Theta Gold Mines Ltd (ASX:TGM) recently started development work to ensure the TGME Underground Gold Project in South Africa is safe for trial mining and underground sampling.
The work program also comprises the upgrading of the maiden underground pre-feasibility study (PFS) to a definitive feasibility study (DFS).
Definitive feasibility studies are expected to be completed for Beta, Frankfort, CDM and Rietfontein underground mines by the second quarter of 2022.
607 hectares declared as forest nature reserve
The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has declared a forest nature reserve over, amongst other areas, part of Portion 3 of the farm Morgenzon 525KT and Portion 1 and a part of the remaining extent of the farm Peach Tree 544KT.
As a result, about 607 hectares of some 62,000 hectares in tenement areas held by Theta are potentially affected, comprising close to 20% of the potential resource base and the first phase of underground mining.
The forest nature reserve declared area overlaid with the underground mine plan.
Theta is consulting with the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy and DFFE to facilitate a mutually beneficially way forward for continuation of mining activities.
Chairman Bill Guy said: “Theta will continue working together with all its host communities, BEE shareholders, regulators and legal counsel to secure DFFE Ministerial consent for continued mining in the forest nature reserve and reduce permitting timelines.
“The host Pilgrims Rest Community Steering Committee and Pilgrims Rest Business Chamber have addressed letters to the DFFE Minister, requesting reconsideration of the decision, in view of the potential adverse impact on Theta’s mineral reserves and consequences for the Pilgrims Rest town, community, environment and economic development.
“Responsible corporate and ESG citizen”
Guy added: “Theta has and will continue to make every effort to act as a responsible corporate and ESG citizen.
“The majority of the TGME project will be conducted within a previously disturbed footprint and will entail minimal new environmental disturbance.
“The permitting strategy for Theta’s mines is focused on the additional infrastructure supporting the three existing three mines.
“Both the Phase 1 Definitive Feasibility Study and Rietfontein Pre-feasibility Study are ongoing and progressing well.”