Document ID: chunk:federal_register_of_legislation:F2016L01891:body:0:p81
Version: federal_register_of_legislation:F2016L01891
Segment Type: other
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Character Range: 232478–235481

multiple suite of management documents is not desirable.

Kingston Common is used for sporting activities and as a public place for which the Norfolk Islander
community feels a special affinity and right to use. Parts of the common are used for cattle grazing; a
traditional activity which contributes to the local economy, but one which creates environmental and water
quality impacts, and damages sensitive heritage fabric.

Section 6: Challenging Issues

Authorised Version F2016L01891 registered 09/12/2016

Jean Rice Architect | CONTEXT | GML Heritage

6.7 Water Quality

Concerns have been expressed about the water quality in Watermill Valley and discharge into Emily Bay.
Recent studies indicate that water quality is influenced by the grazing of cattle, local septic tanks and
management of the wetland area between the Bounty Street Bridge and Emily Bay. Opinions differ about
the effect of cattle grazing. This requires careful consideration given that the stock assist with the
management of grass within the KAVHA site, as well as having historical associations with the site and
providing interest for visitors. Grazing within the KAVHA site also assists the Norfolk Island community by
providing pasture. Aquatic weeds may contribute to the removal of nutrients from the surface water flowing
into the KAVHA site, but may become problems in themselves. The impact of septic tanks within the
KAVHA site is not known.

A review of water quality for Watermill Creek (Emily Bay) catchment, commissioned by the Norfolk Island
administration in 2013, identified both human and agricultural potential sources of pollution, including
septic tanks and cattle grazing. The report concluded that the Watermill Creek catchment water quality is
consistent with the mix of urban, residential and rural land uses that occur on the fringe of any major
metropolitan area or regional city. The report provides advice about a range of potential measures that
could address water quality issues and potential contaminants within the Emily Bay catchment. It is
beyond the scope of this HMP to propose a specific management approach to water quality. However, it is
important that this issue is included within the KAVHA site management.

' URS, 2013, Norfolk Island Water Quality Study: Emily Bay & Cascade Creek Catchments. Report prepared for the administration of Norfolk
Island.

Kingston and Arthur's Vale Historic Area—Heritage Management Plan, April 2016

Authorised Version F2016L01891 registered 09/12/2016

6.8 Physical Conservation

In view of the heritage value of the KAVHA site, physical conservation should accord with best conservation
practice and methodology. It is general practice in conservation works for significant fabric to be conserved in
situ. However, conserving heritage values may also depend on interpretation; conserving landscape may
require replanting; and conserving traditions may need an organisational or educational response.

Generally, authentic original fabric should