To help residents understand the coal industry better the Hunter Environment Lobby is presenting a forum in Singleton on Friday.

Expansion of coal mines, the impact on surrounding communities and the coal and gas strategy now under consideration by the NSW government will be on the agenda.

Hunter Environment Lobby president Jan Davies said the expansion of mining had an adverse impact for communities and the environment.

“It is time to rethink the framework under which coal mining is regulated and managed,” she said.

“This forum provides an opportunity for communities to be proactive.”

People will be given the opportunity to consider future directions for coal mining and how the impacts can be responded to by government and mining companies.

The forum is for community groups to set an agenda.

The main purpose is to develop policy ideas for the future.

“The Singleton forum will seek to develop practical ideas for the NSW government to effectively respond to the expansion of coal mining impacts throughout NSW,” she said.

Anyone in the community is welcome to attend the forum.

The forum will take place on Friday at the Singleton Senior Citizens Centre in Bathurst Street.

Registration begins at 9am.

Staff from local government, state agencies and mining companies will be on hand to answer questions and hear community concerns.

The cost of attending the forum is $25 for individuals and $120 for government agencies and companies.

Anyone interested in attending the forum or wanting more information can email

helforum.2011@gmail.com or phone 4936 6260.