Tree of local knowledge bears fruit as Eden Project releases feedback

THE Eden Project says there is strong support from the community and stakeholders for its proposal for Alcoa’s Anglesea mine, according to its analysis of feedback so far.

Released yesterday (Wednesday July 31), the report details initial feedback on the $150 million concept gathered during May and June, when more than 800 people attended community consultation events in Anglesea and 3,000 people engaged online.

Positive comments highlighted the benefits that Eden Project Anglesea would offer, including showcasing the environmental significance of the region, sustainability and education opportunities and benefits to the local economy and jobs.

Concerns included the impact that a potential increase in traffic could have on Anglesea, especially during the summer peak periods.

Eden Project International chief executive David Harland said the feedback had been overwhelmingly positive.

“Rarely have I seen a community of this size with so much enthusiasm and so many people willing to roll up their sleeves and get involved.”

Alcoa Anglesea site asset manager Warren Sharp acknowledged the concerns about traffic and said it was understood that it needed to be a key consideration for the project to be viable.

“We are confident that we can find solutions by working with the community, and initial traffic assessments are under way.”

Alcoa is waiting on approval for its strategy to fill the mine with water within five years, and it is also still unclear whether the Surf Coast Shire or state government is the planning authority for the Anglesea Futures Land Use Plan.

Mr Harland said the resolution of both those issues as soon as possible was critical for the success of Eden Project Anglesea, and it was crucial to keep up the momentum.

“People will start to doubt and become a bit more sceptical if we don’t get on with it.”

Mr Harland and Eden Project landscape architect Jane Knight are returning to Anglesea this month for further community discussions and research, and to present an update at the next Alcoa Community Consultation Network meeting.

Mr Harland will also speak about the concept at the G21 Stakeholder Forum on August 30.

To read the full feedback report, head to edenprojectanglesea.com.au.