By BEN CAMERON
THE Department of Energy and Resources will attempt to arrange formal discussions between North Bunyip residents and building industry manufacturer Hanson over a proposed quarry in the area.
Member for Narracan Gary Blackwood said a recent meeting with representatives of the department focused on the lack of communication between the two groups.
“That was one of the actions that was taken out of the meeting with representatives of the (Energy Minister’s office),” he said.
“Those representatives are going to try to pull together some meetings for the residents and Hanson, I think that’s the first thing that’s got to occur.
“And for Hanson to be able to give residents ongoing information into what stage they’re at in terms of exploration and also in terms of what their long-term plans might be.
“It’s really about giving the residents a level of comfort at the stage the development is at.
“It would be nice to have the residents to be able to talk to them more regularly.”
Residents have received little information since a 2008 report commissioned by Hanson which promised a development plan and further community consultation.
Mr Blackwood said residents had “legitimate concerns about the impact on property values”, on the environment and their amenity.
“It is hard, it is very hard for residents to go through this.”
Mr Blackwood said he was not aware of any residents who supported or were ambivalent about the quarry.
“I’ve only spoken to residents who live in close proximity to the quarry,” he said.
“And naturally they’re concerned.”
In last week’s On The Land quarry article, a photo of a farm house was published with a caption that stated “residents fear dust will be blown into the air”. The owners of the property contacted the Gazette and said they have no issues with the quarry or potential dust problems from it.
