UPDATE: Construction has officially begun at the Jacaranda Housing Estate in Glossodia, marking a significant milestone for the Hawkesbury region. As of early January 2024, crews are mobilizing on-site for essential earthworks and site preparation, with increased activity expected throughout January and February.
Residents in the area will notice heightened construction activity as crews work on initial site setup and large-scale earthworks to lay the foundation for future homes, streets, parks, and essential infrastructure. A major component of these early works includes the decommissioning of an existing farm dam.
Jacqueline Lukins, Senior Development Manager for Jacaranda, confirmed that the dam is currently undergoing dewatering and will be replaced with a new lake and wetland system designed to meet current Australian Standards and Council requirements.
“The existing farm dam is being decommissioned; it is currently being dewatered,” Ms. Lukins stated. “Following this, a new lake and wetland area will be constructed.” The Hawkesbury City Council has approved these works under Development Consents 0266/23 and 0343/23, following comprehensive environmental assessments by both New South Wales and Commonwealth authorities.
Environmental protection measures are a top priority during construction. Qualified ecologists oversee the process, ensuring adherence to a site-specific Dam Dewatering Plan approved by the Council. This plan includes procedures to minimize impacts on local wildlife and outlines protocols for the safe relocation of any native species.
Ms. Lukins addressed concerns regarding bird breeding seasons, stating,
“To manage this, we implement inspections to identify the presence of any nesting or breeding individuals, and if present, works are timed accordingly to avoid unnecessary disruption.”
She assured the community that ongoing inspections will continue, with immediate notifications required if any nesting birds or chicks are discovered.
The new lake and wetland area will enhance local biodiversity, featuring native aquatic plants to improve water quality and create habitats for various wildlife. Additional landscaping will include different plant species, and community amenities such as footpaths, playgrounds, BBQ areas, and outdoor gym facilities will be integrated into the estate.
In a broader environmental initiative, the developer, Celestino, is establishing a biobanking site spanning over 12 hectares, which will be legally protected to promote biodiversity and ecosystem health. Land along Currency Creek will also be revegetated and designated as public open space, restoring habitats previously lost to private development.
The Hawkesbury City Council continues to monitor the site actively, with inspections taking place since the commencement of construction. Major earthworks and upgrades to the Spinks Road intersection are set to continue through February 2024, aimed at enhancing access and connectivity to the estate.
As construction progresses, developers are preparing for the next land release, with additional updates expected as the Jacaranda community evolves. This development not only promises new housing options but also aims to foster a sustainable and environmentally friendly community in the heart of Glossodia.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story continues to develop.
