A new $50 million research station for Macquarie Island is before the federal Environment Department for assessment.
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The research station was under threat of closure in 2017 until the federal government intervened and committed the funding for its redevelopment.
The reason for the proposed closure was due to aging infrastructure, environmental contamination and occupational health and safety risks.
The station has operated year-round since 1948.
The redevelopment project would involve construction of a new research station at a new location, the demolition of the current station buildings, which are 69 years old, and the refurbishment of a network of field huts dispersed across the island.
The new station would have living spaces such as a lounge and exercise area, a commercial-style kitchen, sleeping quarters, laboratories and scientific facilities, and medical facilities.
Construction of the new buildings is due to be completed by 2022 and the former buildings decommissioned by 2027.
The 48 existing buildings are recognised as surplus to requirements and will be reduced to 10.
The project will be assessed by federal Environment Department against the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act.
The public are able to keep up with happenings at the Macquarie Island research station on a weekly basis through the Australian Antarctic Division’s website.
The ADD manages five stations in total; three of which are based on the Antarctic continent and one on Heard Island between Antarctica and Madagascar.