Mining could begin by late 2022 if resource consent was granted. If successful, the project would increase employment and generate commercial opportunities in the area, Tacon said. “Which is essential for the lower South Island businesses and a range of service providers.” Forty-five people were employed by the Takitimu mine, and the expansion could create four or five jobs, Tacon said. “Importantly, the New Brighton project is about increasing the life of the Takitimu mine supply. In other words, extending the tenure of existing roles as well as creating new jobs.” The current Takitimu operation covered 80 hectares, and the expansion could cover 34ha, he said.
Drilling indicates an “economically minable deposit”, says council commercial infrastructure manager Ashby Brown, in a report released under an Official Information Act request. A wholly-owned subsidiary of Bathurst Resources, New Brighton Collieries Limited, has the legal right for exploration, subject to the access agreement with the council, he says. However, if the council had not granted the access, Bathurst could have escalated the matter under the Crown Mineral Act.
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Southland District Council mayor Gary Tong. Mayor Gary Tong said he was adamant it would have to go out for community consultation before any mining happened. Employment and social development for Ohai and Nightcaps was a priority, but “we’re going to hear from others, and the Government, who say we shouldn’t be using fossil fuels”.