A controversial new proposed mine on the West Coast has been given the green light.

Westland Mineral Sands has been given consent to mine 500,000 tonnes of heavy mineral concentrate over seven years, from a site at Cape Foulwind.

Minerals West Coast Manager Patrick Phelps told Mike Hosking this is good news for mining workers on the coast.

He says it's expected to open up at least 40 jobs to start with, before expanding to about 200 over time.

LISTEN ABOVE