Operations will now continue at the Upper Hunter Valley mine until 2033 and mine management are determined to continue to work closely with the community during this time.

A public meeting regarding the project recognised noise and air quality and blasting management as residents’ concerns and stronger conditions were placed on the mine as a result.

“Mouth Thorley Warkworth continues to increase its commitment to reducing noise,” mine general manager of operations Cam Halfpenny said.

“We recognise that members of the community will have ongoing concerns about this extension and we are committed to working closely with them on ways we can continue to improve our management of impacts such as noise and dust.”

The Planning Assessment Commission gave the tick of approval for the extension following a 2½-year assessment process.