One of the Hunter’s longest-running mines is seeking approval from the state and federal governments to continue mining, which it says will support ongoing jobs, the economy and communities.
The NSW Government has placed the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for Hunter Valley Operations’ (HVO) Continuation Project on public exhibition.
HVO is proposing to continue mining at its HVO South mine until 2045 and its HVO North mine until 2050. The mines are located at Lemington, near Singleton.
HVO’s new General Manager, Dave Foster, said continuing mining will support around 1500 ongoing jobs as well as an additional 600 jobs during the construction of infrastructure upgrades.
“This is not a new mine – this is a continuation of operations that have been ongoing for the last 70 years,” Dave said.
“We are not seeking to increase our currently approved production rates.”
“We’re proud of the contribution we make every year supporting local businesses, delivering royalties to support public infrastructure and services, as well as providing community grants and other charity support.”
“In 2021, for example, HVO’s direct economic contribution was $862 million. This included our spend of $537 million on goods and services from 740 businesses, many of which are based in the Hunter.”
“Our plan is largely to recover more coal from previously mined or currently approved areas. While some new areas at HVO North will be mined, some areas previously approved for mining at HVO South will not be developed.”
“We will continue to implement industry-leading initiatives in managing air quality, noise and water resources and progressive rehabilitation of mined land,” Dave said.
The proposal also includes plans to realign Lemington Road with a new bridge over the Hunter River to replace the flood prone Moses Crossing.
“We plan to spend $80 million on the Lemington Road realignment and new bridge, which will address a long-running issue for local road users. Moses Crossing has been underwater for a combined total of more than 11 months since 2010, the majority of that in the last two years.
The proposed new bridge would have kept Lemington Road clear of flooding over that period, Dave said.”
Dave said the local community had provided valuable feedback during the scoping and design of the Project.
“We’re continuing to consult with neighbouring residents on specific measures to further minimise impacts,” he said.
He encourages the community to have their say, including those who are supportive of the Project, by making a submission on the EIS.
IMAGE | HVO General Manager, Dave Foster
