State government approves Grantville sand mine expansion

A sand mine expansion has been given the green light but locals say it will destroy Bass Coast’s “last remaining coastal forest”.

The expansion of a controversial sand mine at Grantville threatens Bass Coast’s identity, according to council, environmental advocates and opponents.

The state government recently approved the expansion to clear 13 hectares of bushland in the Western Port Woodlands to make way for the development.

Dandy Premix, who operate the quarry, has also been given the green light to increase truck movement from 120 to 240 trucks per day and install traffic lights on the Bass Highway.

It will mean the quarry will expand from 400m to 1.2km — threatening the last remaining forest in the region.

The expansion is raising concerns for the last remaining coastal forest. Picture: Google Maps.

Save Western Port Woodlands spokesmen Tim O'Brien said it would also hurt species who live in the forest.

“Every small incremental loss puts increased pressure on the vulnerable species who rely on that forest and in particular who rely on the biolink corridor,” he said.

“It’s a disaster for the community as well. Those people living on Deep Creek Road bought across from a farm, now they have a business who will operate 240 trucks per day grinding up the hill outside their homes.”

Bass Coast Shire mayor Michael Whelan said this expansion “directly threatens” the identity of the region which relies heavily on visitors.

“Almost half of our economy is made up from visitors and that will be threatened by this mine. People come to the coast to experience nature, not to be welcomed by an industrial zone,” he said.

He added: “We are world leaders with our conservation work on Phillip Island. This move contradicts that.”

A spokesperson from the state government said the approval was made following a planning panel review.

“The final approval was shaped by the community feedback, with protections in place to ensure we can maintain access to the these vital resources without compromising the environment.”

But Grantville residents have slammed the move.

“What a bloody disgrace. I have lost faith in those who are not supporting our beautiful, wonderful and natural forest and all of the animals that call it home,” Carmen Rose wrote online.

Dandy Premix was contacted for comment.