- Theta Gold Mines (TGM) advances its permitting process after submitting a final scoping report for its South African mines
- A total of 20 environmental studies have been completed to support the TGME Underground project, which comprises the Beta, Frankfort, CDM and Rietfontein mines
- With approval from the South African Department of Mineral Resources and Energy for its final scoping report, Theta will move ahead with the environmental authorisation process
- The company is now turning its attention to securing approval for the draft EIA report and environmental management program, which has been compiled for public comment
- Theta Gold Mines shares fall 7.69 per cent, trading at 12 cents
Theta Gold Mines (TGM) has advanced its permitting process after submitting a final scoping report for its South African mines.
A total of 20 environmental studies have been completed to support the TGME Underground project, which comprises the Beta, Frankfort, CDM and Rietfontein mines.
Theta’s final scoping report was submitted on April 12, and has now been reviewed and accepted by the South African Department of Mineral Resources and Energy.
The approval allows Theta to move ahead to the EIA phase of the environmental authorisation application process.
Theta’s Chairman, Bill Guy, said the acceptance of the scoping report is an important milestone, marking the conclusion of all environmental specialist and engineering designs required for the MR 83 permitting process necessary to progress underground mining.
“It’s pleasing to see the support and endorsement we have received, not only from the government but from our local communities and landowners who all have a direct interest under the BEE structure,” Mr Guy said.
The company said it will now turn its attention to securing approval for the draft EIA report and environmental management program, which has been compiled for public comment.
The final submission will go to the department of mines for approval in the third quarter of 2022, with the application decision expected in the fourth quarter.
Meanwhile, a water use licence application has been registered with the Department of Water and Sanitation, with a pre-application meeting conducted with a DWS case officer. Final submission of the application is scheduled for Q3.
Next on Theta’s list will be approval from the Minister of the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment, which is a requirement to continue mining in parts of the Beta and CDM Mines.
Theta Gold Mines shares fell 7.69 per cent, trading at 12 cents at 3:43 pm AEST.