A RALLY in protest of plans for a gas pipeline between Stratford and Hexham took place yesterday in Gloucester. Exhibition of a draft plan closed Friday, proposing the construction and operation of a coal seam gas extraction, processing and transportation system.

While the pipeline affects six local government areas, including Great Lakes, Port Stephens, Gloucester, Newcastle, Dungog and Maitland, Stroud resident Amanda Albury believes there has been little consultation between AGL gas and the wider community.

“Unless you have been approached about putting a pipeline in through your property then you wouldn’t know,” Mrs Albury said.

Many residents have display ‘No Trespassing’ signs on their gates.

The real concern, Mrs Albury believes, is the effect the mines will have on the environment, in particular the waterways.

The plan, which contains up to 90 gas wells, proposes drilling major aquifers in the area.

A process known as “fraccing” is used to retrieve gas from coal seams, which also risks releasing methane gas into the water system.

“You’re looking at rivers, streams, creeks all the way along being affected,” Mrs Albury said.

“That includes everywhere from Little Manning to the Karuah River.”

Mrs Albury said one of the most alarming facts was how few people were aware of what was happening.

“We simply don’t have the human resources to cover six local governments,” she said.

Plans indicated a significant amount of bushland will be cleared to make way for the pipeline through the Valley, with room for additional gas wells.

AGL’s environmental impact assessment went on display November 18 and at the time the company said it would have minimal environmental impact.