Council asks Minister to move substation

Gosford Council will ask the Minister of Planning to investigate alternative sites for the proposed Energy Australia substation at Empire Bay.

The action was taken on the motion of Cr Terri Latella, seconded by Cr Peter Freewater.

Council has resolved to formally approach the Minister outlining both the community and Council's concerns regarding the current proposal in relation to the substation at Empire Bay.

The Minister will be asked to consider the community's objection, a Land and Environment Court case and the proximity of the proposed site to Cockle Bay Reserve and protection of the wildlife corridor.

In her notice of motion, Cr Latella stated that there were two sites within one kilometre of the current location which would be both environmentally and socially less destructive.

The first was Department of Education land on Maitland Bay Dr, Killcare Heights, a site which according to Cr Latella had maximum space to afford setback and screen.

Vegetation removal would not be required and site works could be fully contained on site.

The second location was at Lot 353 Empire Bay Dr, Bensville, which would provide maximum setback and screening opportunities.

The site would not require any vegetation removal and has no Land and Environment Court orders over the site, according to Cr Latella.

Supporting the motion, Cr Freewater said: "We need to stand up and show that we support our community."

Council Agenda NM.21 4 Nov 2010