivity to and from the site as well as across the site 3 3 9 2 6 2 6

totalS 25 60 20 45 20 42

Existing vegetation in Hornsby Quarry


9. co

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Sna

Rec

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9.1 concluSionSoverall conclusions• the old quarry provides a unique and interesting landscape setting in such close

proximity to Hornsby Cbd. this is created by the dramatic level changes, exposed rock walls and water body. a feeling of remoteness is experienced in the lower parts of the quarry where it is very quiet, and no built form can be seen. the quarry has its own microclimate and bushland backdrop that reinforces the remoteness and distinctiveness of the overall site experience. It is considered that as much of this experience should be retained as possible to create a unique landscape and recreation experience for future users of the site.

• Review of the landform design options and early design options (see appendix e) reveals that there are a range of landform and recreation possibilities for the Old Mans Valley and Hornsby Quarry site.

• the landform options indicate desirable outcomes. However they involve complex fill and construction scenarios and each option will have a different impact on the local community and environmental values of the site. these factors need to be carefully considered as part of the next phase of the project.

• the analysis of adventure recreation opportunities included in Montemare’s report (see appendix d) shows distinct possibilities for part of the site to become a focus for adventure recreation. If opened up and successfully developed for public access the site will become a regional attraction. as part of the adventure tourism Scoping Study discussions with adventure recreation operators revealed certain key factors that increase the site’s appeal and could lead to the potential success of the site:

– Proximity to Hornsby train station, Pacific Highway, metropolitan Sydney and the Central Coast.

– unique landscape consisting of steep gradients and level differences, bushland and water which were all seen as highly appealing for the development of multiple adventure recreation ‘products’

– existing Mountain biking is seen as a positive existing public use and an important part of the overall public use of the site.

• Other factors relating to the potential success of part of the site to be developed for adventure recreation include:

– No commercial adventure sport operations of significance were identified in the Hornsby area.

– limited outdoor adventure sport opportunities in the region. up to four adventure parks in the capture region and recent investment in outdoor and indoor adventure facilities indicating growth and investment in the sector, mimicking international growth trends.

– discussions with national Parks and Wildlife and local tourism organisations indicates more mountain bike and horse riding product is coming on line within the next 2-3 years, and significant interest by commercial operators and events operators in adventure sport product in the region.

9. COnCluSIOnS and ReCOMMendatIOnS


– there is room for further growth of this product in the immediate area provided the customer experience is highly differentiated. discussions with the operators suggests that the Hornsby Quarry site offers the level of differentiation required due to site features.

• Montemare’s report indicates the potential for HSC to raise revenue through the lease of parts of the site for particular functions or uses, such as adventure recreation and use of the old crusher plant building. the potential for open space alone to raise revenue is limited. It is therefore important to pursue this aspect of the site’s potential as part of the next phase of the project.

• the site should also cater for local residents and their open space and recreation needs. facilities such as lawn areas for informal ball games, play, picnic and barbecue areas should be provided within the site.

options comparison• after review and assessment of all three options it is evident that a range of

alternative landforms are possible for the site and that all the options can achieve a desirable recreation outcome, with opportunities for a distinctive recreation experience whilst revealing and protecting the site’s cultural and environmental heritage.

• the option evaluations contained in this report assess the site and the option plans on social, environment and heritage, quarry character and other technical criteria. It does not evaluate economic or cost issues associated with the opening up of the site for recreation use.

• based on the Multi-Criteria assessment:

– Option 1 was the highest scoring Option. this was mostly due to the fact that no excavation works within OMV were required ie. usable open space was maximised including substantial specialty park area. also access options, cultural events and opportunities for community events programming were more favourable and the ‘site story’ was more intact.

– Option 2 was the second highest scoring option. this option is very similar to Option 1. Whilst it does require excavation of OMV, reducing the potential of the specialty park, it produces better physical connections between OMV and the quarry. additional earthworks would result in more complicated construction and greater disturbance of the site.

– Option 3 was the lowest scoring option due to limited usable open space and limited access due to steep slopes in the quarry. It also requires excavation of OMV, resulting in more significant disturbance of the site and more complicated construction. Whilst the steep slopes limit the potential for passive recreation activities and community and cultural programming, these could however provide additional opportunities for adventure recreation and a larger lake provides great opportunities for water based activities. this option also provides the lowest impact on the amenity of properties through Hornsby, as no external fill is required to be brought into the site.



9.2 neXt StePScommunications strategy • develop communications strategy for communicating vision and site potential for

Councillors and community

further site analysis and earthworks investigations• Ensure and confirm landform(s) that provides for a flexible future use of the

site that includes a range of adventure sport tourism & recreation pursuits. this includes cavernous nature of quarry, over water options, exposed rock face and natural landscape setting.

• Investigate and protect the landscape setting of the Quarry and OMV.

Vision and Masterplan• Confirm site vision, Council objectives and parameters for the site’s development.

• develop concept masterplan for landform options indicating location of assets/components/infrastructure

• focus on three main thematic masterplans:

– adventure recreation

– Culture and events

– bushland experience

business model/plan• undertake feasibility study to identify:

– Most feasible site stabilisation and fill scenarios,

– Identify a range of priority development components/options that are responsive to the sites stabilisation and fill scenarios, vision and objectives.

– The financial business case for priority development options, under each stabilisation and fill scenario, identifying operational and capex costs, governance and management model, funding and financing, project delivery strategy,

– Community benefits and implications across the whole of life development.

• Prepare an expression of Interest package that seeks submissions for the commercial use of the quarry for a range of adventure recreation pursuits (following confirmation of the landform of the site)


Inside the Crusher Plant


10. R

efeR

ence

S


@leisure (date unknown) Unstructured Recreation Strategy Volume 1 and 2

dr. andrew lepp (kent State university) Top Five Benefits of Outdoor Recreation, (http://einside.kent.edu/?type=art&id=82928)

australian bureau of Statistics (2011) australian Social trends June 2011 Sport and physical recreation Catalogue no. 4102.0

australian bureau of Statistics (2012) Children’s Participation in Cultural and Leisure Activities - Sports Participation (http://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/[email protected]/Products/4901.0~apr+2012~Main+features~Sports+participation?Opendocument) and

australian bureau of Statistics (2012) Children’s Participation in Cultural and Leisure Activities - Recreational Activities (http://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/[email protected]/Latestproducts/4901.0Main%20Features6Apr%202012?opendocument&tabname=Summary&prodno=4901.0&issue=Apr%202012&num=&view=)

ClOuStOn associates (2010) The Sydney Metropolitan Regional Recreational Trails Update

Hornsby Shire Council (2000) Hornsby Leisure Strategic Plan Stage 2 and 3 report

Hornsby Shire Council (2005) Generic Plan of Management (District three and nine)

Hornsby Shire Council (2006) Sports Facility Strategy

Hornsby Shire Council (2011) Local Environment Plan

Hornsby Shire Council (2012) Old Mans Valley Community Land Plan of Management

Hornsby Shire Council (2013) Planning Proposal Hornsby West Side Precinct

Hornsby Shire Council (2013) Section 94 Development Contributions Plan 2012-2021

landcom (2008) Landcom Open Space Design Guidelines

nSW department of Planning and Infrastructure (2010) The Recreation and Open Space Planning Guidelines for Local Government

nSW Sport and Recreation advisory Council and nSW Sports federation Inc. (date not specified) Game Plan 2012 NSW Sport and Recreation Industry Five Year PlanShaping our community for a sustainable future

nSROC northern Sydney Regional Sportsground Strategy – discussion Paper

10. RefeRenCeS

Abandoned Quarry crusher plant


aPPe

ndic

eS


aPPendIx a: OPen SPaCe HIeRaRCHy


Hierarchy and Objectives

Preferred Uses/Functions/ Facilities

Accessibility Preferred Size (Ha)

Level 4: Local Local open spaces cater for passive recreation for residents within walking distance. These spaces also contribute to the character and identity of the local area.

• accessible to all residents within their • immediate locality • passive un-irrigated area • low key planting • shade (trees, not shelters) • seating (natural or bench) • play equipment catering primarily for junior • play opportunities (0-6yrs) and not all parks • paths only as required to access park and • seats/play • no organised sport

Within a maximum of 400 metres actual walking distance or 10 minutes walking time. No on site parking

Min 0.2 Ha and usually up to 0.5Ha

Level 3: Neighbourhood Level 3 open space caters for broader population catchments and provides convenient access to passive and active recreation opportunities for local residents of all age groups. These open spaces attract a greater levels of use, encourage longer stays and contribute to the identity and character of the local area.

• play spaces • sports facilities that accommodate informal • and or junior sport training with no permanent • sports infrastructure nor floodlighting • picnic / low key BBQ facilities and

shade/tables • informal active areas with passive elements for • family recreation including kickabout • potentially toilets, but preferably these would • be in adjoining building in street • other possible uses may include:

- community gardens - community / public art - dog off leash exercise areas

1 km actual walk or 15-20 inutes walking time. No on site car parking but preferably close to public transport eg nearby bus stop

Min 0.5 Ha and preferably up to 1 Ha

Level 2: District Level 2 open spaces are larger and provide for a variety of active and passive recreation needs of the Hornsby Shire residents. These open spaces can accommodate large group activities, organized sports and offer opportunities for cultural expression and environmental education.

• play spaces for all ages • sports facilities that accommodate multiple

sports and hard courts with supporting infrastructure such as floodlighting, seating, change rooms and canteens

• cultural and civic spaces for events and or ceremonies

• specific areas of interest including natural areas, bushland and beaches and riverside settings.

• single and group picnic areas • park amenity buildings • other possible uses may include:

community gardens and nursery community / public art and other

interpretative items youth spaces including multi use areas

and skate facilities

Within 5kms or 10- 15 min drive from all residents. Readily accessed by public transport and with some limited on site parking to reduce day-to-day impact on adjoining streets

Min 1.0 Ha and usually up to 2-5 Ha


dog off leash exercise areas on and off street car parking areas boat ramps, river jetties and access to

river(s) for water sports

Level 1: Regional Level 1 open space provides a variety of active and passive recreation opportunities for the residents of the Hornsby Shire and visitors to the Shire. These open spaces are commonly large in size and can accommodate large community activities, organized sports and offer opportunities for cultural expression and environmental education. These spaces may provide unique recreation opportunities or landscape settings that are considered a regional attraction. In some cases, especially where environmental or cultural heritage values are high, these spaces may not be large but may still be a regional drawcard.

• large children’s play areas that may include adventure play and inclusive play

• regional sports facilities that accommodate multiple sports and hard courts with supporting infrastructure such as floodlighting,

• grandstands, change rooms and canteens. • cultural and civic spaces for large community

events and or ceremonies • areas of natural significance • areas of open space for specific events that

attract local and regional tourism. • single and group picnic areas • other possible uses may include:

community and sports centres food and beverage opportunities that may

include kiosks, cafes and or restaurants community / public art and other

interpretative items youth spaces including multi use areas

and skate facilities dog off leash exercise areas on and off street car parking areas boat ramps, river jetties and access to the

River for water sports

Between 30 and 90 minutes travel by car or public transport. Access by ublic transport should be practical and site will contain significant on-site parking, often in more than one car park

Usually 10 Ha or more, but if a particular feature (eg. Heritage Property) could be much smaller


aPPendIx b: deMOGRaPHIC analySIS


HoRnSby PoPulation and deMoGRaPHicSHornsby Shirethe most recent population data provided by the australian bureau of Statistics (Census of Population and Housing 2006 and 2011 compiled and presented in profile.id) states the estimated Resident Population (eRP) of the Hornsby Shire is 165,090 as of the 30th June 2012. this includes growth by 1,307 people since 2011.

Hornsby, asquith and Waitara SuburbsHornsbythe suburb is bounded by the suburb of Hornsby Heights in the north, the suburb of asquith and the Sydney-newcastle freeway in the east, the suburbs of Waitara, normanhurst and thornleigh in the south and berowra Creek in the west.

Asquithasquith is bounded generally by Rupert Street, Royston Parade, lord Street and the locality of Mount Colah in the north, Cockle Creek in the east, the suburb of Hornsby in the south and generally by Citrus avenue, a line running between lodge Street and Hyacinth Street, a line running between Orana avenue and Hyacinth Street and Walls Gully Creek in the west.

WaitaraWaitara is bounded generally by edgeworth david avenue, Wentworth avenue and burdett Street in the north, generally by Palmerston Road and Myra Street in the east, Carden avenue and the suburb of Wahroonga in the south and the suburb of Hornsby, the Pacific Highway, James Lane and Thomas Street in the west.

