A $2 billion heavy haul rail system linking mines in the Galilee and Bowen Basins to Queensland ports is a step closer
September 25, 2012
QR National’s
$2 billion heavy haul rail system –
which proposes to
link mines in the Galilee and Bowen Basins to Queensland ports in Abbot Point and Hay Point areas
– is a step closer to approval following the release of its environmental impact statement (EIS) terms of reference (ToR).
Deputy Premier Jeff Seeney announced yesterday the release of the Central Queensland Integrated Rail project’s ToR, which he says take into account 21 submissions from public and advisory agencies on the project’s draft terms of reference.
“I am pleased that the Queensland Coordinator-General has finalised the terms of reference for the project’s environmental impact statement,” Seeney says.
“The long-term success of our mining industry relies on the timely delivery of infrastructure to support international exports and jobs.”
Seeney says the Queensland Government has committed to two rail corridors connecting the Galilee Basin to the Port of Abbot Point.
“As I announced in June, the government intends to rationalise the number of new rail corridors being created, and will encourage the sharing of rail corridors wherever possible,” he says.
The ToR confirm QR National has removed a 160-kilometre section of the greenfields corridor that would have extended from south of the Galilee basin near Alpha, to the Galilee Junction west of Moranbah.
Queensland Coordinator-General Barry Broe says when he is satisfied that the QR National’s EIS addresses the terms of reference, the document will be circulated to key stakeholders, and advertised for public comment.
“The public will have another opportunity to provide further feedback on this rail project, once the EIS is released,” he says.