The Queensland government is seeking public feedback on the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the expansion of a major coal mining operation near Glenden.
Xstrata Coal has applied for the expansion of its Newlands Coal Mine west of Mackay, increasing its current annual production of 1.5 million tonnes to up to three tonnes per year.
State minister for environment and heritage protection Andrew Powell said the government is inviting local communities to share their feedback and views on the proposed expansion.
“Xstrata Coal has prepared an EIS under the Environmental Protection Act for its proposal to expand both open cut and underground mining activities, which would extend the life of the mine until 2042,” Mr Powell explained.
“If approved, the Newlands Coal Mine extension would allow the mine to continue to produce more than ten million tonnes of coal and contribute up to $100 million to the Australian economy each year.”
The EIS outlines and identifies the environmental impact the coal mine will potentially have on the surround area, including vegetation, waterways and groundwater systems.
Mr Powell said the Glenden community would benefit from the expansion of the mine’s operations, creating employment and injecting investment into the town.
Written submissions will be accepted until October 29, where Xstrata Coal will then be required to respond to the public’s views.
