Glencore ends mining at New South Wales Glendell site and seeks water‑storage permit

Coal extraction at Glencore's Glendell mine near Singleton, New South Wales, officially ceased this week, concluding operations that stopped in November 2022. The mine had been the focus of a protracted dispute over plans to extend mining until 2045 and to relocate the heritage‑listed Ravensworth Homestead. The NSW Independent Planning Commission rejected the continuation proposal in October 2022, citing the site's heritage value.

Since 2023 the Barrett Pit at Glendell has been filled with billions of litres of water. Glencore applied twice for extensions to its mining consent – first in 2022 for two years and again in 2024, receiving approval until 30 June 2026 for non‑mining activities. The company is now seeking approval for Modification 6, which would allow the Barrett Pit to be used for water storage and transfer as part of the Greater Ravensworth Area Water and Tailings Scheme (GRAWTS). The proposed activities would continue until 31 December 2039 and are being assessed by the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure.