Atlas receives final environmental nod

Emerging producer Atlas Iron Ltd expects to disclose its off-take arrangements shortly as it today received the final environmental approval for its Pardoo iron ore project in the Pilbara.

The company received the final nod from the Minister of Environment, following an appeal over conditions recommended by the Environmental Protection Authority lodged in July.

Managing director David Flanagan told WA Business News said the approval was the final environmental hurdle, with the company to pay a bond for the project next week and mining to start this month.

He said exports from the project would start either late November or early December.

Atlas has also stitched up a port-access deal with Fortescue Metals Group Ltd at its new Port Hedland iron ore export terminal.

Mr Flanagan has nothing but high praise for new Mines and Petroleum Minister Norman Moore and Environment Minister Donna Faragher, who both signed the approval documents the day after they were sworn in.

Mr Flanagan believes the new Liberal-National government will be an "age of action".

Meanwhile, Atlas expects to unveil its off-take arrangements shortly.

Mr Flanagan said part of the production from Pardoo will be put up for sale on the spot market, but declined to give a percentage figure.