Suburb Population Suburb size (Ha)

Population density(persons per Ha)

Hornsby Shire 165,090 46,230 3.57Hornsby 20,446 840 24.34asquith 3,294 347 9.49Waitara 4,901 77 63.90tOtal H,a,W 28,641 1,264 22.65

Table 01 Population summary

Populationthe combined population for three suburbs is 28,641 people, as recorded in the 2011 census. there are slightly more females (51.2%) than males (48.2%) with an event percentage across all three suburbs.

Hornsby from 2006 to 2011, Hornsby’s population increased by 1,368 people (7.2%). this represents an average annual population change of 1.39% per year over the period.

Asquithfrom 2006 to 2011, asquith’s population increased by 423 people (14.7%). this represents an average annual population change of 2.79% per year over the period.

Waitara


from 2006 to 2011, Waitara’s population increased by 617 people (14.4%). this represents an average annual population change of 2.73% per year over the period.

2011Hornsby asquith Waitara Hornsby

Shire (%)

Greater Sydney(%)number % number % number %

Population 20,446 100.0 3,293 100.0 4,901 100.0 100.0 100.0

Males 9,986 48.8 1,630 49.5 2,361 48.2 48.7 49.2

females 10,460 51.2 1,663 50.5 2,539 51.8 51.3 50.8

australian citizens 15,388 75.3 2,872 87.2 3,248 66.3 85.8 82.5

eligible Voters (citizens aged 18+)

11,889 58.1 2,154 65.4 2,590 52.8 64.5 62.4

2006 change 2006 to 2011Hornsby asquith Waitara Hornsby

Shire(%)

Greater Sydney(%) Hornsby asquith Waitara

number % number % number %

Population 19,087 100.0 2,870 100.0 4,293 100.0 100.0 100.0 +1,359 +423 +607Males 9,355 49.0 1,399 48.8 2,043 47.6 48.5 49.3 +630 +231 +318

females 9,731 51.0 1,470 51.2 2,250 52.4 51.5 50.7 +728 +192 +289

australian citizens 14,978 78.5 2,545 88.7 3,037 70.7 86.4 82.7 +409 +327 +211

eligible Voters (citizens aged 18+)

11,700 61.3 1,919 66.9 2,501 58.3 64.4 62.3 +188 +235 +88

Table 02 Population statistics for 2011, 2006 compared to Hornsby Shire and Greater Sydney

age Groupsthe age Structure of a suburb provides key insights into the level of demand for age based services and facilities such as child care. It is an indicator of Hornsby, asquith and Waitara’s residential role and function and how it is likely to change in the future.

Service age groups divide the population into age categories that reflect typical life-stages. They indicate the level of demand for services that target people at different stages in life and how that demand is changing.

HornsbyHornsby has a higher proportion of pre-schoolers and a lower proportion of people at post retirement age than Hornsby Shire. the largest changes in age structure in Hornsby between 2006 and 2011 were in the age groups: • Parents and homebuilders (35 to 49) (+371 persons)

• young workforce (25 to 34) (+337 persons)

• Older workers & pre-retirees (50 to 59) (+206 persons)


• Primary schoolers (5 to 11) (+201 persons)

2011change 2006 to 2011

Hornsby asquith Waitara HornsbyShire %

Greater Sydney %Service age group

(years)number % number % number %

Hornsby asquith Waitarababies and pre-schoolers (0 to 4)

1,478 7.2 217 6.6 383 7.8 6.1 6.8 +138 +52 +150

Primary schoolers (5 to 11)

1,622 7.9 301 9.1 398 8.1 9.1 8.7 +201 +50 +137

Secondary schoolers (12 to 17)

1,200 5.9 251 7.6 223 4.5 8.6 7.4 -59 +4 -17

tertiary education (18 to 24)

1,707 8.4 296 9.0 303 6.2 9.2 9.5 -136 +38 -198

young workforce (25 to 34)

3,783 18.5 342 10.4 1,205 24.6 10.7 15.4 +337 +34 +172

P a r e n t s a n d homebuilders (35 to 49)

4,996 24.4 738 22.4 1,141 23.3 22.5 21.9 +371 +78 +314

older workers & pre-retirees (50 to 59)

2,387 11.7 477 14.5 394 8.0 13.8 12.2 +206 +43 +15

empty nesters and retirees (60 to 69)

1,540 7.5 307 9.3 280 5.7 9.6 9 +150 +63 +51

Seniors (70 to 84) 1,319 6.5 281 8.5 410 8.4 7.9 7.2 +62 +23 +16

elderly aged (85 and over)

409 2.0 85 2.6 164 3.3 2.4 1.8 +99 +39 -23

total population 20,446 100 3,293 100.0 4,901 100.0 100 100 +1,368 +423 +617Table 03 Hornsby age groups

Asquithasquith has the same proportion of pre-schoolers and a higher proportion of people at post retirement age than Greater Sydney. analysis of the service age groups of asquith in 2011 compared to Greater Sydney shows that there was a similar proportion of people in the younger age


groups (0 to 17 years) and a higher proportion of people in the older age groups (60+ years).

the largest changes in age structure in this area between 2006 and 2011 were in the age groups: • Parents and homebuilders (35 to 49) (+78 persons)

• empty nesters and retirees (60 to 69) (+63 persons)

• babies and pre-schoolers (0 to 4) (+52 persons)

• Primary schoolers (5 to 11) (+50 persons)

WaitaraWaitara has a higher proportion of pre-schoolers and a lower proportion of people at post retirement age than Hornsby Shire.analysis of the service age groups of Waitara in 2011 compared to Hornsby Shire shows that there was a lower proportion of people in the younger age groups (0 to 17 years) as well as a lower proportion of people in the older age groups (60+ years).

the largest changes in age structure in this area between 2006 and 2011 were in the age groups: • Parents and homebuilders (35 to 49) (+314 persons)

• tertiary education & independence (18 to 24) (-198 persons)

• young workforce (25 to 34) (+172 persons)

• babies and pre-schoolers (0 to 4) (+150 persons)

Overall implications for the Recreation Potential Study• the young workforce and Parents and homebuidlers are the highest growing groups across all three suburbs.

• this age span is over 25 years and represents a variety of potential recreation needs.

• the types of dwellings that the young workforce group are likely to live in will also dictate the types of open spaces that are in demand.

• Parents and homebuidlers will generally have access to some private open space. Proximity to local parks for children’s recreation could be an open space demand for this group.

• the decrease of tertiary education residents in Hornsby and Waitara may change over time as more high density/affordable living options are provided in the three suburbs.

• the tope three growth categories (highlighted as grey rows in table 03 were consistent in each suburb.

HouseholdsHornsby’s household and family structure is one of the most important demographic indicators. It reveals the area’s residential role and function, era of settlement and provides key insights into the level of demand for services and facilities as most are related to age and household types.

HornsbyIn Hornsby, 32% of households are made up of couples with children compared with 44% in Hornsby Shire. the largest changes in family/household types in Hornsby between 2006 and 2011 were:• Couples with children (+307 households)

• Couples without children (+104 households)


Households by type


Shire %G r e a t e r Sydney % Hornsby asquith Waitaranumber % number % number %

couples with children

2,651 32.4 492 42.6 620 29.3 44.4 34.8 +307 +61 +232

couples without children

1,883 23.0 267 23.1 517 24.4 23.6 22.6 +104 +33 +24

one parent families

863 10.6 126 10.9 166 7.8 9.2 10.8 +17 +26 -3

other families

121 1.5 20 1.7 21 1.0 1.0 1.4 -7 +3 -9

Group household

281 3.4 22 1.9 66 3.1 2.1 4.1 -48 +0 -29

lone person 2,057 25.2 211 18.3 657 31.1 17.3 21.5 -15 +0 +18

other not classifiable household

262 3.2 12 1.0 48 2.3 1.7 4.1 +5 +6 -66

Visitor only households

55 0.7 5 0.4 18 0.9 0.6 0.9 +1 -5 -11

total households

8,176 100.0 1,153 100.0 2,113 100.0 100.0 100 +364 +125 +155

Table 04 Household and family characteristics

AsquithIn asquith, 43% of households are made up of couples with children compared with 44% in Hornsby Shire. analysis of the household/family types in asquith in 2011 compared to Hornsby Shire shows that there was a lower proportion of couple families with child(ren) as well as a higher proportion of one-parent families. Overall, 42.6% of total families were couple families with child(ren), and 10.9% were one-parent families, compared with 44.4% and 9.2% respectively for Hornsby Shire.

there were a higher proportion of lone person households and a similar proportion of couples without children. Overall, the proportion of lone person households was 18.3% compared to 17.3% in Hornsby Shire while the proportion of couples without children was 23.1% compared to 23.6% in Hornsby Shire.

the number of households in asquith increased by 125 between 2006 and 2011. the largest change in family/household types in asquith between 2006 and 2011 was Couples with children (+61 households).

WaitaraIn Waitara, 29% of households are made up of couples with children compared with 44% in Hornsby Shire. analysis of the household/family types in Waitara in 2011 compared to Hornsby Shire shows that there was a lower proportion of couple families with child(ren) as well as a lower proportion of one-parent families.

Overall, 29.3% of total families were couple families with child(ren), and 7.8% were one-parent families, compared with 44.4% and 9.2% respectively for Hornsby Shire.


there were a higher proportion of lone person households and a higher proportion of couples without children. Overall, the proportion of lone person households was 31.1% compared to 17.3% in Hornsby Shire while the proportion of couples without children was 24.4% compared to 23.6% in Hornsby Shire.

the number of households in Waitara increased by 156 between 2006 and 2011. the largest change in family/household types in Waitara between 2006 and 2011 was Couples with children (+232 households).

Overall implications for the Recreation Potential Study• Couples with children are the largest household group in the Shire, Greater Sydney and all three suburbs.

• the top three growth categories (highlighted as grey rows in table 04) were consistent in each suburb.

• Play facilities, passive open space and also active open space for organised sports are generally thought to be in demand of Couples with children.

• lone person households, typically high density smaller apartment style living and/or older persons living on their own in the original family home may rely on open space to meet a variety of exercise and social needs.

Households with childrenfor Households with Children in Hornsby, life stage is based on the age of children in the household. the age of the parent(s) is not taken into account. • young children: Children aged under 15 only

• Mixed age children: One or more children under 15 and one or more children over 15 (must have 2 or more children)

• Older children: Children aged 15 and over only

Hornsbyanalysis of the families with children in Hornsby in 2011 compared to Hornsby Shire shows that there was a smaller proportion of couples with young children, as well as a smaller proportion of couples with older children. Overall, 20.4% of total households with children were couples with young children, and 8.6% were couples with older children, compared with 21.8% and 16.4% respectively for Hornsby Shire.

there were a larger proportion of single parent households with young children and a larger proportion of single parent households with older children. Overall, the proportion of single parent households with young children was 3.0% compared to 2.4% in Hornsby Shire while the proportion of single parent households with older children was 6.8% compared to 5.8% in Hornsby Shire.


Households with children


Shire %G r e a t e r Sydney % Hornsby asquith Waitaranumber % number % number %

couples with children

2,652 32.4 492 42.6 620 29.3 44.4 34.8 +307 +61 +232

couples with young children

1,671 20.4 246 21.3 451 21.3 21.8 18.3 +253 +53 +179

couples with mixed-age children

281 3.4 60 5.2 56 2.6 6.2 4.9 +23 -10 +18

couples with older children

700 8.6 186 16.1 114 5.4 16.4 11.6 +31 +18 +35

Single parents with children

863 10.6 126 10.9 166 7.8 9.2 10.8 +17 +26 -3

Single parents with young children

247 3.0 34 2.9 68 3.2 2.4 3.7 +3 +6 +13

Single parents with mixed-age children

63 0.8 10 0.9 12 0.5 1.0 1.3 -16 -2 -0

Single parents with older children

553 6.8 82 7.1 86 4.1 5.8 5.8 +30 +22 -15

total households with children

3,515 43.0 617 53.5 786 37.2 53.6 45.6 +324 +88 +229

total households

8,176 100.0 1,153 100.0 2,113 100.0 100.0 100.0 +364 +125 +155

Table 05 Households with children

Asquiththere are 246 couples with young children in asquith in 2011, comprising 21% of households. analysis of the families with children in asquith in 2011 compared to Hornsby Shire shows that there was a smaller proportion of couples with young children, and a similar proportion of couples with older children.

Overall, 21.3% of total households with children were couples with young children, and 16.1% were couples with older children, compared with 21.8% and 16.4% respectively for Hornsby Shire.

there were a larger proportion of single parent households with young children and a larger proportion of single parent households with older children. Overall, the proportion of single parent households with young children was 2.9% compared to 2.4% in Hornsby Shire while the proportion of single parent households with older children was 7.1% compared to 5.8% in Hornsby Shire.


between 2006 and 2011, the number of households with children increased by 88 households or 16.6%. the largest change in households with children in this area between 2006 and 2011 was couples with young children (+53 households).

