Chimney out if tech stacks up

A CONTROVERSIAL 35m tall chimney stack proposed for the northern Gold Coast may be scrapped thanks to new technology not currently used in Australia.

Phoenix Power Recyclers have lodged legal action to have the planning permission to build a Yatala power plant extended for two years while they explore options other than a massive stack.

The technology involves disbursing gases created by the power plant through means other than a massive chimney.

“The community has had some angst against the stack,” Phoenix Power Recyclers managing director Neville Brownlow said.

“The community don’t want the stack there and we have found some technology that has proven as economical.”

Mr Brownlow said the company hoped the extra two years would be enough for the company to investigate if the new way of building the project would work.

The power plant and waste recycling centre has been controversial since it was first proposed more than five years ago.

The Gold Coast City Council initially voted against approving the project but were overruled by the Planning and Environment Court in 2014.

Phoenix Power Recyclers have now gone to court to have the time limit extended.

Northern Gold Coast councillor and deputy mayor Donna Gates said she wanted to get the views of the community on the proposed extension and changes.

“(The stack) was too close to the residents,” she said.

“It was so controversial that I don’t want to give my thoughts until I know what the community has to say.”

Cr Gates said the decision was in the hands of the courts.