Mine owner convinced tiny town's lead poisoning concerns are unfounded
Dozens of residents have voiced their opposition to a proposed silver and lead mine in the NSW central west, but the proponents say it will help the region's economy.
The Independent Planning Commission (IPC) has heard evidence surrounding a proposed silver and lead mine near Mudgee, with concerns raised about potential lead poisoning of children in the nearby Lue Public School. The IPC is set to make a decision by December 9. The project, put forward by Silver Mines Limited, would extract 30 million tonnes of minerals over 23 years, promising economic benefits for the region.
However, almost 100 people attended the three-day hearing, with the majority opposing the mine. Professor Barry Noller, from the University of Queensland, recommended the school be relocated, stating that the management plan underestimates the risk of lead exposure. Despite this, Silver Mines Limited's managing director Jo Battershill urged the panel to approve the development, claiming the health risks are minimal and that multiple monitoring systems would be in place.
GP Peter Bryant expressed concern, stating there is no safe level of lead exposure. The water supply for the project would use around 2,000 megalitres per year, with assessments finding adequate water availability during non-drought conditions. However, Martin Krogh, a former NSW government scientist, highlighted shortfalls in the Environmental Impact Statement, warning that during drought and extreme wet periods, water availability and the risk of contaminated discharge could become issues.
The project was previously approved by the IPC in 2023 but overturned by the NSW Court of Appeal due to inadequate assessment of a 13km transmission line.
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