The NSW Government is considering whether to release two areas, known as Hawkins and Rumker, for coal exploration. These areas are located near Rylstone in the Mid-Western Regional local government area (see map and more information in the attached information sheet).
The Department of Planning, Industry and Environment is conducting a Preliminary Regional Issues Assessment (PRIA) of these areas to identify potential social, environmental and economic opportunities and constraints associated with coal exploration.
The PRIA will inform the Advisory Body for Strategic Release which will make recommendations to the Minister for Regional NSW on whether the areas should be released for exploration. The PRIA does not in any way guarantee that future exploration licences or planning approvals will be granted by the NSW Government to develop coal resources in these areas.
Feedback from the community is an important part of the assessment and the Department is seeking feedback on the opportunities and constraints of exploration from 14 June until 28 July 2021. We would welcome you to:
- Meet with us by calling Margaret Harvie on 0411 590 859 to arrange an online meeting or an in-person in Mudgee or Rylstone.
- Send in your submission via https://www.planningportal.nsw.gov.au/hawkins-rumker
- Go to www.planning.nsw.gov.au/pria-consult to complete our online form or attend via Zoom one of four information and workshop sessions to be held for Rylstone and Mudgee on 29 and 30 June 2021.
If you would like to discuss this further, please feel free to contact us at pria@planning.nsw.gov.au or on 02 9995 6674.