Campaigners gathered in Whitehaven to protest against the Government’s green light for an £160 million off-shore coal mine.
The protestors, who came together at Haig Pit, believe the decision by Michael Gove, Minister for Levelling Up, to give West Cumbria Mining the go-ahead to build the mine off the coast of Whitehaven, is a grave mistake and will have devastating consequences for the climate.
The issue has garnered national and international headlines since Mr Gove made his announcement on Wednesday evening.
The mine will produce coking coal for the steel industry, not coal used for heating.
Supporters say the mine will create much-needed jobs and boost the economy in West Cumbria. They say that it will help the UK become more self-sufficient by producing coal for the UK steel industry, stopping the country importing it.
A group of supporters also attended the Haig Pit site to show their backing for the mine.
But those opposed to the mine claim that as around 80 per cent of the coal would have to be exported, increasing the UK’s emissions – which makes a mockery of the country’s ambitions to become net zero.
A Government spokesman said: “The Secretary of State has agreed to grant planning permission for a new metallurgical coal mine in Cumbria as recommended by the independent planning inspector.
“This coal will be used for the production of steel and would otherwise need to be imported. It will not be used for power generation.
“The mine seeks to be net zero in its operations and is expected to contribute to local employment and the wider economy.”
