January 19,
2012
BHP Billiton has given the
Queensland Government notice of a
proposed rail corridor alignment
to the Port of Abbot Point which
can be used to accommodate multiple
rail lines, including a dedicated rail line for BHP Billiton and its joint venture partners in the Bowen Basin.
BHP Billiton is studying
the construction of its own
dedicated rail line from
the Goonyella Mine to a proposed
BHP Billiton coal export terminal at Abbot Point, which is the subject of a separate agreement
with the Queensland Government.
This infrastructure will ultimately
allow the export of up to 60 million tonnes of metallurgical coal annually.
The continuing BHP Billiton study has identified a single proposed rail corridor in consultation with local landowners in the region.
BHP Billiton Metallurgical Coal President, Hubie van Dalsen, said the company actively supports the
concept of a common
corridor for multiple rail proponents which would include
a dedicated BHP Billiton rail line.
???We have been working closely with local landowners, many of whom have lived on the same properties for decades,???
Mr van Dalsen said.
???Some landowners
have previously expressed
concerns about the effect
of multiple proposed rail corridors on landholdings. We have listened to their concerns and acted on the advice of the Queensland Government
in pursuing a common
corridor which could be used by other
proponents.
???Local knowledge is providing a critical perspective on potential
issues like stock crossings,
flooding and environmental
issues in determining the proposed
corridor.???
To date, BHP Billiton has negotiated
access for study purposes with more than 85 per cent of landowners,
taking a long-term view in developing the relationships.
???We have sought
to take into account issues identified by landowners in determining the
corridor alignment,??? Mr van Dalsen said.
???We are serious
in our desire to work with all landowners to come up with a
good solution for them and a
good solution for us, taking into
account the social, environmental
and economic considerations
of all parties.
???We are pleased with our ongoing
discussions with landowners.
We look forward to further discussions on the proposed
rail corridor with the Queensland Government and other rail proponents,???
he said.
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