A public inquiry into Dalradian Gold's mining application in the Sperrins has extended beyond its original 22-day schedule and now could last up to 50 days. The hearings take place at the Strule Arts Centre in Omagh. Fermanagh and Omagh District Council members raised concerns about the impact on venue bookings and council expenses.

Ulster Unionist Councillor Victor Warrington told the council's Policy and Resources Committee that he and Councillor Rosemary Barton attended a hearing and observed it running behind time. He noted discussions of adding tens of extra days. Warrington asked about effects on arts centre shows and the daily costs of the council's legal team and planning staff.

Director of Corporate Services and Governance Jill Cush responded that the inquiry will extend, though no formal revised timetable exists yet. She stated that bookings at the Strule Arts Centre are negotiated with management to accommodate both events. Cush added that legal and consultancy costs are reported to the committee every two months, with any changes to be noted.

Dalradian Gold and the council plan judicial reviews at the High Court over the inquiry's continuation on the landscape topic, due to unavailable expert witnesses. Third-party objectors, including Save Our Sperrins, consider legal action against new August hearing dates, citing attendance difficulties.

Planning Appeals Commissioner Jacqueline McParland set dates from April to June, later adding a week in August. Parties complained of ad hoc changes without a full outline of topics or required participants, forcing rescheduling of witnesses.

Fermanagh and Omagh District Council argued its local policies against mining in protected areas should carry weight. The council's counsel, Conor Fegan, said these policies presume against development unless impacts on environment, landscape, and health are acceptable. Dalradian's counsel disputed conflicts with regional rules.

Debate also covered whether the mine's waste facility falls under council waste management policies. The Department for Infrastructure's counsel, David Elvin, said separate mineral rules apply. Objector Cormac McAleer raised issues with the waste's toxicity.

Hearings continue at the Strule Arts Centre on Monday at 10am.