Queensland resources minister approves expansion of New Acland coalmine

New Hope prepares to resume mining operations near Oakey as it seeks water licence, while local landowners respond with dismay

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A mothballed thermal coalmine on some of Australia's richest agricultural soil is preparing to revive operations after taking a major step towards gaining final government approval.

Queensland's resources minister, Scott Stewart, announced the expansion of New Acland in a two-line release issued Friday afternoon, saying he was approving New Hope Group's mining leases for stage three of the open cut mine after careful consideration".

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