BCI Minerals granted two mining leases

BCI Minerals (ASX: BCI) has been granted two mining leases for its Optimised Mardie project (OMP) on the Pilbara coast of WA.

The leases were granted by the WA Department of Energy, Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety and are key drivers in progressing the necessary approvals to finalise the Mardie salt and potash project.

Furthermore, BCI also received approval for its Groundwater Monitoring and Management Plan (GMMP) from the WA Department of Water and Environmental Regulation.

This approval requires BCI to update the groundwater modelling using data collected while the first three evaporation ponds are being filled. This ensures the most accurate groundwater modelling is available to inform the filling of the remaining ponds and crystallisers.

BCI is now working with the Federal Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) to secure final approvals to begin operations. Pending final environmental approvals, BCI is aiming to begin operations and filling evaporation ponds in H1 2024.

BCI managing director David Boshoff commented on the approvals.

“It is positive to see the approvals progressing through the regulatory process, and we are appreciative of the support from the State Government thus far – bringing us one step closer to receiving final approval,” he said.

“The State and the Environmental Protection Agency has conducted a thorough and comprehensive expert assessment over several years of all aspects of the potential impact of the Mardie project on the environment and we are pleased with the positive outcome.

“We continue to work with the DCCEEW to achieve the same outcome, enabling us to commence operations and complete construction of the Mardie project.”