Waitarathere are 451 couples with young children in Waitara in 2011, comprising 21% of households. analysis of the families with children in Waitara in 2011 compared to Hornsby Shire shows that there was a smaller proportion of couples with young children, as well as a smaller proportion of couples with older children.

Overall, 21.3% of total households with children were couples with young children, and 5.4% were couples with older children.there were a larger proportion of single parent households with young children and a smaller proportion of single parent households with older children. Overall, the proportion of single parent households with young children was 3.2% compared to 2.4% in Hornsby Shire while the proportion of single parent households with older children was 4.1% compared to 5.8% in Hornsby Shire.

between 2006 and 2011, the number of households with children increased by 229 households or 41.1%. the largest change in households with children in this area between 2006 and 2011 was couples with young children (+179 households).

Overall implications for the Recreation Potential Study• Couples with young children was the largest household group in the Shire, Greater Sydney and all three suburbs. the demands

on open space for this group would range from younger children’s play areas through to organised sports fields, youth spaces, skateboard facilities etc.

• the top three growth categories (highlighted as grey rows in table 04) were consistent in each suburb.

cultural diversityCountry of Birth data identifies where people were born and is indicative of the level of cultural diversity in Hornsby. The mix of Country of birth groups is also indicative of historical settlement patterns, as source countries for australia’s immigration program have varied significantly over time.

Hornsby38% of people in Hornsby come from countries where English is not the first language. Between 2006 and 2011, the number of people born overseas increased by 1,536 or 19.3%, and the number of people from a non-english speaking background increased by 1,652 or 26.6%. the largest changes in birthplace countries of the population in this area between 2006 and 2011 were for those born in:• China (+570 persons)

• India (+312 persons)

• nepal (+218 persons)

• South korea (+159 persons)

See table 06 overleaf for the largest changes in birthplace countries of the population in Hornsby, asquith and Witara between 2006 and 2011.

Asquith21% of people in Asquith come from countries where English is not the first language. Between 2006 and 2011, the number of people born overseas increased by 241 or 32.0%, and the number of people from a non-english speaking background increased by 204 or 41.3%.the largest change in birthplace countries of the population in this area between 2006 and 2011 was for those born in India (+53 persons).


birthplace 2011 change 2006 to 2011Hornsby asquith Waitara Hornsby

Shire %Greater

Sydney % Hornsby asquith Waitaranumber % number % number %total overseas born

9,489 46.4 995 30.2 2,853 58.2 35.3 34.2 +1,535 +241 +963

non-english speaking backgrounds

7,860 38.4 698 21.2 2,478 50.5 26.1 26.3 +1,652 +204 +1,005

Main english speaking countries

1,628 8.0 297 9.0 374 7.6 9.2 7.9 -117 +37 -42

australia 9,923 48.5 2,208 67.0 1,859 37.9 61.5 59.9 -91 +195 -195

not Stated 1,049 5.1 91 2.8 192 3.9 3.2 5.9 -72 -12 -157

total Population

20,462 100.0 3,295 100.0 4,905 100.0 100.0 100.0 +1,372 +425 +610

Table 06 Origin of birth

Waitara51% of people in Waitara come from countries where English is not the first language. The largest non-English speaking country of birth in Waitara was China, where 9.1% of the population, or 444 people, were born. between 2006 and 2011, the number of people born overseas increased by 963 or 51.0%, and the number of people from a non-english speaking background increased by 1,004 or 68.1%.the largest changes in birthplace countries of the population in this area between 2006 and 2011 were for those born in:

• India (+196 persons)

• China (+177 persons)

• South korea (+157 persons)

• Iran (+141 persons)

Overall implications for the Recreation Potential Study • the largest growing group born overseas in the three suburbs is from India.

• People born overseas born and from a non-english speaking background are much higher contribute a large proportion of the total population.

• Overall, more research is required to determine if particular groups have particular open space needs that vary from the rest of the population.

indigenous populationthe aboriginal and torres Strait Islander Census population of the Hornsby Shire in 2011 was 565, living in 292 dwellings. detailed information on Indigenous population is not provided for the individual suburbs.

MobilityThe ability of the population to access services and employment is strongly influenced by access to transport.

Hornsby


analysis of the car ownership of the households in Hornsby in 2011 compared to Hornsby Shire shows that 79.1% of the households owned at least one car, while 15.4% did not, compared with 89.3% and 7.1% respectively in Hornsby Shire.

Of those that owned at least one vehicle, there was a larger proportion who owned just one car; a smaller proportion who owned two cars; and a smaller proportion who owned three cars or more.

Overall, 49.4% of the households owned one car; 23.2% owned two cars; and 6.5% owned three cars or more, compared with 35.5%; 37.9% and 15.9% respectively for Hornsby Shire. the largest changes in the household car ownership in Hornsby between 2006 and 2011 were:• 1 motor vehicle (+310 households)

• 2 motor vehicles (+121 households)

• 3 or more motor vehicles (+65 households)

Asquith46% of households in asquith had access to two or more motor vehicles, compared to 54% in Hornsby Shire. analysis of the car ownership of the households in asquith in 2011 compared to Hornsby Shire shows that 88.1% of the households owned at least one car, while 8.8% did not, compared with 89.3% and 7.1% respectively in Hornsby Shire.


Overall, 41.7% of the households owned one car; 33.7% owned two cars; and 12.7% owned three cars or more, compared with 35.5%; 37.9% and 15.9% respectively for Hornsby Shire. the largest changes in the household car ownership in asquith between 2006 and 2011 were:• 1 motor vehicle (+56 households)

• 2 motor vehicles (+55 households)

Waitara18% of households in Waitara had access to two or more motor vehicles, compared to 54% in Hornsby Shire. analysis of the car ownership of the households in Waitara in 2011 compared to Hornsby Shire shows that 76.9% of the households owned at least one car, while 18.5% did not, compared with 89.3% and 7.1% respectively in Hornsby Shire.


Overall, 59.1% of the households owned one car; 14.8% owned two cars; and 3.1% owned three cars or more, compared with 35.5%; 37.9% and 15.9% respectively for Hornsby Shire. the largest change in the household car ownership in Waitara between 2006 and 2011 was 1 motor vehicle (+217 households).

Overall implications for the Recreation Potential Study• Overall car ownership is high in all three suburbs.

• as a potential regional facility car parking will need to be provided on site. travel by car will inevitably occur.

• for residents living closer to the site the option to live in new high density housing may reduce the number of cars in all three suburbs. Good connections, pedestrian and cycle paths to the study site will need to be developed to enable residents to use active transport links.


aPPendIx C: landSCaPe analySIS PlanS


aPPendIx d: adVentuRe tOuRISM RePORt

Hornsby Shire Council

HORNSBY QUARRY and OLD MANS VALLEY ADVENTURE TOURISM SCOPING STUDY

Final Draft Report

June 2014

Hornsby Council Scoping Study Hornsby Quarry and Old Mans Valley

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Section One: Study Background ......................................................... 1

1.1 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................................... 1 1.2 STUDY OBJECTIVES ........................................................................................................................... 1 1.3 STUDY METHOD .................................................................................................................................. 2

Section Two: Product & Market Scoping ............................................... 3

2.0 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................................... 4 2.1 SITE & AREA OVERVIEW .................................................................................................................... 4 2.2 INDUSTRY TRENDS & CASE STUDIES.............................................................................................. 8 2.2.1 ADVENTURE PARKS ........................................................................................................................... 8 2.2.2 SUMMARY OF INDUSTRY TRENDS ................................................................................................. 10 2.3 MARKET & DEMAND ANALYSIS ....................................................................................................... 11 2.3.1 MARKET ASSESSMENT .................................................................................................................... 11 2.3.2 COMPETITIVE ASSESSMENT ........................................................................................................... 15

Section Three: Investment Appraisal .................................................. 17

3.0 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................................. 18 3.1 COMMERCIAL OPERATOR SOUNDING........................................................................................... 18 3.1.1 SUMMARY OF COMMERCIAL INVESTOR SOUNDING ................................................................... 23 3.2 INVESTMENT AND COMMITMENT ................................................................................................... 23 3.3 ATTRACTIVE PRODUCT CONCEPTS .............................................................................................. 24 3.4 INVESTMENT BENEFITS CASE ........................................................................................................ 25 3.4.1 KEY BENEFITS ................................................................................................................................... 25 3.4.2 POSSIBLE FINANCIAL RETURN TO COUNCIL ................................................................................ 26

Section Four: Conclusions ............................................................... 28

4.0 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................................. 29 4.1 TOURISM OPPORTUNITY APPRAISAL ............................................................................................ 29 4.2 NEXT STEPS ...................................................................................................................................... 31

Appendices..................................................................................... 1


Tables No table of figures entries found.

List of Appendices

Section One: Study Background

Final Draft Report - Hornsby Quarry and OMV Scoping Study (NSW 2014) - 25 June 2014 Page 1 Commercial in Confidence


1.1 INTRODUCTION The recreation potential and site masterplan undertaken by CLOUSTON Associates has identified a range of potential adventure and sports tourism opportunities, in addition to local recreational opportunities. Council expressed an interest in developing the site for adventure and sports tourism, subject to determining their financial viability and capacity to provide a long term income stream to Council that will assist in the future management and operations of the Quarry site. The purpose of this study is to identify and recommend preferred adventure sports tourism products/experiences and/or a mix of products/experience that could be provided at Hornsby Quarry, that are appropriate to the quarry setting and park values and maximise financial and non-financial benefits to Council and the community. This work of this study will also inform the finalisation of the Draft Recreation Potential Study and Masterplan.

1.2 STUDY OBJECTIVES The objectives of the Feasibility Study, as identified in the brief, are:

• Identify the range of potential adventure sports tourism products and opportunities at Hornsby Quarry along with priority options to be considered in further more detailed planning.

• Assess the market opportunity and demand for such products and opportunities at Hornsby Quarry.

• Scope the level of commercial sector interest in development/investment and or operations of potential adventure sports tourism products and associated benefits to Council and the local area.



1.3 STUDY METHOD The Montemare team developed a three phase project methodology to meet the requirements of the project brief and to deliver the project outcomes Council sought. A detailed methodology is presented below:

STAGE TASKS Product & Market Scoping • Project & Area Familiarisation

• Broad Context & Opportunities • Case Studies & Industry Trends • Market & Demand Analysis • Opportunities Appraisal

Investment Appraisal • Industry/Commercial Sector Sounding • Attractive Investment Product Concepts • Investment Benefits Case

Options Analysis (TBC) • Priority Concept Description • Cost Estimation • Likely Business & Operational Performance • Option Analysis & Recommendation

Draft & Final Reporting • Summary Key Findings • Draft Report • Consultation & Review • Final Report


Section Two: Product & Market Scoping



2.0 INTRODUCTION This section provides a summary of the key study findings, from the market and product scoping. It includes:

• Site & area overview

• Previous research review

• Industry trends

• Market & demand analysis

2.1 SITE & AREA OVERVIEW Hornsby Quarry is to the west of the Hornsby Central Business District with vehicular access from Dural Street and Quarry Road and within 10 minutes walk of the Hornsby train station. The Quarry is adjacent to residential properties to the north, Berowra Valley National Park to the west, Council lands within Old Mans Valley to the east and bushland known as Hornsby Park and owned by the department of Sustainable Natural Resources to the south.



The total area of the site that could be considered part of the broader recreation and adventure sports precinct is in the order of 45 ha, characterised by a range of parcels of land and landscape settings, summarised in the table below. The site has the capacity and potential to deliver both high quality local open space and adventure recreation tourism opportunities. Executed correctly these activities will complement and support the success of the other. Council has expressed a desire to maintain a balance between public recreation and commercial recreation/adventure sports tourism. The Old Man Valley is the most obvious choice for local open space and associated facilities, given the topography and access, whereas the Quarry site is better suited to more commercially orientated adventure recreation activities and tourism development. The later includes support infrastructure and services such as visitor arrival areas, Café/restaurant, function centre and accommodation.



The consultant teams experience with similar projects indicates, the current site zoning – RE1 Public Recreation, standard definition, allows for some but not all potential commercial tourism development or mix that might prove appropriate and viable for the site and this will need to be addressed during more detailed planning and development. The site has outstanding manmade and natural beauty that would be well suited to adventure and nature based recreation and tourism, as the following photos taken from the sites DRAFT Recreation Opportunities Masterplan depict. The sites natural beauty arises not only from the site itself but of the cavernous nature and relatively unspoilt bush setting of the whole valley. Once inside the quarry there is a sense of remoteness due to the lack of obvious urban and residential development and this contributes to the attractiveness of the site for commercial adventure recreation and tourism, as well as community openspace. Council will need to consider how to protect the sites “visual catchment” if it is to maximise the community and commercial adventure recreation and tourism opportunities at the site. This could be achieved by introducing further planning controls on the height and visual impact of building development in the catchment, so as to prevent development breaking through the canopy of the surrounding bushland to the north, west, south and east.





