IN a major development for the Chittering community, council voted unanimously at its Ordinary Council Meeting on Wednesday, October 21 to formally oppose the placement of the Gonneville Project infrastructure and transport corridors within the shire.
Introduced by councillor Nicholas Grayer, the seven-point motion rejects the use of local roads for heavy freight transport and details serious concerns regarding impacts on private property, water resources, native bushland, and community amenity.
Council also resolved to decline direct corporate sponsorship arrangements with Chalice Mining involving promotional branding at shire events, while preserving its ability to seek financial contributions for council-managed impacts, emergency services and road repairs.
The council decision follows an escalating parliamentary push by residents, with a petition to the state government seeking an independent investigation into the project’s cumulative effects, as reported in Chittering mining corridor petition (Echo News, October 23).
A Protect Our Valley – Chittering spokesperson said the decision by council was a step in the right direction for families whose homes and properties were threatened by the proposed infrastructure corridors.
“For families whose homes and properties are threatened by proposed infrastructure corridors, and for residents concerned about the future of the Chittering Valley, this decision is enormously significant,” a spokesperson said.
“These concerns extend well beyond individual properties and involve the cumulative consequences of industrial infrastructure and heavy transport for an established semi-rural community, its natural environment, agricultural activities, road safety, and way of life.
“Council has now made its position clear. The proposed infrastructure and transport corridors are not supported by Chittering’s elected representatives.
“We particularly welcome council’s decision concerning corporate sponsorship, as community confidence should never depend on financial relationships with a project proponent whose development is generating substantial concern among residents.
While the vote established the shire’s position, final environmental approval rests with the EPA, who are currently reviewing the project before opening the report for public comment, which is expected later this year.
