Environmental Impact Statement Chapter 4.0 Stakeholder and community consultation

4.0 Stakeholder and community consultation

This chapter provides an overview of the consultation undertaken for the Project. It summarises the outcomes of consultation completed during the preparation of the draft EIS with the community, government agencies, and other stakeholders, and where feedback has been addressed in this EIS.

Further detail of the consultation process and outcomes for the Project is in Appendix H (Consultation).

4.1 Engagement objectives and approach

4.1.1 Consultation and engagement objectives and approach

Stakeholder and community consultation is an important requirement in producing an EIS, as it allows for the identification and, where possible, the resolution of issues during project development and the approvals process.

The EIS has adopted a precinct-based approach which responds to the linear nature of the Project, and the unique character, environmental, and stakeholder context of areas along the Project alignment. This precinct-based approach also guided the consultation effort and has supported the collation of feedback from stakeholders. For some community and stakeholder engagement activities, the National Triangle, Barton, and Parliament House precincts were combined into a single precinct (referred to as 'the combined Parliament House precinct').

The consultation approach involved engaging with stakeholders in each precinct, through a variety of online and face to face methods.

The Project has established the following consultation and engagement objectives:

• Build enduring stakeholder and community relationships through authentic engagement
• Accurately identify stakeholders and communities and analyse their issues and interests
• Provide a range of opportunities for the community and stakeholders to raise issues relevant to the EIS
• Ensure the community and stakeholders have access to Project information that empowers them to provide feedback and input
• Collaborate with stakeholders and the community to influence design and the development of mitigation measures
• Inform the community and stakeholders about Project changes and decisions, including how their input has been considered and addressed
• Support EIS studies and investigations by gathering details on community views on the existing environment, potential impacts, and management and mitigation strategies
• Use inputs and feedback to inform ongoing engagement and involvement during the draft EIS public notification period (exhibition) and ongoing approvals processes.

4.2 Summary of consultation stages to date

Infrastructure Canberra (iCBR) has engaged with stakeholders and the community in relation to planning and delivering Canberra's Light Rail network since 2014. Consultation on Light Rail Stage 1 (LRS1) commenced in 2014 and consultation on Light Rail Stage 2A (LRS2A) and the Project commenced in 2017.

The consultation program for the draft EIS for the Project was planned and conducted in stages over a 13-month period from September 2023 to November 2024 and involved a range of stakeholders and the community.

The consultation and engagement stages are summarised in Table 4-1. Future consultation stages are discussed in Section 4.5.

4.3 Community and stakeholder identification

A comprehensive community and stakeholder mapping process was undertaken that included desktop and on the ground research. The community, residents, businesses, and other stakeholder groups within 500 m of the Project alignment, as well as stakeholders with a holistic interest in the Project, were identified in the mapping process, which included but was not limited to:

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander groups
• ACT Government
• Australian Government
• Businesses, medical services, and commercial groups
• Education and childcare
• Embassies and high commissions
• Emergency services
• Cultural institutions
• Peak bodies, special interest groups, and sporting groups
• Places of worship and religious groups
• Clubs and representative groups
• Residents, community councils, and resident associations.

A summary of stakeholder groups in each precinct is outlined in Table 4-2. For all precincts, other stakeholders consulted (that are not individually named in Table 4-2) included residents, businesses, medical services, developers and commercial groups.

Note: Consultation will be undertaken at a later stage for the Mitchell Depot site with nearby stakeholders and relevant surrounding ACT Government Departments, community and businesses.

