SIDELL, Ill. (AP) — An Indiana company seeking to build a coal mine in eastern Illinois has requested a one-year extension for presenting revised plans.

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources says it will likely give Sunrise Coal more time. The current deadline is March 20th.

The department’s Office of Mines and Minerals asked a year ago for dozens of changes in the company’s application to build the Bulldog mine in Vermilion County.

Public hearings have drawn a mix of opponents fearful of environmental damage and supporters emphasizing the need for jobs.

Scott Fowler is supervisor of the department’s Land Reclamation Division. He tells the Champaign News-Gazette he sees no reason to deny the company more time.

The News-Gazette said the Terre Haute, Indiana company did not return calls seeking comment.