An additional recommendation that the council oppose any new industry in the shire which knowingly or is reasonably expected to detrimentally affect water resources for future generations, compromise existing water security (ground or surface) or negatively impact viable and desired existing industries, was passed.

The additional recommendation, which caused debate among councillors, reinforces the council’s view expressed in the Bickham Coal debate and the perspective set out in the 2011 Economic Development and Tourism Strategic Plan.

The councillors have been undertaking inspections of coal seam gas sites, including one at Narrabri and gathering information to allow them to make an informed decision on future coal and coal seam gas mining in the Upper Hunter Shire.

In accordance with the NSW Department of Planning and Infrastructure’s Upper Hunter Regional Land Use Strategy process, the council with other councils and the NSW Government will have a greater opportunity to influence the development of the industry.

The council’s investigation into coal seam gas mining started in April after community opposition flared in relation to exploration on a property at Bunnan with their final position expected to be announced in September.

Petitions have been received from the Merriwa Healthy Environment Group and Save Bunnan Inc, who are both firmly against coal seam gas mining in their areas.

A public forum will be held in early September for community members to express their opinions and issues on the topic.

The councillors will also visit another coal seam gas site at Roma early next month.

Upper Hunter Shire mayor Lee Watts said it was important the council didn’t take a position until the investigation was completed.

The council’s discussion is timely with the announcement of NSW Resources and Energy minister Chris Hartcher last Thursday that NSW would introduce a moratorium on the fracking process used in coal seam gas mining and ban the use of toxic chemicals until the end of the year.

The extended moratorium will also be complimented by greater public consultation and the enforcement of stronger environmental requirements for proponents.

Upper Hunter Shire mayor Lee Watts told The Scone Advocate at the start of the investigation that the council wanted to speak to all the stakeholders and reveal all questions that people have.

“The council is working towards a position, but we can’t make a decision until we have all the information.”