Concerns about dust emissions from a new quarry processing plant to be built at Truganina, and its impact on liveability for Deer Park and Derrimut residents, have spurred Brimbank council into action.
Boral has lodged a planning permit application with Melton council to replace its present plant, which opened in the 1960s, with a new facility.
However, an official objection by Brimbank council reveals concerns about the new and old plants both operating together over a 12-month period.
The new plant is proposed to be sited slightly north-west of the present one, just off Riding Boundary Road, Truganina, and is due to be operating by 2018. Melton council has so far received about 300 objections to the application.
Brimbank council wants to ensure the new facility is located a “sufficient distance” from residents. It also wants an independent environmental report and regular testing to be conducted.
“The new plan and equipment will reduce the dust generated from the site. However, the extensive haul roads will remain unsealed, and truck movements are likely to continue to contribute to dust emissions,” a Brimbank council report found.
“Due to the site’s location, the processing activity has the potential to create off-site amenity impacts to nearby Brimbank residents at Deer Park and Derrimut, particularly when the new and old plant operate together over a 12-month period, until the new equipment is fully operational.”
Council city development director Stuart Menzies said it was unclear how many residents could be affected by emissions.
“Any impacts on residents would be influenced by weather conditions and truck movements,” he said.
Boral Quarries southern region general manager Peter Head said the new plant would use modern dust extraction methods.