4.4 Consultation during preparation of the EIS

4.4.1 Tools and activities

A range of consultation and engagement tools were used to provide information about the Project, including potential impacts, and opportunities for feedback. These tools would continue to be used in subsequent stages of the Project, and include the following:

• Meetings and emails to elected officials, Government departments, agencies and authorities (described further in Section 4.4.2)
• Meetings with Project-wide and precinct-specific stakeholders (described further in Section 4.4.3)
• Regular CRG meetings to invite feedback on their needs and priorities for the Project (described further in Section 4.4.4)
• Pop-up events and community information sessions held at local venues or scheduled community events to provide community members with Project information, and opportunities to give feedback in person (described further in Section 4.4.5)
• Aboriginal stakeholder consultation via the Designing with Country process and Representative Aboriginal Organisation (RAO) consultation for the First Nations heritage assessment (discussed further in Section 4.4.6)
• The ACT Government's online engagement platform, YourSay Conversations, including surveys for feedback (described further in Section 4.4.7)
• A Project information 1800 number and Project email inbox (described further in Section 4.4.8):
  • Email: lightrailtowoden@act.gov.au
  • Phone: 1800 956 409
• A dedicated Project website (www.act.gov.au/lightrailtowoden), which included information on the Project and an interactive map to help the community visualise the Project design and plans and provide feedback (described further in Section 4.4.8)
• Doorknocking businesses potentially impacted by or adjacent to the Project to inform them about the Project, and to encourage business owners and organisations to provide responses to a questionnaire about their operations and potential impacts during construction and operation (described further in Section 4.4.9)
• Printed collateral including Project updates, fact sheets and postcards. Printed collateral was distributed in-person at engagement activities and via letterbox drops, as well as via electronic direct mail to a distribution list of over 6,000 subscribers
• Social media including ACT Government and Transport Canberra social media accounts, including Facebook and X (formerly known as Twitter)
• A four-week media campaign that included digital advertising on social media, search and display advertising, print, and LRV and bus interior advertisements, which contained a QR code to the YourSay survey webpage.

The following sections describe these activities, and provide a summary of responses received from the community and stakeholders.

4.4.2 Government agency engagement

Throughout the engagement program regular meetings were held with the NCA, ACT Government departments, and DCCEEW. These meetings discussed a range of items including:

• Project progress briefings including the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Cth, EPBC Act) referral, design development, and stakeholder engagement updates
• Key technical matters
• EIS development and assessment
• Future approval processes.

Further details regarding issues and items discussed are provided in Table 4-3.

4.4.3 Stakeholder meetings

Meetings were held with Project-wide and precinct-specific stakeholders which included peak bodies and interest groups as listed in Table 4-2. The key items raised relating to the EIS are summarised in Section 4.4.10. Detailed responses from stakeholders are available in Section 5 of Appendix H (Consultation).

4.4.4 Community Reference Group

A CRG was established in 2020 to provide opportunities for stakeholders and community representatives to have a say in planning and delivery of LRS2A and the Project. The CRG format and membership was refreshed in early 2023, following an independent review of the group in August 2022. CRG members are identified in Appendix H (Consultation).

Between April 2023 and August 2024, a series of CRG meetings were held where the Project was discussed. Agenda items relating to the Project during these meetings included:

• Communications and engagement approach for the Project
• Considerations for each Project precinct
• Project sustainability priorities
• EIS and environmental assessment process
• Review of community and stakeholder engagement outcomes
• Planning and design sessions to gather feedback on the movement and access, safety and landscaping for individual stops, including Hopetoun Circuit, Kent Street, and Carruthers Street Stops
• Review of YourSay survey outcomes for several precincts and comparing the CRG's impressions with the broader community view
• Opportunities for feedback on the design of Albert Hall and Kings Avenue Stops.

Feedback from the CRG meetings focused on the following key themes:

• Urban design, including improvements for pedestrians and cyclists
• Bus and active travel integration, including bike storage at stops
• Environmental considerations and potential impacts, including sustainability and climate change adaption, landscape preservation and rehabilitation, and flooding
• Stop design including weather protection, safety, and security features
• Traffic and road safety including speed limits, cycling lanes, and traffic light sequencing
• Heritage, including the sensitive integration of light rail into areas of national significance
• Community engagement and communication, including how light rail benefits are communicated and supporting improvements to engagement
• Urban renewal, including opportunities for placemaking around stops.

Further detail on agendas and feedback received from the CRG is included in Appendix H (Consultation).

