PERTH (miningweekly.com) – The Western Australian Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has recommended the approval of ASX-listed Venturex Resources’ Sulphur Springs copper/zinc project.
The Minister of Environment is now expected to make a final decision on the project.
“Achieving the EPA approval recommendation is a major achievement for Venturex and marks a key milestone towards the potential development of the Sulphur Springs project,” said executive director Anthony Reilly.
“While taking longer than we had initially anticipated, the assessment progressed efficiently following our decision to adjust the project design, and we are appreciative of the efforts of the EPA and regulatory agencies in facilitating these changes.”
A 2018 definitive feasibility study estimated that the Sulphur Springs project would require a capital investment of A$169-million to develop a 1.25-million-tonne-a-year operation, producing some 65 000 t/y of 25% copper concentrate, and 75 000 t/y of 50% zinc concentrate over a mine life of more than ten years.
Venturex on Tuesday said that its key focus in the short term is on finalising the remaining permits required to ensure that the Sulphur Springs project is ready to be developed.
All cite works have ceased where possible, and personnel travel has been suspended for the time being, as the company implemented measures to protect its staff against Covid-19.