Statement of Community Involvement (SCI)

West Cumbria Mining 1 Statement of Community Involvement (SCI)

WCM-PA-ENGAGEMENT-SCI West Cumbria Mining 2 Statement of Community Involvement (SCI)

OVERVIEW

West Cumbria Mining (WCM) is a private uk company focused upon the development of its Whitehaven coking coal project.

The project sits within the Cumbrian coalfield, an area in which mining has spanned many centuries, and is located adjacent to Haig Colliery, from which 48 million tonnes of coking coal was extracted from 1917 until it closed in 1986, much of it beneath the seabed over four miles offshore.

WCM has been busy through 2014 and 2015 undertaking a programme of coal exploration, onshore and offshore, with the aim of constructing a large scale, state-of-the-art underground coking coal mine.

WCM has proven the presence of high quality coking coal which has very attractive properties, including extremely low ash and phosphorus.

The company is committed to continuing to promote its stakeholder engagement in an open, honest and straightforward style with the local community, with major successes achieved in 2015. West Cumbria Mining 3 Statement of Community Involvement (SCI)

CONTENTS OVERVIEW 4 Introduction 4 Purpose of the SCI 4 The Project 6 The Planning Process 8 Approach to Engagement and Consultation 8 Community Engagement to Date 10 The Consultation Process 12 Consultation Feedback 12 West Cumbria Mining Response to Consultation 13 Conclusions Appendix A Appendix B West Cumbria Mining 4 Statement of Community Involvement (SCI)

STATEMENT OF COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: JANUARY 2016

1 Introduction 3 The Project 1.1 This Statement of Community Involvement (SCI) has 3.1 The Project is for a new mine to extract coking coal by been prepared by West Cumbria Mining Ltd (WCM), with modern underground mining. Coking coal is used in the support from Stephenson Halliday Ltd. production of steel and differs significantly from poorer quality thermal coal which is typically used in coal fired 1.2 This SCI sets out the strategy for community and power stations to generate electricity. stakeholder engagement during the planning application phase of the West Cumbria Coking Coal Mine Project (‘the 3.2 The coalfields of West Cumbria extend from onshore to Project’). offshore, to depths greater than 400m below ground (and the sea), along the Cumbrian coast, covering an area of 1.3 It is anticipated that the planning application for the Project around 200km2. will be submitted in late 2016. Following submission, the application will be subject to the formal planning 3.3 WCM has commenced the process of identifying potential consultation process. It is intended that this SCI will cover areas for the mine facilities, including the mine entrance the period from the present day until planning permission and ventilation shafts, processing, storage and workshop is granted for the Project. Following planning approval, facilities, offices, coal transport facilities and waste sites. WCM will endeavour to continue their liaison with the local Inclined tunnels called ‘drifts’ will be constructed to community to keep them updated on the progress of the provide access down to the coal seams. Project and provide a forum for feedback. 3.4 At present, two options are being investigated for 2 Purpose of the SCI the location of the drift tunnels; these are either the 2.1 This SCI sets out the planned approach to be adopted by construction of a new tunnel from within the Mirehouse/ WCM in their community and stakeholder engagement, Pow Beck Valley area, or to re-use the existing disused during the pre-application period and following Sandwith Anhydrite mine drifts (via refurbishment) with submission of the application for planning permission, for new underground extension drift tunnels to access the the Project. coal. In addition to establishing the feasibility of these two options, WCM is seeking feedback on the options from 2.2 It is intended that the approach set out in this SCI will be the local community and stakeholders. agreed with Cumbria County Council (CCC) who are the Planning Authority (PA) for the application, as well as other 3.5 The preferred option for the drift tunnel is to utilise the stakeholders as required. existing Sandwith mine drifts from the former Marchon works site to access the coal underground. 2.3 The SCI is structured as follows: • Section 3 describes the Project; 3.6 Much of the work undertaken on the Project to date • Section 4 provides detail on the planning process and has been to drill exploratory boreholes, both onshore how the SCI fits in with that regime; and offshore, to recover coal samples from deep • Section 5 sets out the intended approach to engagement underground. Although a large amount of historical data and consultation; is available in the area, WCM has to comply with modern • Section 6 describes the early engagement undertaken for international codes to assess and determine the size of the Project; the Coal Resource and Reserves, which requires up to • Section 7 provides detail of the consultation process: date information to support existing data. WCM employs setting out who will be consulted, how they will be a team of specialist geologists and engineers, and consulted, what they will be consulted on, and when they independent ‘Competent Persons’ to report formally on will be consulted; the quantity, quality and practical ability to mine the coal • Section 8 explains how stakeholders and the community deposit. can respond to the consultation; and • Section 9 describes how WCM will provide feedback 3.7 As the Project moves forwards, a wide range of work is during the consultation process and how this is likely to being progressed including these major work areas: feed into the Project. • Surface design – location options, surface building West Cumbria Mining 5 Statement of Community Involvement (SCI)

