South Harz Potash Ltd (ASX:SHP) has narrowed down the site shortlist for its Ohmgebirge potash mine infrastructure and process plant in Germany.
The ASX-lister has conducted baseline environmental mapping, including fauna and flora surveying, at three potential sites as part of a detailed evaluation and selection program.
The three shortlisted areas, diagrammed below, are:
- near the village of Bernterode-Schacht;
- on the northwestern edge of the Haynrode district; and
- within the Regional Planning industrial area 'RIG 2' on the outskirts of Leinefelde.
Topographical map of the Ohmgebirge area and potential development sites.
South Harz chief operating officer Lawrence Berthelet said: "After an intensive initial evaluation process of potential sites, we have narrowed the list of focus locations to three areas, including one brownfield site.
“The three areas were selected on the basis of a number of factors including geological attributes, existing infrastructure (including underground) and minimization of social and environmental impacts.”
South Harz has also engaged leading specialist consultant ERM to carry out the environmental impact assessment for the Ohmgebirge project, including the baseline work outlined above.
Regional director Babette Winter said: "We consulted with relevant regulatory authorities and local communities on the potential opportunities and challenges afforded by different sites.
“We are grateful for the continued support of the local communities in our advancement of the development activities for Ohmgebirge.
“Their feedback has been invaluable, highly constructive and demonstrates the long history and knowledge of potash mining in this region.
“Through our local office, we remain in regular contact with all regional stakeholders of the Ohmgebirge project."