Landscape Design Northern Beaches

PIttwater is an area of high scenic and environmental quality comprised of unique flora and fauna in a coastal bushland setting. Since its inception in 1992, the former Pittwater Council has developed a strong environmental mandate in its approach to development in the locality and the formulation of building controls, codes and policies. The aims of these policies is to minimise both the physical and visual impact of development upon the natural landscape, as well as to conserve, protect and restore the existing landscape character.

Given the extensive nature of the tree canopy in the former Pittwater area, sensitive site planning in relation to building location and retention of significant trees is required. The whole nature of development within such a unique environmental setting is difficult as the balance between development and environmental protection is delicate. There are inherent problems in regard to the location of earthworks and buildings in close proximity to existing trees, and the provision of adequate protection of vegetation during construction works.

Through its landscape policies, Council aims to preserve the existing tree canopy in areas of wildlife habitat, and restore the canopy in areas which have been cleared by development.

Council requires that a landscape plan be submitted as part of all Development and Building applications. The aim of the landscape plan is to demonstrate graphically the impact of the proposed development upon the existing vegetation and the intended landscape treatment for the site for the long term establishment of the upper tree canopy.

The plan is to be prepared by an accredited landscape architect, designer or horticulturist in conjunction with a site and tree survey. The plan is to address the following considerations:

• Existing trees/vegetation to be retained or removed
• Location of building footprint
• Proposed additional planting
• Indication of drainage, earthworks or excavation
• Private open space
• Microclimatic factors
• Access and amenity

Landscape Plan Specifications

1. Identify surfaces and materials to be used for driveways, carparks, fences, retaining walls, car barriers, footpaths, lighting, garden edging, water reticulation, drainage etc.* Details may be part of Architectural drawings.
2. A Tree Survey of the site should be included on the plans for trees over 3 metres in height indicating location, species, condition, dimensions (trunk diameter and height) of existing trees to be removed and/or retained for trees on site and on adjoining lands and nature strip.
3. Provide plant schedule listing proposed plant species, locations, quantities and pot sizes.
4. Details of soil mix and mulch type and depth for garden and lawn areas (special organic garden mixes, soil and mulch mix etc.)
5. Tree plantings to be advanced stock (35-50 litre containers). Planting specifications are to be given and what root damage prevention systems are to be installed to protect nearby structures and services.
6. Indication of water points and/or irrigation systems for adequate maintenance of gardens and lawns.
7. Indication of lawn areas and type to be stated.
8. Maintenance contract to be undertaken by qualified landscape contractor.
9. Landscape works to be carried out in accordance with Council approved design.
10. All tree surgery, pruning or tree removal works are to be overseen by a qualified arborist.
11. All sewer and drainage lines to be indicated on the landscape plan to avoid planting in these areas.