Mining could be allowed at Aboriginal sites

An Aboriginal heritage group says it is deeply concerned that a recent native title agreement will allow significant cultural sites in Western Australia's Goldfields to be destroyed by mining.

Perth-based company Portman Limited signed an agreement with the Ballardong and Central West people this week which clears the way for the approval of mining leases in Koolyaknobbing.

The Ngalia Heritage Research Council was consulted to assess the heritage value of the area.

Ngalia's Peter Muir says the agreement was signed by people who knew nothing of the rich cultural significance of the area.

But Mr Muir says they are not able to protest against the deal.

"We haven't got the resources to mount any opposition, all we can do is hope they can see sense in taking notice of the people that are qualified to speak on the area and recognise that there are sites there," he said.

The Goldfields Land and Sea Council, which represented the Central West people during negotiations, has refused to comment.

Portman was unavailable for comment.