Coal news and updates

The Department of Planning has recommended approval for GlencoreXstrata’s plans to increase production at its Mangoola coal mine.

 

Ramping up production at GlencoreXstrata’s Mangoola coal mine by almost 30 per cent from 10.5 million tonnes to 13.5 million tonnes of coal a year will create an estimated 150 new jobs.

 

The Department of Planning has recommended that the independent Planning Assessment Commission (PAC) approve the plan subject to strict conditions.

 

It said the expansion would not increase the impacts over and above those approved in the existing mine plan.

 

It says blasting restrictions can be more flexible without any increase on impacts and expects fewer residents will experience noise problems as a result of updated noise modelling at the site.

 

The Department says the proposal represents a reasonable and logical amendment to the existing project, as it would maximise the economic benefits of the mine without any increase in the disturbance footprint.

 

Mangoola Coal has welcomed the department's decision.

 

"The Environmental Assessment for the project involved a comprehensive consultation process which aimed to address key issues and concerns raised by community members and groups," the company said.

 

"We are committed to ensuring that Mangoola maintains its strong focus on continuous improvements in all areas operation, especially management of impacts."

 

 

Source: http://www.miningaustralia.com.au/