Landfill site objections

Press, 4 June 1982, Page 4

Landfill site objections

Whether objectors had the right to object to the proposed Waimairi Beach landfill site was a moot point at yesterday’s Planning Tribunal hearing.

The tribunal was considering final legal submissions on the proposed landfill site after an adjournment of a week and a half.

Mr A. Hearn, Q.C.. representing several objectors to the proposed site, addressed Judge Skelton and Messrs G. W. Ensor, R. S. Martin, and R, A. McLennan at the Justice Department’s Kilmore Street chambers. Mr Hearn maintained that someone could object if he or she was to be affected by the proposed landfill site. He was replying to statements made on May 21 by Mr J. R. Milligan, counsel for five Christchurch metropolitan local bodies that favour the beach site.

Mr Milligan had said that much of the evidence presented by objectors might be inadmissible, because they might not be directly affected. Mr Hearn said that someone did not have to live or own land in the Waimairi beach area to be affected by the proposed landfill.

"A person. living in Cashmere who visited the beach at the week-end is entitled to object." he said. Earlier, Mr D. M. Palmer, counsel for the Waimairi District Council, based his submissions on the definitions of a coastal environment and natural character.

He said that the proposed site “became a pearl beyond price for those who enjoyed something different." Mr Hearn is expected to complete his submissions today. Mr Milligan will then exercise his right of reply.