’Jobs’ in salt plans

RIDLEY Corporation will pursue urban development opportunities for its $3.5 million Moolap and Lara salt fields despite opposition from environmentalists, according to the company’s chief.
John Murray said the Moolap site had “potential to add a lot of value to the Geelong area and create jobs”.
He was aware of negative reactions to the proposal but said residents should consider what would happen to the site if was left disused.
“The issues that arise if the Moolap site is not dealt with in some way far outweigh any negatives,” Mr Murray said.
“It’s a low-lying area, so sea level rise will cause it go to under water and that will destroy what little environment there is now.
“Basically, the development will have a seawall and waterway through the middle to provide protection against sea level rise and storm surges.
Mr Ridley said the project would also clean up stormwater flowing through the site and into the bay.
“I understand the environmental concerns but it’s a degraded industrial site and relies on artificial pumping to keep the water table up, otherwise the ponds would dry out. We’ll continue to pump the water but at end of lease who will do that?
“Without some attention there’s no likelihood the habitat will survive.”
Mr Murray said plans would include more than 600 hectares of conservation reserve at Moolap and Lara.
“I’m passionate that Ridley’s involvement has an outcome that’s environmentally, socially and economically positive for the region.
“We’re long term citizens as well and I’m really excited. It’s been 120 years since the public had access to the foreshore there.”