requirements, architectural design, process plant locations; operating limits, methane capture, dilution and extraction, • Mine design – mining method, equipment selection, surface clean methane power plant for electricity ground support, multi-seam operations, mine output; generation; • Onshore drilling – vertical drilling for geological data, • Mine waste options; onshore to offshore directional drill holes for coal samples • Planning process – engagement with the responsible and resource estimates; parties (Cumbria County Council, Copeland Borough • Offshore drilling –In May 2015 consent was obtained from Council), engaging in early reviews, extensive public the Marine Management Organisation for drilling 6 offshore engagement; boreholes off the coast of St Bees. This programme • Environmental Assessment – ecology, noise, landscape and has been suspended over the winter of 2015/16 and is visual impact, air quality, water quality, ground conditions expected to recommence in March/April 2016. and the historic environment; and • Environmental permits – applications for permits to build • Stakeholder engagement – WCM clinic meetings, public and operate; events, website, social media updates, newsletters, site • Pre-Feasibility Study – determination of preferred options visits, local liaison group, presentations to local groups. for the whole mine, including cost estimates; • Coal market studies – assess WCM coal end users, 3.8 At this stage it is anticipated that the Project will create market size, shipment sizes, UK and EU split, coal quality around 500 long term skilled jobs. WCM will strive to considerations; ensure that a high proportion of the workforce is from • Rail and sea transport studies – review all rail capability, the local area. In addition to this, WCM seeks to utilise upgrading work required, port size and suitability, vessel local businesses in its current works and this will continue sizes and costs, rail costs, overall destination plans; to be a focus as the Project develops. Aside from direct • Mine access – review types of access, locations and employment, it is anticipated that the Project will create operational impacts on mine, including drifts and shaft indirect employment in the region of up to five jobs for options; every one direct job. Increased spending in the local • Coal processing – assess coal processing requirement, community, new income to local households and a plant flow sheet, plant sizing and layout, associated facilities; commitment by WCM to improve the occupational and • Mine ventilation and methane – assess mine ventilation social health of their employees and families are further requirements, airway locations and sizes, working method, benefits associated with the Project. West Cumbria Mining 6 Statement of Community Involvement (SCI)

4 The Planning Process environmental effects, an Environmental 4.1 Cumbria County Council (CCC) is the Impact Assessment (EIA) is required to Planning Authority (PA) for the Project. accompany the application for planning WCM engaged with CCC at an early permission. The EIA process is governed stage in the Project and has worked by the Town and Country Planning to keep lines of communication open (Environmental Impact Assessment) between the two parties as the Project Regulations 2011 as amended. The aim has developed. of EIA is to protect the environment by ensuring that a planning authority, when 4.2 Although there are no statutory planning determining a planning application for a requirements for WCM to enter into project which is likely to have significant pre-application consultation with the effects on the environment, does so in community or other stakeholders, WCM the full knowledge of those effects and recognises the importance of this Project takes this into account in the decision to the community and has sought to making process. include all interested parties at an early stage and is keen that this engagement 4.6 There are five broad stages to the continues throughout the course of the process: planning process and beyond. i. Screening – determining whether a proposed project falls within the remit Planning Performance Agreement of the EIA Regulations, whether it is likely 4.3 WCM and CCC have entered into a to have significant environmental effects Planning Performance Agreement (PPA). and therefore whether it requires an EIA; WCM aims to A PPA is a project management tool deliver long lasting which is used by planning authorities ii. Scoping – determining the extent economic benefits and applicants to agree timescales, of issues to be considered in the to the local area and actions and resources for handling assessment and reported in the “community particular planning applications. They Environmental Statement. The applicant are particularly useful in setting out an can ask the planning authority for a efficient and transparent process for Scoping Opinion on what information dealing with large and/or complex needs to be included; planning applications. A PPA is agreed voluntarily between both parties and iii. Preparing the Environmental Statement can be a useful focus of pre-application – the applicant must compile the discussions about the issues that will information reasonably required to need to be discussed. assess the likely significant environmental effects of the development within an 4.4 As part of the PPA, WCM has committed Environmental Statement (ES); to a programme of community engagement throughout the planning iv. Making a planning application and process. Although WCM has already consultation – the ES and the planning commenced extensive stakeholder application to which it relates is consultation, this SCI formalises publicised. The statutory consultation community engagement as part of the bodies and the public must be given an planning process. opportunity to give their views about the proposed development and the ES; and Environmental Impact Assessment 4.5 Given the nature of the Project and v. Decision making – the ES, together with its potential to result in significant any other information which is West Cumbria Mining 7 Statement of Community Involvement (SCI)

4.7 The applicant does not have to seek a screening or 4.8 WCM is currently at stage 2 in the above process, preparing scoping opinion from the planning authority. In the case a Scoping Report for submission to CCC in order to obtain of the Project, it was assumed that it does fall within the an opinion from them as to the content of the ES. An scope of EIA development and no Screening process was indicative timetable for preparation and submission of the undertaken. planning application and ES is provided below.

