And if bathhurst had not put up $22m I wonder if Nick Smiths decision would have been the same. And why wait till 2 days before the public became involved before he gave his decision when he could have done it a lot earlier. I guess he knew that Bathhurst didn't want anymore consultation and appeals to delay proceedings. Anyone smell a rat? I know bathhurst had promised some aid for pest eradication but I am not sure how much. It might put some pressure on F&B to modify its stand as they wouldn't want to lose $22m to be spent on pest control.
Today's decision does not appear to cover Bathurst's second proposed open-cast mine on the plateau, at Whareatea West, for which the company has not yet sought resource consents.
BTU Price at posting:
16.0¢ Sentiment: LT Buy Disclosure: Held