Crosslands gains new mine approval

Mid West iron ore miner Crosslands Resources, which is set to become a wholly-owned subsidiary of Japan’s Mitsubishi Development after Murchison Metals sells its 50 per cent interest, has received environmental approval for its planed Jack Hills mine.

The 20 million tonnes pa Jack Hills Expansion Project (JHEP) mine is one of three iron ore projects that are meant to underpin the delayed Oakajee port and railway development, north of Geraldton.

Approval under Part IV of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 (WA) has been granted by Environment Minister Bill Marmion.

Crosslands CEO Andrew Caruso said the new mine represents a potential game-changer for the Mid West because its size and scale.

“Environmental approval for the JHEP is an important step in the transition of Crosslands from a small mining company to one of Australia’s largest iron ore producers”, said Mr Caruso.

The JHEP will consist of a large-scale, long-life iron ore mine and processing facility producing more than 20 mtpa of high purity iron concentrate and Direct Shipping Ore products for export to markets in China, Korea and Japan.

It will employ more than 2000 workers in the construction phase and around 1250 when operational.

Mr Caruso said Crosslands’ existing Jack Hills Stage 1 mine 380 km north east of Geraldton would be placed under care and maintenance this month while the company continued to focus on its expansion plans. Haulage and shipping would cease by the end of February.

Murchison has agreed to sell all its 50 per cent interest in both the minig company and infrastructure company Oakajee Port & Rail to joint venture partner Mitsubishi Development for $325 million, in the absence of a superior offer.