MEDIA RELEASE
Monday 3 June 2002
Charcoalition now in legal fight mode
The Charcoalition, representing communities and businesses for a Charcoal-free South Coast, today reaffirmed that it is committed to going ahead with a legal appeal. The legal appeal has been lodged with the Land and Environment Court to challenge the State Governments development approval or the heavy Industry Charcoal Factory on Springwater Road south of Mogo behind Broulee / Mossy Point. The development consent was issued to Australian Silicon Ltd. This action will proceed regardless of what Eurobodalla Shire Council or other parties decide to do.
The Charcoalition believe that the approval granted for the proposed site is deficient in a number of areas. Consequently, the decision handed down by the Minister for planning was flawed.
The Charcoalition has Identified a number of key Issues that form the basis of a very strong legal challenge. Our advice is that sound legal arguments for a challenge include socio-economic impacts, potential contamination of wetlands, possible adverse effects on heath (in particular children), and potential for water & air pollution.
Although the Charcoalition has secured the services of a number of eminent specialists to fight the development approval, continued support from the community is crucial to finance the challenge. This development will likely have substantial implications for the future of our district and region. If it proceeds, it could change the face of the Nature Coast forever.
To everyone involved in the fight, Charcoalition would like to express a heart-felt thank you to the communities and businesses of the region for your generous donations of money, time and effort. Our goal is only half way achieved, so if you disagree with the development and the legacy that it will leave for the next 20 years, then please lend your support today to Charcoalition who are fighting this on your behalf.
Donations can be made to the Coastwatchers Charcoalition Legal Fighting fund at any IMB branch or contact treasurer Margaret Allen on 02 4471 2512 regarding arrangements for large donations
