DURHAM County Council is conducting an important consultation on sites for mineral and waste development.

Two sites that have been submitted to the council by developers for development as opencast coal mines are in Pittington.

One is in Pittington North, on one side of the A690, and one in Pittington South, both sides of Lady Piece Lane.

Developments of this nature have the potential to cause great damage to the environment.

I am opposed to destruction of local landscapes and protected areas like the site of special scientific interest at Pittington Hill and the Conservation Area at Hallgarth, adverse visual impact, disruption caused by noise, dirt and dust, and the constant movement of heavy lorries through the area.

Furthermore, there is the potential for loss of public rights of way and bridleways used by local people and ramblers’ groups.

If you are strongly opposed to opencast mining at both of these sites you can help by writing to the County Council before February 14 and letting officers know your views.

You can comment via email to ldfconsultation@durham.gov.uk or write to ‘Minerals and Waste Sites’ Consultation Policy and Planning Team, Room 4/121, Durham County Council, County Hall, Durham DH1 5UQ.

Councillor Carol Woods, Sherburn Village.