Controversy over Lake Liddell closure near Muswellbrook

350.org has challenged AGL to bring forward the closure of its Liddell Power Station after it was forced to permanently shut Lake Liddell to the public, following prolonged contamination.

The company announced the lake would be permanently closed to locals and visitors after amoeba naegleria fowleri was detected in the water. 

This amoeba can cause a rare but fatal infection if people come in contact with it.

“The Liddell Power Station poses a unique health threat to the community,” 350 campaigner John Creaser said.

“I am deeply concerned about locals and tourists ignoring or not knowing about the lake closure and getting sick from this latest AGL contamination.

“If this is what the power station is doing to the local lake, just imagine the impacts it is having on the health of local communities and surrounding ecosystems. 

“AGL needs to come clean about how they are going to address their serious contamination problems to ensure they do not continue. 

“Shutting down a lake to the public is not a solution, and this is just the latest in a long series of AGL incidents that threaten the health of residents.

“AGL intends to keep Liddell open for another five years at least. 

“Since the company obviously can’t guarantee the safety of the station, we are calling on them to bring forward the closure and ensure the site is properly rehabilitated and there is a transition plan for workers and the community.”

Mr Creaser said it was a huge blow to the region.

“Especially, to those who use the lake as a recreational spot, as well as depending on it as a tourist attraction that helps support the local economy,” he said.

“But even bigger blows will be felt if AGL continues its business as usual approach on fossil fuels.”