VRX Silica (ASX: VRX) today announced it has received approval from the Western Australian Department of Mines, Petroleum and Exploration (DMPE) of the Mining Proposal for its 100% owned Arrowsmith North silica sand project in WA.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Department of Mines, Petroleum and Exploration approves Mining Proposal and Mine Closure Plan for VRX’s 100% owned Arrowsmith North silica sand project
- Significant milestone ahead of anticipated consent by Minister for the Environment for environmental approval
- Arrowsmith North is a globally significant, highquality and long-life silica sand project for foundry and glass markets in Asia
Approval of the Mining Proposal is a significant milestone for VRX as it allows for the commencement of mining operations at Arrowsmith North, subject to standard mining and closure conditions including environmental approval under Part IV of the Environmental Protection Act 1986.
It follows confirmation in late June that the Minister for the Environment has determined the Environmental Protection Authority of Western Australia’s (EPA) assessment of Arrowsmith North was adequate, and further assessment is not required, clearing the pathway for environmental approval.
Arrowsmith North, 270km north of Perth, contains a globally significant deposit of high-quality silica sand underpinning a long life mining project that will enable long term production for the foundry, container glass and flat-glass markets in Asia.
Bruce Maluish, VRX Managing Director, said:
“In what is another significant milestone for VRX and development of the project, we are delighted to receive approval from the Department of Mines, Petroleum and Exploration of our Mining Proposal for the Arrowsmith North Silica Sand Project.”
“We await formal notification from the Minister for the Environment regarding our proposal for environmental approval for Arrowsmith North.”
Arrowsmith North has the potential to support a new, long-term industry in Western Australia’s Mid West region and deliver benefits including long-term direct and indirect employment and royalties. VRX has considerable support from a range of stakeholders, including local Indigenous groups, local shires, the Mid West Development Commission, the Mid West Chamber of Commerce & Industry and State and Federal Governments.
