MOYNE Shire is pushing for the state government to order energy giant AGL and Meridian Energy to pay up to $14 million for damaged roads around the massive Macarthur wind farm.
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The council met with South West Coast MP Denis Napthine last week to make a case for the energy companies to repair worn-out and pot-holed roads.
Moyne Shire chief executive David Madden said council was seeking the support of Dr Napthine and Polwarth MP and Transport Minister Terry Mulder to have the matter heard by the Department of Planning. He said the council wanted the department to issue a demand for the companies to hand over $14 million.
“We are hoping that the department will take the necessary action,” Mr Madden said.
“We’re hoping to hear back in the next six weeks.”
Mr Madden said Moyne Shire’s entire capital works budget ranged between $12m and $16m.
“I don’t know how we’d find the money to do it. It would be a big ask,” he said. “The greatest impact is on our citizens. We’re not happy that our citizens have to put with these damaged roads.”
The development permit for the 140-turbine wind farm was granted under the previous Labor government.
Dr Napthine said the council had put forward a strong case for the action.
“I’m of the view that there has been an enormous amount of damage,” Dr Napthine said.
While stopping short of criticising the energy companies, he said he would seek a meeting with Planning Minister Matthew Guy to recover the funds.
s.mccomish@fairfaxmedia.com.au
