'Gutted': Barrytown Flats residents on mining decision

The decision to let a mineral mine go ahead on the Barrytown Flats, just north of Greymouth, has the community divided.

TiGa, an Australian mining company, has secured a greenlight to mine mineral sands in the area.

Some are celebrating the prospect of more jobs, while others are gutted, saying the venture will destroy the environment and disturb their peaceful existence.

"The community's gutted. We put so much energy into putting forward an alternative vision for this beautiful, precious area," local Katherine Crick said.

Some locals, such as Crick, fear for the threatened Westland Petrel, which only nests in the area. They're also concerned for their own peace and serenity.

"We do know it would be an 50 extra trucks a day going along the scenic coast road, [it's] one of the top ten drives in the world."

The mining company has welcomed the decision by an independent panel to allow its operation to go ahead. There will be mitigation to ensure the environment is protected.

In a statement, TiGa said the decision is "great news" for the company and its investors who have wanted to mine the significant mineral resource for two decades.

It said it is also a real boost for the local economy.

Grey District Mayor Tania Gibson said: "We think it is a great thing for the Grey District. It is great for our economic development and it will be creating about 50 to 60 new jobs."

However, the fight may not be over just yet, with Crick likening the decision to a "David and Goliath situation".

"We're not going to lie down and sort of let this happen in our backyard."

Those who oppose the mine plan to appeal to the Environment Court.

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