Interim decision on Saddle Hill quarry

Dunedin (Wednesday, 1 June 2016) – The Environment Court has issued an interim decision on the Dunedin City Council application for a declaration about the Saddle Hill quarry.

The Environment Court has invited the parties “to make submissions on the issues, on the evidence relevant to them, and on a more accurate declaration as to the extent of the 1960 consent”. The Environment Court has also included some issues the parties should cover.

DCC General Manager Services and Development Simon Pickford says the DCC is pleased to have the opportunity to make further submissions. It is hoped that step will be enough for the judge to issue a robust decision.

“The DCC is representing the community in this issue and the community has made it very clear it wants the ridgeline protected.

“It has been our consistent view that we have wanted clarity around the quarrying rights in respect of Saddle Hill. This interim decision indicates there are limits around the quarrying rights. This gives us a good opportunity to further refine what we think are the limits.”

Mr Pickford says the interim decision is comprehensive and addresses some challenging legal matters.

The DCC is considering the decision and will then decide how to respond. All responses have to be with the Environment Court by 29 July.

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