Council opposes CSG investigations in Logan

Published: 6 December 2011

Coal Seam Gas (CSG) explorations are not welcome in Logan, according to the city council.

At today's Ordinary Council Meeting, Logan City Council unanimously formed a position of strong opposition to the idea of any exploration activity in the city.

Environment and Sustainability Committee Chairperson, Councillor Lisa Bradley (Division 1), said Council had adopted a tough stance in order to protect the city from the potential impacts of CSG explorations.

"CSG exploration, which is currently underway in neighbouring Scenic Rim, and the subsequent industry activity pose significant threats to natural assets as well as public health," she said.

"There are widespread concerns throughout the community regarding such exploration, not least as a result of the recent rapid expansion of the industry.

"The CSG industry can have significant environmental impacts, it has the potential to contaminate water tables and aquifers and can result in gas leaks and subsequent health risks. Well heads, containment dams and gas infrastructure can also lead to the loss of prime agricultural land and will have a major effect on the city's rural residents and this is a major concern for Council.

"One of the biggest risks relates to the hydrological impacts of these activities and Council is concerned about the long term impacts. Analysis by the industry of a widespread groundwater pressure drop to achieve the desired gas flows has long term potential ramifications."

Cr Bradley confirmed an exploration permit which covers part of Logan near Cedar Grove had been in place since 1999.

"Council has contacted the operator and has been advised they have not and will not be conducting explorations in Logan," she said.

"Despite reassurances that CSG explorations are not on the agenda for Logan, Council still has cause for concern and has opted to form its position of strong opposition of any such activity both now and into the future."