Tensions have continued to escalate at Woodside Petroleum Ltd’s (ASX:WPL) planned $30 billion gas hub at James Price Point in Western Australia, due to environmental and native title concerns.
According to Fairfax the Perth-based oil and gas producer this week broke through a blockade of activists who have been protesting against the project for more than one month.
Police have reportedly arrested some protestors and told the remaining protestors that they could face charges if they continue to obstruct police.
Woodside is understood to have now started clearing vegetation. The company maintains that the work is lawful, as it moves closer to making a final investment decision on the project.
According to the report, 20 per cent of Broome's population has signed a petition against the project that has been now handed to Environment Minister Tony Burke.
Woodside Petroleum recorded a net profit of $1.5 billion in the 2010 financial year.
