The NSW Department of Planning and Environment said the proposal seeks to create a new open cut pit to the east of existing operations, extend various existing open cut pits and extend the life of the mine by seven years to 2033.

The project will be subject to a comprehensive merit assessment process and will include reviews by State government agencies and the Commonwealth Independent Expert Scientific Committee. The Department of Planning and Environment will also be engaging a number of experts to provide independent advice on the project.

A spokesman for the Department of Planning and Environment said the local community always has an opportunity to share their views.

“Community consultation is an integral part of the planning process and the applicant will have to respond to the feedback,” he said.

“Submissions we receive are taken into consideration when we develop our recommendations.”