Environmental groups and some MPs have pleaded with an independent planning body to oppose a controversial coal seam gas project after it was recommended for approval by the NSW government.
The NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment on Friday recommended the Narrabri coal seam gas project be approved and referred it to the Independent Planning Commission for a final assessment.
Oil and gas giant Santos wants to develop the $3.6 billion project over 95,000 hectares in the Pilliga forest and nearby grazing land in the state's northwest.
It involves drilling 850 new gas wells over 20 years, with Santos saying it has the potential to satisfy up to half of NSW's natural gas demand.
The planning department found the project would not adversely affect the region's valuable groundwater resources and could be designed to minimise any impacts.
In recommending it for approval, the department added the project was "unlikely" to result in any significant impacts on the community or environment.
"The department has concluded the project is in the public interest and is approvable subject to strict conditions," the DPIE said in its report.
The conditions imposed include appointing the Environment Protection Authority as the lead regulator and obtaining separate water licences for all water taken.
https://www.mandurahmail.com.au/story/6790705/fury-as-nsw-csg-project-gets-states-tick/?cs=9397