Michael Gove has approved the first new UK coal mine in 30 years despite concern about its climate impacts among Conservative MPs and experts.

The proposed mine in Cumbria would dig up coking coal for steel production in the UK and across the world.

Critics say the mine would undermine climate targets and demand for coking coal is declining.

But supporters claim the mine, near Whitehaven, will create jobs and reduce the need to import coal.

The fate of the West Cumbria Mining project had been hanging in the balance for two years after the local county council initially approved the mine in 2020.

[The proposed Woodhouse Colliery site is immediately to the south of the earlier Croft and Ladysmith Pits and coke works which, along with the later Marchon Works, were connected via the Corkickle Brake (incline) to the main line. -RS]
(Permalink) Coking Coal Croft Pit Green issues Ladysmith Pit Marchon Works West Cumbria Mining Whitehaven Woodhouse Colliery

The plans were rejected earlier this year by Renfrewshire Council. A councillor insists the Scottish Government's decision to allow 39 new homes to be built in a Renfrewshire village 'flies in the face of democracy'. Renfrewshire Council refused planning permission for the development on a plot of land at Yard A, Station Road in Bridge of Weir.
(Permalink) Bridge of Weir Bridge of Weir Railway Cultural vandalism Green Green issues Greenock and Ayrshire Railway Kilmacolm