Independent PAC to make final decision on Bulga underground mine modification

The New South Wales Department of Planning and Environment has recommended approval of the administrative modification, which proposes to provide greater consistency between the noise and biodiversity conditions for the opencast and underground operations at the Bulga mining complex, which have separate project approvals.

The new conditions require the company to increase the number of noise monitoring reports and be subjected to independent environmental audits on both the opencast and underground mine operations.

The Department found the conditions could be modified without any adverse environmental impacts and provide greater consistency between the opencast and underground mine approvals.

A spokesperson from the Department said modifying the conditions would also clarify the mining complex’s Biodiversity Management Plan and compliance commitments.

“The Department carefully considered noise and biodiversity, nearby residences and the environment finding the conditions could be modified with no extra impacts,” the spokesperson said. “Consistent conditions will allow for better coordination of noise monitoring reports and independent environmental audits between the open cut and underground operations.”

“The PAC is an important part of the NSW planning system ensuring major developments are subject to expert, independent review and assessment.”

“The PAC will now consider the Department’s report and recommended conditions to make a final decision.”

Bulga Coal Management Pty Ltd’s modification application was published on the Department’s website in July 2016 and relevant government agencies were also contacted for feedback.

The PAC will determine this project due to a reportable political donation disclosure received from the company.

Read the article online at: https://www.worldcoal.com/mining/09122016/independent-pac-to-make-final-decision-on-bulga-underground-mine-modification/