Coal news and updates

Anglo insists new Drayton South mine plan shows coal can co-exist

Global miner Anglo American says its latest plan for the controversial Drayton South coal mine in the Hunter Valley proves its commitment to co-exist with nearby thoroughbred horse studs.

The state government has put the environmental impact statement (EIS) for Drayton South on display for the next five weeks.

It is for a smaller version of the mine rejected last year by the Planning Assessment Commission (PAC) because of potential impacts on the Coolmore and Darley studs, and the wider Upper Hunter thoroughbred industry.

Anglo American coal chief executive Seamus French said the EIS directly addresses the PAC's recommendations.

They include keeping all mining behind a ridgeline nominated by the commission, and doubling the buffer zone between the mine and the studs.

Anglo argues there is now no reason to choose between mining jobs and the horse industry because the company has demonstrated its commitment to co-existence.

Mr French said the revised project is now in the public interest, secures 500 existing jobs for the next 15 years, and returns $60 million annually to the state government in royalties and taxes.

source: http://www.abc.net.au