Shire council withdraws Dargues Reef challenge

The Euorbodalla Shire Council has withdrawn its appeal against approval of Cortona Resources’ Dargues Reef gold mine in south-coastal New South Wales.

The Perth-based miner said the shire’s decision followed discussions between the company, the council officers, experts and NSW planning department officers, during which it was able to alleviate the council’s concerns regarding the shire’s water supply.

The decision to withdraw the appeal means there is now only one appeal pending from the NSW Environmental Defender’s Office, which will be heard on February 1, 2012.

Cortona received NSW environmental and planning approvals for the project on September 8, and also was granted federal approval on September 28.

Cortona managing director Peter van der Borgh said the withdrawal would simplify the case, which was now chiefly concerned with perceived impacts on biodiversity.

“Cortona remains on track to become a significant Australian gold producer with the development of Dargues Reef,” he said.