Bird park in salt pan bid

DISUSED Moolap salt pans earmarked for a $4 billion residential development should be left to the birds instead, according to environmentalists.
Geelong Environment Council will tomorrow launch its alternative proposal for a “birdlife and people’s park” on the site.
The Cheetham salt pans were “exceedingly valuable for migratory birdlife”, wrote council president Joan Lindros in a statement accompanying a park plan leaflet.
But State Government’s appointment of a Geelong Development Authority and references to developing the salt pans looked “ominous”, she wrote.
“A rehabilitated and protected Geelong salt fields would demonstrate a progressive Geelong, a community that recognises the need to protect and nurture its natural environment,” the leaflet said.
Thousands of jobs could flow from the proposed residential development, according to proponent Ridley.
The project would include a marina and canal-style housing.
The company has a lease on the 289-hectare Crown land site for salt production but would need to secure ownership to realise its development plan.