Action Date Submit request for Scoping Opinion to CCC Early February 2016

CCC to provide Scoping Opinion to WCM Mid-March 2016

Baseline EIA and site survey work undertaken March to June 2016

Draft ES and planning documents completed October – November 2016

Planning application submitted December 2016

Consultation period and feedback January to April 2017

Planning decision issued by CCC Mid-2017 West Cumbria Mining 8 Statement of Community Involvement (SCI)

5 Approach to Engagement and accessible; Consultation • Providing information to ensure that the community has 5.1 Over the last two years, WCM has worked to introduce access to the key elements of the Project listed above; and establish both the Company and the Project • Providing opportunities for feedback and listening to within the local community and businesses within every opinion; West Cumbria. The engagement undertaken to date is • Responding to feedback, and taking this on board in detailed in Section 6. the development of the Project where appropriate; and • Ensuring that this on-going relationship with the 5.2 WCM understands that effective engagement and community is sustained throughout the planning public consultation will result in proposals that are better process and beyond. developed and better understood by all stakeholders, including the local community. The process of 5.7 In summary, WCM wants to engage with the broadest engagement and consultation will enable important range of members of the local community as possible, issues to be identified and considered in advance providing as much information to them as possible in of the submission of the planning application for the a way that is transparent and will ultimately lead to a Project. Project which both the Company and the community are proud of. 5.3 Consulting widely means more than simply involving a large number of people. It also means ensuring that 6 Community Engagement to Date a representative sample of the community is involved 6.1 WCM first announced its plans for the Project to the wherever possible. For this reason, WCM is aware of public in July 2014 with the launch of its website, a the importance of developing a bespoke consultation presentation to Copeland Borough Council Members strategy that is comprehensive in its coverage and and drop-in events in Whitehaven and St. Bees. establishing a wide range of methods for engaging local people. This is particularly important given the 6.2 During 2014 and 2015 the emphasis of communication number of people potentially affected by the Project, activities has been to raise awareness of WCM and the the Project’s scale and its anticipated timeframe. proposed mining Project in West Cumbria, to ensure stakeholders, particularly the local community, were 5.4 WCM has made a clear commitment from the outset well informed and felt involved in the development of to engage in a way that is both open and honest. They the Project. seek to be clear on their plans, their routes to achieving these plans and their expectations. Clarity is key to 6.3 WCM has widely and actively publicised information maintaining good relationships and this is a major focus. regarding the Project to raise awareness within the local WCM believes that everyone should be able to see community and to encourage engagement with as that their contribution to the engagement process is many people and groups as possible. helpful in shaping the Project development. WCM has 6.4 Appendix A provides a full account of the engagement made a commitment to the local community that for as and consultation undertaken from the launch of the long as they are active in the area they will consider the Project in July 2014 until the end of 2015. residents’ needs, alongside those of the Company, so that they may be considered to be a positive member 6.5 Throughout the early consultation process, WCM has of the community. endeavoured to utilise a range of platforms to engage with as broad a spectrum of the local public as possible. 5.5 The key elements of the Project that WCM seeks to These have included: communicate to the local community and to receive • Launch of a Project website, www.westcumbriamining. input on are: com, with regular updates to provide information about The scope of the Project; WCM, the Project, latest news, consultation events and • When and where the Project is happening in the local clearly showing how people can contact the Company community; with any comments or questions; • The potential for local employment; • Drop in events to allow the community to meet the • Progress on the timing of the Project; and team, discuss the Project and raise any concerns they • How WCM is working within all regulatory constraints. might have; • Public exhibitions for invited stakeholders and members 5.6 WCM is committed to: of the community to view the progress of the Project • Engaging with the communities that are likely to and provide feedback (in a more formal manner) in be affected, by establishing a methodology for such a way to encourage openness; communicating with them that is appropriate and • Social media, including Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn; West Cumbria Mining 9 Statement of Community Involvement (SCI)

• Council briefings to update all Authorities with an interest on 6.8 On 6th and 7th November 2015 two stakeholder events the Project, answering questions and receiving feedback; were held at Haig Pit Museum, Whitehaven. Members of • Newsletters issued out to a database of interested parties, the public were invited to provide feedback on the Project, who signed up for such updates via the WCM website, including their views on the options for the location of the as well as through direct contact with WCM. These are mine facilities. distributed on a regular basis to provide updates on the Project, promote consultation events and provide contact 6.9 The feedback for the Project has been very positive to details; date, with the majority of respondents (92%) saying they • Conferences attended by WCM to introduce and outline have no concerns about the possibility of the new mine the Project; being constructed. The majority of people also thought • Presentations by WCM to local and trade interest groups; that the Project would offer exciting prospects for the local • Educational visits for local school children and talks at community and agreed that it would bring both jobs and colleges; growth to the local area. Most of the respondents agreed • Setting up and working with a Local Liaison Group; that the works to date have had minimal impacts on their • The production of white papers; lives and that they did feel that steps were being taken to • Letters sent to individuals and groups to advise them of minimise any negative impacts on them. The majority of specific events and Project updates; people were also satisfied that they knew what was going • Press briefings and press releases for use within local, trade to happen next with the Project. and national press; • Press advertisements for community and stakeholder 6.10 Ad-hoc drop in sessions were also held throughout August events; and September 2015 at Haig Pit, Whitehaven to provide • Maintaining offices and warehouse facilities in Whitehaven; updates on drilling activity, Project plans and timescales on • Seeking to engage and work with local businesses and an informal basis. These had varying levels of attendance suppliers wherever possible; and but offered an opportunity for one-on-one discussions with • Ensuring that the operations and exploration teams live in key members of the WCM team. the local area. Summary Feedback to Date 6.11 WCM has worked hard to actively engage with the local 6.6 To date, consultation events have been well attended and community from the point of the Project being announced. the reaction to the Project by the local community has A wide range of engagement methods have been used, been positive. with the aim of enabling as wide a cross-section of the local community as possible to access information about the 6.7 In July 2014 two drop-in events were held. The Project Project and provide feedback where appropriate. was in the initial phases, within limited detailed information available to share at that time. Around 30% of those 6.12 The events in November 2015 were very well attended, who attended completed a feedback form, with many with significant positive feedback which demonstrated that confirming their support for the Project. WCM is being successful in achieving its commitment to open, honest and ongoing community consultation, and will continue to do so as the Project moves forward. West Cumbria Mining 10 Statement of Community Involvement (SCI)

