Bypass project referred to Federal Dept of Environment & Energy

Photo of Byron Bay township including beach and bypass route behind main street

Byron Shire Council has submitted documentation to the Department of Environment and Energy to refer the Byron Bay bypass project for assessment under the Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act (EPBC).

The referral relates largely to works proposed for Stage 2 of the project which is yet to commence and a small section of vegetation proposed for removal as part of Stage 1 near Burns Street, Byron Bay.

“The objective of the referral is to determine whether the removal of vegetation and road construction in these areas will have a significant impact on matters of national environmental significance,” Director of Infrastructure Phil Holloway said.

“It is important to note that the works in progress are not required to be included in this referral.

“No works have or will occur in the areas being referred until Council has a response from the Department of Environment and Energy,” he said.

“The referral documentation examines potential direct and indirect impacts of the project, and whether or not these potential impacts would significantly affect any matters of national environmental significance.

“There are a number of species being assessed that have potential to occur in the construction area including the Mitchell’s Rainforest Snail.

“The referral sets out in detail the project’s extensive preclearing protocols and plans for the construction of a fauna underpass to allow for connectivity between existing Mitchell’s Rainforest snail habitat to the east and west of the proposed bypass site,” Mr Holloway said.

Under the EPBC Act, a decision regarding a referral is to be made within 20 business days from the date it is received by the Minister.

Council is now awaiting the outcome of the referral. Once advised, Council will publish more details on its website, including any additional supporting documentation provided by the Department.

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