Preliminary engineering works have begun for the proposed coal terminal, which would service new and expanded coal mines in the southern Bowen Basin and potential mine developments in the Surat Basin.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Paul Lucas said a consultant had been appointed to carry out the engineering work and to develop an environmental impact statement.

Lucas said the final design of the terminal would be suited to its surrounding environment and would set a new benchmark for high standards of environmental controls.

“Initial studies have included monitoring of the water quality in the Calliope River, assessing vegetation in the proposed rail corridor, and getting an accurate picture of fauna in the region,” Lucas said.

The Wiggins Island Coal Terminal has been declared a significant project for Gladstone, which is already one of the largest coal loading ports in the world.

Lucas said if the project proved feasible and contract commitments from coal exporters were forthcoming, stage one of the new terminal could be completed in just four years.