SHIRE of Mundaring has written to federal Minister for the Environment and Water Tanya Plibersek, requesting her to reconsider the recent Environmental Protection Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) approval for the proposed North Stoneville development.
The approval for Structure Plan 34 North Stoneville granted on September 16, permits the removal of approximately 200 hectares of critical habitat within a local natural area, and according to the shire threatens Black cockatoo breeding areas.
Shire President Paige McNeil issued a letter to the minister on behalf of council, expressing significant environmental concerns surrounding the development’s impact on local biodiversity.
Ms McNeil said the request for reconsideration underscored the shire’s strong commitment to sustainable environmental practices and preserving the unique biodiversity that define the Perth Hills.
“The Mundaring Shire Council and community are gravely concerned about the North Stoneville development’s significant impact on local biodiversity, including the loss of 60,000 trees which are a critical breeding habitat for the endangered Carnaby, Baudin’s, and vulnerable Forest Red Tailed Black cockatoos,” she said.
“We are deeply disappointed with the decision that has been based on environmental survey’s undertaken seven years ago and believe that serious consideration must be given to the current condition of the forest that has been impacted by the cumulative environmental fall out of the Wooroloo 2021 bushfire and the 2022/23 summer drought.
“The developer’s approved offset plan is located 184km away in Williams and deemed unsuitable by the shire due to its lack of ecological relevance to the black cockatoo’s breeding area.
“Black cockatoo’s are highly dependent on specific ecological conditions found in the Perth Hills. Attempting to recreate these unique ecosystems in regions with different soil and climatic conditions,184km away, is highly challenging and puts the long-term survival of the species at great risk.
“Council takes its responsibility to protect our biodiversity and unique ecosystems very seriously. We strongly urge the minister to reconsider this decision, as the significant loss of habitat for vulnerable and endangered species in North Stoneville would have irreversible consequences for the local environment and greater Perth.
“Our concerns reflect those of the entire community, who share a deep commitment to preserving our native environment. Allowing this scale of clearing at the expense of endangered species and vital habitat contradicts the very principles of sustainable planning and conservation.”
Reconsideration of an EPBC approval is permitted under Section 145(2)(b) of the EPBC Act 1999.
The North Stoneville appeal continues with the next directions hearing at the State Administrative Tribunal scheduled for 11.30am on Friday, November 8.
Environment and Water Minister Tanya Plibersek has been contacted for comment.