7 The Consultation Process emailed to individuals (as requested) and will ensure 7.1 This section of the SCI explains how the consultation that a regular update of information is provided to process will be undertaken as the Project moves those members of the community who may not forward. It reviews: be able to access the website, social media, attend • Who will be consulted; consultation events or briefings in person. Feedback • How will they be consulted; forms will be provided on the website to allow the • What they will be consulted on; and local community to express their views throughout • When they will be consulted. the planning process and at key milestones in its development. 7.2 During the planning process, from the current time through until planning permission is granted, a variety Flyers of methods will be used to facilitate consultation and 7.9 Flyers will be used to advertise consultation events. feedback opportunities with a wide cross-section of the local community. These methods were 7.10 It is proposed that these will be distributed through mentioned in Section 6, and are further expanded local public places, such as libraries, Council offices, upon below. Appendix B provides a summary of the Job Centres and the Haig Pit Museum. These will proposed consultation schedule. be targeted towards residents in the Sandwith, Whitehaven, Mirehouse East, Mirehouse West, Website Updates Corkickle, Kells, Greenbank, Woodhouse, St Bees and 7.3 The website will be updated on a monthly basis to Rottington areas. provide a continuous refresh of information. Details of the progress of the Project will be provided, together 7.11 The flyers will be used to ensure that specific with details of any upcoming consultation events or attempts are being made to inform and involve those other important Project milestones. The website is residents in the immediate vicinity of the proposed available to all stakeholders and general public. mine site, some of whom might not have access to the internet or social media and those who may not 7.4 The website will be used to display information have signed up for the newsletter. from consultation events so that people unable to attend these will be able to access the details and 7.12 In addition, leaflet drops prior to Community Update presentation materials. Events will take place in the Woodhouse area, directly adjacent to the proposed mine site. Haig Pit Museum 7.5 WCM is in discussions with Haig Pit Museum about the potential to display information about the Project on a semi-permanent basis.

railway is upgraded and suitable will be a combination of rock from the for the transportation of freight; our initial mine construction and process plans include investment into the plant, plus fine ash material produced rail infrastructure. The coal would during the washing and processing of be transported from the mine site the coal. In total this will be less than by conveyor and loaded into coal 7.6 WCM notes that there are current issues in relation to & 15% of the mine outputCOMMUNITY per year. wagons on the railway, UPDATE for onwards - DECEMBER 2015 The current options include re-use distribution. This would include direct of rock material for otherPhase projects 2 Successfullyrail delivery to Scunthorpe and Completed to QASome of the main questions (including brown field remediation), Workington Port (for smaller vessels to Haig Pit Museum and its future; where possible WCM asked, with our responses remediation of old abandoned Port Talbot and parts ofis nowEurope) undergoing and to laboratory testing and forwards, including a detailed assessment from the public consultation quarries in the local area and disposal Hunterston or Blyth (forassessment, larger vessels including replicating coke of costs and the market for coking coal. event at Haig Pit Mining underground into old mine workings. to Europe). oven tests to assess the performance of Our pre-feasibility study is now underway Museum the coal once delivered to the steel mills. and this will define our initial mine design,

