IN March last year, Cumbria County Council (CCC) drew condemnation for its extraordinary decision to grant planning permission for the UK’s first new coal mine in 30 years.

This was despite scientists warning we have just a few short years to avert climate catastrophe.

The developer, faced with the threat of a judicial review, has been forced to alter its planning application, meaning it must once again seek CCC approval.

If enough of us object, it’s possible our elected councillors will listen. But we must act quickly – the deadline is Monday June 15.

Please write to CCC before Monday using Application Ref No: 4/17/9007.

Either go to http://planning.cumbria.gov.uk/ and click on 'Comment on this application' or email development.control@cumbria.gov.uk quoting the Application Ref No. and including your name and address.

Please also consider writing to your own councillor,which you can find on the council’s website.

A letter template is available here: https://www.xrsl.earth/.

Alternatively, if you’d like to write a personalised email, here are some relevant issues you might like to include:

Scientists warn that almost all known fossil fuels must stay in the ground if we’re to avert climate breakdown.

Cumbria’s at significant risk from the climate crisis, with many parts projected to be underwater by 2050 due to annual coastal flooding. This includes Workington, Walney Island, Maryport, Barrow and the Solway Coast.

Extinction Rebellion (XR) South Lakes Coordinators

Address supplied