The recent approval of the Maroota Friable Sandstone Project has sparked concern across the local community, highlighting the need to balance development with the protection of our environment, rural character and public safety.
Did you know the proposed quarry will extract up to 500,000 tonnes of friable sandstone each year from a resource estimated at 30 million tonnes over a 30-year period? The development includes vegetation clearing, haul roads, processing facilities and the transport of quarry products by road. While quarrying plays a role in supplying materials for construction and infrastructure projects, residents are questioning the long-term impacts on the unique landscape and lifestyle that make Maroota and Glenorie special places to live.
A key concern is the increase in truck movements on local roads. Project assessments estimate a rise of 14 to 17 per cent in heavy vehicle traffic. Residents already share these roads with school buses, young drivers, cyclists, horse riders and commuters. Many local roads are narrow rural routes not originally designed for significant increases in heavy vehicle volumes. As our communities continue to grow, road safety must remain a priority for government, industry and the community alike.
Environmental impacts are also significant. The project will result in the clearing of 43.6 hectares of native vegetation, including areas of Critically Endangered Shale Sandstone Transition Forest. The surrounding bushland is likely to support a rich diversity of wildlife, including threatened species such as the Regent Honeyeater, Swift Parrot, Koala, Spotted-tailed Quoll and Grey-headed Flying Fox. Beyond these listed species, the area is home to wombats, wallabies, kangaroos, gliders, possums, owls and eagles, all contributing to the biodiversity that defines our region.
Maroota’s natural environment is a precious asset that deserves careful stewardship. While conditions have been placed on the development, ongoing community engagement and oversight will be essential to ensure environmental protections, rehabilitation commitments and road safety measures are delivered.
Community Action
Residents are encouraged to review the assessment report, development conditions and endorsed plans available on the NSW Planning Portal: www.planningportal.nsw.gov.au/major-projects/projects/maroota-friable-sandstone-extraction-project
If you have concerns about traffic, road safety, environmental impacts or the future character of our region, contact your local State and Federal Members of Parliament ASAP.
Community voices matter and can help ensure that future decisions protect both our environment and the safety and wellbeing of local families for generations to come.
To join the Glenorie Progress Association at only $20, $40 for 2 years or $80 for 5 years. Go to https://www.glenorieprogress.org/membership or preferably join by Direct credit (no fees):
“The Glenorie Progress Association Inc”: BSB 633 000 Account # 159 557 131 You can contact us at [email protected] or call 0418 432 587