will seek to support the museum. How do you intend to wash the coal Are there any plans toThis improve has also allowed us to identify a series mine method, preferred location and and dispose of the waste? road access? of key structural features, and compare access, process plant requirements, What will the overall impact be on the The washing process would be a Yes, no matter wherethis the to mine the reprocessedand geophysics we logistics and all of the associated elements St Bees valley? fully enclosed, state of the art process other operations are havelocated, completed WCM across the offshore required to construct a new mine. At this stage feedback on our two plant, which in essence crushes the would implement upgradeslicence areas,to the which provides us with a This process is progressing well, with proposed options indicates that coal and then washes it to separate roads to ensure no additionalmuch clearer impacts picture of the coal seams completion anticipated to be around the the preference is for all of the mine the coal from the non-coal material. in terms of traffic burden,and faulting especially in the area. end February 2016. facilities and processing plant to Water is used in theWe process, have now with successfully an at peak completed times. The mine will employ be located on the former Marchon integrated water treatmentour phase circuit 2 exploration around work, 500 people, Ourworking Scoping on a Study has been successfully The environmental and planning Social Media Updates chemical works site, away from the completed. A scoping study is a major processes are also well underway and and filtration plant recoveringwhich recycles extensive coalshift samples basis. As from part of our work we are St Bees valley. This would mean that the water so that verythe arealittle offshoreadditional from Stcommencing Bees Head. traffic stagestudies in andthe projectthese development, and is a Statement of Community Involvement there would be no new mine or large water is needed once the plant will be made availablea comprehensive in the coming review of all aspects of is being concluded for review and structures in the valley at all. There is process is started.The There large would volume be noof coalmonths sample asmass part of ourthe ongoing project, openpresenting options and setting comment in the New Year. 7.7 Weekly updates will be provided on the various a need to transport the coal from the extracted from all our targeted coal seams out key parameters for the project moving dirty water discharged at all; any water engagement programme. Marchon site to the railway, and this would be treated to meet all modern would be using a buried conveyor, discharge requirements. When will you be starting your which would be underground and not Communityrecruitment Update process? Event 7 November 2015 visible. The only visible aspect in the social media platforms used by WCM (including How will the coal be transported Our current programme is seeking to valley would be the coal train and from the mine? WCM hosted a full day publicsubmit our planning application for the train loading equipment. We will WCM has been clearconsultation that one eventof the at Haigthe Pit new Mining mine in early 2017. We would be producing images and plans in golden rules for theMuseum, mine would West Cumbria,be thereforeto continue be looking to commence the near future to show what this Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn). By their nature these that no coal wouldthe be company’s moved by pledge ofrecruitment open and and training in mid- would look like, and are also looking road. We are determinedhonest communications to adhere with2017 allif we believe that planning will at other options to avoid this being in to this promise. Theinterested railway parties. offers The eventbe successfully was granted. The main the valley. the best option tovery move well coal attended, quickly and therecruitment feedback and training phase would updates will be brief but will provide a more regular and efficiently. Wereceived are working was very helpfulbe and from the end of 2017 through 2018, Where will you put the mine waste? closely with othersupportive projects, ofNetwork the project withand theproduction open commencing in 2019. We are currently reviewing a series of Rail and the councilsengagement. to ensure the options for waste disposal. The waste This event was an opportunity for processing facilities. The main questions cores recovered from the recent refresh of information to all stakeholders, as well as an members of the public to get an update received from the feedback forms are drilling works, familiar domestic on the project as well asGOLDEN the chance to answered overleaf and the public’s objects and appliances and the meet with the growing WestRULES Cumbria responses will be considered prior to quantity of coking coal required to Mining team including geological, further developing plans towards the manufacture them plus a video screen opportunity for members of the public to comment WCM’smining and environmental experts. The identification of a preferred location. projecting a number of short films company sought feedback from all documenting the changes in coal those attending on their views in Norelation negative The impact event in included terms of a range of mining methods over the last century. No coal will be transported to a number of project aspects, includingemissions fromeducational the mine information boards which directly and publicly. by roadthe initial proposals for potential can be viewed on the website at The next public community update locations for the mine infrastructure,Apprenticeships westcumbriamining.com and local . In addition event will be held at Haig Pit on 80% employment to be Talk To Us including the mine access and coaltraining tothere be established were two tocentral displays showing 19th March 2016. sourced locally WCM welcomes any further support the mine comments and feedback that you may have by email, post A local trustwww.westcumbriamining.com fund to support [email protected] 01444 410 534 or telephone. connected local initiatives Newsletter and charities

West Cumbria Mining Ltd

7.8 WCM proposes to issue a newsletter on a regular Unit 10D www.westcumbriamining.com 4th Floor, Oakfield House Sneckyeat Road Industrial Estate 35 Perrymount Rd [email protected] Whitehaven, Cumbria 01444 410534 Haywards Heath CA28 8PF basis (at least four per year) to their database of RH16 3BW interested parties. Newsletters will be posted or West Cumbria Mining 11 Statement of Community Involvement (SCI)

Public Exhibitions Events Local Planning Authorities and Parish Councils 7.13 As the Project develops it is proposed that public 7.21 The local authorities of Copeland Borough Council (CBC) exhibition events will be held throughout the planning and Allerdale Borough Council (ABC) are also considered process. In addition, leaflet drops prior to Community to be important consultees. WCM will continue to engage Update Events will take place in the Woodhouse area, with these authorities throughout the planning process, directly adjacent to the proposed mine site. meeting with members and the planning team where appropriate to provide progress updates. 7.14 These public events will be open to all stakeholders and members of the local community. The events will follow 7.22 It is also recognised that there are several parish councils a similar format to those previously held at the Haig Pit in the area around the proposed site location, and that Museum, including the display of exhibition boards, these also have an active interest in the Project. WCM attendance by key members of the WCM team, the will continue to engage with the local parish councils, opportunity to engage with the team and to also provide briefing members on the progress of the Project and feedback via questionnaire forms. answering any concerns and queries they might have. The local parish councils have been and will be actively 7.15 At this time, the exact dates for all of the exhibition events encouraged to provide their views on the Project have not been determined, however it is proposed that throughout the planning process. events will be held at the following milestones in the planning process: Education • 19th March 2016 Haig Museum 7.23 WCM intends to continue their ongoing liaison with • July 2016 local educational providers in order to reach as wide an • November 2016 audience as possible. WCM are keen to engage with local schools and colleges, including direct involvement 7.16 All events will be publicised in advance via the website, with students in activities related to the Project. social media, newsletters & flyers, at the event venues and within the local press. Liaison Group 7.24 WCM has commenced the establishment of a liaison Media group within the local community. The aim is to include 7.17 Active media coverage of the Project has been representatives from the local authorities involved with the maintained since its announcement. WCM has undertaken Project, local residents, statutory and non-statutory bodies. engagement with the local press, provided regular press Regular meetings will be held and feedback provided releases and issued number of articles which have been between the liaison group and WCM. written in relation to the Project. Political Stakeholders 7.18 WCM will continue to engage with the media to inform 7.25 WCM has met with the Mayor of Copeland and has and update the local community on the progress of the undertaken a number of presentations to the members Project. of Copeland Borough Council. It is intended that further engagement will continue throughout the planning Visitor Centre process. To date WCM has attempted to engage with 7.19 As part of the Project WCM intends to open a visitor centre local MPs for discussion and sent invitations to update adjacent to the Cumbria Coastal footpath at a specific events without any success. stage of the Project development. The visitor centre will outline the Project and it is hoped that this will attract a 7.26 WCM is keen to engage with the members of Cumbria range of visitors from the sections of the footpath that are County Council, including those on the Development near the proposed Project infrastructure. Control and Regulation Committee.

