Mr Anderson said, "Eastern Star Gas, now owned by Santos, previously lodged an application to construct a gas pipeline from Narrabri to Wellington, highlighting four possible route locations. Sections of their suggested pipeline routes run below the sensitive black soil plains on the edge of the Tamworth Electorate.

"This proposal has caused enormous stress and concern amongst landholders who would have been affected by the placement of the pipeline under their property and the potential risk of damage to rich agricultural land.

"In the lead up to this decision, I had meetings with local farmers, members of the Mullaley Gas Pipeline Accord, Eastern Star Gas and Santos. I pushed the case for an alternate route including exploration of an option to run along the Newell Highway.

"Santos informed me of their decision this morning and I acknowledged this as another example of keeping communication lines open, enabling transparent and honest negotiations to take place between communities and the corporate sector.

"Today's decision to withdraw the application is excellent news. I am pleased to see Santos has listened to the community and their concerns.

"Santos will continue their community consultation in relation to their ongoing work program in the Gunnedah Narrabri area.

"I congratulate all involved in the process," Mr Anderson concluded