Scotgold submits new planning bid

SCOTGOLD Resources, the firm seeking to open Scotland's only commercial gold mine, has submitted a second planning application after the first was controversially rejected earlier this year.

Directors of the firm have met planners on six occasions since the National Park Authority Board narrowly voted against approving the project at Cononish in the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. Scotgold recently lodged an appeal of the board's decision with Scottish ministers but it is hopeful its second planning application, which includes numerous revisions, will allay some of the board's concerns - particularly over the mine's environmental footprint.

Although the revised application is the preferred option, Scotgold said yesterday it is also continuing with its appeal.