PNX Metals Ltd (ASX:PNX) has received environmental approval from the Northern Territory’s minister for environment, climate change and water security for the Fountain Head Gold Project in the Halls Creek Region.
The grant of environmental approval completes the environmental impact statement (EIS) process for Fountain Head.
The company will now submit a mining management plan (MMP) to the Department of Industry, Tourism and Trade (DITT) for assessment next month.
The approval of MMP is the last step in the approval process of Fountain Head, which could potentially result in a mining authorisation provided to the company in the September quarter
Moving forward, the project team is now focused on completing and submitting mine management plans and progressing approvals for the Hayes Creek Zinc-Gold-Silver Project.
“The grant of environmental approval for the Fountain Head Gold Project is the culmination of a significant body of work, and a milestone event in PNX’s Pine Creek integrated development strategy,” said PNX MD James Fox
Approval process
The decision to grant the environmental approval under the NT Environment Protection Act 2019 (EP Act) was made by the Hon Lauren Moss; Northern Territory Minister for Environment, Climate Change and Water Security; Minister for Equality and Inclusion; Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention; Minister for Seniors; and Minister for Youth.
The Fountain Head EIS, submitted in mid-2022, is an important component of the project approval process and contains a comprehensive risk assessment, including studies on groundwater and surface water, biodiversity, aboriginal and cultural heritage, socioeconomic impacts, transport, air quality, noise, and closure/rehabilitation.