Protestors fear mine scheme would destroy newts' home

Protestors have seized on the discovery to object to the creation of the mining operation on the outskirts of Leadgate, near Consett, County Durham.

Great crested newts have been discovered living in Brooms Pond, close to the site of a proposed open cast mine, next to the A692, near the Jolly Drover's pub.

North East Land Development has promised that the ponds would not be destroyed, and would be fenced off.

Campaigners against the scheme argue the newts, and a number of different types of wildlife, would be under threat.

Durham County Council and Derwentside District Council planning officers investigated after learning that there had been a number of sitings of the newts.

Principal planning officer at Derwentside council, Darren Cuming, has advised councillors to urge their county authority counterparts to make sure they are "completely satisfied" that Brooms Pond will not be adversely affected by the mine before approving the proposal.

Leadgate Residents' Association is backing the 66-acre mine, which would operate for 18 months, arguing investment and 37 jobs would be a boost for the unemployment blackspot.

But residents at the nearby community of High Stables have organised a protest group, and 32 letters of objection have been received by Derwentside council - even though the final decision lies with County Hall.

The protestors argue the site would cause a visible blight, and are worried North East Land Development would apply to dig at nearby fields once they had initial permission.

Protestor John Dodds said: "I have seen the newts myself, and I also know there are lapwings there which are also rare these days, but our main worry is once the company has their mine they will not go away."

A spokesman for the Wildlife Trust said that the newts' environment is protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act.

Durham County Council has not set a date to make the final decision. No one could be contacted at North East Land Development.