Ashton Coal’s south east open cut project is still subject to debate after gaining recommendation for approval by the Department of Planning and Infrastructure.

The application has now been referred to the PAC which will decide whether or not to approve.

The meeting is open to the public however people wishing to address the meeting needto apply by close of business next Wednesday.

If approved, the project will extend Ashton Coal’s mining operations for a further seven years after their north east open cut operations close this year.

Some residents said they were disappointed with the allocated venue for the meeting and felt that it should be more central and accessible to the public with the suggestion of Singleton Civic Centre made.

In response, PAC planning officer Megan Webb said Glennies Creek Hall was chosen precisely for its location.

“We try and hold meetings as close as possible to the affected site and Glennies Creek Hall appeared the closest, I understand that some people have raised concerns but the majority of people have not complained and due to the late stage we feel there’s no justification to change the venue.”

Issues of concern include the need to relocate residents from their homes, the proximity of the mining area to the alluvial flats and how it might affect water users and the destruction of Aboriginal heritage.

Ashton Coal has already said publicallythat Ashton made significant changes to the original mine plan to meet concerns raised by the DP&I and other submissions.

Anyone can view the formal schedule of the meeting’s speakers and other information on the PAC website www.pac.nsw.gov.au/