Exhibition of transmission line statement begins

PUBLIC exhibition of the Western Renewables Link environment effects statement has been confirmed by the Department of Transport and Planning.

Exhibition of the document began on Monday 30 June and will run for 40 days.

The proposed project includes a 190-kilometre overhead high-voltage electricity transmission line to carry renewable energy from Bulgana in western Victoria to Sydenham in Melbourne’s north-west.

This includes 60 kilometres through Moorabool Shire.

If completed, the line would be built, owned, operated and maintained by AusNet Services who have begun notifying directly affected landowners about the exhibition.

“Our community has waited years for the full impacts of Western Renewables Link to be made public,” mayor Cr Paul Tatchell said.

“This is an important opportunity for anyone to have their say about the project, including council.”

The statement is available on the Engage Victoria website, including information about how to make a submission.

Physical copies are also available at Lerderderg Library and the Ballan Council Office, however, Cr Tatchell said the display of the document at Moorabool Shire facility’s does not indicate endorsement of the project.

It is a statutory requirement that physical copies of the statement are available at public venues.

“We continue to support community members who are being impacted by WRL,” Cr Tatchell said.

“Council intends to make a submission and will be releasing information in the coming weeks to help our community further during this time.”