Local MP urges mine company to tackle surface eyesore

10.00.00am GMT Tue 27th Nov 2007

Julia Goldsworthy MP has met with the directors of Western Union Mines to discuss their plans for reopening the mine.

At the meeting on Friday, Miss Goldsworthy welcomed recent news of a cash injection and new partnership at South Crofty, but continued to impress the importance of tackling the eyesore that currently greets visitors when they enter the Camborne and Pool area.

Under the proposals shown to Ms Goldsworthy today, much of the mine workings would focus around the decline entrance in the valley. Planning proposals to move the mine workings from their current location will be submitted next year. If they get the go ahead, the existing site will be freed up for regeneration.

Commenting on her visit to South Crofty Mine, Julia Goldsworthy MP said:

"It has been very interesting to learn more about the progress that Western Union Mines are making towards the reopening of the mine. Their proposals are very ambitious, and will establish the mine as a major player in the world.

"The surface development of the site remains an important issue to be resolved. News that proposals will go forward next year to move the much of the surface workings to the decline entrance is very welcome, and will be an important first step in cleaning up what is a very important gateway to Pool and Camborne. Any future development on this site will have to fit with a working mine - but it will be for planners to decide whether or not any proposals that come forward meet this and other criteria.