Greens step up campaign to stop Calga sandmine expansion

Locals opposing the mine expansion took Ms Rhiannon on a site inspection.

"My visit to Calga has reinforced for me that the NSW government needs to put the needs of the local community and the environment before the corporate interests of Rocla," Ms Rhiannon said.

"The Greens are ready to work the local community to stop this sand mine plan.

"The locals had a win at Somersby against a similar sand mine plan and we need to ensure that Calga is also protected.

"The people I met with today told me how this project would destroy local water sources, create unacceptable health risks and expose locals and visitors to excessive noise and dust levels.

"The scenic national park landscape with its endangered flora and fauna and significant Indigenous sites would be irreparably damaged by this project

"If Rocla's mine plans are approved local property values will drop and that is wrong.

"I was alarmed to learn that Rocla is currently breaking the conditions of consent with regard to water use at its existing Calga mine.

"The government's responsibility should be to protect our water sources not to approve projects that are intensive water users and have a record of using excessive amounts of water.

"Between 4.5 and 8 million tonnes of water is needed to manufacture Rocla’s predicted yearly output of one million tonnes of sand.

"Even after recycling the company will need in excess of 500 mega litres per year to top up their water supply," Ms Rhiannon said.

For more information: 0427 861 568
Photos available of the visit.