Review of Environmental Factors - Transport for NSW - NSW ...

processes and, hence, the quality of life for present and future generations. The basis forachieving ecologically sustainable development involves the application of four principles:• the precautionary principle;• intra- and inter-generational equity;• conservation of biological diversity and ecological integrity; and• improved valuation and pricing of environmental resources.RailCorp is committed to ensuring its projects are consistent with the principles of ESD andthese have been considered for this proposal (refer Table 1).Table 1Consideration of ESD for the proposalESD PrincipleApplication to the proposalPrecautionary principleIntergenerational equityConservation ofbiological diversity andecological integrityImproved valuation andpricing of environmentalresourcesThe site selection and design process aims to avoid areas wherethere will be a significant environmental impact or impacts that areirreversible. The site selected is within a previously disturbed areain the rail corridor. In addition, some of the potential impacts arereversible as the cabinets can be removed if no longer required.Any adverse impacts associated with the site and construction willbe minor and measures to reduce impacts identified within thisREF will be implemented during construction, as far as practicable.This proposal and the overarching DTRS project will contributetowards RailCorp’s strategic benefits for current and futuregenerations, including safer public transport, by improving on thecurrent communications system, providing coverage and reliablecommunications services to all parts of the electrified rail corridorand acting as the basis for the introduction of an Automatic TrainProtection System.The economic, social and safety considerations of the DTRS havebeen integrated with the consideration and assessment ofpotential environmental impacts regarding the development andoperation of the DTRS.The proposed site is on disturbed land that has been previouslycleared. The proposed activity is not expected to result in any lossof biodiversity or ecological integrity.RailCorp recognises the value of environmental sustainability andwill minimise the impact of its activities by ensuring appropriatemitigation measures are implemented for all aspects of the DTRSproject. The potential environmental costs of the proposal havebeen considered in conjunction with the costs of design,construction and operation.Page 20 of 64