Environmental green light for Aurox project

Western Australian environment minister Donna Faragher said stringent conditions were set to protect flora and fauna, protect the surface and groundwater and ensuring site rehabilitation.
The development, located about 110 km southwest of Port Hedland, is based on a 6m tonnes-a-year magnetite mine which will process up to 10.1m tonnes within five years.
First production is expected in early 2012.
Aurox Resources managing director Charles Schaus said the environmental clearance would ensure production moved another step closer.
“This is a pivotal milestone for the company and its shareholders, one which ensures the Balla Balla project will be developed as soon as the next stage of financing is secured,” he said.
“Importantly, the environmental green light is the crucial approval financiers now look for when considering commitment of funds to projects such as Balla Balla, as they can be assured their investment can be put to work immediately.”
Mr Schaus said Aurox Resources representatives were in Beijing last week meeting potential investment groups and existing off-take partners.
Expenditure to date for the development stands at more than $80m.
Engineering of plant and port infrastructure is well advanced including a 15-year port access agreement with the Port Hedland authorities for the Utah Point facility.