ATH Resources plc

("ATH Resources" or "the Group")

Planning approval received for new Duncanziemuir mine in Ayrshire

ATH Resources plc (AIM:ATH), one of the UK's largest coal producers, is pleased to announce that its application to mine 0.8 million tonnes of coal reserves from its Duncanziemuir mine has been approved by the local planning authority in East Ayrshire. As anticipated in planning processes of this nature, a number of matters remain to be concluded prior to the commencement of work at the mine which is scheduled to commence production during 2011 and will continue for four years. 

The Duncanziemuir mine is an extension to the completed Laigh Glenmuir mine which finished coaling in 2009 and will use the existing infrastructure by conveying coal through the Grievehill mine to the Group's railhead at New Cumnock.

Tom Allchurch, Chief Executive of ATH Resources, said: "This planning approval is part of ATH Resources' longer term coal production and employment plans in East Ayrshire, where we have been a major employer for 12 years.  This mine, which will directly employ 36 people, is an important contributor to the future of the ATH business and the local economy and we are very pleased to be able to continue our operations in this part of East Ayrshire."

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Notes to Editors

ATH Resources was listed on the AIM market of the London Stock Exchange in June 2004 and operates five surface coal mines in Scotland; Skares Road, Grievehill and Laigh Glenmuir in East Ayrshire, Glenmuckloch in Dumfries and Galloway and Muir Dean in Fife.  The Group is currently the third largest producer of coal in the UK producing approximately 2 million tonnes per annum.  Coal is used to generate around a third of the UK's electricity and the Group now holds coal supply contracts with four of the UK's main electricity generating companies.

In June 2005, having raised £18 million by way of an Open Offer, the Group acquired two new opencast sites, Grievehill and Glenmuckloch in Scotland.  The acquisition increased the Group's reserve base by 160%.

In May 2006, the Group acquired ATH Regeneration a successful coal recovery, land remediation and regeneration business with a particular focus on colliery spoil heap reclamation projects.  The acquisition, which was earnings enhancing, allowed ATH Resources to build on its skills as a regenerator of land, whilst developing strong relationships with key English planning authorities.  The company has been successfully integrated into the Group.  The operational diversification that the acquisition brings to the Group will be a significant driver of ATH's organic growth going forward both in the UK and overseas and the business is actively pursuing a number of projects in Australia.

For the 53 week period ended 4 October 2009, the Group achieved turnover of £77.5 million and generated an operating profit of £8.6 million.

Further information on ATH Resources can be found at www.ath.co.uk