Energy giant Santos was determined to push ahead with the construction of a 413-kilometre gas pipeline from Narrabri to Newcastle, a Business Hunter lunch has been told.

The company's regional manager, Andrew Snars, argued that the contentious project was essential for the future of the NSW industry and represented a key component of the clean energy transition.

Mr Snars said 34 per cent of landholders along the pipeline route had signed easement deeds permitting the pipeline to run on their properties.

"Santos continues to progress land access agreements, cadastral surveys, cultural heritage and environmental assessments, and all other licensing arrangements to finalise the Hunter Gas Pipeline and Narrabri Lateral Pipeline," he said.

Among those at Thursday's lunch were Liverpool Plai

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