Court date set for Saddle Hill Quarry

Dunedin, 29 November 2012 – A Dunedin City Council application for a declaration on the future of quarrying on Saddle Hill will be heard by the Environment Court next month.

Earlier this month the Environment Court granted an interim enforcement order to ensure that the ridge line of the Saddle Hill quarry was not changed before the Court could consider the DCC’s application.

Councillor Colin Weatherall, who has been closely involved in trying to resolve the issue, says the hearing is being held to identify and clarify any legal rights under a resource consent or existing use rights.

“Our primary goal is to recognise that the skyline of the hill is important and should be protected from change.”

The Environment Court has now confirmed that the hearing will be held on Tuesday, 18 December and continuing on 19 December if needed.

DCC staff originally began investigating the quarrying activities in 2010. Following mediation, the DCC went to the Environment Court to determine the legal rights of quarry owners Saddle Views Estate Limited to continue quarrying on Saddle Hill.

“The Council welcomes the opportunity to progress the application,” says Councillor Weatherall. “A decision from the Court is expected to provide certainty on what is lawful thereby giving finality and clarity to the community and the parties involved in the process.”

ENDS

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