Government has granted Bannerman Energy, the developers of the Etango uranium project, a mining licence.
The company has also awarded initial contracts for the mine’s early works program for the building of the temporary construction water supply and the site access road.
According to the company, the temporary construction water pipeline will ensure sufficient water is available onsite when the main earthworks and civil contracts commence.
In addition, the access road will enable controlled access to the mine site with minimal impact on the surrounding area to be achieved from the start of full construction works.
“The grant of the Etango Mining Licence represents a milestone event for Bannerman and our valued stakeholders.
“This moment is the culmination of our unwavering focus on Etango since our initial investment in 2006, all the while maintaining our conviction in the vital role of nuclear power for a better world,” said Brandon Munro, Bannerman’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer.
Munro said Etango is now fully permitted, enabling Bannerman to drive key project work-streams towards a final investment decision in parallel with the ongoing strengthening in uranium market fundamentals.
“I am grateful to the Ministry of Mines and Energy for their ongoing commitment to Etango’s success,” he said.
Meanwhile Gavin Chamberlain, Bannerman’s Chief Operating Officer said overall construction schedule remains on track, with the final project permit now complete and the front end engineering and design work meeting expectations.
“We look forward to site establishment commencing in January, with early works construction proceeding in parallel with other workstreams over the next four to six months.”
Chamberlain is optimistic on the company’s next phases of building a uranium business to deliver significant and long-lasting benefit to all key stakeholders, including the economy and people.