THE proposed $3.1 billion desalination at Wonthaggi is going ahead.
The plant will be located at Wonthaggi after the site received the tick of approval from the Planning Minister Justin Madden.Mr Madden released the Environmental Effects Statement and his assessment of the project this morning.
He said an independent inquiry had found the site to be suitable for the plant.
Mr Madden said he supported all but one of the 42 recommendations.
He said the inquiry found the technology and associated processes for construction and operations of the desalination plant were in-line with best practice and use proven technologies.
“Any environmental impacts that result from the desalination plant can be largely minimised or off-set to acceptable levels through the application of strict requirements that will determine how the final project is delivered,” Mr Madden said.
The plant will have the capacity to produce 150 to 200 gigalitres of drinking water each year.
Mr Madden said EES also looked at the marine structures for the seawater intake and outlet, water transfer pipeline to connect with Melbourne’s supply network and power supply infrastructure.
“The inquiry acknowledged the potential for some environmental impacts, but found that they could be effectively managed through a range of mitigation measures and performance requirements,” he said.
Key findings of the report included appointing an independent reviewer, implementing measures to conserve flora and fauna, minimising the impact on agriculture and managing social impacts of the construction on the local area.
Desalination plant construction is scheduled to begin later this year with the first water from the plant due to be supplied at the end of 2011.
