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Bass Coast Environment Review CommitteeThe Bass Coast Environment Review Committee (ERC), established in June 2006, is already proving to be an effective forum for the community. By Bass Coast Shire Council - 28th November 2006 - Back to News Its primary purpose is to review the environmental performance of local quarry operators and to enhance communications between industry, government agencies and the community.
Bass Coast Shire Councillor, Veronica Dowman says so far the ERC has discussed and, in many cases, implemented actions to resolve a range of environmental issues relating to quarries of concern to community members.
"These include noise, truck movements, drainage, runoff, dust, visual impact, site rehabilitation, weed management and impacts on road infrastructure," advised Cr Dowman.
"Unfortunately, past misinformation about sand quarry operations and the right of residents to protect their quality of life has divided some community members.
"The ERC has enabled residents to raise their concerns with their elected community representative or myself, who can then raise the issue with the relevant quarry operator at the next ERC meeting.
"Elected ERC community representatives and quarry representatives can then report directly back to community groups and individuals," continued Cr Dowman.
The ERC met twice in 2006 with further meetings scheduled for 2007 in February, June and October.
The ERC currently consists of:
- Elected community members Bob Hannah, Roger Bailey, Leigh Collins and Glen Bisognin;
- Department of Primary Industries representative, Andrew Radojkovic;
- Council representatives Cr Veronica Dowman, Planning Manager, Hannah Duncan-Jones and Planning Liaison and Enforcement Officer, Paul Lewis;
- Representatives from quarries Readymix, Bass Coast Sands/Lebony Pty Ltd, Donmix, Hanson and TGS; and
- Other relevant State Government departments and agencies as required.
If you have an issue you would like to raise, please speak with one of the elected community members, or contact Cr Veronica Dowman or Council’s Planning Manager, Hannah Duncan-Jones on 5671 2211, 5951 3311 or 1300 737 227 for the cost of a local call.
Source: www.gippsland.com Published by: news@gippsland.com
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