Champions Quarry near Lismore has been given approval to modify three of four conditions of its approval despite community concerns.
The NSW Department of Planning and Environment announced today that it had ‘partially approved’ the quarry’s application to modify the approvals.
The company had sought to change the frequency of Community Consultative Committee meetings from two to one each year, but the request was denied.
The department did however approve the other three requests.
They were to allow the quarry to water an internal road instead of sealing it in an effort to stop dust from blowing onto neighbouring properties.
Also, the quarry has been given permission to amend boundaries in its Biodiversity Offset Strategy to better reflect existing vegetation on site.
The quarry has also been given permission to use scales fitted to the front end loaders to weigh materials loaded onto trucks as an economic alternative to installing a weighbridge.
A spokesperson from the Department said consultation with the community is enshrined into the process for assessing applications.
‘The modification application was publicly exhibited for community feedback during March 2016,’ a spokesperson said.
‘Key issues raised during public consultation include dust emissions, the ongoing need of the CCC and the accuracy of using scales as a measurement method.
‘The Department has closely considered potential dust impacts on the local community and is satisfied that watering the internal haul road is a satisfactory and practical alternative to sealing.
‘The accuracy of scales for weighing quarry products has also been considered. The Department is satisfied that accuracy will be maintained provided the company appropriately manages these processes, as outlined in its application, and required by the Department through a condition in its approval.
‘The Department has thoroughly assessed the modification application under clear and consistent rules.’
For more information visit http://majorprojects.planning.nsw.gov.au/
