More community consultation is needed: Council

The formal submission on the environmental assessment for the proposed windfarm has been prepared by council staff and will now be sent to the NSW Planning and Infrastructure Department after councillors passed a recommendation pertaining to it at Wednesday’s council meeting.

The submission is based purely on the Director General’s requirements with council highlighting areas which it felt have not been adequately addressed in the assessment, according to Wellington Council general manager Michael Tolhurst.

“A number of issues have been highlighted in the submission including the need for more community consultation across a number of areas,” Mr Tolhurst said.

“This includes consultation with the local Gallangabang Aboriginal Corporation and the Aboriginal Community Working Party in relation to Aboriginal heritage, more consultation in relation to questions the community has about unanswered health concerns and comment from aviation agencies.

“As part of the Community Infrastructure Contributions of the guidelines, Wellington Council has also indicated it would like to enter into a Voluntary Planning Agreement with Infigen Energy.

“This agreement would seek monetary contributions from the company to assist with the upkeep and maintenance of roads which will see an increase in traffic due to the proposed windfarm.

“It will also stipulate other matters including mechanisms for the conservation and enhancement of the natural environment,” he said.

“The establishment of a Community Benefit Fund would be aimed at assisting community groups within the Wellington Local Government Area.”

Other issues raised in the submission include the need for a bushfire risk management plan, recommendations for traffic issues and the need for clarification on electrical reticulation.

The Bodangora Wind Farm Environmental Assessment is currently on public exhibition and is available for public comment until Monday, August 6.