Defence chiefs 
try to block plan for £1bn mine

The Ministry of Defence has raised fears he proposed potash mine in the North York Moors National Park could lead to subsidence which would play havoc with ultra-sensitive monitoring equipment at the nearby RAF Fylingdales.

The Yorkshire Post revealed last year that the Government was lining up the iconic air base high on the North York Moors to be the forefront of a global battle against rogue terrorist nations with a growing need to monitor satellites and the potential for them to guide missile strikes. But it emerged yesterday the mining operation is expected to be extend to less than a mile from the edge of the base’s estate, prompting concerns over the impact it could have on national and international defence.

Planning officials at the North York Moors National Park Authority told the Yorkshire Post the objections have the potential to be a “showstopper” for the mine, which would provide a massive economic boost for the regional economy.

The director of planning, Chris France, expressed his disappointment the company behind the proposals, York Potash, has yet to submit enough information to allay the MoD’s concerns, as well as objections from other key consultees including Natural England and the Environment Agency.

He said: “It is extremely disappointing that we are half-way through a major consultation and there are still so many outstanding questions. There is always the possibility that the relevant information will be provided, and the scheme will progress.

“But as things currently stand, these concerns have the potential to be a showstopper. It would be irresponsible for any planning authority to grant permission when there are so many unanswered questions. People may say this is simply bureaucracy putting jobs and investment at risk, but the issues which have been raised have very serious implications.”

As well as the MoD’s concerns, Natural England and the Environment Agency have lodged objections to a planning application submitted to the park authority by York Potash, and which is due to be considered on May 21. The Environment Agency has requested extra hydrology data to ensure the mine does not affect water supplies to Whitby and Scarborough. Natural England has asked for information about the impact the mine would have on protected moorland, which is the habitat for rare species including nightjars, merlins and golden plovers.

But directors at Sirius Minerals, the parent company of York Potash, were adamant relevant research has been conducted and information would be provided to allay concerns expressed in the formal objections.

A spokesman said: “We are in on-going discussions with the statutory consultees and we are certain that the detailed information that we are providing will address the queries raised. We are confident in the planning application we have submitted, but we will of course attempt to provide any further information that is requested.”

The firm has claimed the mine, earmarked for a site near Whitby, is expected to create more than 1,000 jobs and a further 4,000 jobs in the wider economy. York Potash confirmed yesterday local landowners could share £1bn in royalties over 50 years if the mine is approved.

Exploratory drilling work has pinpointed one of the world’s most extensive seams of potash, a key component in fertiliser to boost crop yields and satiate global food demand.