BHP is transferring a parcel of land from Mt Arthur Coal to a neighbouring company as it continues to progress towards a responsible closure in 2030.

The land transfer is one of several steps BHP is taking to ensure the site has a strong future.

Around 3,700 hectares of land will be transferred to Malabar Resources, providing the option for them to seek further value from their existing underground Maxwell operation.

The transfer will enable better safety and environmental outcomes as Mt Arthur can use an existing mine void at Malabar’s Maxwell Underground site for tailings storage.

This is a win-win outcome that is good for BHP, Malabar and the Upper Hunter.

Liz Watts, NSW Energy Coal Vice President, said BHP continues to work closely with community, employees, government and land holders on alternate land use opportunities in the closure of the Mt Arthur coal mine.

“Our commitment is clear, we want to focus on environmental, economic and social outcomes in mine closure, to help set the region up for long-term success, and deliver a positive legacy from BHP mining in the Hunter Valley.”

Other potential land use opportunities for the Mt Arthur Coal site are progressing in parallel, including the possibility of a Pumped Hydro Energy Storage system, recreation, biodiversity corridors and adaptive reuse of existing infrastructure, like workshops and admin buildings.