Cumbria County Council 7.27 WCM is also keen to engage the local MP for the area, 7.20 As the determining authority for the planning application, Jamie Reed. CCC is a key stakeholder in the consultation process. The strategy outlined in this SCI will be agreed with Other stakeholders CCC and they will be provided with regular updates on 7.28 It is intended that a range of other stakeholders will be the progress of the Project. WCM would welcome the engaged as part of the consultation process. These opportunity to discuss the Project further with members of include local businesses, community groups and local CCC throughout the planning process. interest groups. These stakeholders will be kept up to West Cumbria Mining 12 Statement of Community Involvement (SCI)

date using a variety of methods such as the issue of The feedback forms will include a mixture of the newsletter, invitation to consultation events and quantitative and qualitative questions, and will always presentations where appropriate. allow space for detailed comments. An example of a questionnaire used at the most recent consultation Summary events in November 2015 is provided as Appendix C. 7.29 WCM will use a variety of consultation methods to reach as wide an audience as possible. It is intended 8.5 Feedback forms will be available on the website. that the local community will be able to access relevant information about the Project in a way that Face to Face Feedback is the most appropriate for them, through the use 8.6 There will be opportunities throughout the planning of the Project website, social media, newsletters, process for the local community to speak face local press, presentations, briefings and consultation to face with WCM representatives, such as at the events. public exhibition events, briefings and other events. If interested parties do not wish to fill in feedback 8 Consultation Feedback forms, they are welcome to verbalise any comments 8.1 This section identifies the ways in which stakeholders or concerns to WCM, who will record their and the community can respond to the consultations comments in writing. undertaken throughout the planning process. WCM Contacts 8.2 WCM are keen that lines of communication 8.7 Stakeholders and the local community are welcome between themselves and all consultees remain open to contact WCM with comments or queries at any throughout the planning process and welcome point in the planning process. Comments should be feedback at any point in time. sent to:

Helen Davies Business and Communications Manager Did you attend any of the drop in events held at Haig Pit on 19th August/ West Cumbria Mining Limited 2nd Sept/16th Sept? Yes, I found them very useful 4th Floor, Oakfield House, 35 Perrymount Road YOUR No FEEDBACK I had not heard about any other events Haywards Heath, West Sussex. RH16 3BW Take a minute to tell us your thoughts How do you feel about the possibility of a new mine near Whitehaven? WCM seeks open and honest conversations with the local community and to offer the opportunity Pleased for you to be involved in the development of the project. OK 01444 410534 Concerned T: Please complete this short survey to let us know your thoughts on what we are doing. How do you feel about the following statements? Name Agree Disagree Don’t know M: 07765 808027 Tel. It is an exciting prospect for the local community

Email It will bring jobs and growth to the local area E: [email protected]

Steps are being taken to minimise any negative impact Data Protection. Your privacy is important to us so we will not provide your details to any third parties. You will be added to our email distribution list unless you check the box below to opt out of future mailings. W: www.westcumbriamining.com The works to date have had minimal impact on my life

What time did you attend the Ievent? am satisfied that I know what is going to happen next 10 – 12pm 12 – 2pm 2-4pm 4-6pm 6-8pm Do you think we are talking to you regularly enough about the plans for the mine? How did you hear about the event? 8.8 Contact details for WCM are also provided on the Yes Whitehaven News Advert I’d like more events like this News article website and newsletter. I haven’t seen anything from West Cumbria Mining Online Do you have any questions or concerns that we can address? From a friend Other 8.9 The methods proposed by WCM for the

www.westcumbriamining.com [email protected] management of feedback are explained in section 9. If you would like to know more you can visit our website www.westcumbriamining.com or send us an email at [email protected]

www.westcumbriamining.com [email protected] 9 West Cumbria Mining Response to Consultation 9.1 This section explains how WCM will provide Feedback Forms feedback during the consultation process and how 8.3 There will be formal opportunities to provide this is likely to feed into the Project. feedback to WCM throughout the Project development. Public Exhibition and Feedback Forms 9.2 WCM is seeking constructive feedback and 8.4 It is envisaged that at the Public Exhibition Events comments to help shape the Project. It is envisaged (scheduled for key milestones in the Project that the feedback forms completed at public development) feedback forms will be used to exhibition events will greatly assist with this aim. record public and stakeholder views on the Project. Attendees at these events have had the opportunity West Cumbria Mining 13 Statement of Community Involvement (SCI)

to view the latest Project details and discuss the Project Statement of Community Involvement – Final Report with WCM staff prior to providing their feedback. 9.11 The planning application for the Project will be 9.3 Those not able to attend the public exhibition events accompanied by a Statement of Community Involvement are able to view the latest Project details via the Project Final Report. This will detail the consultation undertaken website. Feedback forms will also be available on the throughout the planning process, provide a summary of website, together with direct email contact with WCM. the results of the consultations and explain how the Project These forms will be handled in the same way as those has been developed and adapted to respond to the generated during the exhibition events. consultation responses received during this period.

