Coal news and updates

Lake Macquarie coal mine gets approval to expand

A Lake Macquarie coal mine has been given permission to expand, meaning the underground operation will continue for another 25 years.

Centennial Coal says the New South Wales Government's approval of its $265 million Mandalong south extension project secures the employment of more than 300 people.

At a second Planning Assessment Commission hearing in August, residents reiterated their concerns about pollution of the lake from mine water discharges.

Mandalong Community Association president Marton Marosszeky said he is worried about the safety of 400 locals who use Mandalong Road.

"The PAC has put some additional provisions into the conditions of consent to try and make sure that things are looked after," he said.

"Our difficulty is that we're left in the hands of the Environment Protection Authority and Lake Macquarie Council, and both organisations have shown themselves to be much more interested in any money that they can make from mining than the environment, or the well-being of the people."

Mr Marosszeky said the fight is not over.

"We will keep pushing hard, both in relation to the water pollution of the lake and the safety issues on Mandalong Road," he said.

"People's use of the valley will be severely impacted.

"A management plan has to be developed, in consultation with council and with the community.

"We'll be trying to push council very hard to take more notice of the safety issues of the users in the valley."

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