4.4.5 Pop-up and drop-in sessions

During May and June 2024, a program of public engagement was carried out involving pop-up and drop-in sessions.

To notify the community, a schedule of planned sessions was published on the Project and YourSay website. Postcards promoting the engagement in each precinct was issued to around 14,300 local businesses and communities in proximity to the Project area.

Community pop-ups were held at local venues and scheduled community events, such as markets, to inform the broader community about the Project.

During the same period, a drop-in information session was held in each precinct (excluding National Triangle and Barton). These were similar to pop-up sessions but provided the opportunity for the broader community to view more detailed maps of the Project alignment as well as having a one-to-one discussion with Project team members.

Each information session's location, date, and number of attendees is outlined in Table 4-4.

These sessions enabled the community to provide feedback on key issues and potential impacts of the Project in each precinct. Common topics were raised by community members throughout the Project precincts. Community members expressed support for:

• Potential for traffic congestion relief to be enabled by the Project
• Opportunities to improve access to amenities, tourism, and employment
• Socioeconomic benefits such as improved access to community facilities
• Opportunities for active travel (walking, cycling, micromobility) to be enabled and promoted by the Project.

Community members raised questions and concerns regarding:

• Route selection and stop location
• Bus network integration
• Preference for alternatives to the Project including electric buses
• Landscape and visual amenity impacts, including tree removal
• Construction traffic and timeline
• Design, such as parking, accessibility, and increasing wire-free running
• Active travel infrastructure design
• Safety features such as lighting
• Cost.

Precinct-specific questions and concerns included:

• Noise and vibration (combined Parliament House precinct)
• Improvements to the communication and engagement activities (combined Parliament House and Inner South precincts)
• Densification due to the Project (Inner South precinct).

4.4.6 Aboriginal stakeholder consultation

During development of the Project, targeted consultation was undertaken with the local Aboriginal community and knowledge holders, including traditional custodians, RAOs, and key organisations and broader community members about the Designing with Country framework and the Project's First Nations heritage values. Individual knowledge holders as well as members of the following organisations were consulted as part of the Designing with Country process: Buru Ngunawal Aboriginal Corporation, Dhawura Ngunnawal Caring for Country Committee, Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation, and Nagrigu Currawong Clan Registered Aboriginal Organisation.

The Designing with Country process included:

• Identifying traditional custodians, key organisations and broader community members, prioritising them according to seniority, cultural knowledge, and professional experience
• Conducting a Walk on Country and inviting representative stakeholders to a one-on-one interview
• Gathering feedback and insights defining a site-specific Designing with Country Framework inclusive of key design principles.

Designing with Country initiatives would continue to be developed and implemented during design development, construction planning and operations, in consultation with Aboriginal stakeholders. The Public Domain Master Plan (Appendix I) includes a summary of the Designing with Country framework.

An assessment of impacts of the Project on First Nations heritage is provided in Section 11.4 of Chapter 11 (Project-wide issues) and Technical Report 3 - Heritage. Three of Canberra's four RAOs have been consulted to inform this assessment (including knowledge holders from the Buru Ngunawal Aboriginal Corporation, Mirrabee, and King Brown Tribal Group, as noted in Table 4-2). One RAO declined the invitation for consultation. The consultation involved discussions regarding the proposed Project alignment and noting feedback from the representatives from each RAO.

Through consultation with RAOs, the Project area was not found to hold any specific Aboriginal cultural significance in and of itself because it has been subject to historical disturbance through ongoing urban development within Canberra. However, it was noted that the Project area sits within an important Aboriginal landscape. RAOs have identified the following elements of significance:

• The Molonglo River is of high cultural significance due to its association with a creation story
• The geology of the State Circle Cutting for its representation of local stone and mineral resources
• Kurrajong (Capital) Hill (including its connection to Stirling Ridge) is of high cultural significance as a former ceremonial area.

