OPTIONS for the future of Black Diamond have been discussed at the first meeting of the Black Diamond Working Group.
A site visit was held last week as a follow on from stage one of the project, which involved the formation of the working group.
Department of Mines and Petroleum (DMP) Manager Environmental Reform Sarah Bellamy said they want to have input from the community on the project.
“We are really keen to work with the community on this,” she said.
“We want to come up with an option that will suit the area long-term.”
Ms Bellamy said the priority will be making the area a safe environment.
“Out main concern at the moment is safety; in particular the safety of the pit wall,” she said.
“We will be holding a community event soon that anyone is welcome to attend, and share their vision for the future of Black Diamond.”
DMP’s Acting Executive Director Environment Dr Marnie Leybourne said the proposed rehabilitation efforts would ensure the site was safe and stable.
"Black Diamond has become an unmanaged recreation area and the local community has raised a number of safety concerns about this over the years," she said.
"A number of environmental issues have also been highlighted, including illegal dumping, unauthorised camping and poor water quality in the pit.
"As a result, the formation of the new Black Diamond Working Group and the success of its first meeting is terrific news and a significant step forward in the journey towards achieving a long-term solution for this legacy site.
Dr Leybourne said ongoing community consultation will be part of the process.
"Working Group members will provide valuable advice to DMP throughout the proposed rehabilitation process which will ensure that the safety and environmental needs of the community are met,” she said.
"This input will be further supported by extensive ongoing consultation with the local community to enable them to have their say on the proposals as well."
The Black Diamond Working Group will meet monthly to discuss the planned works.
Community workshops are also scheduled to take place over the coming months to allow locals to share their thoughts on the planned rehabilitation works.
