THE proponents of a controversial coalmine near Margaret River have taken the first step towards getting the mine off the ground, submitting the first round of documents to the Environmental Protection Authority.
LD Operations is behind the proposed mine, which is vehemently opposed by many locals in the area.
The EPA will consider the level of environmental assessment for the underground coalmine at Osmington and wash plant facility at North Capel.
“In line with the established process, our submission will enable the EPA to determine the nature and level of assessment the project will be subject to, and allow for the development of a scoping document,” LDO managing director Peter Ross said.
“This, in turn, will allow us to finalise formal environmental impact assessment documentation that will then be open for public review.”
Mr Ross said the development of management plans would be underpinned by a Social Impact Assessment.