Call to ban mineral sand mine

Yelverton landowners have pleaded with Busselton Shire Councillors to allow them to farm “in peace” and reject a mineral sand mine application neighbouring their properties.

Three residents asked councillors to deny the renewal of a sand mine proposal on Haag Road with concerns about noise, dust and environmental impacts as well as conflicts with school bus times.

Farmer Alistair Murdoch, who lives within 130m of the proposed mine, said despite officer comments about the importance of sand as a raw material, there were 20 sand extraction licences in the Shire implying there was little demand for the resource.

The licence has been held at the site for 10 years.

Resident Rodney Hoare expressed concerns about the environmental impacts from the lack of water runoff into nearby springs and dust.

However, a representative of the mine’s owner Peter Hardy suggested issues with dust were either “made up” or caused by the movement of sheep and agreed to limit truck movements to avoid school bus times.

He said the mine owner had no desire to affect the amenity of neighbours and suggested the total $30,000 bonds for the site be halved due to his good track record with previous approvals.

An officer’s report recommends planning consent be issued for the mine with a raft of conditions including bonds to ensure dust management and road maintenance.

Councillors will consider approval of the mine on Wednesday.