Bellevue Gold Ltd (ASX:BGL) is moving ahead with a gold processing facility at its namesake precious metals play in Western Australia.
The processing plant at the Bellevue Gold Project is under construction, marking the next key step in a project schedule that’s targeting first gold in the second half of 2023.
Bellevue is already ticking some key items off its project to-do list, including:
- advancing the site’s civil and earthworks;
- clearing and preparing the process plant area for construction; and
- mobilising processing plant constructor GR Engineering to site.
As part of its preliminary works agreement, the fabrication and supply of long lead critical path items kicked off in May.
Bellevue says this work is running ahead of plan, significantly de-risking the construction schedule.
Supporting future growth
Bellevue’s processing plant has also been designed to accommodate future growth — there’s enough headroom to support an increase in annual throughput to 1.2 million tonnes without further expenses.
Beyond that, Bellevue believes any further expansions can be achieved for a relatively low capital cost.
“First-class facility in every respect”
Bellevue managing director Steve Parsons said: “Securing the final approval for the plant and starting construction ensures that the project continues to progress as planned.
“The Bellevue plant will be a first-class facility in every respect, with immense flexibility that will enable us to maximise use of renewable energy and built-in scope for expansion at relatively low cost.
“We are also delighted to have worked closely with the Tjiwarl Native Title Holders on the layout to minimise land disturbance.
“This is consistent with our policy of ensuring that all stakeholders have the opportunity to contribute to and benefit from the exceptional opportunity we have at Bellevue.”