Nelson Pine seeks range of site consents

The Tasman District Council is considering Nelson Pine Industries' bid for a new hazardous site consent and renewals of its air discharge and stormwater consents for the next 25 years.

Council-appointed commissioner Bruce Graham heard the application from NPI research and environmental manager Philip Wilson, company lawyer Nigel McFadden and consultants yesterday.

Former part-owner of Eyebright gift store Adrienne Matthews and Queen St plant scientist John Palmer both made submissions opposing the application.

Ms Matthews raised concerns about the effect NPI emissions had on rainwater at her former home on McShane Rd, and Dr Palmer said the plant should adopt more modern technology to restrict the amount of formaldehyde being released.

Mr Wilson said the plant already operated below its maximum emissions allowance. He said the technology Dr Palmer recommended was too expensive considering this.

Council natural resources consents co-ordinator Leif Piggot cautiously expressed his approval for the 25-year contract.

"For a new industry, I would definitely say no . . . My gut feeling would be 20 [years] but that's in the same order as 25."

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