VRX Silica is likely to receive a determination in due course from new state environment minister Matthew Swinbourn in relation to its Arrowsmith North silica sand development proposal.
Earlier this year, West Perth-based VRX told the market that the Environmental Protection Authority had published its assessment report for the project’s proposal – recommending to the then minister for environment Reece Whitby that it be accepted, subject to conditions.
Once an assessment report has been tabled and published, there is a three-week review period where appeals against both content and subsequent recommendations can be lodged to the Office of the Appeals Convenor.
During this period, one appeal, by the Conservation Council of Western Australia, was received.
At the time, CCWA nature program manager Rhiannon Hardwick told Business News that the appeal was in relation to habitat concerns for the Carnaby’s black cockatoo – with the council hopeful it could lead to stronger protections for critical cockatoo habitat.
Bruce Maluish-led VRX told the market on Tuesday that the OAC had finalised its investigation in relation to the appeal, which now been provided to Mr Swinburn.
“There is no statutory timeframe for the minister for environment to make this determination, however the company expects this to be undertaken in the coming weeks,” the company said.
VRX shares last traded at 4.3 cents, up 5 per cent, as of 12.07pm AWST.
