Preserving the Shrimptons Creek Corridor: Balancing Urban

Development and Environmental Conservation

Opening Address:

To the esteemed members of the Sustainability Working Group,

As a concerned member of this vibrant community, this report seeks to draw your
attention to critical environmental matters that affect the beloved Shrimptons Creek
corridor. It is my fervent hope that the findings and recommendations presented
herein will be taken into earnest consideration during your upcoming meeting. The
Shrimptons Creek corridor stands as a vital artery within the urban landscape,
connecting the different periods of the city. Its significance as a green corridor cannot
be understated, for it not only harbors a unique ecosystem but also serves as a
precious asset for the welfare of the community and the broader region. This natural
haven is, however, under siege from the forces of urban development.

In the following pages, this report will delve into the complexities surrounding this
invaluable corridor, highlighting the pressing issues intertwined with urbanization
based on the virtual field visit, hoping that the knowledge and recommendations
presented will empower you, esteemed members, to make informed decisions that
prioritize the protection and preservation of this irreplaceable asset.

Introduction:

To the esteemed members of the Sustainability Working Group, this report aims to
shed light on the significance of the Shrimptons Creek corridor, situated between
Epping Road and Waterloo Road (Week 7 Practical: VIRTUAL Field visit to the
Shrimptons Creek Corridor, n.d., p.3). Located in the heart of the bustling urban
landscape, this green corridor stands as a testament to nature's resilience amid the
pressures of urban development. Its relevance cannot be overstated, serving as a
haven for both biodiversity and the community's development.

The Shrimptons Creek corridor weaves through a dynamic landscape, carving a

serene path amidst the concrete jungle. At the entrance on Waterloo Road, the creek
journeys beneath the bustling thoroughfares through a stormwater culvert. Along its
course, the corridor provides a glimpse of green amidst the growing urban sprawl.
Lined with native casuarina trees, it attempts to hold firm against the encroaching
presence of weeds, remnants of garden plants from upstream that have found their
way down the stormwater network. This corridor is flanked closely by apartments on
Cottonwood Crescent and bears witness to ongoing disruptions from developments
like Natura on the opposite bank. The riparian zone, while precious, remains narrow
in this segment, a poignant reminder of the need for its safeguarding.

The Shrimptons Creek corridor is more than just a natural refuge. It is a vital artery of
life, a green corridor that knits together remnant patches of vegetation and offering
solace to the community. Its importance transcends mere aesthetics; it's a living entity
contributing to the ecological balance of the city. This report delves into the
inescapable truth that as urbanization advances, this beloved green corridor is under
increasing duress (Niu et al., 2022, p. 804). As construction cranes and new
developments loom, there is need to address critical issues (Ofori, 2000, pp. 15-17)
and stream health, the scourge of invasive weeds, pollution, litter, and flooding,
erosion, and the loss of mature trees are matters that demand the immediate attention
(Lal and Stewart, 2012)

Figure1: Location of Shrimptons Creek, Macquarie Park (Week 7 Practical:

VIRTUAL Field visit to the Shrimptons Creek Corridor, n.d., p.2)

Current Issues:

The Shrimptons Creek corridor, a once-pristine oasis, now faces a multitude of

challenges as a result of the ever-expanding urban development. These issues,
intricately linked to the relentless growth of the city, threaten the ecological and
recreational values of the corridor (Holden, 2016). The first is weed proliferation as
the native casuarina trees forming a canopy along the creek provide a semblance of
the natural habitat. However, a closer look reveals the understory's domination by
weeds. The creek's increased flow and nutrients, largely stemming from urbanization,
have created an ideal environment for these invasive species to thrive. Many of these
weeds are garden plants, originally cultivated in the upstream gardens. Stormwater
networks have unwittingly transported their seeds downstream, where they
outcompete native vegetation. Another current issue is habitat degradation, whereby,
despite some commendable bush regeneration efforts, the battle against these
pervasive weeds remains an uphill struggle. The riparian zone, where the creek meets
the urban landscape, appears incredibly narrow. Apartments on Cottonwood Crescent
loom closely, and the ongoing Natura construction project on the opposite bank
further encroaches upon this fragile ecosystem. The delicate balance between
maintaining the social fabric of the community and preserving the environmental
values of the corridor hangs in the balance.

