Australia Pacific LNG Project Takes Step Forward

Delivery of Australia Pacific LNG (APLNG) Project’s 525-kilometre gas transmission line has advanced another key step with Queensland’s Coordinator-General approving two new sections of pipeline.

The two sections are a 44 kilometre section of pipeline within the Callide Infrastructure Corridor State Development Area (CICSDA) and a 27.5 kilometre section of pipeline within the Gladstone State Development Area (GSDA).

The APLNG project in Gladstone, proposed by Origin Energy, is a declared significant project.

The two land use approvals are in line with conditions set by the Coordinator-General, through the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) process, that the proponent must locate its gas transmission pipeline within the CICSDA and the GSDA.

Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jeff Seeney said the approved ‘material change of use’ applications meant the proponent has now passed the final major steps in meeting the Coordinator-General’s EIS conditions.

“This will now allow the APLNG project to push on to deliver a project that will provide major benefits for both Queensland, and the nation,” Mr Seeney said.

“The 44 kilometre gas pipeline section and the 27.5 kilometre section are both important components of the gas transmission pipeline network required to deliver gas from the coal seam gas fields to the liquefied natural gas facility under construction on Curtis Island.

“APLNG advises up to 20 workers will be needed for operational and routine maintenance and surveillance activities across the entire transmission pipeline.”

Coordinator-General Barry Broe said his approval of the ‘material change of use’ applications for the gas transmission pipeline within the CICSDA and the GSDA meant APLNG could move forward quickly with the next phase of the project.

He said the Gladstone Regional Council and other relevant referral agencies were consulted prior to granting approval.

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LNG World News Staff, September 26, 2012; Image: APLNG