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

• It provides a platform for future enhancements and increased operational safety, including a Level 2Automatic Train Protection (ATP) System, as per the recommendations of the Waterfall inquiry.• It will deliver the best value for money solution with the least risk.3.5 Alternatives to the Fairy Meadow SiteThe following options were considered for the development of the Fairy Meadow site:• to do nothing; or• install a new BTS further north bound or south bound.The do nothing option was rejected for the reasons listed below.• The inability to meet the requirement of 100% network coverage.• A ‘black spot’ in the DTRS network, resulting in a significant safety issue in the event of an emergency callor a train incident.• The increasing maintenance costs of the MetroNet facility and the limited reliability for adequate operationfor the next 10 – 15 years.A new BTS site located further away along the lines was rejected for the reasons listed below.• There are no available sites north bound due to a rail bridge crossing over the creek beginning 15 metresup track. Beyond this bridge is a dense residential area. There is also a lack of entry to this section of thetrack.• There are no available sites south bound due to a narrow rail corridor and lack of entry points. Shifting thissite too far down track will lead to a coverage hole between this site and Bellambi.• There are also overhead power lines and underground services running both north and south on both sidesof the rail for the majority of this section of track. The current site is the only location that can provideadequate clearance from these services.Other infrastructure options were considered, but were not feasible for the proposal.• The proposed monopole is less obtrusive, requires less space and will be cheaper to maintain than a latticetower or guyed mast. A monopole also uses a foundation design that is better suited given the spatiallimitations within the rail corridor. The monopole is thinner at the top and less obtrusive than a lattice tower,helping to minimise the visual impacts of the proposal.• The monopole can be installed using a hinge mechanism, which removes the need for large cranes.• The installation of a walk-in equipment hut would use more space and be more expensive. The use ofoutdoor cabinets was the most suitable solution given the limited space, cost and minimisation ofenvironmental impacts.Page 27 of 67