RESIDENTS are calling for public submissions on plans to boost export coal export capacity through Newcastle.
Newcastle Coal Infrastructure Group (NCIG) wants NSW government approval to lift its loader capacity from 66 million tonnes a year to 79 million tonnes, at a time when it expects to export no more than 55 million tonnes this year.
Tighes Hill Community Group on Wednesday urged residents to have their say on the proposal before May 12, arguing that existing capacity on Kooragang Island and under present licences is enough.
"There is absolutely no need for this change to the NCIG licence and it sends the wrong message about the direction of our region," group spokeswoman Charlotte McCabe said.
"NCIG are exporting 53 million tonnes a year at most, well within their current approval of 66 million tonnes. They will never need the capacity for 79 million tonnes that they are asking for.
"All this will do is send a message that NSW is continuing to support the coal industry while the region is screaming out for investments to diversify our industries."
Environmental lobby group Lock The Gate Alliance has previously said the proposal could be "very positive" for Newcastle if it let to the closure of the Carrington coal loader.
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