Ushaw Moor Colliery To Reopen In 2011?

In the light of an increase in world wide coal prices a feasibility study was commissioned in 2008 to establish whether it was viable to reopen some UK coal mines. The findings of the study are due out next week and it is widely expected that it will recommend the reopening of Ushaw Moor Colliery in 2011. Superficially it seems a good idea to reopen the pit, because of the current over reliance on expensive foreign energy sources, such as gas, but bearing in mind the state of the UK economy can the reopening of Ushaw Moor Colliery be afforded? There are several other pressing questions, for example: [1] How will the coal be transported away from the village? [2] Will miners be drawn from the current pool of unemployed young people in Ushaw Moor? [3] Where will miners be housed? [4] Will the colliery have pithead baths? I spoke to June Foulsham of Whitehouse Court and she went ballistic on hearing that Ushaw Moor pit might reopen. Her sister May was not impressed either. Their main concerns were the inevitable noise, dirt and danger aspects associated with coal mining. I can only draw the conclusion that it should not happen: it is a backward step that will bring back danger and noise into the village – the Foulsham sisters are right. I am baffled because my understanding is that Ushaw Moor was not mothballed! How can it be feasible to reopen the pit?

WB