During the development of the Draft EIS, the Project has also sought to engage with representatives of the Aboriginal Tent Embassy on a number of occasions. The Aboriginal Tent Embassy remains a priority stakeholder for the Project. The Project is committed to ongoing engagement with the Aboriginal Tent Embassy to discuss the Project and understand the values of the site. As identified in Appendix L (Environmental Management Plan outline), a Community Engagement and Social Management Plan would be developed for the Project to guide the ongoing engagement process. The Aboriginal Tent Embassy and RAOs have been identified as key stakeholders.

Further information on the RAO consultation process and outcomes can be found in Section 4 of Technical Report 3 - Heritage.

4.4.7 YourSay community survey

Community members and stakeholders were invited to participate in a YourSay survey from 7 May 2024 to 30 June 2024 to provide comments on the Project alignment (Project-wide) or individual precincts. The survey combined the Parliament House, National Triangle, and Barton precincts into one combined Parliament House precinct. The YourSay survey included a series of questions, and responses to select from, relating to participant backgrounds, the benefits of light rail, what light rail can be used for, important Project design principles and potential impacts during construction and operation.

A summary of the most reoccurring issues raised is provided in Table 4-5, and detailed survey responses are available in Appendix H (Consultation).

4.4.8 Written responses, emails and phone calls

During the EIS engagement, peak bodies, interest groups, other key stakeholders, and individuals provided written responses and called the Project information line regarding Project-wide issues, impacts, benefits, and opportunities.

Written feedback, which took the form of reports, letters, and detailed emails, generally related to the Project as a whole. The feedback received is further detailed in Section 5 of Appendix H (Consultation).

Stakeholders who called the Project hotline or provided written feedback raised the following issues:

• Accessibility
• Bus network integration
• Cost
• Heritage
• Landscape and visual impacts
• Noise and vibration impacts
• Route selection
• Socioeconomic impacts
• Project timeline
• Traffic and transport congestion.

4.4.9 Business engagement

Overall, 110 businesses participated in the business engagement process, with input received from most business types and precincts, except Yarra Glen and Commonwealth Avenue precincts. Of the 110 participants, 61 completed a questionnaire and 10 businesses participated in targeted interviews. A further 39 business representatives had short discussions with the Project team during the business doorknock.

Light rail operations were seen as a benefit for a wide range of businesses. Participants cited benefits such as providing an alternative to driving and parking for staff or an accessible transport option for visitors and clients.

Business participants indicated access, noise and vibration, and traffic and transport as key considerations for during construction for staff, clients, deliveries, and visitors.

4.4.10 Summary of feedback and where this is addressed

Stakeholder feedback was analysed and considered during the preparation of the EIS. This section provides a summary of the key feedback received from stakeholder and community engagement undertaken for the Project and identifies where in the EIS the key issues raised are addressed.

Mitigation measures to manage environmental and social impacts raised below are included in Chapter 21 (Environmental management and mitigation measures). Appendix L (Environmental Management Plan outline) also includes an overview of the proposed environmental management plans to address these impacts.

Project alignment

Community feedback showed support for both the State Circle East and National Triangle-Barton alignment options, with suggestions to modify each alignment to minimise impacts, especially around Commonwealth Avenue. Suggestions included moving the Project alignment to King Edward Terrace to avoid the Weston-planted evergreens and exploring alternatives along Langton Crescent and National Circuit.

The ACT Government's preferred route is the State Circle East alignment option, while the National Triangle Barton alignment option was assessed to provide flexibility in planning. The selection of an alignment option for the Project (i.e. the National Triangle-Barton alignment option or the State Circle East alignment option) will consider factors including:

• Place outcomes
• Community and stakeholder feedback on the draft EIS
• Potential environmental and social benefits and impacts.

The revised, final EIS will describe only one alignment option, and will identify potential environmental impacts and benefits of that option.

Further information regarding Project alignment is discussed in Chapter 3 (Project development).

