The state’s Planning Assessment Commission has approved extending the life of the Mount Arthur coal mine at Muswellbrook by four years.
The decision means BHP Billiton can expand its operations to the south west, allowing it to access an additional 128-million tonnes of coal.
The Commission has however attached conditions to its consent, including documenting blasting activity on Muswellbrook Council’s website.
It’s also recommended the Department of Planning review and update its blasting guidelines to provide clarity and confidence to the community regarding noise impacts.
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