The Victorian Resources Regulator has approved a major new sand quarry for Latrobe Valley Sands in the state’s east, adding to a growing list of approvals since July 1.
The in-principal approval will still require a planning permit and a phase of public consultation before Latrobe can access the 100 million tonne resource outside of Traralgon.
Regulator executive director Anthony Hurst said the approval was part of a wider effort to boost infrastructure growth in the region.
“Earth Resources Regulation is continuing to assess a high number of applications to lift production at quarries in Gippsland, across regional Victoria and around Melbourne,” Hurst said.
To cater to the record growth levels, Hurst said compliance checks would also ramp up.
“Our inspectors will continue to monitor quarry activities to ensure compliance and protect public safety and local environments,” he said.
Since July 1, 2021, six quarry work authorities have been approved to combine for more than 6.4 million tonnes of construction materials.
In August, the annual Earth Resources Sector Indicators Report found Victoria’s quarry production had increased by 25 per cent since 2015, hitting 63 million tonnes of sand, rock and gravel for the 2020 financial year.
Minster for Resources Jaclyn Symes put the production records down to a government that facilitates growth.
“This government’s policies and programs are delivering results, with record high infrastructure investment stimulating demand for raw materials from our quarrying sector,” Symes said in August.
Latrobe Valley Sands will now apply to the Latrobe City Council for planning permissions before the Regulator looks at a work plan and Work Authority.
The company was formed in 2005 when the sand quarry was purchased from Symons Sand Supplies.
More reading
Victoria’s Big Build supported by priority resources
Victorian Regulator addresses flood risks in quarries
Victorian Regulator’s new guidelines consider community and quarries
Victorian extractive industry flourishes – in spite of COVID-19
Fulton Hogan contributing to Victoria’s Big Build
Earth Resources Regulation updates quarry guidelines