Project Details

Element managed and prepared a modification application for the Blakebrook Quarry asphalt plant to support increased production capacity, reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) processing, and extended operating hours. The project enabled operational improvements to the council-operated facility while ensuring compliance with State significant development (SSD) approval requirements.

The project involved preparing and managing a modification to the Blakebrook Quarry SSD consent on behalf of Downer EDI Works Pty Ltd for the council-operated asphalt plant at Blakebrook Quarry. The modification sought approval to increase asphalt production and transportation limits from 50,000 tonnes to 100,000 tonnes per annum, allow RAP processing and storage on site, introduce 24-hour asphalt plant operations, and implement associated administrative changes.

Element coordinated the end-to-end approvals process, including stakeholder consultation, technical specialist coordination, environmental assessment, and preparation of the modification report for submission to the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI).

Element Engagement

Element managed the modification application process and prepared the modification report required under Section 4.55(2) of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979. Element’s engagement included:

  • Leading project scoping and consultation with Downer, Council, DPHI and relevant government agencies.
  • Preparing the scoping report and managing the SEARs process.
  • Coordinating specialist technical studies including traffic, air quality, and noise impact assessments.
  • Preparing key environmental assessment chapters addressing project justification, legislative requirements, consultation outcomes, cumulative impacts, and environmental management measures.
  • Managing stakeholder and community consultation activities, including agency meetings and local engagement sessions.
  • Managing the adequacy review process and finalising documentation for lodgement through the NSW Planning Portal.

Project Achievements

Element successfully delivered a comprehensive modification application that supported the operational expansion of the Blakebrook Quarry asphalt plant while addressing environmental, planning, and community considerations. Through proactive coordination with DPHI, Council, specialist consultants, and stakeholders, Element streamlined the approvals process and ensured the technical assessment requirements were efficiently managed and integrated into the final submission.

Key achievements included:

  • Managed the SSD modification process under Section 4.55(2) of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.
  • Coordinated and integrated specialist traffic, air quality, and noise impact assessments into the modification application.
  • Prepared a robust environmental assessment addressing operational expansion, RAP processing, and extended operating hours.
  • Facilitated consultation with DPHI, Council, government agencies, neighbouring landowners, and sensitive receivers.
  • Managed the SEARs process and negotiated assessment requirements with relevant agencies.
  • Delivered a comprehensive modification report aligned with regulatory expectations and supporting the proposed operational changes.
  • Applied Element’s expertise in environmental planning and stakeholder engagement to efficiently progress the approval pathway for the project.