By BEN CAMERON
BUNYIP NORTH residents are still waiting for building industry manufacturer Hanson to produce its development plan for a potential quarry six years after it was first promised.
A Futureye Report published in November 2008, announced Hanson had purchased land on Sanders Road, Garfield North, for the “possible development of a granite quarry”.
It revealed “Hanson is in the process of reviewing its technical studies and finalising its development plan with a view to having this information by the end of the year”.
“Hanson intends conducting another round of consultation in mid-2009 to present its development plan and answer the questions that have been asked by residents,” it found.
“Hanson will use this information in developing a plan for further consultation.”
However, Tynong trader Lindsay McNaught said there had been little communication from the company since.
“There have been no developments since,” he said.
In late 2008, with the project at “pre-feasibility stage”, a letter to residents from Hanson Regional general manager Kevin McGluskie said the company “would not commence any planning applications until we have listened and considered the views of all of our neighbours”.
“We must try to resolve all issues whilst mitigating risks and impacts well before finalising the planning,” he wrote.
The report revealed concerns with dust, air and water quality, impacts on amenity and property values, blasting in the area and increased traffic
“The news is devastating for us,” one resident submitted.
“Dust is a big concern for my family’s health,” another said.
“This company has been sneaky from day one.”
A spokesperson for Hanson said it was continuing to “progress the Garfield application”.
“Over this period and through focused, ongoing studies, the company is developing a deeper understanding of the Garfield site and making sure it addresses not only changing legislation but also how to optimise land use,” he said.
“Development applications are complex – conducting feasibility studies, meeting all the legislative requirements and ongoing community consultation are all fundamental to a sustainable project but they take time.
“Through this, Hanson will continue to work with the community in order to provide resources for future development, local employment opportunities and ongoing business relationships.”
