Plans by the Baird government to overhaul the state's mining approval process have drawn the ire of anti-coal groups and wary support from the industry.

Planning Minister Rob Stokes unveiled proposed amendments to the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act on Monday that aim to slash approval times for state significant developments such as mines, while increasing accountability.

Anti-mining groups say the Baird government is removing checks on new mining projects. Credit:Christopher Pearce

One proposal is to axe so-called Part 3A transitional arrangements, introduced by Labor, that the government said had led to a "misuse of modifications" as proponents seek changes to original projects.

Georgina Woods, NSW coordinator for Lock the Gate Alliance, said the overall package was "very disappointing", with the repeal of Part 3A offering "the one good thing in the bill".