2.2 INDUSTRY TRENDS & CASE STUDIES The global adventure sector has evolved in leaps and bounds over the past two decades from specialised and often marginal individual operations in National Parks and Forests to the new world of adventure parks and precincts. These new parks offer a multi-pronged adventure experience centred around an adventure hero. The hero experience is what differentiates the Park with the most successful being a combination of re-invented all aged ropes courses and multi level zip line journeys. This trend is also evident in Australia with new adventure parks in major cities from Launceston to Cairns and Melbourne to Perth in the last 3-5 years. While the Zip often forms the ‘hero’ experience, the industry has become commercially sustainable through offering a range of complementary year round adventure products suitable to schools, business and leisure groups and individuals. Such product may be kayaking and sailing, rock climbing and abseiling, mountain biking and horse riding. Summer Sledding is an evolving product strong in European and American ski villages which may take hold locally in the medium term in Australia. 2.2.1 Adventure Parks Wikipedia provides a good definition and description of an adventure park as follows: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adventure_park While a ropes course (challenge course) is sometimes a challenging outdoor personal development and team-building activity, an Adventure Park or "Aerial" / "Treetop" / "European-Style" Adventure Park has clearly a more recreational purpose. "Recreational-oriented" Adventure Parks / Ropes Courses are usually designed for a larger volume of visitors. They do not follow a specific educational concept, but see the individual, physical and mental challenge as a predominantly recreational activity. Neither climbing techniques nor special/specific physical fitness experience are necessary. Typical slogans are: Have Fun, Test your Courage, Overcome your Own Fears, Be Outside, Be in the Nature, Do some Physical Activities, etc. In an Adventure Park, the visitors independently run a variety of trails of increasing difficulty levels. Each trail consists of several poles or trees that are connected by different acrobatic elements or zip-lines. For the safety of the visitors, a belay system is required for the high elements/trails. Adventure Parks can be broken down into a huge variety of specific types. They differ according to the following main criteria:

• Type of parks: stationary / mobile

• Structural System: trees / poles / buildings / metallic structure

• Target visitors: all / kids from 4 years old / disabled

• Height of the lifeline: "mid-height", "out of reach" Final Draft Report - Hornsby Quarry and OMV Scoping Study (NSW 2014) - 25 June 2014 Page 8 Commercial in Confidence

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adventure_park

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ropes_course


• Belay system: self / permanent / continuous

• Locations: touristic / urban

Forest Adventure Parks are very popular. They take advantage of the beauty of a forest, of the trees (no investment in poles) and offer an outdoor activity surrounded by nature. Not only do they offer an adventure “at height” in a forest, but also the benefit for customers of experiencing the spectacular natural beauty of trees, hills, cliffs and/or rivers. In forest parks, there is a particular focus on tree-friendly installation. In most cases, the platforms are held to the trees through the principle of friction. When the exercise elements are mounted the trees are protected by coats of wood or rubber to prevent rubbing from the ropes. Depending on how they are used and where they are located, parks on poles are an excellent alternative. They offer complete freedom in terms of park design and location but, at the same time, require higher investment (in the poles). The heat of the summer can be a challenge. A mix of poles/trees at the edge of a forest has the potential to work well. Indoor parks have the great advantage of being an “all year round” operation but with the corresponding weakness of that strength at times when fine weather encourages outdoor activities. These trails are often built on a modular metallic structure. New parks on wood poles have shown that an indoor park can also provide a good experience. Adventure Parks can be found in a multitude of places/locations. Examples of trends:

• Close to large tourist destinations

• In Ski Resorts as an attraction during summer months (a boom in Switzerland

and several European countries)

• In Amusement Parks, Holiday Clubs/Villages, Hotel Club and Resorts, etc.

• Urban parks or close to conglomerations (e.g. the park in the center of Lyon,

France)

• Close to a significant pool of potential customers, such as a large Shopping Mall,

Zoo, Campsite, etc.

• Small (kids) parks for shopping malls (as indoor), city events, etc.

Large Adventure Parks usually have several trails of increasing difficulty levels and can reach up to 10 trails. With 10 to 20 acrobatic elements per trail, the park can easily reach up to 200 elements (it is usually between 40 and 200 elements). The majority of trails are for everyone from the age of 7 years old (sometimes 10). The difficulty level starts at a low level or “green trail” and progresses to a very challenging level or “black trail”. Specific trails for kids from 4 years are very popular with families Final Draft Report - Hornsby Quarry and OMV Scoping Study (NSW 2014) - 25 June 2014 Page 9 Commercial in Confidence


and provide a boost to the business (up to 20-30% more clients). Sometimes there are specific trails for the disabled. Children love Adventure Parks. In a park they can act independently, try and fail and try again, and overcome their own fears without any risk (a continuous belay system is strongly recommended). Thanks to the variety of levels, each time they can push their own boundaries and reach their own challenges. This is a perfect outdoor activity (with individual, physical and mental challenges) to learn through play. The acrobatic elements are artificial obstacles (exercises) made from ropes, nets and wood in various forms, and which are installed at different heights in trees. The clever arrangement of such obstacles encourages many basic forms of movement such as climbing, hand over hand, balancing, holding, slipping and sliding. A good mix of elements and zip-lines increases the diversity and interest of parks – People love zip-lines. Recreational-oriented Adventure Parks are usually designed for a larger volume of visitors: In Europe 10,000 to 60,000 or even more participants per season are common and often with a high variation pattern (high attendance on weekends and during vacations). The recently opened TreeTops adventure park at Western Sydney Parklands achieved 30,000 visits in its first year of operation (Source. ALM, Issue 2 2014). 2.2.2 Summary of Industry Trends The case studies of existing adventure sport attractions indicate the following key trends and success factors:

• Heavy investment in “Adventure Parks” that offer multiple-product, to enable operators to diversify revenue streams, and that meet market needs/demand across a range of ages, skill, ability and levels of adventure.

• These are “high-volume” visitor attractions commonly attracting between 10,000 and 60,000 visits per annum.

• Co-located and in close proximity to existing activity hubs and/or leisure

precincts, assisting in providing multiple product, high exposure and footfall traffic and supporting services and amenity.

• Highly accessible location both to a large source market and that has good

physical access by way of transport.

• Products must be highly differentiated, unique and creative. The emphasis is on “new” and “one off”. Successful adventure sport attractions are of a sufficient quality to attract people in their own right. (ie they don’t need a destination approach – they are a primary attractor).



• Importantly, adventure sport tourism operators do not need to have high quality support buildings (ie interpretive centre/café etc) that might impose prohibitive start-up capital costs on the business. These are desirable, but not essential and can come at a later date and be provided by other operators as a value add and secondary source of income to Council.

• Product expansion, renewal and reinvention are important to the long-term

sustainability of adventure sport tourism businesses. In this sense it is important that the site location, size and characteristics lend itself to expansion over time into new product areas.

• Group, corporate and school markets are very important to the ongoing viability

of adventure sports tourism businesses. These markets are not the highest yield markets but form base business turnover.

• The ability to operate year round and night and day operations is important to

offer variety and unique experiences day to day.

2.3 MARKET & DEMAND ANALYSIS This Section summarises the market profile, competitive environment and potential demand for adventure sports tourism product in the Hornsby area. 2.3.1 Market Assessment Hornsby Shire is located in Sydney's northern suburbs - about 25 kilometres from the Sydney GPO. Residential Capture The following table shows serviced age groups for Greater Sydney. These percentages have been applied to filter down each capture area to aged 12-60.



Northern Sydney Regional Catchment There is a large potential source market within the Northern Sydney 35km catchment area.

Shire or Suburb Area Aged 12-60 Aged 12-17

Hornsby Shire 165,090 109785 12217

North Sydney 67,722 45035 5011

Mosman 29,605 19687 2191

Parramatta 166,856 110959 12347

Auburn City 73,738 49036 5457

Holroyd City 99,163 65943 7338

Blacktown City 301,096 200229 22281

Penrith City 178,465 41465 4614

Hawkesbury City 62,353 41465 4614

Manly 43,371 28842 3209



Pittwater Council 61,201 40699 4529

Warringah Council 140,741 93593 10415

TOTALS 846737 94223

With 81.8% of adults (+15 years) participating in exercises, sport and recreation in the past 12 months (ERASS, 2012) the potential market capture has been reduced to 692,631 residents aged 12-60 including 94,223 students aged 12-17 within a 35 km radius. Tourism Capture Tourism for this research was defined by: Fly-in: Visitors using air transport to enter Sydney and Leisure: Visitors who have travelled to Sydney for holiday purposes or to visit friends or relatives. Domestic According to the National Visitor Survey (NVS), undertaken by Tourism Research Australia (TRA), in 2013, Sydney received nearly 8.0 million domestic overnight visitors including: ‘Visiting friends and relatives (VFR)’ (37.4%) was the largest purpose for visitors to the region, followed by ‘holiday or leisure’ (29.2%) and ‘business’ (27.8%) International In 2013, Sydney received over 2.8 million international overnight visitors ‘Holiday / pleasure’ (54.3%) was the largest purpose for visitors to the region, followed by ‘visiting friends and relatives (VFR)’ (24.2%) and ‘business’ (14.3%) http://www.destinationnsw.com.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0020/235190/Sydney-YE-Sep-13.pdf Dispersers were most likely to stay overnight in the Northern Rivers (106,000 visitors), followed by Mid North Coast (91,000), the South Coast (77,000), the Hunter (73,000) and the Blue Mountains (56,000) (Figure 2).


http://www.destinationnsw.com.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0020/235190/Sydney-YE-Sep-13.pdf

http://www.destinationnsw.com.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0020/235190/Sydney-YE-Sep-13.pdf


Drawing international and domestic visitors from Sydney and the 23,000 visiting the Central Coast is the primary opportunity. Travellers to Hawkesbury River, Central Coast and Northern NSW 1.3 million visitors with 62% from Sydney totals 809,900 travellers from Sydney to Central Coast ‘Holiday or leisure’ (52.2%) was the largest purpose for visitors to the region, followed by ‘visiting friends and relatives (VFR)’ (40.8%) Private or company vehicle’ (91.0%) was the most popular form of transport used by visitors to the region With 81.8% physically active the potential is adjusted to 662,498 travellers to Central Coast. http://www.destinationnsw.com.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0017/235403/Central-Coast-YE-Sep-13.pdf Market Summary

• 692,631 residents aged 12-60 (including 94,223 students aged 12-17) within a 35 km radius.

• 662,498 Sydney travellers to the Hawkesbury River and Central Coast • 4.56m domestic travellers to Sydney visiting friends and relatives or on

holiday


http://www.destinationnsw.com.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0017/235403/Central-Coast-YE-Sep-13.pdf

http://www.destinationnsw.com.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0017/235403/Central-Coast-YE-Sep-13.pdf


• 2.19 m international travellers to Sydney visiting friends and relatives or on holiday

• Corporate team building events, size unknown. The commercial operators have indicated the combined market potential is substantial and of a sufficient size to support a viable year round adventure tourism business in the Hornsby area. Further supporting their positive market assessment is the close proximity of the train station. The easily accessible train link further enhances the operator’s ability to capture the full market potential within the Northern Sydney catchment. The other leisure investment within the precinct (ie Mountain Bike Trails and Aquatic Centre) is also highly appealing as it suggests the beginnings of a sport/leisure precinct. 2.3.2 Competitive Assessment The following provides a high level assessment of potential competitors to potential commercial product within the Hornsby capture region: Hornsby

• Berowa Valley National Park (rock climbing) • Hawkesbury River

No adventure commercial operations of significance were identified Central Coast

• Glenworth Valley (Horse Riding, Quad Bikes) http://www.glenworth.com.au

• Tree Top Adventure Park (High Ropes and Zip) http://www.treetopadventurepark.com.au/home/central-coast

Northern & Western Sydney Horse Riding

• Palomino Riding School • Samarai Park Riding School and Agistment • Sydney Equestrian Centre • Operators in Galston, Arcadia, Glenorie and Dural areas.

Rock Climbing

• Bloc Climbing Centre, North Parramatta • Climb Fit, St Leonards • The Edge Rock Climbing Centre, Castle Hill

Abseiling

• Abseiling Sydney, Darlinghurst


http://www.glenworth.com.au/

http://www.treetopadventurepark.com.au/home/central-coast


Indoor Adventure/Playground

• Peak Pursuits, Castle Hill (Indoor Activity Centre) https://www.peakpursuits.com.au/home.php

School Adventure Education/Camps Anecdotal evidence suggests there are a number of adventure education operators in the region such as ‘Southbound Adventures’, supported by a large number of school accommodation/outdoor education facilities in rural Hornsby and North West region, which would support high levels of school group usage. Adventure Parks

• Sydney Tree Top Safari and Tree Top Adventure Park Elizabeth Drive Abbotsbury, Western Sydney http://www.treetopadventurepark.com.au/index.php

• Urban Jungle Adventure Park, Sydney Olympic Park http://www.urban-jungle.net.au

• Trees Adventure, Grose River Park, Yarramundi http://treesadventure.com.au/grose-river-park/

Summary of the Competitor Review The competitor Review indicates:

• No commercial adventure sport operations of significance were identified in the Hornsby area.

