Media release for immediate use: 1 June 2007

Time running out to make a submission on Holcim’s proposed cement plant

Waitaki district residents have only a couple more weeks to make a submission on Holcim New Zealand’s resource consent applications for its Weston Option cement plant.

“We are urging people who haven’t already submitted to put pen to paper and have their say before submissions close at 5pm on Tuesday 19 June,” says Paul Commons, General Manager Strategy and Development, for Holcim (New Zealand) Ltd.

Holcim is distributing this weekend a newsletter to nearly 8000 households in Oamaru, Weston, Enfield, Ngapara, Windsor and surrounding areas which explains how to make a submission under the Resource Management Act.

“The newsletter includes a tear-off submission form that people can fill out and return to the councils as well as to Holcim.

“We have been listening to the community and believe there are a lot of local people who want the jobs and benefits that the proposed cement plant would bring.

“We are encouraging those who support the project to tell the consenting authorities as well.”

“Submissions carry more weight if linked to a submitter’s own particular knowledge, understanding or local experience with reasons of support. For example, if a submission refers to employment, it might explain how the plant could benefit them and the community,” he says.

The Weston Option cement plant would provide between 110 and 125 long-term jobs which would add around $8 million a year in salaries to the local economy. A significant multiplier effect for local contractors and service providers is expected to result in an additional 120 jobs, worth around $4-5 million a year.

During the two-year construction period an estimated $106 million would be spent locally out of the $200 million cost of the plant.

“We are inviting people who want help to make a positive submission to visit our Information Centre in Oamaru,” concludes Paul Commons.

Submissions

For more information on how to make a submission, members of the public should visit www.holcim.com/nz or go to Holcim’s Information Centre on the corner of Eden and Thames Streets, Oamaru.
Opening schedule (hours 11.00am and 6.30pm)
• Wednesday 6 June
• Wednesday 13 June
• Thursday 14 June
• Friday 15 June
• Monday 18 June
• Tuesday 19 June (submissions close at 5pm)

To have a submission pack sent, the public should phone 0800 43 20 20 or email
info-nz@holcim.com

ENDS

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