Route selection into Woden

Community feedback requested more justification for the Project route selection into Woden, with interest in alternative routes.

iCBR determined the selected route along Yarralumla Creek to Woden Town Centre aligns with Project objectives and planning. This Project alignment integrates with the approved Woden Interchange, supporting safe, multimodal access. It offers a direct path to Woden with travel time benefits, reflects the Intertown Public Transport System map included in the NCP, and would enable options for future extensions. The City to Woden route, prioritised in the 2015 Light Rail Network Plan (Transport Canberra and City Services, 2015a), strategically links key areas, fostering a cohesive, accessible public transport network across Canberra.

Further information regarding route selection is discussed in Chapter 3 (Project development).

Access

Community concerns focused on maintaining access for residents, organisations, and event visitors along the Project alignment during construction and operation. Key issues included impacts on driveways, parking, and pedestrian paths, especially around National Circuit, State Circle, Irving Street, and local schools. Participants highlighted the importance of preserving access for major events such as Floriade and active travel connections near stops, to provide safe access for school children.

To address these issues, construction would be phased where possible and planned to minimise disruptions, with temporary access provided if needed. During operation, existing property access would be preserved where feasible, although some areas may require left-in, left-out arrangements for safety reasons. Parking would largely be retained, though some spaces may be repurposed. Tailored access plans would be developed for major events, and active travel routes would be supported, including a grade-separated Hopetoun Circuit Stop with lifts and stairs, as well as a signalised pedestrian-friendly intersection. VIP and dignitary access, particularly to Parliament House and Government House, would also be maintained.

Further information regarding access arrangements are discussed in Chapter 5 (Project description), Chapter 6 (Construction), Chapter 11 (Project-wide issues), Traffic and transport sections in precinct Chapters 12 to 19, Chapter 21 (Environmental management and mitigation measures), and Chapter 23 (Justification and conclusion).

Light rail stops

Feedback on light rail stops focused on the potential inclusion of additional stops to service current and future residential areas, with concerns raised about access, convenience, and safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and individuals with disabilities. Community members supported stops at Hopetoun Circuit and Carruthers Street, recognising benefits for nearby amenity aspects, businesses, and residential areas, including retirement communities and the Deakin medical precinct. Requests were made for park 'n' ride facilities, particularly on Cotter Road, to improve access for residents from areas like Molonglo, and for a potential adjustment of the Kent Street Stop to better serve North Curtin.

iCBR is adhering to Project design principles for light rail stops to be optimally placed to serve key population hubs, with consideration for safety, accessibility, and projected housing and employment growth. Light rail stop designs would integrate features like pedestrian crossings, secure bike parking, bus interchanges, and a wide plaza area at Hopetoun Circuit. Future transport planning may include park 'n' ride options, and provisions to allow for a possible stop near the Royal Australian Mint as part of the Southern Gateway Planning and Design Framework.

Further information regarding light rail stops is discussed in Appendix I (Public Domain Master Plan), Chapter 3 (Project development), and Chapter 5 (Project description).

Traffic

Concerns about traffic and parking during Project construction and operation highlighted potential issues with congestion, especially during peak hours and local events, with specific emphasis on the Barton precinct, Hopetoun Circuit, and Irving Street near Phillip Oval. Additional concerns included cumulative traffic impacts from allied developments, such as the Southern Gateway Planning and Design Framework and North Curtin Residential Area.

In response, iCBR would conduct event impact assessments, working with event organisers to establish transport and parking management plans, including temporary alternatives if required. Signalised intersections would control traffic at light rail crossings, with speed limit reductions in various locations to maintain safety. Forecasting indicates that congestion is expected to increase on north-south corridors even without the Project. Parking and pedestrian access adjustments have been planned, along with close collaboration with TPA for cohesive land use and transit planning.

Further information regarding traffic is discussed in Chapter 6 (Construction), Chapter 11 (Project-wide issues), Traffic and transport sections in precinct Chapters 12 to 19, and Technical Report 1 -Traffic and transport.

Parking

Concerns about reduced parking due to the Project focused on temporary and permanent losses, especially along the National Triangle-Barton alignment option and at King George Terrace. Stakeholders raised issues about limited parking for staff and visitors in Barton and the National Triangle, suggesting the light rail could ease local parking strain. Additional concerns included increased congestion and noise if nearby side streets are used for parking.

