Silver Mines Ltd (ASX:SVL, OTC:SLVMF) has received a significant boost for its flagship Bowdens Silver Project in central New South Wales, with a positive determination from the NSW Planning Secretary on the Project’s transmission line, paving the way for final consent.
The company had requested clarity from the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) on whether the 66-kilovolt (kV) transmission line intended to power the mine would be considered part of the main development application (DA) for Bowdens.
That request has now been answered in Silver Mines’ favour, with the Planning Secretary determining that the power line does not form part of the State Significant Development (SSD) application currently under reassessment (SSD 5765). The finding relied on section 4.38(4A) of the Environmental planning and Assessment Act 1979.
The clarification effectively reinstates the original assessment framework used before the August 2024 NSW Court of Appeal decision overturned the Independent Planning Commission (IPC)’s prior approval of the project. That decision had thrown the future of the $245 million silver project into uncertainty.
‘Significant milestone’
Silver Mines managing director Jo Battershill welcomed the determination, saying it provides critical clarity on the DA’s scope.
“Should the IPC reinstate development consent of the Bowdens Project, Silver Mines will be in a position to progress with the development of the project,” he said.
“This determination is a significant milestone for the company, and it reinforces the strength of our ongoing engagement with stakeholders, the DPHI and other key government agencies and reflects our commitment to a staged, responsible, and transparent approach to development.”
The company will now supply additional information DPHI has requested to assist with its final assessment and recommendation to the IPC. A determination on the project is expected in the coming weeks.
One of the world’s largest undeveloped silver assets
Bowdens, near Mudgee in central NSW, is considered one of the largest undeveloped silver deposits globally, with a resource base that includes significant zinc and lead credits.
The project is expected to generate more than 200 direct full-time jobs and multiple times that in indirect employment over a 20-year mine life. It has also been promoted as a major regional development initiative, drawing support from local community leaders and stakeholders.
Silver Mines has previously expressed confidence in meeting NSW’s updated planning requirements following last year’s legal setback. In April, the company expanded drilling at both Bowdens and regional targets to bolster its development case.
Silver Mines will continue providing regular updates as it works towards full development consent and project announcement.