Just received from the Minister’s office… more updates soon. This is a huge win. It’s the deferral to EES we’ve been waiting for. You can see the release on the Premier’s site, or read our copy here…
The proposed Crib Point Gas Import Facility and adjoining pipeline will undergo an Environmental Effects Statement (EES).
The proposal by AGL and APA will be closely examined and subject to community submissions under the strongest environmental assessment process in the State.
The project would see construction of a high-pressure gas pipeline to connect a liquid natural gas import facility constructed at Crib Point to the Victorian Transmission System, near Pakenham.
The EES will investigate the potential environmental, community and cultural impacts of the project including impacts on native vegetation, wildlife, marine life and Aboriginal cultural heritage.
The Government will establish a technical reference group as part of the assessment process and establish draft scoping requirements for public comment.
While the EES will deliver an assessment of the project’s environmental effects, the final proposal will still need to comply with a range of regulatory approvals, including legislative requirements under the Environment Protection Act 1970, Pipeline Act 2005 and Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Planning Richard Wynne:
“We owe it to the community and the environment to get this right and ensure this proposal is rigorously analysed by the most thorough environmental and cultural assessment tool available in the State.”
“The EES will investigate the proposal’s effects on native vegetation, wildlife and marine life as well as Aboriginal cultural heritage areas.”
“While this project has great potential, it’s critical we assess its impacts thoroughly, to protect the community and the environment.”