Safety hazards are not left out as the riparian corridor features aging trees, a product
of a bygone era (Jim, 2005, pp. 371-385). While these aged sentinels provide critical
habitat for various species, they are vulnerable to storm-induced falls, posing safety
risks to the public (Mitchell, 2013, pp. 147-157). This is a critical concern for the
integrity of the green corridor and the well-being of the community it serves.
Furthermore, it is pertinent to note urbanization and high-density housing as
cottonwood Crescent, once home to 1970's-style apartments, now bears witness to a
juxtaposition of the old and the new. The construction of Viciniti Apartments at 2-10
Cottonwood Crescent represents the shift from low to high-density housing. The site's
development is emblematic of broader local planning policies, including land zoning,
minimum lot size, floor space ratios, and building heights. These policies are
reshaping the landscape, altering the area's character, and raising questions about the
implications of such transformations.

The last but not the least current issue is the stormwater quality and water quality. The
urban footprint extends its influence to the quality of the water in Shrimptons Creek.
Stormwater laden with pollutants, litter, and rubbish poses an ongoing threat. The
proliferation of Stormwater Quality Improvement Devices (SQIDs) is an attempt to
mitigate these effects. However, despite these efforts, water quality remains poor.
High levels of nutrients and faecal coliforms, coupled with low dissolved oxygen,
demonstrate the adverse impacts of urbanization on the creek's health.

Issues Related to New Development:

The intensification of development within the Shrimptons Creek corridor area brings
forth a set of concerns that stand at the crossroads of environmental preservation and
urban growth. While it is recognized that development is a critical aspect of progress,
the following concerns merit close examination. One of the primary concerns related
to urbanization is the health of Shrimptons Creek. As development intensifies, the
native vegetation becomes besieged by the relentless expansion of urban structures.
The impact of this urbanization is felt keenly within the creek. The proliferation of
weeds and invasive species is a direct result of increased nutrient loads from urban
runoff. (Howard and Harley, 1997, pp. 215-225). As more stormwater drains into the
creek, the ideal conditions for these invasive species are exacerbated. This, in turn,
leads to the domination of these species, outcompeting native flora. The Local
Environmental Plan (LEP) and Development Control Plan (DCP) should be the
backbone of sustainable development in the area. However, effective enforcement and
adherence to these policies are pivotal.

The development, both old and new, poses a significant threat to the mature trees
within the corridor. These trees provide vital habitat for various species. As storm
events become more unpredictable, the risk of tree falls increases, posing a substantial
public safety concern. While some measures have been taken to ensure public safety,
such as tree removal in critical areas, the loss of these majestic trees remains a
poignant concern for the long-term ecological and aesthetic health of the corridor. The
relevant policy reference is that core planning strategies that aim to preserve green
spaces, like GreenLinks and the Urban Forest Strategy, stress the importance of
mature trees within urban landscapes. However, these policies require a practical
implementation plan.

The riparian corridor, with its intricate balance between nature and urbanization,
represents a delicate dance. The construction of high-density housing along
Cottonwood Crescent and neighboring areas poses a threat to the integrity of the
riparian zone. The Creek's vulnerability becomes evident, especially when confronted
with large-scale construction projects like Natura. The need to create a buffer zone, as
outlined in the Development Control Plan, is challenged by the relentless expansion
of the built environment. As regards the relevant policy reference, the Development
Control Plan, which outlines the riparian protection zones, represents a fundamental
document and it is only as effective as its enforcement. Lastly, the escalation of
development invariably leads to increased impervious surfaces. Stormwater
management becomes increasingly challenging as urbanization advances. The
Stormwater Quality Improvement Devices (SQIDs) play a pivotal role in trapping
pollutants and preventing their entry into Shrimptons Creek. Nevertheless, the
persistence of poor water quality remains an imminent threat. An integrated approach
to urban planning and stormwater management is paramount in ensuring the corridor's
longevity. The LEP and DCP should guide developers in stormwater management. It
is essential to ensure that these documents are up-to-date and that their
recommendations are followed to minimize the impact of urbanization on water
quality.

