Traffic disruption, noise and dust are three major issues being dealt with by council as it consults with Western Plains Resources about its proposed iron ore storage and export facility in Port Pirie.
The project will create up to 30 jobs, but there are environmental and safety concerns.
Port Pirie Regional Council chief executive officer Dr Andrew Johnson said some preliminary meetings with the company had taken place
He said the company was consulting with council about the best way to engage with the local community.
Ensuring the facility does not adversely disrupt traffic is a priority, Dr Johnson said.
As part of the project, big trains will need to cross Mary Elie street on their way to the facility.
Company executive chairman Bob Duffin said the trains would be broken into three groups of 600 metres long to minimise traffic disruption.
These trains would need to cross Mary Elie street twice, meaning there would be a total of 18 disruptions at the rail crossing each day.
Mr Duffin said the trains would be scheduled at times that did not clash with shift changes at Nyrstar smelter.
Other concerns being raised by the community include the dust and where the facility will be built.
Dr Johnson said the company was mindful of the dust issue and would use an “enclosed negative pressure facility” to stop the dust. The company has also assured people that they will use world-best technology to control dust.
The foreshore playground area and recreational fishing areas will not be impacted by the facility as it will be built at the old Shell site in George Street, Dr Johnson said. Drilling on the site has already begun.
The ore will be exported from berth seven which Dr Johnson said was now only being used for general shipping.
Local residents will have the opportunity to ask questions and learn more about the facility at a community information meeting at the Northern Festival Centre on Saturday.
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