The Byerwen Coal mine, near Glenden, is one step closer to going ahead after the project received approval by Queensland’s independent Coordinator General late yesterday.
The$1.76 billion project developed by the QCoal Group is expected to create up to 350 construction jobs and up to 545 jobs during the operational life of the mine.
Deputy Premier Jeff Seeney said the Coordinator General’s approval is subject to 122 conditions to responsibly manage the impacts of the project.
“The proponent, Byerwen Coal Pty Ltd, has committed to offering employment to locals from the nearby towns of Glenden, Nebo, Moranbah and Collinsville and from across the wider region,” Mr Seeney said.
“The project could also have flow-on benefits to nearby towns and businesses, creating even more local jobs.”
The mine will be open cut with the potential to supply up to 10 million tonnes of coking and thermal coal per year for the global steel market.
“The Coordinator General has set strict conditions to protect groundwater resources, surface water quality and fauna, as well as controls on air quality, dust and noise,” Mr Seeney said.
The Coordinator General’s report will now go to the Commonwealth Environment minister for federal approval.
Once operational it’s expected the mine could contribute up to $13.2 billion in state royalties over the life of the mine, depending on the price of coal.
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