Recommendations:

These recommendations reflect a proactive approach to mitigate the pressing concerns

associated with urban development in the Shrimptons Creek corridor. Council and
Developers should collaborate on comprehensive native vegetation restoration
programs. This involves the removal of invasive weeds and the replanting of native
species to rejuvenate the riparian corridor. Also, robust maintenance schedules should
be established to ensure the long-term health of the newly planted vegetation
(Lichtenthaler, 1996, pp.4-14.) Developers should also adhere to the riparian
protection zones outlined in the Development Control Plan. This entails creating and
maintaining buffer areas between new constructions and the riparian corridor.
Furthermore, council should enforce these buffer zones to preserve the integrity of the
green corridor.

Developers must integrate effective stormwater management systems in new

developments. These systems should aim to reduce the pollution load entering
Shrimptons Creek. Council should also invest in the maintenance of Stormwater
Quality Improvement Devices (SQIDs) to ensure their effectiveness as regular
inspections and cleaning schedules are vital. Furthermore, Developers and Council
should work together to create strategies for protecting mature trees along the
corridor. This may include installing tree retention zones within new developments.
Adequate public safety measures should be in place, including tree risk assessments
and regular maintenance to reduce the risk of tree falls (Pokorny, 2003).

Council, in conjunction with Developers, should foster a more integrated approach to

urban planning. This involves considering the broader ecological context and ensuring
that development is harmonious with the environment. Council should establish a
robust monitoring and reporting system to track the health of Shrimptons Creek.
Developers should therefore aim for urban designs that incorporate green spaces,
permeable surfaces, and sustainable landscaping. Public engagement and education
can also be encouraged.

Conclusion:

The Shrimptons Creek corridor stands as a testament to the intricate relationship

between urban development and the environment. This report highlights the urgent
need to address critical issues such as weed proliferation, habitat degradation, safety
hazards, and water quality concerns resulting from development.
By recognizing these challenges and adopting a collaborative approach, the Council
and Developers can lead the charge in preserving this precious green corridor. The
recommendations outlined here offer a pragmatic pathway forward, emphasizing the
importance of responsible urban planning, public engagement, and integrated
strategies. Together, it is possible to ensure that Shrimptons Creek remains a vibrant,
flourishing, and integral part of the community's heritage, harmonizing urban growth
and environmental preservation.

References

Holden, A., 2016. Environment and tourism. Routledge

Howard, G.W. and Harley, K.L.S., 1997. How do floating aquatic weeds affect
wetland conservation and development? How can these effects be minimised?.
Wetlands Ecology and Management, 5, pp.215-225.

Jim, C.Y., 2005. Outstanding remnants of nature in compact cities: patterns and
preservation of heritage trees in Guangzhou city (China). Geoforum, 36(3),
pp.371-385.

Lal, R. and Stewart, B.A., 2012. Soil degradation: A global threat. Advances in soil
science, 2.

Lichtenthaler, H.K., 1996. Vegetation stress: an introduction to the stress concept in

plants. Journal of plant physiology, 148(1-2), pp.4-14.

Mitchell, S.J., 2013. Wind as a natural disturbance agent in forests: a synthesis.

Forestry, 86(2), pp.147-157.

Niu, B., Ge, D., Yan, R., Ma, Y., Sun, D., Lu, M. and Lu, Y., 2021. The evolution of
the interactive relationship between urbanization and land-use transition: A case
study of the Yangtze River Delta. Land, 10(8), p.804.

Ofori, G., 2000, November. Challenges of construction industries in developing

countries: Lessons from various countries. In 2nd international conference on
construction in developing countries: challenges facing the construction industry
in developing countries, Gaborone, November (Vol. 5, No. 24, pp. 15-17).

Pokorny, J.D., 2003. Urban tree risk management: a community guide to program
design and implementation (Vol. 3, No. 3). USDA Forest Service, Northeastern
Area, State and Private Forestry.

Week 7 Practical: VIRTUAL Field visit to the Shrimptons Creek Corridor, n.d.
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