A decision on the controversial PEP-11 gas project’s licence has been delayed.
Dozens of people gathered at Bar Beach yesterday, spelling out their opposition to offshore drilling and gas rigs.
An exploration permit, covering a 4,500 square kilometre area between Sydney and Newcastle, had been due to expire today.
“There is no proposal for gas exploration close to the Coast, generally it’s more than 30 kilometres off the coast,” Federal Resources Minister, Keith Pitt said.
“The rig certainly won’t be seen from the beach, if there is one.”
The existing permit’s provisions will remain in place for now, as the Federal Resources Minister awaits advice from state counterpart, John Barilaro.
The Deputy Premier has indicated he will oppose the project, however his office says he only received the formal request from Minister Pitt’s office yesterday.
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