The proposal, from logistics giant TQ Holdings, would involve building 23 tanks for fuel storage, 13 waste tanks, two fire water tanks, and associated loading equipment.

The proposed terminal would replace a previously approved plan by National Biodiesel for a soybean processing and biodiesel facility.

The new application will be assessed as a major project under NSW planning rules, and is on exhibition for public comment.

If given approval to proceed, the 35 new tanks would be in addition to GrainCorp’s Port Kembla bulk liquids facility which is set to include more than 10 storage tanks.

The proposed tanks would have a total storage capacity of 288 megalitres, excluding the waste or “slops” – tanks.

National Biodiesel’s proposal had been approved under ministerial discretion planning rules in 2009. But the plant did not commence construction and that planning consent was to have expired earlier this year.

National Biodiesel sought an extension of time for another 12 months, which was granted by an officer in the Planning Department in May this year. Not long afterwards the interest in the land has been taken over by TQ Holdings for a different project.

The environmental scoping assessment states that the poor market for soybean crushing and biodiesel production means these aspects of the earlier proposal are no longer viable.

It says the end of all fuel refining in NSW and the need for “a secure and diverse fuel supply network” meant there would be a strong demand for storage facilities.

TQ Holdings is a joint venture between Japanese fuel transport group TonenGeneral, and major Australian logistics company Qube.

The terminal and its tanks would be located west of the coal loader and adjacent to GrainCorp’s facilities.

GrainCorp’s built and planned facilities include storage for chemicals, fertilisers, fuel and edible oils.

Public submissions on the plan are open until January 29, 2016, via the NSW Major Projects website.