MINING exploration over densely populated areas will be banned in Queensland as the government attempts to quell community anxiety about encroaching resources development.
Premier Anna Bligh moved yesterday to "get the balance right" between mining and residential zones, announcing a freeze on the granting of new exploration permits within 2km of the boundary of a town with more than 1000 people, to take effect from today.
Coal-seam gas exploration would also face further restrictions but existing exploration zones would not be affected.
Ms Bligh's move to retrospectively excise populated zones from mining permits could spark litigation from affected companies holding 285 exploration leases.
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The Australian
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