The opening of a public inquiry into plans for a mine in Derbyshire has seen dozens of campaigners protesting. UK Coal's request to resume opencast mining at Lodge Hill in Smalley, was turned down by Derbyshire County Council in 2005.
The appeal against that decision, which is being held in Morley, is expected to last six weeks.
UK Coal has reassured local residents it is committed to reducing environmental damage.
Rachel Severns, a tenant of UK Coal, said if the firm wins the appeal, her home could be demolished.
Protestors claim nearly 70 acres of greenbelt land would be destroyed if the plans go through.
They also voiced concerns about noise and pollution in the area.
But UK Coal said the project would create dozens of jobs if approved.
The firm said it will form a liaison committee with local residents "to ensure that we work together" and act as "a good neighbour in the community while the site is operational".
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