The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection has approved the use of regulated fill as a construction material in three additional areas as part of Phase III Environmental’s project at the former New Jersey Zinc Company in Palmerton.

On Thursday, Carbon County Commissioner Chris Lukasevich pointed out an item under correspondence from DEP regarding the 12.7-acre expansion in three separate locations of the permitted area. This approval brings the permitted area to 132.3 acres in size.

According to the correspondence, dated Feb. 20, the approval “requires Phase III to comply with the permit conditions contained in the general permit.”

It also states that any person may appeal this action to the Environmental Hearing Board within 30 days of the receipt of the notice. Carbon County received the notice on Feb. 24.

In December, Palmerton Borough Council asked DEP to address deficiencies at the Northface Business Park before renewing the developer’s permit.

At that time, Donna McGarry, borough manager, wrote that both council and its municipal authority believe the project’s developer, Phase III Environmental, should address fill, traffic and other issues.

Earlier this month, a number of Palmerton locals also spoke out about the number of trucks coming to the property with fill and how it affects the residents living adjacent to the site.

Residents cited damaged roads, vehicles and it being just an overall nuisance.

Councilman Kris Hoffner, at that time, applauded residents’ patience with the Northface project before saying Palmerton officials have exhausted their options when it comes to regulating it.

At the time, council directed residents to contact DEP and area legislators with any complaints about the project.