DEVELOPMENT: A Maoneng battery proposal for Adelaide. Photo: Contributed
Susanna Freymark
Ray Smith found out about the new battery site next to his home at McKees Hill through ‘gossip’.
Battery developer Maoneng’s Alex Godina said all three neighbours to the east of the site were the first to be consulted regarding the new battery location.
“We met with Ray Smith and another neighbour (the third eastern landowner was unavailable on that day and was happy to be briefed by the other two), the same day we met with the owner of the new proposed site to begin discussing the terms of the lease, so to say they weren’t consulted is untrue,” Mr Godina said.
“This was on May 27, 2021.
“I have also provided these neighbours with multiple email updates and phone updates and have chatted at length with Ray over the phone on four occasions.”
Closest neighbour not happy about proposed battery at McKees Hill
Mr Smith is opposed to the Auckram Rd battery site.
He has concerns about battery fires and noise levels and will be taking the matter to Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Rob Stokes.
“I acknowledge that Ray Smith is still in opposition to the project and understand it was disappointing for him to hear rumours about the project moving from his neighbours, however this was somewhat out of our hands as at this stage, the rumours were just that,” Mr Godina said.
Previously the Lismore BESS project was proposed for 1348 Bruxner Hwy at McKees Hill.
After community complaints, Maoneng decided to investigate an alternative site at 85 Auckram Rd.
“This site is located directly south of the existing TransGrid substation and can better mitigate any perceived noise, visual and environmental impact potential,” Mr Godina said
The next step is the environmental assessment process and testing of the project viability through the NSW State Government Planning Process.
If the project gets through this process, Maoneng will lease the project land from this owner.
Anyone with questions or requests for meetings or further information can email alex.godina@maoneng.co
The proposed battery site at Auckram Rd at McKees Hill. Photos: Contributed