In response, temporary reductions would primarily affect construction zones, with limited permanent losses. A traffic demand management strategy would contribute to managing weekday parking demand by promoting public transport options for employees and visitors. Accessibility parking spaces would also be preserved, and construction planning would also explore shuttle services for workers to manage potential parking impacts. Future park 'n' ride options are under consideration by the Territory, aligned with broader transport planning, to support commuter access to light rail and local facilities.

Further information regarding parking is discussed in Chapter 5 (Project Description), Chapter 6 (Construction), Chapter 11 (Project-wide issues), Traffic and transport sections in precinct Chapters 12 to 19, Chapter 21 (Environmental management and mitigation measures), and Technical Report 1 -Traffic and transport.

Design

Concerns were raised about retaining open space along the Project alignment where possible; the design of the Melrose Drive and Yamba Drive intersection; and design constrains around areas such as the National Circuit and Yarralumla Creek. Support was expressed for both inner-running and median-running track design on State Circle and suggestions were made for updating the Design Principles.

The Project design prioritises preserving open space along the alignment, though some areas within road reserves, such as the inner verge of State Circle and parts of the Yarra Glen roundabout, may be affected by construction or operational design features.

Design principles, shaped by community input, emphasise aligning with Canberra's historic urban plan, respecting the Griffin Vision near Parliament House, and enhancing the local landscape and precinct character. The designs include inner or median running on State Circle and discounts outer running (placement of the light rail alignment on the outer road verge), thereby avoiding several heritage, property and security impacts. A new high-capacity intersection would replace the Yarra Glen roundabout to support light rail integration. The alignment adjacent to Yarralumla Creek (which reflects the Intertown Public Transport System map included in the NCP), would include a new pedestrian and cyclist bridge and relocated active travel links. Ongoing community consultation would continue to inform design.

Further information regarding Project design is discussed in Chapter 5 (Project description) and Public Domain Master Plan (Appendix I).

Landscape and visual amenity

Feedback on landscape and visual amenity included preserving vistas and lighting designs of key landmarks, improving pedestrian urban spaces, incorporating green track, wire-free running, tree succession planting, and native vegetation.

The Project's landscape-led approach and broader landscape strategy aims to integrate the Project with the various landscapes it crosses, minimising impacts on the existing landscape character and prominent views, such as Parliament House and Commonwealth Avenue vistas, while celebrating the unique characteristics of each precinct. Design strategies include alignment of the light rail, the use of green track, wire-free running from Commonwealth Park to Hopetoun Circuit, and new street tree planting to frame these views. The Project would follow the NCA Outdoor Lighting Policy (NCA, 2012) and respect the current lighting hierarchy in the Project area, particularly in the Parliament House area. Key considerations for active travel arrangements for the Project, such as along Commonwealth Avenue, include access to stops and integration with the existing and planned network to support long-term transport network planning. The Project has also sought to minimise impact to native vegetation where possible.

Further information regarding landscape and visual amenity is discussed in Chapter 5 (Project description), Appendix I (Public Domain Master Plan), and Technical Report 10 - Landscape character and visual amenity.

Noise and vibration

Residents along State Circle, as well as organisations on Bligh Street and National Circuit, raised concerns about noise and vibration impacts during construction and operation, especially around the National Circuit and Sydney Avenue intersection. Businesses with outdoor or after-hours operations also highlighted potential noise disturbances.

Construction of the Project would result in noise impacts at times. Noise and vibration impacts would be managed under a Construction Noise and Vibration Management Plan as part of the broader Construction Environmental Management Plan(s). Measures would also be applied to manage vibration around heritage buildings, including the Presbyterian Church of St Andrew and heritage sites in the National Triangle.

Construction would primarily occur between 7am and 6pm, Monday to Saturday, but some work may be required outside these hours to reduce disruptions on major roads. Any out-of-hours work would be carefully managed with individual assessment and approval via a process which would be documented in the Construction Noise and Vibration Management Plan.

