It could take up to five years to recover the remains of the
29 Pike River miners, an expert employed by the families
says.
The timeline contained in the draft report drawn up by Bruce
McLean of the Project Company Limited, is speculative as the
mine has still not been sold, and buyers appear nervous about
impending new mining legislation.
Mr McLean said if the mine sale was unconditional by August,
a new 700m tunnel to bypass the large rockfall could be
completed by December 2012.
Recovery could be completed by June 2015, but he warned it
could take until mid-2017.
Mr McLean said doing nothing was not an option - the mine
rose upwards, so could not be flooded.
The seals would deteriorate over time, which meant there
could be further explosions.
Lawyer for the families Nicholas Davidson QC said if the mine
did not sell, the role of the Government would be crucial.
Mr McLean's report assumes that the new mine owner will have
to install a second escapeway and road access to the main
ventilation fans. It also allows for significant exploration
drilling.
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