9.4 Feedback forms will be collected by WCM and reviewed 10 Conclusions as soon as possible after the event. The results will be 10.1 Following the Project launch in July 2014, there has been collated to identify any trends in these responses, with a substantial and continued interest in the Project from short report being compiled to present and summarise the local community and interested stakeholders. WCM the results. The results will be available on the WCM has worked hard to introduce and establish both the website and issued as part of the quarterly newsletter. Company and the Project to the local community and industry in West Cumbria. As the Project develops and 9.5 WCM will review trends and identify where and how moves through the planning process, WCM is keen to issues raised during this process can be incorporated build on this interest. within the Project where it is recognised that these will improved, enhance or mitigate aspects of the Project. 10.2 WCM understands that effective engagement and public consultation will result in proposals that are better Other Written Feedback developed and better understood by all stakeholders, 9.6 Throughout the development of the Project, consultation including the local community. It is envisaged that will be encouraged via as many differing routes as the feedback received will be a key element in the possible. People are able to provide comments or submit development of the Project, assisting WCM in shaping a queries via the website, email or in writing to WCM’s proposal that the local community can be proud of. postal address. These comments will be given the same importance and attention as those provided via the 10.3 WCM is continuing to use feedback received to feedback forms. update and enhance the methods of engagement and communication within the local community. Website Verbal Comments modifications will be introduced in early 2016 to provide 9.7 As setout in Section 8, WCM will record any verbal the facility for the public to not only sign up for newsletters comments from interested parties. These comments but also future event notices. will be dealt with in the same way as formal written comments.

Project Development 9.8 As the Project develops, the comments received through all forms of consultation will be used to improve, enhance or mitigate aspects of the Project, where appropriate.

9.9 As part of the reports provided after feedback forms are received, and at the key milestone events in the Project, WCM will issue their own feedback to demonstrate where and how consultation responses have helped to shape the Project at that stage.

9.10 All contacts, feedback and requests to be added to our newsletter are incorporated into a database which WCM keeps up to date and contains schedules of the various parties who have contacted or engaged with WCM. West Cumbria Mining 14 Statement of Community Involvement (SCI)

Appendix A – Project Consultation by WCM undertaken to date

Date Event Comment June 2014 Initial website launch 3 July 2014 Presentation to Copeland Borough Council Members 15 & 16 July 204 Drop in events in Whitehaven and St. Advertised locally. Bees Conservative estimates are that Approx. 210 people attended (120 in Whitehaven, 90 in St. Bees) 40 people signed up for email updates as the project progresses. 14 August 2014 Article by Cllr Haraldsen in Whitehaven Positive article welcoming the proposals. News 26 August 2014 Financial Times article on New Age and WCM August 2014 Twitter and Facebook accounts set up 20 October 2014 Briefing to St Bees Parish Council Positive feedback. PC request regular updates. October 2014 Letter to neighbours of car park where No complaints received as a result. test drilling was undertaken (St Bees) October 2014 First newsletter published Distribution list being built up by people requesting updates via a link on website. 3 November 2014 Meeting with Chris Nattress at Lakes Exploring option of using college to train people for the College Project. November 2014 Letter to Rottington Farm neighbours to No complaints received as a result. inform them of plans to drill at farm November 2014 Letter to golf club members to let them No complaints received as a result. know about drilling at the golf course 13 November 2014 Meeting with Steve Smith of Cumbria County Council re. Coastal Rail Route 27 November 2014 Presentation to IET at Westlakes Science Centre 30 January 2015 Meeting with Colourful Coast February 2015 Community Update issued 2 February 2015 Public presentation in St Bees School Over 100 people attended. Largely positive response. 3 February 2015 St Bees Primary School visit to drill site 5 March 2015 Meeting with caravan park owner, St Relocated directional drill hole as a result of concerns Bees Parish clerk and local councillor raised. 6 May 2015 Briefed Doug Sim (Parish Council) on Phase 2 kick off July 2015 Newsletter published 19 August 2015 Drop in at Haig Museum Advertised locally. 2 hour event with steady flow of people Article in Whitehaven News about event. 2 September 2015 Drop in at Haig Museum Advertised locally. Large attendance. West Cumbria Mining 15 Statement of Community Involvement (SCI)

