Three more opencast mines for Douglas Valley?

SCOTTISH Coal is now preparing to lodge plans for a further three large opencast mines in the Douglas Valley.

Its plans have been consistently opposed by local people – and those from further afield, as witnessed in the Mainshill Wood occupation for much of last year.

Scottish Coal intends lodging applications for planning permission early next year for sites at Auldton Heights near Lesmahagow, Glentaggart East near Douglas, and an extension to the east of Broken Cross North near Douglas Water.

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Now it has begun formal consultation on its proposals in advance of lodging the applications.

Residents have protested at each coal development over the years, claiming that existing sites are eyesores, could be health risks and lead to too many heavy lorries using local roads.

And angry at the cumulative effect of opencast over the years, they are already furious at the latest proposals.

"Life in this area is going to be like living in a black hole," said one.

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A spokesman for Scottish Coal told the Gazette: "These proposals will be subject to comprehensive consultation through a series of public exhibitions in the week commencing October 18."

Meetings are expected to be held in Douglas, Glespin, Coalburn, Lesmahagow and Brocketsbrae.

For more information on this story, pick up a copy of this week's Carluke and Lanark Gazette.

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