Proposed $1.5bn development announced by Nationals leader Barnaby Joyce may threaten air, soil and water quality, NT environment report says
The proposed NT-led development also includes a petrochemicals plant for plastic, pesticide and fertiliser production.
Threatened species and sensitive vegetation might be adversely affected when the site, which is about the size of 750 AFL ovals, is cleared. Darwin’s existing port was controversially leased to Chinese company Landbridge for 99 years by the territory government in 2015. Environment minister Sussan Ley says ongoing assessment will enable the commonwealth and NT governments to identify environmentally significant areas and reduce impacts.“The Morrison government is committed to assessment and approval processes that protect the environment without creating unnecessary duplication and delay that can cost our economy millions of dollars and jobs,” she said.