Earth Resources Regulation is continuing to assess a high number of applications to lift production and make operational improvements at Victorian quarries, while ensuring compliance to protect community safety and meet environmental standards.
The regulator has approved a work plan variation to increase to the operating hours at a Fulton Hogan granite quarry in Tynong North.
The approval will provide the operator with greater operational flexibility, which can reduce the number of trucks travelling from the quarry on freeways and arterial roads during peak traffic periods. This variation will not allow for longer hours for blasting or excavation works.
Fulton Hogan operates quarries in Victoria supporting the state's Big Build, including Victoria's Level Crossing Removal Program, the Monash Freeway Upgrade and the M80 Ring Road Upgrade.
In 2020-2021, Earth Resources Regulation assessed 40 work plans and other changes for quarries across Victoria, with 98 per cent completed within its tight statutory timelines.
Quarry production across Victoria exceeded sixty-three million tonnes of sand, rock and gravel in 2019-20 to deliver the material needed to build new homes, hospitals, schools and transport infrastructure.
The regulator is also implementing business and process improvements focused on maximising the efficiency and effectiveness of its work authority application process.
Earth Resources Regulation regulates Victorian resource sites to protect public safety and the environment.
Quotes attributable to Earth Resources Regulation Executive Director Anthony Hurst:
"Earth Resources Regulation is continuing to assess a high number of applications to lift production at quarries around Melbourne and across regional areas."
"We encourage quarry operators and local residents to work closely together to keep each other well informed about quarry operations and community activities."
"Our inspectors will continue to monitor quarry activities to ensure compliance and protect public safety and local environments."
