Strong indication Gunns’ pulp mill would also have been refused
The Wilderness Society today welcomed the draft decision of the Tasmanian Planning Commission to protect the environment, economy and community of the Ralphs Bay area by rejecting the canal development, hopefully ending the long running dispute over the future of the area. It said that it pointed to the value of a robust, independent assessment process free from political interference.
“This decision is a sensible response to an inappropriate proposal that had no place in Tasmania,” said Paul Oosting, spokesperson for The Wilderness Society.
“Clearly this decision demonstrates the value of an independent assessor and highlights the likely reality that Gunns’ pulp mill would have been rejected in a proper assessment process.”
“The special treatment afforded to Gunns by politicians allowed its pulp mill to proceed despite the independent assessment finding it was “critically non-compliant”. This should now be the end of Walker Corporation’s proposal, just as the finings of the RPDC should have spelt the end of Gunns’ pulp mill,” said Mr Oosting.
“Parliament now needs to bring Tasmania into line with other Australian states and legislate to prohibit canal estate developments and ensure Tasmania’s coastline and conservation areas are properly protected from inappropriate development proposals.”
The Wilderness Society congratulated the local community group Save Ralphs Bay for their efforts in achieving this outcome.
“Save Ralphs Bay must be congratulated for the factual and scientific contributions to the formal assessment process and their professional participation in the public debate.”
“This outcome will provide inspiration to other community groups fighting to protect their communities and local environment from inappropriate development proposals.”
The Wilderness Society recognised the policy positions of the opposition parties, the Liberals and the Greens, opposing the Ralphs Bay development and lending support to the community campaign to see the proposal rejected.
It is also encouraging to see that the current Premier appears willing to abide by the decision of the planning commission and not pledge to resurrect a failed proposal.
Paul Oosting
