Strict guidelines for Exmouth Gulf drilling proposal

Strict environmental conditions have been imposed on an oil exploration drilling proposal for the Exmouth Gulf.

Environment Minister Bob Pearce has approved an application by Mobil Exploration and Producing Australia Pty Ltd to drill wells in three areas of the gulf known as Cassidy, Cody and Spider.

The Environmental Protection Authority recommended the proposal go ahead subject to environmental conditions.

Mr Pearce has set 15 conditions on the project and says drilling will not be allowed in the Ningaloo Marine Park.

In approving the project, Mr Pearce has upheld the EPA's position on petroleum exploration in open waters in environmentally sensitive locations and in marine parks.

"Offshore drilling proposals of this type are environmentally unacceptable in marine parks," Mr Pearce said.

"But drilling is acceptable in environmentally sensitive areas if developers can demonstrate that they can manage the impact their project will have on the environment.

"In this case, I have upheld the EPA's recommendations and will allow the project to go ahead," Mr Pearce said.

The 15 conditions include:

·         a requirement that the company comply with guidelines provided in the oil spill contingency plan;

·         that the plan be prepared and run prior to drilling commencing and at least once a year for the duration of the project or for each change of rig;

·         rehabilitation of drilling sites.

Mobil has made a commitment to adopt accepted industry and government standards and guidelines for safe exploration drilling practices.

As an extra safety measure, the company has agreed to install suitable boom and skimming devices on the rig, ready for immediate deployment at all times during drilling.

Photographs of the sea floor will be taken before and after drilling operations.