INTRODUCTION
The original Broken Cross opencast coal site [BX] was at Broken Cross Muir, approximately 1.5 miles south-east of Lesmahagow, and just over half a mile north-west of Douglas Water. Had the MCA been formed prior to the start of operations at BX in 2001, its area would have entirely encompassed Broken Cross Muir. Since then BX has had three further extensions, consisting of Broken Cross North [BXN], Broken Cross South [BXS] and Broken Cross North-East[BXNE]; and when we talk of BX now it includes all three extensions.The MCA area lies to the North, East and South of this very large opencast coal site, with most of the residents living within less than a mile from the coal extraction area. Thus it can easily be seen that the BX operations have an effect everyday on the lives of the people in the MCA area. So much so that this page will concentrate on the operation and restoration of BX, and its relationship with the MCA.
AIMS and AMBITIONS
While it may seem strange to start this section with definitions of what we are “NOT”, it helps to understand our aims and ambitions.We are NOT
- a PROTEST group, we recognise that BX has all the consents necessary from the regulatory authorities, and we do not make complaints without justification.
- ANTI opencast mining in principle
- ANTI the opencast operator Scottish Coal [SC] in particular
- ANTI the regulatory authorities whose role is to monitor and enforce the BX site.
What are our ambitions then in light of the above? They are entirely in line with our constitution to improve the environment, promote recreation, health and well being and to identify and work with all stake holder groups to develop amicable and beneficial solutions.
Our aims to help us achieve these ambitions include:
- keeping a close watch on ALL aspects of the operation, restoration and any other activities associated with BX
- ensuring that the regulatory authority conducts effective monitoring and enforcement of ALL planning and control conditions in relation to the BX site
- ensuring that the regulatory authority and SC both continuously comply with legal agreements to which they are parties
- representing the views of residents of the MCA at every opportunity and to work towards ensuring that their best interests are served, especially in relation to the BX Liaison Group and the Technical Working Group.
HOWEVER
AND IT IS A VERY BIG HOWEVER…….There is more to come soon….. .
