Eversheds worked with the British development firm Banks Group in relation to the Highthorn Surface Mine, which Northumberland County Council members unanimously resolved that they were minded to grant on 6th July.

The proposal will see hundreds of millions invested in the north east economy as well as 100 new jobs. The site, near Druridge Bay in Northumberland, northeast England, is expected to produce 3 million tonnes of coal over five years. The Secretary of State will now decide whether to call in the application for his own determination or allow Northumberland County Council to issue the permission itself.

The team was led by Real Estate Planning partner Peter Nesbit together with associate Michelle Smith.

Peter Nesbit said:

“We worked to ensure that all planning and environmental requirements were complied with on this complex transaction. The work involved a complex legal agreement as well as specialist advice on minerals planning matters which resulted in a welcome outcome for Banks Group and the north east economy.”