Final Terms of Reference for Channel Enhancement Project
The final Terms of Reference (TOR) for the Port of Brisbane’s proposed Channel Enhancement Project’s environmental impact statement (EIS) has now been released by the Queensland Coordinator-General.
It is available to view online HERE.
There has already been significant technical works as part of the early planning on the project’s optimised design and dredge material placement areas. Over the next 18 months the EIS studies will respond to the final terms of reference covering all aspects of the project including program of works, material placement, natural environment, coastal processes, social and economic development.
Cultural heritage recognition and engagement with Traditional Owners will also be integral to the project. A cultural heritage assessment and Cultural Heritage Management Plan (CHMP) will be developed as part of the EIS.
An EIS involves a rigorous assessment of relevant environmental, social impacts and the proposed actions to avoid, minimise, mitigate, and/or offset potential impacts.
The draft EIS prepared for the Project must adequately address the terms of reference finalised by the Queensland Coordinator-General.
Once accepted as being adequate, the draft EIS will be released for public consultation, and publicly available over the life of the project. The Channel Enhancement Project’s proposed program of work requires approvals from both the Queensland and Australian governments.
About the Project
The Port of Brisbane is committed to sustainable development. The Channel Enhancement Project aims to improve efficiency of the shipping channel servicing the port and ensure it is as safe as it can be as well as cater for the future needs of the global shipping market.
This program of works is driven by the strong likelihood that Brisbane, and the east coast of Australia, will see increasingly larger ships in the future, requiring a channel that is straighter, deeper and wider.
More information
Detailed information about the EIS process is available at www.statedevelopment.qld.gov.au/coordinator-general
Information about the proposed Channel Enhancement Project is available at: www.portbris.com.au