• Limited outdoor adventure sport opportunities in the region. Main adventure attraction is the Treetop Adventure Park, Central Coast.

• Existing cluster of river based and equestrian/horse riding activities in the region. • Up to four adventure parks in the capture region and recent investment in

outdoor and indoor adventure facilities indicating growth and investment in the sector, mimicking international growth trends.

• Discussions with National Parks and Wildlife and local tourism organisations indicates more mountain bike and horse riding product is coming on line within the next 2-3 years, and significant interest by commercial operators and events operators in adventure sport product in the region.

Discussions with commercial operators indicate while there are a handful of Adventure Parks (4) in the capture market, there is room for further growth of this product in the immediate area provided the customer experience is highly differentiated. Discussions with the operators suggests that the Hornsby Quarry site offers the level of differentiation required due to site features – unique Quarry Landscape, including steep slopes potential for water and long-span crossing and surrounding natural environment.


https://www.peakpursuits.com.au/home.php

http://www.treetopadventurepark.com.au/index.php

http://www.urban-jungle.net.au/

http://treesadventure.com.au/grose-river-park/

Section Three: Investment Appraisal



3.0 INTRODUCTION This section provides guidance as to the commercial attractiveness of the Hornsby Quarry site opportunity for the primary attraction product – adventure sports. It also outlines potential investment commitments and expectations and possible benefits to Hornsby. The investment appraisal will need to be tested in the future with more detailed business feasibility, design and development planning, envisaged as later stages of this project. Further investigations should also be undertaken into other commercial opportunities evident at the site (ie Café/Restaurant/Function Centre and Accommodation). This Section includes the following:

• Adventure Sports Commercial Operator Sector Sounding • Attractive Investment Product Concepts • Investment Benefits Case

3.1 COMMERCIAL OPERATOR SOUNDING The project team undertook interviews with a range of international, national and local operators that have experience and a track record of delivering successful adventure sports tourism product. Operators were given a summary of the site and asked a range of questions around:

• whether you see any potential Adventure Sports Tourism Opportunity at the site,

• the extent of that opportunity and • would your organisation consider investing in the site and what would your

expectations be if you were to invest in a development at that site. Six operators were spoken to including:

• Mark Challis, Trees Adventures

• Sandrine Gaymard, Ecoline

• John Sharpe, Riverlife Brisbane

• Nigel Hobbs, AJ Hackett Bungy

• Sarah Vincent, BridgeClimb (Declined to comment)

• GoApe (Declined to comment)

The following table provides a summary of the commercial operator responses.



INVESTOR ATTRACTIVENESS CRITERIA

SITE STATUS

TREES ADVENTURE ECOLINE RIVERLIFE AJ HACKETT BUNGY

Access to local population

See Statistics

• Catchment area strong

• Catchment area strong • Catchment area

strong for

schools and

locals, corporate

tougher

Tourism will drive the majority of business

Tourism Potential See Statistics

• Ability to attract Sydney tourism

• Ability to attract Sydney

tourism

• Needs to be

significant

enough to attract

tourists from

Sydney and CC

Low AJ only invests in high traffic tourism areas

Power, water and waste management infrastructure

Water Y Power Y Waste N

• Supplied by Council • Supplied by Council • Supplied by

Council

• Supplied by Council

Adequate toilets No • Supplied by Council • Supplied by Council • Supplied by

Council

• Supplied by Council

Adequate parking for cars and coaches

100 existing Limited

expansion

• 100 sealed and 100 grass overflow + coach

• 100 sealed and 100

grass overflow + coach

• 80 sealed and 80

grass overflow +

coach




SITE STATUS


Buildings for booking and information, food and beverage, storage and maintenance

Crusher Building

(run down structure)

• Investor to supply

• Basic buildings

(refurbed cargo

containers)

• Investor to supply

• Basic buildings

(refurbed cargo

containers)

• Investor to

supply

• Basic buildings

(refurbed cargo

containers)

• AJ build something

iconic as their site

centre

Public access / transport

2 Train Lines from Sydney to

North Coast (10 minute

walk to site)

• Train access highly appealing

• Train access highly

appealing and difficult

to find

• Train access

highly appealing

NA

Site Beauty and Appeal

See images • Very High

• Water and site slopes key elements

• Very High

• Water and site slopes

key elements

• Very high

• Water essential

• Very high

• Water and dramatic

environment high

appeal

Site Product Suitability (multiple products)

Water, Rock Faces, Open Parklands,

• Surrounding land and water makes site highly appealing for multiple product, a must for commercial success

• Surrounding land and

water makes site highly

appealing for multiple

product, a must for

commercial success

• Surrounding land

and water makes

site highly

appealing for

multiple product,

a must for

• Ability to deliver




SITE STATUS


commercial

success

Existing Public Mountain Biking

MTN Biking seen as a positive and public product welcomed

• MTN Biking seen as a

positive and public

product welcomed

• MTN Biking seen

as a positive and

public product

welcomed

• MTN Biking seen as

a positive and public

product welcomed

Commercial Agreement

• 20 year lease

essential

• Long term

commitment and

willingness to work

through tougher

earlier years with

incentives

• Some concern about

proximity houses

and impact on

operation flexibility

Open 7 days from day 1

• 20 year lease essential

• Long term commitment

and willingness to work

through tougher earlier

years with incentives

• 20 year lease

essential

• Ability for

operators to

dictate their

opening days and

hours (tough first

4 years)

• 20 year lease

essential




SITE STATUS


Product • High Ropes

• Zip Journey (over

water)

• Water product

• They have 3 sites

and 1 45 minutes

away but this is

strongly

differentiated

Flexibility to operate day and night

• High Ropes

• Zip Journey (over

water)

• Water product

• Summer Sledding

• High Ropes

• Zip Journey

(over water)

• Water product

• Bungy

• Zip

• Swing



3.1.1 Summary of Commercial Investor Sounding

The following key messages can be taken from the commercial operator comments:

• The site natural offering and its location are highly appealing with a high impact

water zone and rail access being key success factors

• Operation facilities can be simple and low cost supplied by the investor, however

moving power, waste and water around the site as required would require

Council investment, perhaps a partnership

• Operators seek a long term lease minimum 20 years and concessions during

early years (1-4) to ensure visibility through start-up (schools and corporate

groups take time to grow)

• The opportunity to expand into multiple product streams is highly appealing

3.2 INVESTMENT AND COMMITMENT The following summarises likely required Operator and Council investment and commitment: Council Council would be requested to provide:

• Lease

o 20 Year Lease (minimum)

o Lease concessions in years 1-4 (by negotiation)

o Granting operator control over days and hours of operation (will start

weekends and grow as business grows)

• Infrastructure

o Water, power and waste management to site booking centre / hub (near

existing car park)

o Sealed car parking for 100 with grass overflow (numbers by negotiation) +

adequate coach turnaround and drop-off / pick-up



Operator The operator will commit to:

• All product infrastructure

• All buildings including booking centre and small café / food spot

• Marketing

• All operations.

3.3 ATTRACTIVE PRODUCT CONCEPTS

Operators were asked to identify attractive or likely product concepts suitable for the Hornsby Quarry. However due to the overall attractiveness of the site and the importance of products being “new”, “highly differentiated” and “first to market” for success operators were unwilling to provide specific details about potential products and concepts. Final product concepts would have to be determined following actual site visits and more detailed analysis on behalf of the operator and subject to a commercial in confidence tendering and or EOI process. However, having said this, the general product theme would most likely be an Adventure Park (or precinct) taking advantage of the site distinctive Quarry, over water and natural bushland characteristics.



3.4 INVESTMENT BENEFITS CASE This section outlines the likely financial and non-financial returns to Hornsby from the establishment of commercial adventure tourism at the Hornsby Quarry and Old Man’s Valley site. 3.4.1 Key Benefits The research consultation and findings reveal the following key benefits likely to result from adventure sport tourism investment at Hornsby Quarry include, but are not limited to: Economic Development

• Potential driver/catalyst for the expansion of adventure tourism, adventure

sports events and hospitality business in the Shire.

• Enhanced Brand & Marketing Power, leveraged through an “evident” adventure sports identity and through the ability to host major events, providing media exposure and attracting additional visitors to the region.

• Direct and indirect employment benefits through additional $ turnover in the local economy.

• Resident attraction & retention, through enhanced local lifestyle, education and economic opportunity.

Community Development Benefits

• Market Development - create a desire to be involved in sport and recreation and potential additional visits to new aquatic centre by being part of a sports-activity precinct/hub.

• Unique offering to local residents (natural/physical/cultural), something not previously offered in the shire.

• Enhanced community facilities & social inclusion.

• Exposure to global trends and world class recreation facilities.

Health Benefits

• Increased participation in sport & recreation activity improving physical, social & mental health.



• Preventative health and reduced impact on health budgets, through reduced impact of chronic diseases and prolonged healthy aging.

Education Benefits

• Enhanced attractiveness of local education options and Tafe campus, through

the ability to offer quality student campus life services.

• Potentially assisting with the retention of local students & young people in the area.

Environmental Benefits

• Protection of EEC’s, significant geological features and landscapes.

• Encouragement of participation in active transport.

• Potentially low impact and sustainable economic activities (resource use and impact on biodiversity).

3.4.2 Possible Financial Return to Council Operators indicated a fixed rent plus income share is the most common lease payment arrangement they have experienced operating on government/community lands. The main reason for this model is the shared commercial risk (and reward) between the operator and land owner. Operators were asked to indicate the potential market $ value of a fixed rent plus income share arrangement at Hornsby Quarry. The following scenario reflects the collective thoughts of the adventure tourism operators interviewed on potential lease structure and market $ value. The scenarios and potential financial returns are considered conservative, as the relate to a single activity only. Meaning, they don’t take into account the potential for multiple adventure tourism products and services that could be operated out of the site. Similarly, they do not take account of other potential tourism opportunities at the site such as visitor services, food & beverage, functions/events and accommodation. We have developed two indicative scenarios to illustrate likely financial returns to Council – “base” and “optimistic”. All earnings per head are factitious and should not be considered earnings. Base Case Based on a “base case” scenario of: Final Draft Report - Hornsby Quarry and OMV Scoping Study (NSW 2014) - 25 June 2014 Page 26 Commercial in Confidence


• Pax per year - 40,000 visitors • Entry Prices - $30 pax • Base rent - $10,000 per month, up to 20,000 pax • Income Share – 15% 20,000-30,000 pax, reducing to 10% at 30,000 + pax

This would see the following outcomes:

• Business revenue - $1,200,000 pa • Fixed Rent - $120,000 pa • Income Share - $75,000 pa • Annual Rent - $175,000 pa

Optimistic Case Based on a more ‘optimistic’ scenario of:

• Pax per year - 40,000 visitors • Entry Prices - $40 pax • Base rent - $10,000 per month, up to 20,000 pax • Income Share – 15% 20,000-30,000 pax, reducing to 10% at 30,000 + pax

This would see the following outcomes:

• Business revenue - $1,200,000 pa • Fixed Rent - $120,000 pa • Income Share - $100,000 pa • Annual Rent - $220,000 pa

Based on these scenarios, this would see a return to Council in the order of $175,000 to $220,000 pa from a single Adventure tourism operation.


Section Four: Conclusions



4.0 INTRODUCTION This Section outlines the project team’s findings and recommended next steps for council’s consideration.

4.1 TOURISM OPPORTUNITY APPRAISAL While the Master Plan identified a range of potential recreation and visitor experiences, the following experiences are considered to be commercially operational:

• Café / Restaurant

• Function/Meeting Space

• Adventure Play (kids)

• Summer Sledding

• Zip Line

• Tree Tops Walks / High Ropes

• Mountain Biking

• Water Activities

• Rock Climbing

• Abseiling

Drawing from the site assessment, demand potential, competitive landscape and investor interviews the Hornsby Quarry site is perfectly placed to attract Adventure Park investment – That is delivering a range of adventure sports tourism product and experiences across the year and to broad markets. The sites natural characteristics, proximity to population catchments and rail transport make this site highly appealing to the adventure investor. It is likely, at a later stage and subject to the successful establishment of the adventure sports tourism attraction that further value add investment in food & beverage, meetings/function, major events and accommodation suitable to the group/corporate travel market could also be added to the site. The successful establishment of adventure sports and other tourism activities on the site are likely to provide many local economic, social and environmental benefits. Economically the Quarry attraction and associated activities will enhance local economic development through increased visitation and spend, direct and indirect employment, brand value and the stimulation of further commercial investment in complementary tourism activities, services and supply chain. The local community will



benefit by enhanced facilities and lifestyle, the encouragement of participation in social and cultural activities and health benefits associated with physically active lifestyles. Environmental benefits include the protection of EEC’s, significant geological and landscapes and low impact development.



