Gas pipeline exposed as hazard

Monday, 28 February 2011 13:15

Media Releases - Kevin Anderson Media Release

Nationals Candidate for the seat of Tamworth, Kevin Anderson said today that an exposed gas pipeline near Coolah is a clear example of how the black soil plains should be protected when it comes to mining and coal seam gas operations.

Mr Anderson visited a Coolah property yesterday where recent rains have exposed up to a 30 metres of a high pressure gas pipeline on prime agricultural land. The pipeline running from Dubbo to Tamworth runs through sections of the black soil plains.

"This is a clear example of why we should not have this sort of infrastructure on prime agricultural land, particularly on the black soil plains,'' Mr Anderson said. ''It is not appropriate and demonstrates a clear lack of planning and a significant lack of understanding of our regions soils.

"I have met with a number of landholders and they tell me that there are other incidences where the pipe has also been exposed and is causing great concern.

"Our prime agricultural land needs to be protected from the impact of any adverse development and appropriate routes for any proposed gas pipelines should be found.

"The NSW Liberals and Nationals Strategic Regional Land Use Policy clearly states that we will promote the use of crown land, such as travelling stock routes for pipeline routes where viable and the establishment of energy and transport corridors.''

Mr Anderson said a Liberals and Nationals government would review existing arrangements for land access for mining and petroleum industries to ensure they achieve the goal of facilitating good relations and timely access.

"If elected on March 26, my job will be to work with landholders, consider any applications in our region such as pipeline routes, and make informed decisions about what's best for our communities and industry,'' Mr Anderson said.

"I welcome development and growth but it must exist in a balanced manner so that the commercial activities of both industries are not compromised."

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