In south-east Queensland a land court has recommended scrapping a $900 million coal mine expansion, in a move landholders and farmers say is a major victory.
The proposed expansion of the New Acland Coal Mine in the Darling Downs has faced intense opposition from property owners since it received state government support in 2012.
The matter was taken to the Land Court in 2016, with opponents arguing the expansion would damage groundwater levels, air quality and agricultural land.
After a record-breaking length of more than 100 days of hearings and 2000 exhibits the court recommended the expansion not be granted.
CEO of the Queensland Environmental Defenders Office Jo-Anne Bragg says the victory is a win for locals.
The State Government will now need to decide whether to follow the court’s recommendation or approve it regardless.
(AUDIO: ABC)
