A public inquiry into the proposed development of a controversial gold mine in County Tyrone is set to begin later today. The inquiry, which will focus on the Curraghinalt site near Greencastle in the Sperrin Mountains, is being held by the Planning Appeals Commission (PAC) at the Strule Arts Centre in Omagh. The proceedings will continue until the end of March.
Dalradian, the company behind the project, has been working on the site since 2009 with the goal of developing an underground gold mine. The mine is believed to contain one of the world’s most significant undeveloped gold deposits, alongside substantial quantities of silver, copper, and other minerals. Dalradian estimates the site could yield up to 100 tonnes of gold, 48 tonnes of silver, and 15,000 tonnes of copper over a 20 to 25-year operational period.
The inquiry will begin with two days focused on strategic matters and the principle of the mine’s development, with input from Fermanagh and Omagh, and Derry City and Strabane district councils. The inquiry will also address a range of contentious issues, with local communities divided over the project’s potential benefits and risks.
Supporters of the mine, including some members of the local community, argue that it could bring jobs and investment to the region. However, opponents raise concerns about its impact on the environment and public health. The mine is located in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, close to the Owenkillew and Owenreagh rivers, both of which are home to several protected species.
Campaign group Save Our Sperrins, which was formed in 2015, has been a vocal opponent of the mine, citing potential environmental harm. Politicians have also weighed in on the debate. DUP MP Sammy Wilson described the project as an opportunity to exploit the region’s natural resources, potentially creating hundreds of jobs. In contrast, Sinn Féin MLA Declan McAleer stated that his constituents had raised significant concerns about the environmental impact, with many in the Sperrins strongly opposing the development.
The inquiry, ordered by former infrastructure minister Nichola Mallon in 2020, will delve into a variety of issues. This week, it will focus on environmental and public health concerns, including air quality, noise, radon, and electromagnetic fields. The second week of the inquiry will examine the impact on water, water ecology, and peat. Later hearings will address the mine’s landscape and visual impact, as well as issues related to non-water ecology.
In March, the inquiry will cover topics such as the mine’s waste management plan, health and safety considerations, cultural and heritage impacts, as well as socio-economic, climate, and transportation matters. Once the inquiry concludes, the planning commissioners will issue their recommendations. However, the final decision on whether to grant planning permission will rest with the Northern Ireland Executive ministers.
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