Coal miners have launched angry attacks on planning authorities and the NSW government after a proposed mine was refused because it posed a threat to key racehorse and tourism industries.
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The Independent Planning Assessment Commission refused permission for Anglo American's proposed Drayton South open-cut coal mine in the Hunter Valley yesterday, saying it was not in the public interest.
As horse breeders and grape growers celebrated, Anglo American coal chief executive Seamus French made a scathing attack on the planning process.
“This has gutted our 500-strong workforce and their families,” Mr French said about the rejection of the 100-million-tonne mine.
“Unemployment in the Hunter Valley is eight per cent,” he said.
“To reject a project which would continue to provide 500 full-time jobs for a period of 20 years is incomprehensible.”
Hunter Thoroughbred Breeders Association president Cameron Collins said the refusal reinforced the significance of the Hunter as a hub for the breeding industry.