Alcoa's decision not to mine in Dwellingup has been welcomed by both the State Government and the Shire of Murray.
The US bauxite miner has established an 8344 hectare no mining zone more than four times the size of Rottnest Island around the town.
Alcoa holds a bauxite mining lease which includes the land around Dwellingup until 2045 but has since vowed not to mine within three kilometres of the town centre.
The move will help protect about 5000ha of forest and a combined 31km of the Bibbulmun walking track and Munda Biddi cycle trail near Dwellingup.
Alcoa Australia President Matt Reed said the company’s decision followed extensive studies and consultation, and respected feedback about the area’s growing importance to not only the local community but the broader state and nation.
“We hope this decision provides greater certainty about our intentions in a prospective mineral area and demonstrates our willingness to protect important environmental and social values,” Mr Reed said.
“We respect the Dwellingup area has immense lifestyle, ecotourism and forest recreational values that people want to continue to enjoy now and into the future.
“We have worked closely with the Shire of Murray and other stakeholders in reaching this decision, and we believe this commitment will provide certainty to the community for the future.”
Premier Roger Cook said the mining avoidance area is a win for local residents, tourism and the environment.
"The announcement reflects the value of Dwellingup's incredible landscapes, including the magnificent jarrah and marri forest, to the local community, its expanding ecotourism industry and the State.
"My Government will work with Alcoa to protect the natural beauty of the Dwellingup area for generations of Western Australians to come."
Shire of Murray President David Bolt said the decision is critical in protecting the much loved and iconic tourist town of Dwellingup.
"Dwellingup is a remarkable part of the world. As Western Australia’s Top Tiny Tourist Town it’s a place that is enjoyed by hundreds of thousands of people every year," Mr Bolt said.
"The announcement is a positive step in protecting the area’s special environmental, lifestyle, ecotourism, heritage and recreation values.
“To Dwellingup residents and indeed the broader community, the area is a special place to call home. The mining avoidance area will help provide added certainty and security to these people. It is a great outcome and we are grateful for Alcoa in working closely with the Shire and the community
to reach this decision."
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