But the Department of Planning and Environment will clear up any confusion at information sessions next week.

Two community information sessions will be held at Exeter Hall on Wednesday, April 26 and Thursday, April 27.

Both sessions will run from 6.30-8.30pm.

Director of Resource Assessments Clay Preshaw, said members of the community would be encouraged to give feedback and ask questions at the events.

“We will provide further information about the assessment process and how the public can make submissions,” he said.

“We will also meet with special interest groups during the exhibition period. The Environmental Impact Statement for the Hume Coal Project proposal is currently on exhibition for extended 90-day period until 30 June – three times the usual exhibition time frame.

“All public feedback will be closely considered during our assessment the proposal.”

The Hume Coal Project proposal involves a new underground coal mine extracting up to 3.5 million tonnes of coal a year over 19 years.

The associated Berrima Rail Project involves the extension of the Berrima railway line to connect the proposed mine to the Main Southern Railway.

To attend one of the public information sessions, people should register their interest at 1800 854 405.