The Government rejected plans for the Bickham coalmine this month, estimated by proponents to be worth $150 million to the area's economy, to protect the horse breeding industry.

Deputy chief executive of the NSW Minerals Council Sue-Ern Tan said yesterday that the miners wanted to know where they stood.

"We need the Government to take a leadership role to set out a vision for the region about how those competing land uses can work," Ms Tan said.

The minerals council has written to the Government to make 11 recommendations ahead of this year's budget, calling for a strategic land use plan of mining regions.

"This approach would allow the benefits and costs of different land use patterns to be assessed up front, helping shape future development in the region and creating a vision that all stakeholders can embrace," it said.

The call for a land use study has been backed by thoroughbred breeders.

Arrowfield stud proprietor John Messara said industries needed certainty.

"You need to know you can invest in the Hunter without being surprised with a mine next door or one kilometre away," he said.

"Surely the Government can have a good look around and see the areas that should be protected from mining and what can be mined."

The minerals council has also called for the Hunter to get a better deal from mining royalties.

Ms Tan said coal companies contributed to the Hunter with employment and sponsorship of sports teams, community groups and charities.

Minister for Mineral Resources Ian Macdonald did not comment on the recommendations yesterday.