Environmental review completed soon

Energy Australia is expected to complete an environmental assessment of the proposed zone substation site in Empire Bay later this month.

"Under the requirements of the State Environment Planning Policy for Infrastructure, the Review of Environmental Factors is submitted to Gosford Council for comment and response once complete," Energy Australia media manager Mr Allyn Hamonet said.

"Community members are able to obtain a copy of the document from Energy Australia, or view the report on our website.

In response to criticism over Energy Australia's restricted community consultation procedures, Mr Hamonet said it had performed letterbox drops in the surrounding area, held information displays and taken submissions from the community into consideration after the close of the public exhibition process.

"We have been meeting regularly with council's planning and environmental representatives since June last year on site development," Mr Hamonet said.

"We have also been discussing the project with immediate neighbours of the site since December, when design and layout of the substation were first being considered.

"This input has been factored into concept plans, especially aspect and facade of the proposed building, perimeter fencing style and landscaping.

"We will continue to discuss the project with community and council as planning progresses.

"Across the wider community, a newsletter was hand-delivered to around 1000 homes and businesses on potential power line routes early in March, informing them of the three project information displays held over March 24 and 25 at Woy Woy, Avoca and Empire Bay.

"About 100 people attended the project information displays.

"Feedback and comment from the project information sessions is presently being assessed and will be factored into the next stage of project planning."

Media statement, 8 Apr 2010 Allyn Hamonet, Energy Australia