4.2 NEXT STEPS The consultant team recommend the following next steps:

• Ensure and confirm landform(s) that provides for a flexible future use of the site that includes a range of adventure sport tourism & recreation pursuits. This includes cavernous nature of quarry, over water options, exposed rock face and natural landscape setting.

• Investigate and protect the landscape setting of the Quarry and OMV. • Confirm site vision, Council objectives and parameters for the sites development. • Undertake feasibility study to identify:

o Most feasible site stabilisation and fill scenarios, o Identify a range of priority development components/options that are

responsive to the sites stabilisation and fill scenarios, vision and objectives. o the financial business case for priority development options, under each

stabilisation and fill scenario, identifying operational and capex costs, governance and management model, funding and financing, project delivery strategy,

o site concept masterplan, o Community benefits and implications across the whole of life

development. • Prepare an Expression of Interest package that seeks submissions for the

commercial use of the quarry for a range of adventure recreation pursuits (following confirmation of the landform of the site)

• Prepare and implement stakeholder communications strategy.


8.1 landfoRM deSiGn oPtion ReVieWas part of the Recreation Potential Study HSC prepared a series of early design Options. these precede the landform options included in the main body of the report. the following options were assessed in a similar way to the landform design Options:1. usable Open Space - type, total amount and accessible space that can be used

for recreation.

2. local community needs - open space for residential areas to the north and south of the site focusing on passive recreation (picnics, walking, bushwalking, play) and active recreation (informal ball games, outdoor exercise).

3. Regional attraction - facilities/activities within the site that could attract visitors from all over Sydney (and beyond). the approach should be to cater for a ‘day out’ with complimentary activities and services provided on site. the site should also be designed and promoted in such a way that it encourages repeat visitation.

4. Mix and range of recreation activities - cater for a wide range of groups. the 45Ha site could accommodate a range and mix of activities. However the range and mix should be complimentary and make the most of the unique location and characteristics of the site.

5. Specialised recreation potential - focusing on one particular recreation activity could exclude a large group of potential visitors. as with the mix and range of activities above, any specialised recreation activities should be chosen because of their appropriateness to the site. for instance adventure activities won’t be for everyone. However being able to watch others participating in them, take in site views, have lunch, go for a walk etc. will appeal to the average person/family.

6. Overall site experience - unique qualities (remoteness, wilderness, cultural heritage and quarry walls and structures) are retained and enhanced.

7. existing environment - endangered ecological Communities are retained, protected and enhanced where appropriate.

8. Potential financial gain - ability to generate income for Council and enhance the local economy.

As HSC continue to develop and refine landform design options these headings can be used to assess the options and determine the recreational value of each option.


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8.1 landfoRM deSiGn oPtion ReVieW

option 1: Quarry Void this option provides minimal intervention. the southern face of the quarry is largely unchanged. There is fill on the north side to enable adventure recreation opportunities. Overall, this option focuses on maximising adventure recreation opportunities in a natural setting.


Types of open space and potential activities• 5Ha - OMV (Oval/ Specialty Park) - active sports, one off events, play space• 3Ha - Quarry Parklands - adventure play, amphitheatre, bMx dirt jumps, boardwalks,

picnics, barbecues• 1Ha - Old Crusher Plant - rock climbing, abseiling, community facility• 1Ha - South western area - a new level space available for a wide range of recreation

pursuits.• 4Ha - northern/southern slopes - rock climbing, abseiling.• 14Ha - total usable spaceAccessibility:• Walking into and around the site will involve some steep inclines and declines. It

may not be possible to design disability discrimination act (dda) compliant paths throughout the site.

• the Oval and Specialty Park located within OMV are the most accessible spaces within the overall site i.e. they are situated at a reasonably level area above the quarry. both spaces could be accessed from Quarry Road or an upgraded Bridge Street fire trail to the north of the tafe building. for the purposes of open space for local community needs it may be sensible to focus on this area.

local community needs • local community passive open space needs would be met through the provision of adventure play, boardwalks, picnic and barbecue areas, kick-about spaces etc.

• the opening up of the site for public recreation would be a vast improvement on the current local provision of open space in the locality.

• However access into the site, especially the lower western side will need to be carefully considered to allow residents to walk or cycle to the site. In reality some local residents may choose to drive to the site.

• Local residents may also find that they are sharing ‘their local park’ with many ‘outsiders’ and some of the spaces may lack the intimacy of a smaller local park.

• Overall the introduction of new areas of usable open space for passive recreation activities would meet the needs of the local community. the introduction of an additional ?Ha would increase the amount of local parks in this part of Hornsby.

Regional attraction • the following facilities (assuming they are of a high standard and offer an unique experience, closely linked to the site’s unique characteristics) could attract visitors from all over Sydney (and possibly beyond): Zip line; High Ropes and tree top walk; lake; Retained mountain biking.

existing environment • loss of vegetation on northern side to create 1:3 slopes• eeC retained near OMV. However potential uses such as high ropes and tree top walk

could be a point of conflict


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• Retention of a lake provides a variety of activities that are largely not provided in the rest of the Shire (apart from river environments).

• the lake is the largest size of the four options and could potentially cater for a greater number of activities. However the exclusion zone may decrease the usable space.

• land based activities focus on adventure recreation and make best use of the 1:3 slope on the northern side. With access from bridge Road this area could be a focused adventure recreation zone with other parts of the site providing other activities. the level difference could be a natural device for separating the activities.

• Options for the Old Crusher Zone take advantage of an existing building and tall man made structures. the level area around the old building could be used for passive recreation activities allowing visitors to view the quarry without venturing too far from dural Street/Quarry Road. It could also be used for on site car parking.

overall site experience • The Quarry void would be filled to RL 70 retaining the top ‘bench’ of the diatreme. this option represents a middle ground (when compared to Option 2 and 3) where a significant amount of the verticality and depth of the quarry void would be lost

• the southern face of the quarry would remain relatively untouched adding to the story of the site and the unique setting.

• the introduction of a range of recreation activities on the northern face could be seen to be enhancing the overall experience, by opening up a section of unusable space for adventure activities. the retention of a lake on site also enhances the overall experience.

Potential financial gain • Managemental/lease arrangements associated with Zip line; High Ropes and tree top walk; lake (scuba diving, zorbing etc.); abseiling, Rock climbing, Cafe, nursery etc.

• Overnight stays, food outlets and adventure based retail could also benefit from some of the above uses for the site.



Key questions:1. Does this option provide sufficient usable open space to cater for the needs of the local community or do we need

additional open space?


2. are we able to accommodate a mix and range of activities or do we think that a specialised recreation approach is more suitable? does providing a specialised recreation approach for the quarry limits its potential?

– a mix and range of activities will need to have a focus, rather than a long wish list of unrelated activities. a specialised recreation use for this particular site does not necessarily exclude other users, for instance lookouts, viewing platforms, cafes, picnic areas overlooking the adventure activities/lake/summer sledding would allow visitors to watch the activities without having to participate .

– a specialised recreation approach needs to be linked to the quarry character and should not limit its potential. the topography and natural setting seem to lend themselves well to an adventure specialised park.

3. Is this type of provision sufficient to cater for the needs of the local community?

– Other passive uses such as picnic and barbecue areas, play spaces, walking trails should be provided alongside a specialised use. In this way the local community can utilise the site for their basic open space needs.

4. Does filling the hole to RL 70 reduce the overall experience of the site? Does leaving the southern face of the quarry untouched contribute substantially to the overall experience of the site?

– Filling the quarry hole to RL 70 would not necessarily reduce the overall experience of the site. The filling of the void reduces the unique characteristics and feel of wilderness and remoteness that is experienced in the quarry void.

– the lower parts of the southern face where the walls are made of exposed rock are more visually interesting than the upper parts which have been constructed using fill.




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option 2: terraced landscape

Option 2 retains the diatreme to a lower level and provides an opportunity for an amphitheatre to the west, with a series of terraced open spaces stepping down to the lake. It has a cascading waterscape stepping down to the lake in the base of the amphitheatre and a cut slope to the south to maximise usable open space. There is a fill slope to the north with trail and adventure opportunities.

usable open Space Types of open space and potential activities• 5Ha - OMV (Oval/ Specialty Park) - active sports, one off events, play space.• 4.5Ha - Quarry Parklands - adventure play, amphitheatre, mountain biking, picnic and

bbQ facilities.• 1 Ha - Old Crusher Plant - rock climbing, abseiling, community facility.• 4Ha - northern/southern slopes - boardwalks, picnics, barbecues, rock climbing,

abseiling• 1Ha - South western area - a new level space available for a wide range of recreation

pursuits.• 15.5Ha - total usable spaceAccessibility:as per option 1.

local community needs • Similar to Option 1• the introduction of an orchard and/or community garden could provide greater

connection/involvement for the local community.Regional attraction • the following facilities (assuming they are of a high standard and offer an unique

experience, closely related to the site’s unique characteristics) could attract visitors from all over Sydney (and possibly beyond): Zip line; High Ropes and tree top walk; Cascading waterscape; Retained mountain biking; event/performance space/amphitheatre

• additional facilities for this option including a cultural facility, bMx pump track, summer sledding could be more of a regional attraction than Option 1.

existing environment • loss of vegetation on northern side to create 1:3 slopes.• loss of Vegetation on southern side to create 1:1.2 cut slopes.• eeC retained near OMV. However potential uses such as high ropes and tree top walk

could be a point of conflictMix and range of recreation activities

• Retention of a small lake with cascading pools provides a variety of activities that are largely not provided in the rest of the Shire (apart from river environments). However the lake is the smallest of all three options and would most likely be an ornamental lake possibly with some swimming or paddling. the opportunity for adventure based recreation on the lake is limited.

• the 1:3 slope on the northern side and 1:1.2 cut slope on the southern side provide for a variety of adventure activities. this sets up two adventure zones with different experiences on either side of the quarry. this could lead to duplication of facilities.

• the 1:1.2 slope allows for man made abseiling and rock climbing structures to be constructed during the cut construction with a view to catering for all abilities and the creation of an outdoor training wall, linked with the crusher plant building.



RL 1

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overall site experience • The Quarry void would be filled to RL 55 retaining the diatreme in full. This is a significant part of the quarry character.

• However the existing rock walls on the southern side would be removed to allow for 1:2 cut slopes.

• the overall experience of the verticality of the quarry would be retained when standing at the lake and to a certain extent looking east within the lower quarry parklands.

• Option 2 has more recreation activities proposed and could create a series of conflicting objectives/uses which will need to be designed and managed carefully.

• Overall the combination of adventure and cultural activities may cater for a larger audience.

Potential financial gain • Managemental/lease arrangements associated with Zip line; High Ropes and tree top walk; abseiling, Rock climbing, Cultural facility, Viewing tower.


Key Questions 1. What activities can the additional usable open space accommodate that cannot be accommodated elsewhere on

the site?

– the additional open space could be used to provide a down hill zorbing track; bMx competition facility, large cultural events such as Christmas Carols, theatre acts etc.

2. How big an area do we actually need to accommodate these activities?

– A sizeable area will be required to allow enough space for the adventure activities. Overflow space for setting up events and other areas associated with management, future accommodation etc. will also be sizeable. exact sizes have not yet been determined (See appendix d).

3. How important is the cultural aspect? Are there substantial benefits in allowing for a large amphitheatre for cultural events?

– the cultural aspect of the site is very important. the history of quarrying, the families ties, the links to the development of Hornsby and the northern suburbs of Sydney are important stories associated with the site that should be told through interpretive devices as the site is developed.

– the re-use of the abandoned crushing plant is also an important part of the cultural aspect of the site. the adaptive re-use of the building and the site should retain industrial features.

– In terms of cultural activities the importance of these will most probably be developed over time as the site is opened up and locals and visitors start to use the site. The approach should be to create a flexible space in the lower quarry parklands that could be used as an amphitheatre, rather than constructing an amphitheatre that could exclude other uses in the future and when there are no events.

4. does retaining the entire diatreme up to Rl 55 contribute to the overall experience of the site?

– the diatreme contributes to the overall character and uniqueness of the site. It also adds to the drama of the site especially as a potential back drop for recreation activities and cultural events if the area near the lake was used as an amphitheatre.

– the combination of the retention of the diatreme and the cut of the southern wall in order to stabilise is harder to assess. the removal or cutting into of either of the features results in the overall loss of the quarry character.

– In terms of the overall site experience there are no recreation activities proposed on the diatreme.



