Craig Mostyn Group chief executive David Lock has called on the state government to intervene in a conflict between the agribusiness group’s proposed abattoir extension and a proposed residential development.
Late last year, the Craig Mostyn Group submitted an application to council for planning approval to demolish the current unused sheep and cattle abattoirs and construct a new abattoir, skin and hide treatment facilities and a rendering plant, on the existing abattoir site on Linley Valley Road.
At the same time, a proposal for the development of Killara Estate, on the El Caballo site, was also submitted.
The Shire of Northam has appro-ved, in principle, the develop-ment of Killara Estate, with the public comment period on the development to be opened shortly.
The Environmental Protection Authority has recommended a buffer zone of between 500 metres and one kilometre from abattoirs without a rendering plant, and between one and 1.5km from abattoirs with a rendering plant.
It is understood the Killara Estate development will include residences between 400 and 500 metres from the abattoir.
Local residents making up the Wooroloo Action Group have submitted a petition to council containing 236 signatures from those living in the vicinity of the Linley Valley Abattoir. Signatories object to the Linley Valley development, including a rendering plant and a skin and hide curing facility.
To date, council has rejected the rendering plant proposal at its current proposed location due to concerns over odours.
Public comment on the sheep and cattle abattoir proposal was re-opened as is expected to close at the end of the month.
Mr Lock told WA Business News any residential develop-ment must adhere to buffer zone guidelines as set out by the EPA.
“A housing development on the boundary of a major industrial facility will have a long-term impact of the facility and will almost certainly decrease its operations,” he said.
“Abattoirs emit odour, noise, light and dust. These are realities. The existing facility already does that, the new facility won’t add much to that.
The facility currently employs 250 people, and is expected to employ a further 100 people once the extension is complete.
Under the proposed abattoir upgrade, the facility will process 1,500 pigs, 400 cattle and 2,500 sheep per day.
