The Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has concluded its assessment of a proposal by GR & AM Whiteley for expansion of Meander Shale Quarry, off Reiffers Road, Meander.
Meander Shale Quarry is an existing level 2 quarry, located two kilometres west of the Meander township, on mining lease 1107 P/M. The proposal involves an extension of the quarry footprint and increase in extraction and materials handling from 15,000 cubic metres of shale per annum to 20,000 cubic metres per annum.
The Executive Director, Environmental Assessments, Dr Martin Read, who made the determination under delegation from the EPA Board, concluded the proposed development can be managed in an environmentally sustainable and acceptable manner, with certain conditions. The Board requires these conditions to be included in any permit subsequently granted by the Meander Valley Council.
“Various environmental issues were considered by the Board in its assessment, including the management of stormwater, the potential for Acid and Metalliferous Drainage, and noise emissions. These were addressed through management measures put forward by the proponent, including regular inspection and maintenance of stormwater infrastructure on site, the continued commitment to monitor for Acid and Metalliferous Drainage precursors, and application of Quarry Code of Practice operating hours. These management measures are reflected in the environmental conditions to be imposed", Dr Read said.
No representations were received in relation to the permit application. Public consultation was open for a 14-day period from 20 August 2022.
The proposal was considered by the Executive Director, Environmental Assessments, in the context of the sustainable development objectives of the Resource Management and Planning System of Tasmania (RMPS), and in the context of the objectives of the Environmental Management and Pollution Control System (EMPCS) established by the EMPC Act.
The functions of the EPA are to administer and enforce the provisions of the EMPC Act, to further the RMPS and EMPCS objectives and, in particular, to use its best endeavours to protect the environment of Tasmania.
The assessment of the proposal was undertaken in accordance with the Environmental Impact Assessment Principles defined in Section 74 of the Act.
The environmental assessment report, including the environmental conditions, has been issued to the proponent and Meander Valley Council for their information.
The decision in relation to Meander Shale Quarry Expansion, Meander can be viewed on this website.