WAMBO MINE EXTENSION APPROVED

The Independent Planning Commission has approved the controversial extension of the Wambo mine near Singleton – but with a key condition.

The decision will allow the extraction of a further 150 million tonnes of coal from the joint underground and open cut operation, over 23 years.

In what is a first for the industry, the approval requires the mine’s owners to ensure the coal is only sold to countries, that have agreed to greenhouse gas emission targets.