Further information regarding noise and vibration is discussed in noise and vibration sections in Part B (Environmental impact assessment), Chapter 21 (Environmental management and mitigation measures), and Technical Report 9 - Noise and vibration.

Investment decision

Concerns were raised about the Project's costs and funding allocation.

A detailed business case would be developed following completion of necessary planning approvals outlined in Chapter 8 (Legislation and policy). This approach enables the scope and alignment to be well defined prior to government considering an investment decision. The process would be undertaken in accordance with the Capital Framework and include consideration of technical studies, options analysis, delivery model assessment, economic analysis (including cost-benefit assessment and Wellbeing Impact Assessment) to support an investment decision.

Further considerations relating to an investment decision is discussed in Chapter 2 (Need for the Project) and Chapter 23 (Justification and conclusion).

Bus network integration

Feedback showed strong support for integrating light rail into the public transport network, in order to meet the challenges of a growing city. Some suggested bus alternatives in lieu of light rail could meet this challenge. Concerns were also raised about potential disruption to existing bus services, particularly to and from Woden.

Consistent with the introduction of LRS1, Transport Canberra would oversee future network planning to optimise bus and light rail integration, potentially revising routes and timetables. Preliminary work is underway to explore how the existing bus fleet could be redeployed to enhance network reach and frequency. Further information regarding bus network integration is discussed in Chapter 5 (Project description).

The merits of strategic transport alternatives including, for example rapid bus interventions are discussed in Chapter 2 (Need for the Project).

Potential construction phase impacts have been identified and assessed in Technical Report 1 - Traffic and transport, with mitigation measures outlined in Chapter 21 (Environmental management and mitigation measures). This includes the ongoing use of the Traffic and Transport Liaison Group and specific measures to optimise the performance of the road network.

Communication and engagement

Feedback requested clear communication and signage for altered traffic conditions during construction, continuous engagement to help businesses adapt, and plain English materials for accessibility.

iCBR would prioritise community consultation, maintaining open relationships with stakeholders as the Project design evolves. A comprehensive communication strategy will be developed, providing timely, area-specific updates on traffic and transport arrangements, including information on local road changes. Communication would include plain English resources, online updates, and engagement through the Community Reference Group and business partnerships, to provide all community members accessible information throughout the Project's construction and operation.

Further information regarding engagement is discussed throughout this chapter and in Appendix H (Consultation).

Accessibility

Feedback highlighted the need to consider accessibility for people with disabilities in the Project design.

The Project would comply with Disability Standards for Accessible Public Transport, ensuring all stops meet Australian accessibility standards. Infrastructure at each stop would support accessibility, and ongoing engagement with the Community Reference Group and relevant groups would inform further design to improve outcomes for those with accessibility needs.

Further information regarding accessibility is discussed in Chapter 5 (Project description) and Appendix H (Consultation).

Project timing

Community members inquired about the Project timeline.

Major construction is expected to start in 2029, subject to Commonwealth and Territory approvals, and would take approximately four to five years, with passenger services planned to commence in 2034. Early works may begin sooner, pending detailed design and planning.

Further information regarding timeline is discussed in Chapter 6 (Construction).

Tree removal

Participants expressed concerns about the removal of established trees along Commonwealth Avenue, King George Terrace, and National Circuit, with suggestions to plant new trees that align with the existing environment. Specific concern was raised for preserving the Yarra Glen Homestead Conifer.

While the majority of trees in the National Triangle precinct would be unaffected, a Tree Replacement Strategy has been prepared to outline considerations for the replacement of trees slated for removal, including on National Circuit.

The Homestead Conifer would be removed due to operational constraints on the light rail and road network.

Further information regarding tree removal is discussed in Section 3 and 11, and Appendix B of Appendix I (Public Domain Master Plan).

Safety and security

Issues were raised in relation to safety and security, given the proximity of the Project to high security buildings particularly within the National Triangle, Barton, Parliament House and Inner South precincts. Pedestrian safety in high-traffic zones was also raised as an issue, particularly during construction.

