The Moolarben Coal Project is a significant coal asset covering 110 square kilometres with an estimated 380 million tonnes of export-grade thermal coal. It comprises coal handling and processing infrastructure, rail load out, offices, open cut, and underground coal mines.

Planning Approval Complexities

Our client required planning approval in the context of environmental, social, and economic constraints, whilst seeking to maximise utilisation of its coal resources. Furthermore, the client was under pressure to increase production to meet contractual agreements and take advantage of the high commodity price. Other project challenges included negotiating land access agreements with the community for exploration and data collection, establishing mining limits and infrastructure configuration, and keeping project stakeholders informed throughout the assessment process.

Multi-disciplinary Team Tackling Multiple Challenges

Employing a transparent, practical, and personal approach with all stakeholders, Kleinfelder developed an approved project pathway around site constraints. We assembled and managed a highly qualified, multi-disciplinary team to gather, model, assess, and report on the potential impacts of the development. Kleinfelder also evaluated mitigation measures that included avoidance, design, offset, compensation, and management for various aspects of the project, to ensure solutions were both feasible and economically viable.

Project Results

Through building relationships with the client and community, as well as our high level of responsiveness, Kleinfelder effectively managed the environmental assessment process and delivered practical solutions that resulted in approval for Stage 1 of the project, which is now constructed, fully operational, and generating revenue for our client.

Project Details

Location:
Ulan, New South Wales

Owner:
Moolarben Coal Mines Pty Limited