A previous proposal for the Wallarah 2 coal mine was refused in 2011.

The Department of Planning placed the project’s environmental impact statement (EIS) and associated documents on public exhibition on Friday, where they will stay until June 21.

The applicant, Kores subsidiary Wyong Areas Coal Joint Venture, proposes to extract up to 5 million tonnes of coal per year for up to 28 years. It wants to use underground longwall mining methods and construct and operate a range of associated infrastructure, including rail spur, coal stockpiles, ventilation shafts, and a gas drainage and capture system.

The company proposes to transport coal from the mine by rail and progressively rehabilitate the site.

The proposed underground mine is about 5km northwest of Wyong, with surface facilities at Tooheys Road and Hue Hue Road.

The mining area is predominantly underneath Wyong State Forest.

Department of Planning director-general Sam Haddad said the applicant was required to thoroughly address a range of key issues, such as the potential impacts of the mine on water resources, biodiversity, heritage, air quality, noise and traffic and transport.

“While the previous application was refused, the mine company, like any other applicant in NSW, is legally allowed to lodge a new development application and have it considered on its merits,” Haddad said.

“The department’s assessment will be very thorough and will closely scrutinise a wide range of issues.

“It is expected that the project will be determined by the independent Planning Assessment Commission (PAC). It will also require approval from the Commonwealth government.

“I encourage all interested members of the public to review the EIS during the exhibition period.

Haddad said he was aware that local residents had already raised a number of concerns, including potential impacts on water resources and biodiversity.

“Now is the chance for local communities to formally have their say on the new proposal,” he said.

“Public submissions are always a key consideration in the department’s assessment and the company will also be required to respond to all the issues raised.”

At the end of the public exhibition period, the applicant will need to address all issues raised in the submissions and the proposal will undergo a merit assessment by the department before a recommendation is made to the PAC.