As a result of the life of mine planning and review process at Mannering colliery, Centennial sought a modification to project approval PA 06_0311 to allow for the extension of mine project.

It is seeking an extension of underground mining operations within the Fassifern seam beyond the 2008 project approval boundary using bord and pillar mining methods to recover approximately 3.2 million tonnes of run of mine coal.

It is also seeking an extension of underground mining operations into the Great Northern seam using bord and pillar mining methods to recover approximately 1.4Mt of ROM coal.

It will require an additional 40 full-time employees.

The proposed combination of mining in the Fassifern and Great Northern seams will not exceed the 1.1 million tonnes per annum of coal recovery previously assessed and approved under PA 06_0311.

“No changes to the current approved hours of operation, methods of coal mining, handling and transport, surface infrastructure, site servicing or waste management are required,” according to the company’s application.

“Furthermore, the proposal will not extend the life of Mannering colliery beyond the existing approved 2018 life of the mine.”

The mine may also need to construct and use additional ventilation shafts, boreholes and emergency manholes that may be required to service the proposed underground mine workings.