Date Event Comment September 2015 Article in St Bees Parish magazine Published by parish with input from WCM. 16 September 2015 Drop in at Haig Museum Advertised locally. Limited attendance. 29 September 2015 Presentation to Copeland Council members 5 October 2015 Presentation to U3A Science group in 50+ attended with positive feedback. Cockermouth 5 October 2015 Presentation to Coal Association Mark Kirkbride of WCM was guest speaker October 2015 Article in St Bees Parish Magazine Published by the parish with input from WCM. 15 October 2015 Article in Whitehaven News about the offshore drilling programme with full picture of barge 16 October 2015 Second meeting with Lakes College 17 October 2015 Presentation of cheque to Whitehaven Relocation of plaque from industrial estate back onto Miners Memorial Trust Haig Pit site and a garden to be created. Article in Whitehaven News. 17 October 2015 Presentation to Cumbria Industrial Very well received with around 40 people attending. History Society 17 October 2015 Initial Local Engagement Group meeting Volunteers from the local community who will work with the WCM team to bring local concerns and issues to the table and to be a route for dissemination of information to the community. 30 October 2015 Article in Whitehaven News about the start of drilling operations 28 October 2015 U3A presentation in Gosforth 30+ people attended, very well received with a number of questions answered. 29 October 2015 Copeland - Open 4 Business Endorsement from Mike Starkie in opening address. conference 5 November 2015 Meeting with Copeland Borough Briefing by WCM for mayor. Council mayor Mike Starkie 6 November 2015 Stakeholder event at Haig Pit by Over 250 invitation sent out, 120+ attended with the invitation whole of WCM available to answer queries. 6 November Interview with ITV/Border TV News Mark Kirkbride interviewed regarding public event, closure of Redcar and potential of coal mining returning to Cumbria. 3 reports aired on TV at 6pm, 9pm and 10pm. 7 November 2015 Public stakeholder event at Haig Pit Advertised for 4 consecutive weeks in Whitehaven Newspaper and online edition, Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, WCM website. Notices given to St Bees Parish, who tweeted and put up notification on their Facebook page. November 2015 Full page article in St Bees Parish Article requested by magazine and produced by WCM. Magazine 11 November 2015 Presentation to Cumbria Geological Requested as a result of the historical society Society presentation. 12 November 2015 Article in Whitehaven News Front page article with review of update event. November 2015 Article in Cumbria Executive Magazine Update event and photos provided by WCM. December 2015 Newsletter Published Emailed to distribution list, copies distributed to Haig Pit Museum, Whitehaven Marina, local council offices, local library and placed on website and social media.

January 2016 Presentation to U3A Whitehaven 75 attendees, latest newsletter issued. Q & A session held afterwards. West Cumbria Mining 16 Statement of Community Involvement (SCI)

Appendix B – Proposed Consultation Schedule

Date/Project Milestone Method of Consultation Comment Throughout 2016 Presentation Members of WCM team to give a number of presentations about the Project throughout the year to a variety of local organisations and groups with a Q&A at the end of each session and feedback being gathered.

e.g. at least 4 per year Issue of Newsletter Newsletter issued to distribution list to provide Project update

January – March 2016 Semi-Permanent Display boards with information regarding the history of mining, the Exhibition Project, environmental and mine location options to be displayed at Haig Pit Museum along with newsletters and potentially a feedback form.

Various points Drop-In Sessions An opportunity for members of the community to join members of the throughout the year WCM team for an informal chat and cup of tea at Haig Pit Museum. in between the main Update Events

March 2016 Event email notification To be distributed to all people on the distribution list

March 2016 Event Advert Whitehaven News and associated press

March 2016 Flyers Local council buildings, Haig Pit Museum, Libraries and local notice boards and or shop windows around the Sandwith, Mirehouse East and West, Kells, Whitehaven, Greenbank and Corkickle areas.

March 2016 Update Article Parish Magazines in the relevant surrounding areas.

March 2016 Event Article Local Press 18th March 2016 Private Consultation Event Location: Haig Pit Museum Project update provided by means of exhibition boards and attendance by WCM and other key personnel – feedback forms to be gathered.

19th March 2016 – Public Consultation Event Location: Haig Pit Museum Following Scoping Project update provided by means of exhibition boards and attendance CCC by WCM and other key personnel - feedback forms to be gathered.

July 2016 Event email notification To be distributed to all people on the distribution list

July 2016 Event Advert Whitehaven News and associated press West Cumbria Mining 17 Statement of Community Involvement (SCI)

Date/Project Milestone Method of Consultation Comment July 2016 Flyers Local council buildings, Haig Pit Museum, Libraries and local notice boards and or shop windows around the Sandwith, Mirehouse East and West, Kells, Whitehaven, Greenbank and Corkickle areas. July 2016 Update Article Parish Magazines in the relevant surrounding areas.

July 2016 Event Article Local Press

July 2016 Private Consultation Event Location: Haig Pit Museum Project update provided by means of exhibition boards and attendance by WCM and other key personnel – feedback forms to be gathered.

July 2016 Public Consultation Event Location: Haig Pit Museum Project update provided by means of exhibition boards and attendance by WCM and other key personnel - feedback forms to be gathered.

August 2016 Gosforth Show WCM in discussion over an educational style stand to appeal to both old and young alike and attendance by WCM and other key personnel.

November 2016 Event email notification To be distributed to all people on the distribution list

November 2016 Event Advert Whitehaven News and associated press

November 2016 Flyers Local council buildings, Haig Pit Museum, Libraries and local notice boards and or shop windows around the Sandwith, Mirehouse East and West, Kells, Whitehaven, Greenbank and Corkickle areas.

November 2016 Update Article Parish Magazines in the relevant surrounding areas.

November 2016 Event Article Local Press

November 2016 Private Consultation Event Location: Haig Pit Museum Project update provided by means of exhibition boards and attendance by WCM and other key personnel – feedback forms to be gathered.

November 2016 Public Consultation Event Location: Haig Pit Museum Project update provided by means of exhibition boards and attendance by WCM and other key personnel - feedback forms to be gathered. West Cumbria Mining 18 Statement of Community Involvement (SCI)

West Cumbria Mining Ltd

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Unit 10D Sneckyeat Road Industrial Estate Whitehaven Cumbria CA28 8PF