The Resources Regulator issued prohibition notices on the mine on June 28 after ongoing safety and compliance concerns were identified.

In response, South 32 supplied a detailed restart plan to the regulator, which identified immediate, medium and long-term actions to resume mining operations.

The regulator has issued a new prohibition notice which, on the completion of several immediate remedial actions being undertaken by the mine, allows the limited restart of production activities.

Production activities will be limited to one longwall and a maximum three development units until further works are completed in relation the to the reliability of the gas drainage, ventilation and electrical systems and the security of critical power supplies.

NSW chief compliance officer Anthony Keon said the Resources Regulator had worked extensively with the mine operator to return the site to compliance.

“The Resources Regulator issued the prohibition notices following serious concerns about safety at the site,” Keon said.

“We’ve worked closely with the mine operator and we’re now comfortable that the mine has put systems and controls in place to deal with the immediate safety issues and has a robust plan to address longer-term issues.

“Of course, we will continue to monitor the site to ensure any issues are resolved quickly and within the scope of their mining licence.

“Mine safety is the paramount concern of the Resources Regulator and we will never shy away from taking strong action when we identify issues that can affect the safety of workers, the wider community and the environment.”

A South32 spokesman told Australia’s Mining Monthly: “Our initial review into Illawarra Metallurgical Coal’s operating systems and practices is nearing completion. 

“We are currently working towards a staged and controlled ramp-up of operations. A further update will be provided as part of our annual results announcement on Thursday August 24.”