Push to reopen old mines in NSW in global race for critical minerals
The Dorrigo Plateau was used for antimony mining until prices collapsed in the 1970s. Now exploration has begun again - but locals are concerned the heavy metal may impact the water supply
Residents, local councils and environmental groups are calling for government intervention as exploration for the critical mineral antimony ramps up on the New South Wales north coast, citing concerns over the potential for contamination of the regional water supply.
A swathe of exploration licences have been approved across the region in recent months, with one mining company, Trigg Minerals, establishing a 30-acre base at Wild Cattle Creek on the Dorrigo Plateau in preparation for drilling work.
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