A decision on a controversial planning application to mine 900,000 tonnes of coal at a Shropshire landmark is to be revealed earlier than expected.

The news came as parish councillors laun-ched an online petition to fight the plan.

Communities secretary John Denham will announce his decision on UK Coal’s application for Huntington Lane, between New Works and Little Wenlock, “on or before October 9”.

His decision, which will be formed after reading a report and recommendation from an inspector following a six-week planning inquiry which finished earlier this month, had not been expected until the end of year at the earliest.

UK Coal says a mine would help meet demands by the Government for home-produced coal, create 92 jobs and provide fuel for Ironbridge Power Station.

However, Little Wenlock Parish Council is launching a petition on the Downing Street website calling on the scheme to be rejected.

Councillors want those who care about The Wrekin to add their name to the call to Mr Denham to reject the application.

John Marcham, council clerk, said: “This planning application does not just affect those who live immediately close to the proposed site. It affects all of Telford, both medically and economically.

“Should it go ahead, it will have an immediate effect on The Wrekin and a knock-on effect on tourism. The council would implore everyone in Shropshire who cares about the environment to sign this petition.”

The closing date for the petition, which will go live in the next few days at http://petitions.number10. gov.uk/UKCoal-Telford, is August 18.