Govt undecided on desal plant power pylons
Posted
The Victorian Government says it has not decided whether to use pylons to carry power to the planned desalination plant at Kilcunda.
A number of land-holders in the south Gippsland and Bass Coast shires face having pylons on their land to take power to the plant.
The Government is also considering building a gas plant or installing underground power.
Planning Minister Justin Madden says the environmental effects statement, examining the impact of the plant, will also look at the best way to power it.
"I'd be very enthusiastic about anybody with any concerns that they should involve themselves with the environmental effects statement process," he said.
"Make their submissions to the respective panel who will hear those submissions, and also that if they have alternate suggestions, to provide those options as well."
Meanwhile, the Bass Coast Shire Council has toughened its stand on the Wonthaggi desalination plant.
At its meeting last night, the council voted to ask the State Government to abandon the $2 billion project.
Councillor Gareth Barlow says the council also carried a motion to launch a media campaign to explain the decision and force the Government to justify its actions.
He says the mood of the entire community is firming against the project.
"Businesses that might be able to take advantage of the opportunity offered are unaware of what those opportunities may be," he said.
"Certainly they are also concerned that the lack of consultation means if they participate, they're participating in a process that has alienated a significant majority of the community."
