Quarry operating decision delayed

By Tania Martin
THE Shire of Yarra Ranges has deferred a request from Boral’s Montrose Quarry operators to extend its operating hours and has called for community consultation on the issue.
Walling Ward councillor Len Cox said the quarry was a very sensitive issue in both Montrose and Kilsyth as nearby residents have raised concerns over the future expansion of the facility.
Cr Cox said time was needed to allow the public to have their say over the proposed extension of hours.
The asphalt plant at Boral’s quarry operates under a works order that was issued by the Department of Primary Industry (DPI), which limits its hours of operation.
At the moment unless authorised in writing by an inspector in conjunction with the council or DPI, the hours of operation are 6am to 6pm Monday to Saturday.
The asphalt plant has requested a variation in its operating hours which are outside the 6am-6pm time slot.
This would allow Boral to operate its asphalt plant for up to 50 nights in a year.
However, the subject of the Montrose quarry has been an issue debated in the local community for several years.
In 2004 a group of concern local residents formed the Stop Montrose Quarry Expansion group.
The group’s primary purpose was the continued opposition to the expansion of Boral’s Montrose quarry.
The council will undertake community consultation over the next two months.
to allow nearby residents to have their say on the proposed extension of hours.