The approval will require the nearby village of Bulga to be relocated to make way for the expanded pit but the Planning Assessment Commission had separately knocked back a proposal to extend Anglo American’s nearby Drayton project.

In a reply to local media criticism, the Deputy Secretary Department of Planning and Environment Marcus Ray said the Department had a consistent approach despite the different outcomes.

“In carrying out its assessments, the Department consistently applies clear rules and uses the advice of independent experts where necessary,” he said.

“All projects approved or recommended for approval are subject to stringent conditions to address issues like noise and dust.

“The Department also takes into account the environmental, social and economic impacts of mines on local communities.”

The sites are also subject to on-going audits and site inspections by the Department’s compliance officers to ensure the companies are adhering to its consent conditions, he said.