A local court hearing for the community-led Land and Environment Court appeal against mining activity in the Gloucester basin will take place tomorrow, Thursday, after initially being set down for Monday.
The Ironstone Community Action Group has instituted the proceedings with the support of the Environmental Defenders Office (EDO).
Two solicitors acting on behalf of the action group have lodged an appeal as a “merits appeal – class 1” as a result of community objection by individuals and groups to a proposed extension of the Duralie coal mine, and to future mining operations in general.
The NSW Planning Department has approved Gloucester Coal’s Duralie mine extension until December 31, 2021.
Ironstone Community Action Group secretary Amanda Albury said the appeal has been lodged because of a number of concerns in relation to the approval.
She said the first flush protocol included in the approval concerns the group while she said the Commonwealth had not protected endangered, threatened and vulnerable species in the area.
She said other issues to be raised will include air pollution, dust emanating from blasting and mined areas, as well as the cumulative effect of mining on residents’ health, effecs on the tourism industry, agriculture and businesses.
The hearing at Gloucester Court House is set down for 2pm to 4pm tomorrow, Thursday May 19.
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