Bowdens Silver welcomes the NSW Planning Departments finalisation of their assessment of the Bowdens Silver Project, as this marks commencement of the Independent Planning Commissions (IPC) decision making process.
The project has undergone extensive assessment over many years, including detailed technical studies, independent expert review and scrutiny by multiple NSW Government agencies.
The Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure has reaffirmed its previous assessment and conclusions on the merits of the Project and referred the Project back to the IPC for redetermination, with updated recommended conditions.
The IPC process provides another opportunity for the project to be considered on its merits and for the community to have its say. The project remains fundamentally the same as the proposal previously approved by the IPC, with Bowdens Silver having provided updated assessment information that reflects current legislative requirements.
A public hearing has been set for Wednesday 14th and Thursday 15th of October. Bowdens Silver looks forward to participating in the process and engaging constructively with the community and stakeholders.
Silver Mines Managing Director, Jo Battershill commented: “DPHI’s supplementary advice to the IPC is a significant milestone for the Bowdens Silver Project and Silver Mines shareholders, more than two years since the Bowdens Development Consent was voided on a minor technical issue under NSW planning regulations. This is a major step forward in the approvals process, supported by extensive technical and environmental assessment and continued consultation with the community, stakeholders and NSW Government agencies. The Bowdens team has delivered a robust, environmentally responsible project that supports the NSW Critical Minerals and High-Tech Metals Strategy and offers substantial long-term economic and social benefits for communities across Lue, Rylstone, Kandos and the broader Mid-West Region. Mining is a significant contributor to the economy of the region, and we expect Bowdens to enhance that position. During the construction phase, Bowdens will employ over 300 direct full-time employees and more than 200 over the planned extensive mine life.”