Australian Pacific Coal Ltd. (AQC) has received approval from the Independent Planning Commission (IPC) relating to some elements of its application to modify the consent for the Dartbrook coal mine (MOD 7). The approval, according to the company, is a significant milestone for the recommencement of mining at Dartbrook.
A key element of MOD 7, the application for an additional five years of mine life, however, was not approved. The company said it will review the reasons for the decision and evaluate all available options.
“The determination of MOD 7 has taken many months and while the main elements of mining and transport were approved, it is disappointing the IPC did not approve the additional 5 years of mine life,” said AQC Executive Chairman John Robinson. “The application was subject to significant support and scrutiny from the local community and we will endeavor to work closely with all stakeholders as we embark on the next phase for Dartbrook.”
Located in the Hunter Valley region of New South Wales, Dartbrook is an underground mining operation that produced thermal coal. The mine has access to infrastructure and the company said its coal handling and preparation plant has been well-maintained since the operation was placed on care and maintenance in 2007.
