Firm would consider seeking compo if charcoal site moved

The company planning to build a charcoal factory on the state's south coast says it would seek financial compensation if forced to change the location of the development.

The Liberal Member for Eden Monaro, Gary Nairn, has called for an alternative site to be investigated due to widespread public opposition to the plant in Mogo, but he wants the development to remain in the electorate.

Australian Silicon is awaiting State Government approval for the factory, but has welcomed Mr Nairn's comments as constructive.

The managing director of Australian Silicon, Peter Anderton, said the company would seek financial compensation if forced to change the site, but is leaving open the possibility of moving the development.

"But right at the moment we've already spent half a million dollars after we've gone through a process with the State Government, with the local government and the sourcing of a preferred site - at the end of the day someone has to look to compensate us if there's going to be any change," he said.

The Labor candidate for Eden Monaro, Steve Whan, says the charcoal plant should be located where it is most suitable.

"I think the project has to go where it is appropriate, where it won't pollute and where a community welcomes it," he said.

"There may be areas in Eden Monaro where that suits, I'd suggest probably the Bombala area, if they could get the timber supply [it] would be a terrific spot for it, but that would depend on whether that community wanted it as well."

© 2001 Australian Broadcasting Corporation