Bombarral opposes kaolin mine planned near Peniche

Bombarral's council has formally rejected a proposed kaolin and clay mine in Serra d'El-Rei, Peniche, warning its impacts could spread beyond the site through dust, heavy water use and aquifer contamination risks. The open-pit project, awarded to Motamineral, would dig over 51 hectares up to 46 metres deep in a UNESCO World Geopark, raising doubts about post-mining land recovery. Quercus, landscape architects, Óbidos and Peniche councils and several parishes also objected during the public consultation. The Left Bloc has asked the environment minister about job and environmental benefits, monitoring plans and possible changes to mining concession rules.