The value of 80 million tonnes of high quality export coal is about to weighed up against nationally endangered and vulnerable animals and other rare flora and fauna - all residing in and around the Denniston Plateau looming above Westport, on the West Coast.
On Thursday, the unenviable task of the Environment Court begins with the expectation a date will be set for later in the year for challenges against Bathurst Resource's recently gained more than 20 resource consents; then pre-hearing evidence will be collated.
The ensuing Environment Court battle, between Bathurst and separate challenges of the New Zealand Forest and Bird Protection Society and the West Coast Environmental Network Inc, may yet have a wider more long-term effect on regulation governing mining.
Oil, gas and mining exploration is a cornerstone of the National Government's economic policy to potentially boost investment, employment, taxes and royalties and ultimately balance the books of imports and exports.
Otago Daily Times
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