Waiareka Valley Preservation Society Inc.

Society releases first information sheet, but remains frustrated by lack of data from Holcim

Press Release

11 January 2007

Today the Waiareka Valley Preservation Society released its first information sheet, which outlined up to 10 adverse effects through which Holcim’s proposed cement plant in Weston will irreparably damage the local community and environment. These adverse effects include air pollution, heavy metal emissions, health effects, water, visual impacts, roading and rating, and tourism.

The information sheet will be delivered to a number of local homes, as well as carried in full page advertisements in local papers over the next few days.

Dr Peter Rodwell, Chairman of the Waiareka Valley Preservation Society commented that “while some claim there is a ‘silent majority’ in favour of the plant, we do not believe that. Rather we believe that there is a majority who do not yet have enough information to make an informed decision. Our aim in releasing information sheets is to provide more detailed and balanced information than has been provided so far”.

“Unfortunately, our gathering of information has been hindered by Holcim’s failure to provide the Society with the basic emission data that we requested a month ago. Holcim’s air emissions are likely to significantly exceed the new World Health Organisation guidelines on what is a safe level of emissions. This data should be provided to the community as soon as possible. It is not credible for Holcim to claim that they do not have this data”.

“ Holcim has also failed to respond to our request that they fly helium balloons on the site of the Weston cement plant in order to provide a clear physical guide as to the height of the smoke stack. The reality is that the 100m smoke stack and plume will be visible from many residential areas in Oamaru. People need to be able to see for themselves how they will be affected”.

“The Society will now be issuing regular information sheets. While we would prefer to be able to provide complete information to the community based on Holcim’s complete air emission data, we cannot afford to wait any longer. We are continually told that the community is anxious for more information, and it is our intention to meet that need over coming weeks.

Our community should be treated with the respect it deserves. And that respect entails the provision of detailed information as to how the Weston cement plant will negatively affect our lives”.

ENDS

© Scoop Media