Fast-track plan for hydro

Press, 22 June 1984, Page 1

Fast-track plan for hydro

PA Wellington The Government has decided to use fast-track legislation to build the Luggate hydro-electric project. The Minister of Works and Development, Mr Friedlander, announced yesterday that he would apply to have consents considered under the National Development Act.

“The proposed work is a major hydro-electric project

and constitutes an important component in the continued orderly and economic development of renewable energy resources,” Mr Friedlander said. “It is also critical for the maintenance of security of supply in the early 19905.

“The National Development Act is the only option which will provide both an opportunity for a compre-

hensive evaluation of the consents needed and some certainty that the project can begin producing electricity on time in 1991.” He said, “A final decision on whether projects of this size and importance should proceed must rest with the elected government. The act is the most appropriate means of achieving this.”

Mr Friedlander said the Government should be able

to make a decision on the project in the middle of next year. He expected the application and environmental impact report to be publicly available in two months and the Planning Tribunal would then begin its inquiry. An updated environmental impact report is being prepared and will be audited by the Commissioner for the Environment.