An extraordinary council meeting was held on Monday night to discuss the issue and ask for a modification of the CTMP from August prior to any decision on supporting the project.

The changes requested ask for reinforcement that Xstrata intend to use the eastern route of Wybong Road whenever possible and that the western route

only be used when the other route is not available.

The crash on January 7 happened on the western route.

A new clause was also inserted that establishes delegations either to the mayor or general manager to approve modifications to the CTMP.

Negotiations are continuing between Xstrata and council to decide on a final CTMP. At the time of the meeting Xstrata was yet to lodge their agreed version of a revised CTMP.

The revised draft CTMP is expected to come before council at the February 8 ordinary meeting.

Muswellbrook Shire mayor Martin Rush said while councillors would consider their support at the February meeting the final decision on the project came down to the Department of Planning.

“Council’s only power is to give our satisfaction to the plan and we are yet to provide any approval on the plan. The Department of Planning will then have the final say,” Cr Rush said.