The Mobile Planning Commission said late last week it had opted to delay a vote to move ahead with the Blue Creek Coal Terminal complex. Specifically, the group was to decide if the project would be permitted within an industrial-zoned area on the Mobile River.

Walter officials, who now have to wait until February 6 for the issue to come up for vote again, said the company was disappointed in the delay.

“Walter Energy wants to be a partner with the city of Mobile in providing additional economic development opportunities for the region,” it said, noting that 50 local jobs will be created in the next half-decade should the terminal come to pass.

“The vast majority of its labor and material needs will be met by vendors based in Alabama, and particularly in Mobile. We also anticipate a sustaining annual capital investment in the terminal project.”

When operational, the Blue Creek terminal will serve as an export facility with a 6.5 million ton per annum capacity.

Walter officials acknowledged the groups’ concerns but said it plans to be a good neighbor.

“We plan to invest in the latest state-of-the-art technology for pollution control measures…[and] any and all runoff will be collected and diverted to a retention pond,” officials said.

“Our facility will comply with all local, state, and federal environmental regulations.”

The producer said it plans to continue its dialogue with the groups about the terminal and its environmental impact.

“We believe that the project exceeds all the concerns that have been raised and we hope the planning commission approves this project.”