Posted on July 27, 2015
The council wants an urgent meeting with the State Government to discuss the future development of the Port of Hastings if a long-term lease of Port of Melbourne was offered and fears the impact of dredging on the local environment.
Mayor Bev Colomb said the council was concerned about the social and economic impact on the Mornington Peninsula if the Port of Hastings development did not proceed.
“We need some clarity about the state’s plans for the Port of Hastings, a project that has significant employment and economic benefits for the southeast region of Melbourne,” Cr Colomb said.
She added that the council was also worried about the impact dredging would have on peninsula beaches, the bay and marine environment.
“If the Port of Melbourne is to be Melbourne’s only port for the next 70 years, it will require significant dredging and deepening of the heads and bay,” Cr Colomb said.
“The bay is a vital part of the peninsula’s environmental, social and economic fabric and we must ensure it is protected and enhanced for future generations.”
