Thank you for contacting me about the Whitehaven Coal Mine.

I agree that this application raises planning issues of more than just local importance. A public inquiry was held and the outcome will be considered before any decision is made. I understand that the Planning Inspectorate’s report has been submitted to Michael Gove, the Levelling Up Secretary, for consideration. A final decision is expected this summer.

It is worth mentioning that the extracted coal would be used exclusively for steel production rather than energy production. The Government has confirmed its commitment to end unabated coal-power generation from October 2024, having brought this deadline forward from 2025. I hope that coal-generated energy will soon be a distant memory as the UK builds a greener and more resilient future.

Thank you again for taking the time to share your concerns.