COALPAC has launched its campaign to win the hearts and minds of the public and the NSW government in a renewed bid for approval for its controversial mining proposal at Cullen Bullen.
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The consolidation project involving the Cullen Valley and invincible Mines stalled last year when the application was rejected on environmental and health grounds.
The company was subsequently placed under administration.
This week Coalpac hosted information sessions over two days at Cullen Bullen to outline its revised proposal.
A spokesperson said the sessions were to help the wider community understand the proposed modifications to the
Cullen Valley Mine and Invincible Colliery operations.
Coalpac is seeking approval for two modifications to allow the continuation and extension of its currently approved open cut and highwall mining operations at Invincible Colliery and Cullen Valley Mine.
Changes to the current approvals include:
* AN 88 hectare extension to Invincible Colliery open cut
* A 62 hectare extension to Cullen Valley Mine open cut
* FOUR years extension to Invincible Colliery's existing approval to 2020
* INSTALLATION of a water pipeline to share water between the mines
The Environmental Assessment, outlining the details of the proposed modifications, will be on public exhibition in the Cullen Bullen Progress Hall until April 28.
Member for Bathurst Paul Toole has indicated his support for the modified proposal while mayor Maree Statham reiterated Lithgow Council’s support, stressing the importance for mining jobs.
Coalpac's Ian Follington said community feedback will be sought as the proposal moves through the planning approval process.
The Environmental Assessment, outlining the details of the proposed modifications, will be on public exhibition until April 28.
The relatively short period for public input, particularly with the Easter and Anzac holiday breaks, has angered opponents of the project.
The Blue Mountains Conservation Society has called on the Minister for planning and Infrastructure,Brad Hazzard, to extend the exhibition period for a month.
“Ramming a proposal through exhibition processes over the public holidays is unacceptable,” according to spokesman Dr Brian Marshall.
Other environmental groups are also mounting a challenge to the new application.