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option 3: Sunken Parkland

this option explores opportunities to create parkland in the quarry by creating a sunken landscape that sits well below OMV and provides a generous space for a lake and parkland. This option requires filling to RL 90.

usable open Space Types of open space and potential activities• 5Ha - OMV (Oval/ Specialty Park) - active sports, one off events, play space• 4.5Ha - Quarry Parklands - picnic, barbecue, mountain biking• 1Ha - Old Crusher Plant - recreation/cultural focus• 1Ha - South western area - a new level space available for a wide range of recreation

pursuits.• 6Ha - northern/southern slopes - rock climbing, abseiling.• 17.5Ha - total usable spaceAccessibility:• as per option 1. • additional internal site roads allow access to the south western corner (instead of the

north western corner in Option 1 and 2).local community needs • Similar to Option 1

Regional attraction • It is assumed the following activities could be allowed for in this option - Zip line; High Ropes and tree top walk; Swimming, kayaking, Scuba diving, summer sledding; retained mountain biking.

existing environment • loss of vegetation on northern side to create 1:3 slopes.• loss of vegetation on southern side to create 1:1.2 cut slopes.• eeC retained near OMV. However potential uses such as high ropes and tree top walk

could be a point of conflictMix and range of recreation activities

• Retention of a large lake provides a range of water based activities that could extend to kyaking, canoeing, scuba diving, swimming etc.

• The 1:3 fill on the northern side and 1:1.2 cut on the southern side provide for a variety of adventure activities. this sets up two adventure zones with different experiences on either side of the quarry. this could lead to duplication of facilities. the southern side could focus on abseiling and rock climbing and the northern side could focus on high ropes and tree top walk.

• the sunken parkland provides a large open space in the middle of the site. this could be used for a variety of passive recreation activities.

overall site experience • the overall site experience is somewhat depleted due to the loss of the quarry walls and verticality of the site.

• the bushland setting and connection to the valley is retained. Potential financial gain • Managemental/lease arrangements associated with Zip line; High Ropes and tree top

walk; abseiling, Rock climbing, Cultural facility, Viewing tower. • Overnight stays, food outlets and adventure based retail could also benefit from some

of the above uses for the site.



WL

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RL 1

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10

RL 1

30

RL 1

00

WL

88

VEHICULAR BRIDGE

ROADWAY

QUARRY RIM

QUARRY RIM

QU

ARR

Y LA

ND

SO

LD M

AN

’S V

ALL

EY

USE

ABL

E O

PEN

SPA

CE

1:3

ACCE

SSIB

LE R

EVEG

ETAT

ED S

TEEP

SLO

PE

EEC

COM

MU

NIT

Y - B

LUEG

UM

DIA

TREM

E FO

REST

EXIS

TIN

G B

LACK

BUTT

GU

LLY

FORE

ST

SPO

RTSF

IELD

/ VIL

LAG

E G

REEN

LAKE

EXIS

TIN

G Q

UA

RRY

FACE

/ FIL

L A

REA

TO

BE

RETA

INED

1:1.

2 EX

POSE

D R

OCK

WA

LL (E

XCLU

SIO

N Z

ON

E)

OLD

CRU

SHER

PLA

NT

ZON

E

FILL

VO

LUM

E

CUT

VOLU

ME

DIA

TREM

E

FEN

CED

OFF

30m

EXC

LUSI

ON

ZO

NE

ROADWAY

ROADWAY

TRAIL

QUARRY RIM

RETAINING WALL

QUARRY RIM

QU

ARR

Y LA

ND

S WL

90

RL 1

28

RL 1

60

RL 1

30

RL 1

02

RL 1

15

RL 1

50

RL 9

0W

L 90

RL 1

10

RL 1

30

RL 1

00

WL

88

VEHICULAR BRIDGE

ROADWAY

QUARRY RIM

QUARRY RIM

QU

ARR

Y LA

ND

SO

LD M

AN

’S V

ALL

EY

USE

ABL

E O

PEN

SPA

CE

1:3

ACCE

SSIB

LE R

EVEG

ETAT

ED S

TEEP

SLO

PE

EEC

COM

MU

NIT

Y - B

LUEG

UM

DIA

TREM

E FO

REST

EXIS

TIN

G B

LACK

BUTT

GU

LLY

FORE

ST

SPO

RTSF

IELD

/ VIL

LAG

E G

REEN

LAKE

EXIS

TIN

G Q

UA

RRY

FACE

/ FIL

L A

REA

TO

BE

RETA

INED

1:1.

2 EX

POSE

D R

OCK

WA

LL (E

XCLU

SIO

N Z

ON

E)

OLD

CRU

SHER

PLA

NT

ZON

E

FILL

VO

LUM

E

CUT

VOLU

ME

DIA

TREM

E

FEN

CED

OFF

30m

EXC

LUSI

ON

ZO

NE

ROADWAY

ROADWAY

TRAIL

QUARRY RIM

RETAINING WALL

QUARRY RIM

QU

ARR

Y LA

ND

S

OPT

ION

3 -

SUN

KEN

PA

RKLA

ND

PAR

KS

AN

D R

EC

RE

ATIO

N B

RA

NC

H

N

ov 2

013

USE

ABL

E O

PEN

SPA

CE

1:3

ACCE

SSIB

LE R

EVEG

ETAT

ED S

TEEP

SLO

PE (F

ILL)

EEC

COM

MU

NIT

Y - B

LUEG

UM

DIA

TREM

E FO

REST

EXIS

TIN

G B

LACK

BUTT

GU

LLY

FORE

ST

SPO

RTSF

IELD

/ VIL

LAG

E G

REEN

LAKE

EXIS

TIN

G Q

UA

RRY

FACE

TO

BE

RETA

INED

1:1.

2 EX

POSE

D R

OCK

WA

LL (E

XCLU

SIO

N Z

ON

E)

OLD

CRU

SHER

PLA

NT

ZON

E

FILL

VO

LUM

E

CUT

VOLU

ME

DIA

TREM

E

FEN

CED

OFF

30m

EXC

LUSI

ON

ZO

NE

1:1.

2 EX

POSE

D R

OCK

WA

LL (E

XCLU

SIO

N Z

ON

E)

USE

ABL

E O

PEN

SPA

CE

1:3

ACCE

SSIB

LE R

EVEG

ETAT

ED S

TEEP

SLO

PE (F

ILL)

EEC

COM

MU

NIT

Y - B

LUEG

UM

DIA

TREM

E FO

REST

EXIS

TIN

G B

LACK

BUTT

GU

LLY

FORE

ST

SPO

RTSF

IELD

/ VIL

LAG

E G

REEN

LAKE

EXIS

TIN

G Q

UA

RRY

FACE

TO

BE

RETA

INED

1:1.

2 EX

POSE

D R

OCK

WA

LL (E

XCLU

SIO

N Z

ON

E)

OLD

CRU

SHER

PLA

NT

ZON

E

FILL

VO

LUM

E

CUT

VOLU

ME

DIA

TREM

E

FEN

CED

OFF

30m

EXC

LUSI

ON

ZO

NE

1:1.

2 EX

POSE

D R

OCK

WA

LL (E

XCLU

SIO

N Z

ON

E)

USE

ABL

E O

PEN

SPA

CE

1:3

ACCE

SSIB

LE R

EVEG

ETAT

ED S

TEEP

SLO

PE (F

ILL)

1:1.

2 EX

POSE

D R

OCK

WA

LL (C

UT)

EEC

COM

MU

NIT

Y - B

LUEG

UM

DIA

TREM

E FO

REST

EXIS

TIN

G B

LACK

BUTT

GU

LLY

FORE

ST

LAKE

EXIS

TIN

G F

ILL

ARE

A T

O B

E RE

TAIN

ED

OLD

CRU

SHER

PLA

NT

ZON

E

DIA

TREM

E

SEC

TIO

N -

NO

RTH

- SO

UTH

SEC

TIO

N -

EAST

- W

EST

Key Questions

1. Does the filling up to RL 90 devalue the overall experience of the site?

– This will depend on the recreation activities that are proposed within the site and if the benefit of the sunken gardens outweighs the retention of quarry features.

– The quarry character is nearly completely lost (except for the old crusher plant) with the filling of the void to the ‘rim ‘. the diatreme and northern and southern walls would be covered up.

– the changes in level become less dramatic and the verticality of the site is lost, reducing the appeal for adventure based recreation.

2. Does the cost of undertaking stabilisation works to the southern cut side justify the benefits of the additional space provided?

– The benefit of the additional open space is that overall, when compared to the other options, the amount of ‘level’ open space is the largest for this option by allowing sports activities to occur in the western side of the site. However this is possibly not the best use of the site in terms of the unique location, potential impact on environmental values and infrastructure required to provide sports facilities on the western side of the site. Running a road through this point will be expensive and may provide only limited value as a space for vehicle parking.

– On the other hand if another type of open space or recreation activity that could generate an income for Council could be located on the western side, over time this may justify the cost of the stabilisation works.



USE

ABL

E O

PEN

SPA

CE

1:3

ACCE

SSIB

LE R

EVEG

ETAT

ED S

TEEP

SLO

PE (F

ILL)

EEC

COM

MU

NIT

Y - B

LUEG

UM

DIA

TREM

E FO

REST

EXIS

TIN

G B

LACK

BUTT

GU

LLY

FORE

ST

SPO

RTSF

IELD

/ VIL

LAG

E G

REEN

LAKE

EXIS

TIN

G Q

UA

RRY

FACE

TO

BE

RETA

INED

1:1.

2 EX

POSE

D R

OCK

WA

LL (E

XCLU

SIO

N Z

ON

E)

OLD

CRU

SHER

PLA

NT

ZON

E

FILL

VO

LUM

E

CUT

VOLU

ME

DIA

TREM

E

FEN

CED

OFF

30m

EXC

LUSI

ON

ZO

NE

SECT

ION

- EA

ST -

WES

T


OPT

ION

4 -

NO

EXT

ERN

AL

FILL

USE

ABL

E O

PEN

SPA

CE

1:3

ACCE

SSIB

LE R

EVEG

ETAT

ED S

TEEP

SLO

PE (F

ILL)

EEC

COM

MU

NIT

Y - B

LUEG

UM

DIA

TREM

E FO

REST

EXIS

TIN

G B

LACK

BUTT

GU

LLY

FORE

ST

SPO

RTSF

IELD

/ VIL

LAG

E G

REEN

LAKE

EXIS

TIN

G Q

UA

RRY

FACE

TO

BE

RETA

INED

1:1.

2 EX

POSE

D R

OCK

WA

LL (E

XCLU

SIO

N Z

ON

E)

OLD

CRU

SHER

PLA

NT

ZON

E

FILL

VO

LUM

E

CUT

VOLU

ME

DIA

TREM

E

FEN

CED

OFF

30m

EXC

LUSI

ON

ZO

NE

1:1.

2 EX

POSE

D R

OCK

WA

LL (E

XCLU

SIO

N Z

ON

E)

USE

ABL

E O

PEN

SPA

CE

1:3

ACCE

SSIB

LE R

EVEG

ETAT

ED S

TEEP

SLO

PE (F

ILL)

EEC

COM

MU

NIT

Y - B

LUEG

UM

DIA

TREM

E FO

REST

EXIS

TIN

G B

LACK

BUTT

GU

LLY

FORE

ST

SPO

RTSF

IELD

/ VIL

LAG

E G

REEN

LAKE

EXIS

TIN

G Q

UA

RRY

FACE

TO

BE

RETA

INED

1:1.

2 EX

POSE

D R

OCK

WA

LL (E

XCLU

SIO

N Z

ON

E)

OLD

CRU

SHER

PLA

NT

ZON

E

FILL

VO

LUM

E

CUT

VOLU

ME

DIA

TREM

E

FEN

CED

OFF

30m

EXC

LUSI

ON

ZO

NE

1:1.

2 EX

POSE

D R

OCK

WA

LL (E

XCLU

SIO

N Z

ON

E)

USE

ABL

E O

PEN

SPA

CE

1:3

ACCE

SSIB

LE R

EVEG

ETAT

ED S

TEEP

SLO

PE (F

ILL)

EEC

COM

MU

NIT

Y - B

LUEG

UM

DIA

TREM

E FO

REST

EXIS

TIN

G B

LACK

BUTT

GU

LLY

FORE

ST

SPO

RTSF

IELD

/ VIL

LAG

E G

REEN

LAKE

EXIS

TIN

G Q

UA

RRY

FACE

TO

BE

RETA

INED

1:1.

2 EX

POSE

D R

OCK

WA

LL (E

XCLU

SIO

N Z

ON

E)

OLD

CRU

SHER

PLA

NT

ZON

E

FILL

VO

LUM

E

CUT

VOLU

ME

DIA

TREM

E

FEN

CED

OFF

30m

EXC

LUSI

ON

ZO

NE

1:1.

