Campaigners lose bid to halt coal mine expansion

The Coal Action Network has lost its battle against the expansion of Aberpergwm mine

Campaigners have lost a legal challenge aimed at halting the extraction of 40 million tonnes of coal from a mine.

Plans to expand the Aberpergwm mine in Neath Port Talbot were approved in January 2022.

Environmental campaigners argued the Coal Authority should have considered the Welsh government's carbon reduction targets when granting the licence to firm Energybuild.

Coal Action Network brought a judicial review against them and the Welsh government, asking for the mining licence to be revoked, but a judge has ruled that both authorities acted within the law.

Aberpergwm mine is the only producer of high-grade anthracite in western Europe and supplies the nearby Tata Steel plant in Port Talbot.

It employs 184 people, including 20 apprentices, in the extraction of 40 million tonnes of coal.

But campaigners said the extension equated to 100 million tonnes of carbon dioxide being released into the atmosphere, which the Welsh government acknowledged was incompatible with its net zero targets and declaration of a climate emergency.

Coal Action Network said it was "carefully considering" appealing the decision.

"We think the judge got it wrong," said campaigner Daniel Therkelsen.

Energybuild said it was pleased with the outcome as it "serves to secure the future for 184 current employees of which 20 are apprentices".

"We are fully committed to working with both the local authority and the Senedd to transform our operation to a carbon neutral undertaking.” 

The Welsh government said it would continue to consider what practical implications Friday's ruling may have for the colliery.