State Member for Bathurst, Paul Toole has warmly welcomed the news that EnergyAustralia had entered into an exclusive agreement with organic materials recycling business Bettergrow Pty Ltd to potentially repurpose the former Wallerawang power station site, but Lithgow City Council mayor Ray Thompson said he would need more information before he stated a position.
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“This is an important step in revitalising the old Wallerawang power station in a way that could bring new business and more jobs to our community,” Mr Toole said.
“We know there is potential to make use of some of the existing infrastructure on the site – and it’s great that EnergyAustralia is working with Bettergrow on the best way to do just that.
“Everyone in this community wants to see this site brought to life as soon as possible and powering up our local economy with a new business venture and business hub.”
Cr Thompson said he was concerned with job creation, and had hoped to see a significant recoup of the jobs lost when the plant shut down.
“I’m excited something is happening, but we will need to know more about the company and its plans before we consider supporting or not supporting it,” he said.
“It's exciting to think that there’s another player who is interested in the site.”
The site’s future has been the subject of significant debate in recent months, including a bid from consortium Real Axis Pty Ltd to develop a business park using existing infrastructure. Its bid drew support from One Nation’s Mark Latham and Shooters, Fishes and Farmers candidate Brenden May.
In a statement released by Energy Australia, the company stated that “if successful, the agreement could lead to Bettergrow establishing operations to initially produce organic products such as compost, turf and fertiliser. Bettergrow has a long history of rehabilitating and transforming disused mine and industrial sites for beneficial re-use”.
EnergyAustralia stated it has applied to Lithgow City Council for permission to start the deconstruction of the remaining site assets. Cr Thompson said he understood that application had been received by council on Wednesday, January 30.
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