2 EX

POSE

D R

OCK

WA

LL (E

XCLU

SIO

N Z

ON

E)

USE

ABL

E O

PEN

SPA

CE

1:3

ACCE

SSIB

LE R

EVEG

ETAT

ED S

TEEP

SLO

PE (F

ILL)

EEC

COM

MU

NIT

Y - B

LUEG

UM

DIA

TREM

E FO

REST

EXIS

TIN

G B

LACK

BUTT

GU

LLY

FORE

ST

SPO

RTSF

IELD

/ VIL

LAG

E G

REEN

LAKE

EXIS

TIN

G Q

UA

RRY

FACE

TO

BE

RETA

INED

1:1.

2 EX

POSE

D R

OCK

WA

LL (E

XCLU

SIO

N Z

ON

E)

OLD

CRU

SHER

PLA

NT

ZON

E

FILL

VO

LUM

E

CUT

VOLU

ME

DIA

TREM

E

FEN

CED

OFF

30m

EXC

LUSI

ON

ZO

NE

1:1.

2 EX

POSE

D R

OCK

WA

LL (E

XCLU

SIO

N Z

ON

E)

USE

ABL

E O

PEN

SPA

CE

1:1.

2 EX

POSE

D R

OCK

WA

LL (C

UT)

EEC

COM

MU

NIT

Y - B

LUEG

UM

DIA

TREM

E FO

REST

EXIS

TIN

G B

LACK

BUTT

GU

LLY

FORE

ST

LAKE

EXIS

TIN

G Q

UA

RRY

ARE

A T

O B

E RE

TAIN

ED

OLD

CRU

SHER

PLA

NT

ZON

E

DIA

TREM

E

USE

ABL

E O

PEN

SPA

CE

1:3

ACCE

SSIB

LE R

EVEG

ETAT

ED S

TEEP

SLO

PE (F

ILL)

EEC

COM

MU

NIT

Y - B

LUEG

UM

DIA

TREM

E FO

REST

EXIS

TIN

G B

LACK

BUTT

GU

LLY

FORE

ST

SPO

RTSF

IELD

/ VIL

LAG

E G

REEN

LAKE

EXIS

TIN

G Q

UA

RRY

FACE

TO

BE

RETA

INED

1:1.

2 EX

POSE

D R

OCK

WA

LL (E

XCLU

SIO

N Z

ON

E)

OLD

CRU

SHER

PLA

NT

ZON

E

FILL

VO

LUM

E

CUT

VOLU

ME

DIA

TREM

E

FEN

CED

OFF

30m

EXC

LUSI

ON

ZO

NE

1:1.

2 EX

POSE

D R

OCK

WA

LL (E

XCLU

SIO

N Z

ON

E)

PAR

KS

AN

D R

EC

RE

ATIO

N B

RA

NC

H

N

ov 2

013


Option 4:No external fill this option explores the opportunity of creating a unique public space without relying on fill from external sources. Creation of parkland is limited. However the dramatic landscape and ‘quarriness’ is retained.

usable open Space Types of open space and potential activities• 5Ha - OMV (Oval/ Specialty Park) - active sports, one off events, play space• 0Ha - Quarry Parklands • 1Ha - Old Crusher Plant - recreation/cultural focus• 1Ha - South western area - a new level space available for a wide range of recreation

pursuits.• 0Ha - northern/southern slopes• 7Ha - total usable spaceAccessibility:• limited access to the lake. Public access roads would not be needed to the bottom of

the quarry (maintenance access would need to be maintained)

local community needs • local community passive open space needs would be met through the provision of the oval and specialty park with the possibility of creating adventure play, picnic and barbecue areas, kick-about spaces etc. in Old Mans Valley.

• the opening up of the site for public recreation would be a vast improvement on the current arrangements where access to the quarry is restricted.

• the retention of the quarry structure/void and expansion of the lake reduces the amount of useable space but does retain a unique landscape, nearly in its entirety that could become a visitor attraction.

• Local residents may also find that they are sharing ‘their local park’ with many ‘outsiders’ and some of the spaces may lack the intimacy of a smaller local park.

Regional attraction • It is assumed the following activities could be allowed for in this option - Zip line; High Ropes and tree top walk; retained mountain biking.

existing environment • loss of vegetation on northern side to create 1:1.2 slopes.• loss of vegetation on southern side to create 1:1.2 cut slopes.• eeC retained near OMV. However potential uses such as high ropes and tree top walk

could be a point of conflict• Reduction in broader environmental issues of transporting fill from elsewhere• Water resource and potential for irrigation and fire fighting uses


• Retention of a large lake (largest of the four options) provides the opportunity for a range of water based activities. However the plan does not show any useable open space adjacent to the lake, suggesting it will have limited access to the water via a ramp or stairs.

• the 1:1.2 cut slopes on the southern and northern side provide for a variety of adventure activities. this sets up two adventure zones with different experiences on either side of the quarry. this could lead to duplication of facilities. the southern side could focus on abseiling and rock climbing and the northern side could focus on high ropes and tree top walk.

overall site experience • the overall site experience is heightened in comparison to some of the other options due to the retention of the quarry walls and verticality of the site.

• the bushland setting and connection to the valley is retained.



SEC

TIO

N -

NO

RTH

- SO

UTH

RL 8

8

RL 5

8

RL 7

0

RL 1

06

RL 1

30

RL 1

00

WL

55

ROADWAY

RAMP

RAMP

ROADWAY

ROADWAY

QUARRY RIM

QUARRY RIM

QU

ARR

Y LA

ND

SO

LD M

AN

’S V

ALL

EY

RL 4

5

SEC

TIO

N -

EAST

- W

EST

OPT

ION

4 -

NO

EXT

ERN

AL

FILL

PAR

KS

AN

D R

EC

RE

ATIO

N B

RA

NC

H

N

ov 2

013

ROADWAY

ROADWAY

QUARRY RIM

QUARRY RIM

RL 1

28

RL 1

60

RL 1

50

RL 1

18

WL

55

QU

ARR

Y LA

ND

S

RETAINING WALL

RETAINING WALL

RL 4

5

RL 9

0

USE

ABL

E O

PEN

SPA

CE

1:3

ACCE

SSIB

LE R

EVEG

ETAT

ED S

TEEP

SLO

PE (F

ILL)

EEC

COM

MU

NIT

Y - B

LUEG

UM

DIA

TREM

E FO

REST

EXIS

TIN

G B

LACK

BUTT

GU

LLY

FORE

ST

SPO

RTSF

IELD

/ VIL

LAG

E G

REEN

LAKE

EXIS

TIN

G Q

UA

RRY

FACE

TO

BE

RETA

INED

1:1.

2 EX

POSE

D R

OCK

WA

LL (E

XCLU

SIO

N Z

ON

E)

OLD

CRU

SHER

PLA

NT

ZON

E

FILL

VO

LUM

E

CUT

VOLU

ME

DIA

TREM

E

FEN

CED

OFF

30m

EXC

LUSI

ON

ZO

NE

1:1.

2 EX

POSE

D R

OCK

WA

LL (E

XCLU

SIO

N Z

ON

E)

USE

ABL

E O

PEN

SPA

CE

1:3

ACCE

SSIB

LE R

EVEG

ETAT

ED S

TEEP

SLO

PE (F

ILL)

EEC

COM

MU

NIT

Y - B

LUEG

UM

DIA

TREM

E FO

REST

EXIS

TIN

G B

LACK

BUTT

GU

LLY

FORE

ST

SPO

RTSF

IELD

/ VIL

LAG

E G

REEN

LAKE

EXIS

TIN

G Q

UA

RRY

FACE

TO

BE

RETA

INED

1:1.

2 EX

POSE

D R

OCK

WA

LL (E

XCLU

SIO

N Z

ON

E)

OLD

CRU

SHER

PLA

NT

ZON

E

FILL

VO

LUM

E

CUT

VOLU

ME

DIA

TREM

E

FEN

CED

OFF

30m

EXC

LUSI

ON

ZO

NE

1:1.

2 EX

POSE

D R

OCK

WA

LL (E

XCLU

SIO

N Z

ON

E)

USE

ABL

E O

PEN

SPA

CE

1:3

ACCE

SSIB

LE R

EVEG

ETAT

ED S

TEEP

SLO

PE (F

ILL)

EEC

COM

MU

NIT

Y - B

LUEG

UM

DIA

TREM

E FO

REST

EXIS

TIN

G B

LACK

BUTT

GU

LLY

FORE

ST

SPO

RTSF

IELD

/ VIL

LAG

E G

REEN

LAKE

EXIS

TIN

G Q

UA

RRY

FACE

TO

BE

RETA

INED

1:1.

2 EX

POSE

D R

OCK

WA

LL (E

XCLU

SIO

N Z

ON

E)

OLD

CRU

SHER

PLA

NT

ZON

E

FILL

VO

LUM

E

CUT

VOLU

ME

DIA

TREM

E

FEN

CED

OFF

30m

EXC

LUSI

ON

ZO

NE

1:1.

2 EX

POSE

D R

OCK

WA

LL (E

XCLU

SIO

N Z

ON

E)

USE

ABL

E O

PEN

SPA

CE

1:3

ACCE

SSIB

LE R

EVEG

ETAT

ED S

TEEP

SLO

PE (F

ILL)

EEC

COM

MU

NIT

Y - B

LUEG

UM

DIA

TREM

E FO

REST

EXIS

TIN

G B

LACK

BUTT

GU

LLY

FORE

ST

SPO

RTSF

IELD

/ VIL

LAG

E G

REEN

LAKE

EXIS

TIN

G Q

UA

RRY

FACE

TO

BE

RETA

INED

1:1.

2 EX

POSE

D R

OCK

WA

LL (E

XCLU

SIO

N Z

ON

E)

OLD

CRU

SHER

PLA

NT

ZON

E

FILL

VO

LUM

E

CUT

VOLU

ME

DIA

TREM

E

FEN

CED

OFF

30m

EXC

LUSI

ON

ZO

NE

1:1.

2 EX

POSE

D R

OCK

WA

LL (E

XCLU

SIO

N Z

ON

E)

USE

ABL

E O

PEN

SPA

CE

1:1.

2 EX

POSE

D R

OCK

WA

LL (C

UT)

EEC

COM

MU

NIT

Y - B

LUEG

UM

DIA

TREM

E FO

REST

EXIS

TIN

G B

LACK

BUTT

GU

LLY

FORE

ST

LAKE

EXIS

TIN

G Q

UA

RRY

ARE

A T

O B

E RE

TAIN

ED

OLD

CRU

SHER

PLA

NT

ZON

E

DIA

TREM

E

USE

ABL

E O

PEN

SPA

CE

1:3

ACCE

SSIB

LE R

EVEG

ETAT

ED S

TEEP

SLO

PE (F

ILL)

EEC

COM

MU

NIT

Y - B

LUEG

UM

DIA

TREM

E FO

REST

EXIS

TIN

G B

LACK

BUTT

GU

LLY

FORE

ST

SPO

RTSF

IELD

/ VIL

LAG

E G

REEN

LAKE

EXIS

TIN

G Q

UA

RRY

FACE

TO

BE

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Potential financial gain • Managemental/lease arrangements associated with Zip line; High Ropes and tree top walk; abseiling, Rock climbing, Cultural facility, Viewing tower.


Key Questions 1. does retaining the entire diatreme to Rl 55, the creation of a larger lake and the southern and western slopes

contribute to the overall experience of the site?

– the diatreme contributes to the overall character and uniqueness of the site. It also adds to the drama of the site.

– the creation of the larger lake could add to the visual experience but with limited public access to the water it will have restricted recreation potential. access to the waters edge will still need to be provided.

– the existing void (i.e. eastern, southern and northern slopes/walls) would be retained, even though it would be altered to improve public safety. It could be expected that this option will retain key elements of the ‘quariness’ of the site.




Southern quarry wall

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HoRnSby SHiRe council teaM Peter kemp – Manager, Parks and Recreationkurt Henkel - landscape Coordinator dana Spence - Parks assets Coordinatortamara Obradovic - landscape architect/Project Managerdavid de-fina (dd) - landscape architect/Project Manager Rob Rajca (RR) - Manager design and ConstructionCraig Clendinning (CC) - Project Co-ordinator design

conSultant teaMthe Recreation Potential Study has been prepared by Crosbie lorimer - directorCassandra denney - associate

of

clouSton associatesLandscape Architects • Urban Designers • Landscape PlannersLevel 2, 17 Bridge Street • Sydney NSW 2000PO Box R1388 • Royal Exchange NSW 1225 • AustraliaTelephone (02) 8272 4999 • Facsimile (02) 8272 4998Email • [email protected] • www.clouston.com.au

PROJeCt teaM

RecReation Potential Study foR HoRnSby QuaRRy and old ...

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