Engagement with high-security sites would give consideration to access and specific security needs throughout ongoing design and construction activities. From an operational perspective, the design includes reduced speeds, landscaping, and clear pedestrian pathways to enhance safety, with further refinements planned as the Project progresses, consistent with the strategic policy context outlined in Chapter 2 (Need for the Project).

Further information regarding safety and security are discussed in Section 11.1 and 11.13 of Chapter 11 (Project-wide issues), Traffic and transport sections in precinct Chapters 12 to 19, and Technical Report 1 - Traffic and transport.

Heritage

Issues were raised in regard to heritage considerations including First Nations heritage impacts, and impacts to other listed heritage items. The Project's cultural heritage impact assessment (Technical Report 3 - Heritage) has assessed First Nations heritage, and included consultation with RAOs. The assessment found that generally the Project area does not hold any specific Aboriginal cultural significance in and of itself, because it is a modern and developed landscape. However, the Project area and the features of the developed city of Canberra, such as the city layout, roads and buildings, sit in an important Aboriginal landscape. In addition to the cultural heritage assessment, further consultation was undertaken with the broader Aboriginal community members to develop a Designing with Country framework (which is provided as Appendix A of Appendix I (Public Domain Master Plan)).

Technical Report 3 - Heritage also assesses impacts on historic heritage, including listed items like Old Parliament House and Curtilage, the Parliament House Vista, and the Old Parliament House Gardens. The State Circle rock cutting, and surrounding natural features were also raised.

Guided by a landscape-led approach, the design has integrated architecture and urban planning to protect heritage sites and visual amenity. Mitigation measures would be implemented to manage impacts during construction and operation, with management and consideration for unexpected heritage finds.

Further information regarding heritage is discussed in Chapter 11 (Project-wide issues), historic heritage sections in precinct Chapters 11 to 19, Appendix I (Public Domain Master Plan), and Technical Report 3 - Heritage.

Other

Other issues raised by the community and stakeholders included the location of Traction Power Substations (TPSs), active travel integration, journey time, dust impacts during construction, and construction work hours.

Design development has sought to locate TPSs to minimise impacts, where possible, and would include design features such as screening and landscaping to reduce potential visual impacts. For active travel, stops would feature secure bike and scooter parking, with mapped access routes to encourage walking and cycling.

The light rail journey time between Woden and the city (LRS2A and the Project combined) would meet the 30-minute city aspiration. Early investigations have indicated that journey time on the National Triangle-Barton alignment option would be 3-5 minutes longer than the State Circle East alignment option.

A Dust Management Plan would be developed, to manage construction dust impacts.

Standard work hours would be maintained where possible and any out-of-hours work would be carefully managed with individual assessment and approval.

Further information regarding the various issues raised are noted below:

• TPS locations: Chapter 5 (Project description)
• Active travel: Chapter 5 (Project description), Chapter 11 (Project-wide issues), and Appendix I (Public Domain Master Plan)
• Journey time: Chapter 5 (Project description)
• Dust: Section 11.9 of Chapter 11 (Project-wide issues)
• Work hours: Chapter 6 (Construction) and Chapter 21 (Environmental Management and mitigation measures).

4.5 Future consultation and engagement

iCBR would continue to engage with the community and stakeholders on the Project during the assessment and approvals process, and during the design development and construction periods.

This draft EIS is subject to a public notification period (exhibition). During the public notification period, the public will have an opportunity to review this EIS and make a submission or representation on the document.

iCBR will undertake consultation during the public notification period to inform and provide information on how submissions and representations can be made about the Project.

At the conclusion of the public notification period, iCBR will review submissions and representations made by stakeholders and the community on the draft EIS. Key issues will be addressed and the EIS will be updated where relevant to address the matters raised. In the event that Project refinements are required in response to comments, these would be assessed as part of the revised, final EIS.

Various methods and tools would be used in the next stages of the Project, including online tools, continued engagement with the CRG, tailored precinct and demographic engagement plans, business partnership plans, and embedding Designing with Country/Aboriginal stakeholder engagement in Project planning.